Lake Poinsett Recreation Area

With its expansive freshwater lake and a mix of open prairies and wooded shorelines, the Lake Poinsett Recreation Area campground in Arlington, South Dakota, offers a quintessential Great Plains camping experience combined with modern conveniences and diverse outdoor activities.

Home to two campgrounds with a total of 114 campsites and four camping cabins, this recreation area caters to both tent campers and RV travelers, offering options such as electric hookups, pull-through sites, picnic tables, and fire rings. Many campsites provide shade and privacy, with several directly along the lakefront for serene waterfront views. The campgrounds include essential amenities such as showers, flush toilets, dump stations, and a playground, ensuring a comfortable stay for families and groups. For those seeking a connection to nature, the Lake Poinsett Potpourri Trail meanders through wooded areas, wetlands, and lakeshore, offering scenic hiking and opportunities for wildlife observation.

Located 14 miles northeast of Arlington, this lakeside retreat provides year-round charm. Summer brings water sports like boating, jet skiing, paddleboarding, and fishing, while winter offers cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing. The on-site Lake Poinsett Visitor Center and Museum adds a unique cultural dimension, showcasing artifacts and history from prehistoric times to the late 1990s. Whether you're looking for a weekend getaway, a day trip, or a longer vacation, Lake Poinsett Recreation Area is an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike.