List of lakes of South Dakota facts for kids

South Dakota is home to many beautiful lakes, offering lots of opportunities for outdoor fun like swimming, fishing, and boating. These lakes are important for the environment, wildlife, and for people who live in or visit the state. Some are natural lakes, while others are reservoirs created by dams on rivers.

South Dakota's Biggest Lakes

South Dakota has some truly huge lakes, especially those formed along the Missouri River. These large reservoirs are like giant playgrounds for water activities.

Lake Oahe

Lake Oahe is the largest lake in South Dakota, covering a massive 312,000 acres! It's a huge reservoir created by the Oahe Dam on the Missouri River. This lake is so big that it even stretches into North Dakota. It's also one of the largest reservoirs in the entire United States by how much water it holds. Lake Oahe is a popular spot for fishing, especially for walleye, and for all kinds of boating.

Lake Francis Case

Another giant on the Missouri River is Lake Francis Case. It covers about 102,000 acres and was formed by the Fort Randall Dam. This long, narrow lake is a favorite for fishing and offers many places for camping and enjoying nature along its shores.

Lake Sharpe

Also part of the Missouri River system, Lake Sharpe spans about 56,884 acres. It was created by the Big Bend Dam. Like its larger neighbors, Lake Sharpe is a key area for fishing and water sports, with many parks and recreation areas nearby.

Other Notable Lakes

Beyond the Missouri River giants, South Dakota has many other interesting lakes, each with its own unique features.

Belle Fourche Reservoir

The Belle Fourche Reservoir is a large lake in Butte County, covering over 8,000 acres. It's famous because its dam, built in 1911, was once the biggest earthen dam in the world! This lake is a great place for fishing and enjoying the outdoors.

Big Stone Lake

Big Stone Lake is special because it's shared with the neighboring state of Minnesota. This lake covers about 12,610 acres and is a popular spot for fishing and relaxing. You can visit Hartford Beach State Park on its shores.

Lake Kampeska

Located in Codington County, Lake Kampeska is a significant lake covering 5,250 acres. It's a well-known destination for fishing, boating, and swimming, especially popular with local families.

Lake Thompson

Lake Thompson is a large natural lake in Kingsbury County, stretching across 20,000 acres. It's known for its fishing opportunities and is a vital habitat for many kinds of birds and other wildlife.

Black Hills Lakes

The beautiful Black Hills region in western South Dakota is home to several smaller, scenic lakes, often surrounded by forests and mountains.

Pactola Lake

Pactola Lake is the largest lake in the Black Hills, covering 800 acres. It was built by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation and is located within the Black Hills National Forest. It's a popular spot for swimming, boating, and scuba diving, with clear, deep waters.

Deerfield Reservoir

Also in the Black Hills National Forest, Deerfield Reservoir is known for its calm waters and beautiful scenery. It's a great place for quiet fishing and enjoying nature.

Sheridan Lake

Sheridan Lake is another lovely lake in the Black Hills National Forest. It covers 383 acres and is popular for swimming, fishing, and picnicking, offering a peaceful escape.

Sylvan Lake

Found within Custer State Park, Sylvan Lake is famous for its stunning granite rock formations that surround its shores. It's a smaller lake, only 17 acres, but incredibly picturesque and a favorite for hiking, rock climbing, and paddle boating.

Stockade Lake

Also in Custer State Park, Stockade Lake is a 120-acre lake known for its historical significance and recreational activities. It's a great spot for fishing and enjoying the park's natural beauty.

Lakes with Unique Features

Some lakes in South Dakota have interesting stories or special characteristics.

Bear Butte Lake

Located near Bear Butte, a unique mountain-like landform, Bear Butte Lake is part of Bear Butte State Park. It's a quiet lake, offering a peaceful setting for reflection and enjoying the views of the famous Butte.

Angostura Reservoir

The Angostura Reservoir is a 4,612-acre lake behind the Angostura Dam on the Cheyenne River. It's part of the Angostura Recreation Area, which is popular for camping, swimming, and boating.

Lake Yankton

Lake Yankton is a 250-acre lake that was once part of the Missouri River's main channel before the Gavins Point Dam was built. Now, it's managed for fish and wildlife and is shared with Nebraska.

Red Lake

In Brule County, Red Lake is recognized as a National Natural Landmark. This means it has special scientific or historical importance due to its natural features.

Activities on South Dakota Lakes

Many of South Dakota's lakes are perfect for outdoor adventures:

• Swimming: On hot summer days, many lakes offer designated swimming beaches where you can cool off.
• Fishing: South Dakota is a fishing paradise, especially for walleye, pike, and bass. Many lakes are stocked with fish, making them great for anglers of all ages.
• Boating: From small kayaks and canoes to larger motorboats, you can enjoy cruising on the water, waterskiing, or tubing.
• Camping and Picnics: Many lakes are surrounded by state parks or recreation areas with campgrounds and picnic spots, perfect for a day trip or an overnight stay.
• Wildlife Watching: Lakes are home to many animals, including various types of birds, deer, and other creatures. It's a great place to observe nature.

South Dakota's lakes are a valuable natural resource, providing beauty, recreation, and important habitats for wildlife across the state.