Natural swimming hole
Lake Cochrane Recreation Area swim beach
Lake · South Dakota
About this swimming hole
Lake Cochrane Recreation Area is nestled between spring-fed Lake Cochrane and Lake Oliver near the Minnesota border, 10 miles east of Clear Lake. GFP lists swimming among its activities and a swim beach among its amenities. Sources describe clear, spring-fed water with an even, sandy bottom and no major drop-offs at the swimming area.
Good to know
| Water type | Lake |
|---|---|
| Depth | Even, sandy bottom with no major drop-offs at the swimming area; lake is fairly shallow, about 25 feet at its deepest |
| Best season | June-August |
| Fees | Daily park entrance license required ($10 resident, $15 nonresident) |
| Reservations required | No |
| Hours | Open year-round |
| Parking | Large parking area on the shore of Lake Cochrane near the swimming area and picnic shelter |
| Amenities | Swim beach, Campground, Camping cabin, Boat ramp |
| County | Deuel County |
| Nearest town | Clear Lake |
| Safety notes | No lifeguard on duty; swim in the designated beach area. |
Map
Official information
Official park / agency page ↗ — check current conditions, fees, and reservations here before you go.
Nearby swimming holes
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim in Lake Cochrane Recreation Area swim beach?
Yes — Lake Cochrane Recreation Area swim beach is listed as a natural swimming spot in South Dakota. Heads-up: No lifeguard on duty; swim in the designated beach area.. There are rarely lifeguards at natural swimming holes — verify conditions locally before you go.
Does Lake Cochrane Recreation Area swim beach require reservations?
No reservations are required at Lake Cochrane Recreation Area swim beach based on current information — but verify before you go.
Is there a fee to visit Lake Cochrane Recreation Area swim beach?
Reported fee info: Daily park entrance license required ($10 resident, $15 nonresident). Fees can change — confirm with the official link.
When is the best time to visit Lake Cochrane Recreation Area swim beach?
The best season is typically June-August.