Natural swimming hole

Lake Lakota swim beach, Newton Hills State Park

Lake · South Dakota

About this swimming hole

Newton Hills State Park is a forested park on the Coteau des Prairies south of Canton, and its Lake Lakota is open to fishing, swimming and boating. Travel South Dakota notes designated swim beaches within the park's campground and that Lake Lakota is a no-wake lake. Canoes, kayaks and paddleboards are available for rent at the welcome center, but are not allowed in the swimming areas.

Good to know

Water typeLake
Best seasonJune-August
FeesDaily park entrance license required ($10 resident, $15 nonresident)
Reservations requiredNo
HoursOpen year-round
ParkingDay-use parking near the beach and campground, per park guides
AmenitiesSwim beach, Campground, Boat ramp, Picnic areas, Playground
CountyLincoln County
Nearest townCanton
Safety notesNo lifeguard on duty. Lake Lakota is a no-wake lake; contact the welcome center to confirm lake levels before water recreation, per Travel South Dakota.

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 Lakota swim beach, Newton Hills State Park?

Yes — Lake Lakota swim beach, Newton Hills State Park is listed as a natural swimming spot in South Dakota. Heads-up: No lifeguard on duty. Lake Lakota is a no-wake lake; contact the welcome center to confirm lake levels before water recreation, per Travel South Dakota.. There are rarely lifeguards at natural swimming holes — verify conditions locally before you go.

Does Lake Lakota swim beach, Newton Hills State Park require reservations?

No reservations are required at Lake Lakota swim beach, Newton Hills State Park based on current information — but verify before you go.

Is there a fee to visit Lake Lakota swim beach, Newton Hills State Park?

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 Lakota swim beach, Newton Hills State Park?

The best season is typically June-August.

Keep exploring

Verify before you go. Conditions, fees, reservations, and access can change — confirm details with the official link before visiting. Last verified: September 2026