Natural swimming hole
Oakwood Lakes State Park swim beach
Lake · South Dakota
About this swimming hole
Oakwood Lakes State Park is set among eight connecting glacial lakes near Bruce and is open year-round for camping, swimming, fishing and boating on Johnson Lake and Lake Tetonkaha. State law designates the waters fronting the park on Johnson Lake, extending 180 feet either side of the change house, as a public swimming zone. Park guides describe a swim beach in the day-use area with picnic shelters nearby.
Good to know
| Water type | Lake |
|---|---|
| Best season | June-August |
| Fees | Daily park entrance license required ($10 resident, $15 nonresident) |
| Reservations required | No |
| Hours | Open year-round |
| Parking | Parking on Oakwood Beach Road and in state park day-use lots |
| Amenities | Swim beach, Campground, Picnic shelters, Boat ramp, Fishing pier, Playground |
| County | Brookings County |
| Nearest town | Bruce |
| Safety notes | No lifeguards on duty, so guests swim at their own risk, per park guides. |
Map
Nearby swimming holes
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim in Oakwood Lakes State Park swim beach?
Yes — Oakwood Lakes State Park swim beach is listed as a natural swimming spot in South Dakota. Heads-up: No lifeguards on duty, so guests swim at their own risk, per park guides.. There are rarely lifeguards at natural swimming holes — verify conditions locally before you go.
Does Oakwood Lakes State Park swim beach require reservations?
No reservations are required at Oakwood Lakes State Park swim beach based on current information — but verify before you go.
Is there a fee to visit Oakwood Lakes State Park 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 Oakwood Lakes State Park swim beach?
The best season is typically June-August.