Natural swimming hole
Pelican Lake Recreation Area swim beach
Lake · South Dakota
About this swimming hole
Pelican Lake Recreation Area, about 9 miles southwest of Watertown, is a family-oriented state park on Pelican Lake with 83 campsites. GFP describes an easy swimming hotspot feet from the camping cabins, plus a beach, boat ramp, fishing pier and picnic shelter. The park also has 5.5 miles of trails, playgrounds and a kayak launch.
Good to know
| Water type | Lake |
|---|---|
| Best season | June-August |
| Fees | Daily park entrance license required ($10 resident, $15 nonresident) |
| Reservations required | No |
| Parking | Parking in recreation area lots near the campground and beach |
| Amenities | Swim beach, Campground, Camping cabins, Boat ramp, Fishing pier, Playgrounds, Picnic shelter |
| County | Codington County |
| Nearest town | Watertown |
| Safety notes | No lifeguards on duty at the designated swimming beach; swim with a buddy and watch children. |
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 Pelican Lake Recreation Area swim beach?
Yes — Pelican Lake Recreation Area swim beach is listed as a natural swimming spot in South Dakota. Heads-up: No lifeguards on duty at the designated swimming beach; swim with a buddy and watch children.. There are rarely lifeguards at natural swimming holes — verify conditions locally before you go.
Does Pelican Lake Recreation Area swim beach require reservations?
No reservations are required at Pelican Lake Recreation Area swim beach based on current information — but verify before you go.
Is there a fee to visit Pelican Lake 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 Pelican Lake Recreation Area swim beach?
The best season is typically June-August.