Natural swimming hole

Roy Lake State Park swim beach

Lake · South Dakota

About this swimming hole

Roy Lake State Park, three miles southwest of Lake City, is divided into two sections on Roy Lake and is open year-round for camping, beaches, swimming, fishing and boating. Travel South Dakota describes swimming and floating on the beach along the lake's clear waters, with a second smaller beach on the east side. The park also has an island trail, disc golf and boat ramps.

Good to know

Water typeLake
DepthLake maximum depth about 21 feet
Best seasonJune-August
FeesDaily park entrance license required ($10 resident, $15 nonresident)
Reservations requiredNo
HoursOpen year-round
ParkingState park parking lots near the beaches and campgrounds
AmenitiesSwim beach, Campground, Picnic areas, Boat ramps, Disc golf
CountyMarshall County
Nearest townLake City
Safety notesThere may not be lifeguards at either beach, so swimming is at your own risk, 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 Roy Lake State Park swim beach?

Yes — Roy Lake State Park swim beach is listed as a natural swimming spot in South Dakota. Heads-up: There may not be lifeguards at either beach, so swimming is at your own risk, per Travel South Dakota.. There are rarely lifeguards at natural swimming holes — verify conditions locally before you go.

Does Roy Lake State Park swim beach require reservations?

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

Is there a fee to visit Roy Lake 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 Roy Lake State Park swim beach?

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