Natural swimming hole

Sandy Shore Recreation Area beach

Lake · South Dakota

About this swimming hole

True to its name, Sandy Shore has long sand beaches on Lake Kampeska just outside Watertown, with some of the easiest swimming access in the state park system. The small park packs a lot of beach into a small footprint. Cabins and campsites sit just across the parking lot from the water.

Good to know

Water typeLake
Best seasonsummer
FeesDaily park entrance license required ($10 resident, $15 nonresident)
Reservations requiredNo
AmenitiesSand beach, Cabins, Campsites, Boat ramp
CountyCodington
Nearest townWatertown

Map

Official information

Official park / agency page ↗ — check current conditions, fees, and reservations here before you go.

Nearby swimming holes

Frequently asked questions

Does Sandy Shore Recreation Area beach require reservations?

No reservations are required at Sandy Shore Recreation Area beach based on current information — but verify before you go.

Is there a fee to visit Sandy Shore Recreation Area 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 Sandy Shore Recreation Area beach?

The best season is typically summer.

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