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Spending the day at the lake is a Midwest summer staple! Nothing feels more like summer than a day out in the sun, playing on the beach, and enjoying the water. While there may not be any lakes to swim right in Sioux Falls, there are plenty of options in the Area! We gathered up a list of lakes you can swim at within two hours of Sioux Falls. Some work great for a quick trip out for an afternoon swim, and others fit the bill for making a day-trip out of the lake adventure. All options listed below have a public swimming beach available! If you are looking for things to do in the Sioux Falls Area this summer, this list is for you!
Remember to always check the weather forecast for where you are headed before you start the drive! While the weather may be sunny here in Sioux Falls, things can look very different just an hour away. Make sure to check for closures of swimming beaches online as well! If you are traveling to a State Park you may be able to call ahead about water testing performed at the swimming beach too.
Below we let you know the general distance from Central Sioux Falls each lake is, along with a few facts about each place that are helpful to know. We list each lake in order of how close they are to central Sioux Falls. Happy swimming!
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Lakes to Swim at in the Sioux Falls Area
Lake Alvin
- 20 minute drive and southeast of Sioux Falls.
- This lake is a no-wake zone lake. Making it comfortable for swimmers who dislike boating waves.
- By the end of summer, this lake can at times have a reputation of having lots of algae.
- State Park fees apply.
Wall Lake
- 25 minute drive to the direct west of Sioux Falls.
- This is Minnehaha County’s only swimming beach.
- Beach access is free to the Public at Wall Lake Park.
Lake Vermillion State Park
- 30 Minute drive and West of Sioux Falls
- State Park Fees Apply
Lake Pahoja Recreation Area (Iowa)
- 35 minute drive to the southeast of Sioux Falls.
- This lake is just over the border in Inwood IA and is a favorite of many.
- There is a fee to enter the rec area.
- Lots to offer other than swimming! There is a trail that goes around the lake along with playgrounds, volleyball courts, and a basketball court.
Lake Madison
- 45 minute drive and Northwest of Sioux Falls.
- Large Lake.
- There is public access at Walker’s Point Rec Area and at Scott Pedersen Memorial Park
- Great for boating and fishing
Lake Herman State Park
- A 1 hour drive to the Northwest of Sioux Falls.
- Located near Madison, SD.
- State Park Fees Apply.
- This state park also offers disc golf and historical interest.
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Oakwood Lakes State Park
- 1 hour and 15 minute drive to the Northwest of Sioux Falls.
- Near Brookings, SD.
- State Park fees apply.
- This state park is part of 8 connecting glacier lakes.
Lake Poinsett State Recreation Area
- 1 hour and 25 minute drive to the Northwest of Sioux Falls.
- In Arlington, SD.
- The State of SD has several public access points on Lake Poinsett. The Rec Area is just one of them.
- State Fees Apply
- Lake Poinsett is one of the largest lakes in South Dakota. Making it popular for all water recreation.
Lake Benton (MN)
- 1 hour and 15 minute drive and northeast of Sioux Falls
- Public Access can be found at Norwegian Creek County Park
- South of Lake Benton is Pipestone, MN (Which is worth a visit)
Lake Thompson Recreation Area
- 1 hour and 30 minute drive to the northwest of Sioux Falls.
- Near DeSmet, SD (Check out the Laura Ingalls Wilder Attractions as well!)
- Lake Henry is right next to Lake Thompson as well.
Okoboji (Iowa)
- 1 hour and 40 minute drive to the southeast of Sioux Falls.
- You can find Easy Okoboji Lake, West Okoboji Lake, Big Spirit Lake, and other smaller lakes in this area.
- Very Popular lake area.
- Okoboji is considered a tourist area and has fun things to keep a family engaged for a full weekend.
- Public Access is available in many different places (Gull Point State Park and Pikes Point State Park to mention two).
Lewis and Clark Recreation Area in Yankton, SD
- 1 hour and 40 minute drive and Southwest of Sioux Falls.
- State Park Fees apply.
- Great for fishing and boating.
- Generally seen as one of the cleaner swimming locations in the area.
Lake Kampeska
- 1 hour and 40 minute drive and northwest of Sioux Falls.
- Near Watertown.
- Public Access can be found at Sandy Shores State Recreation Area and at a City Park.
- Nearby is Pelican Lake State Rec Area as well!
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Lake Shetek (MN)
- 1 hour 40 minutes drive northeast of Sioux Falls.
- Public access can be found at Lake Shetek State Park (fees apply)
- Located near many other smaller lakes in this area of MN.
- Popular at this lake is a 6 mile loop bike trail
Tips for a Perfect Lake Day
- Safety First: Always keep an eye on your children while they’re in the water.
- Pack Essentials: Don’t forget sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water to stay hydrated. A picnic blanket and snacks will make your outing even more enjoyable.
- Water Shoes: We highly recommend water shoes when swimming in lakes. The bottom of lakes and the shores can be rough to walk on at times. Stepping on an invasive zebra mussel can do some damage. We love these ones for quick growing kiddos! We also recommend water shoes for adults as well.
- Check Regulations: Some lakes may have specific rules regarding swimming and other activities. Check ahead to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit.
Exploring these lake swimming spots around Sioux Falls is a fantastic way for families to enjoy the summer. Whether you’re looking for a quick afternoon escape or a full day of fun, these lakes offer something for everyone. So pack your swimsuits, gather the kids, and dive into the natural beauty that the Sioux Falls area has to offer!