view
1 / 10

Angostura Recreation Area

4.7
·633 reviews·Hot Springs, United States

A vast reservoir with 36 miles of shoreline, offering camping, boating, fishing, and water sports. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekends

Pizza joint & marina open

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
view

Angostura Recreation Area

Best Time

Weekends

Pizza joint & marina open

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vast reservoir with 36 miles of shoreline, offering camping, boating, fishing, and water sports. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

4.7
(633 reviews)

"Amazing campground with epic water views and plenty of activities for everyone."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Check Opening Times

Things get quiet Mon/Tues. Confirm what's open before you go!

☀️ Pack Sunscreen!

The sun is strong out on the water and trails. Stay protected!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Cheyenne Campground

Cheyenne Campground

Angostura Recreation Area

Family-friendly loop with a playground and shower house. Site 2 is nice, Site 17 offers private, epic water views.

Paved Bike Trail

Paved Bike Trail

Angostura Recreation Area

Enjoy a long, scenic paved trail perfect for biking or leisurely strolls with beautiful reservoir views.

Water Sports Rentals

Water Sports Rentals

Main Office/Marina

Affordable rentals for kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, and lily pads make enjoying the reservoir easy.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Reservoir Fun & Campground Comforts

Angostura Recreation Area boasts 36 miles of shoreline on a large reservoir, perfect for anglers and boaters. Several campgrounds offer amenities like playgrounds and shower houses, with some sites offering epic water views. Plan for weekend pizza and marina snacks, but note that it can get quiet mid-week.

Water Sports & Scenic Strolls

This spot is ideal for water enthusiasts, with ample opportunities for swimming, fishing, boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Affordable rentals are available. A long, paved bike trail offers scenic rides, and the low water levels can allow for exploring the lakebed. Don't forget sunscreen!

Best Times

When
Weekends
Why
Pizza joint & marina open
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays (Mon-Tues)
Why
Quieter atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Summer
Why
Ideal for water activities
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

You can swim, fish, boat—or just do nothing at all. That’s the beauty of a place like this. Cheyenne Campground gets it. 🐟 Take a virtual tour and get a feel for Cheyenne Campground at Angostura Recreation Area. Explore the sites, check the lake access, and see why this is a favorite for slow-paced lake days. 🔗 Follow @Campgroundviews for more peaceful places to camp, and download our app to exp...
campgroundviews
9 likes • 414 views

🎯 Check Opening Times

Things get quiet Mon/Tues. Confirm what's open before you go! Reddit

☀️ Pack Sunscreen!

The sun is strong out on the water and trails. Stay protected! Reddit

Would you come back? We spent all of last year’s camping season just 10 minutes up the road, and we never came to enjoy this beautiful recreation area in the South Dakota State Park system. At Angostura Reservoir, the recreation area is huge with a million things to do: Cabins Tenting RV spots Boating Kayaking and paddle boarding with rentals Sandy beaches Hiking trails Bike paths Even restaur...
followthoserogues
15 likes • 498 views
Nestled in the heart of Angostura Recreation Area, this campground is a haven for outdoor lovers. Enjoy hiking trails, sandy beaches, and the chance to spot local wildlife—all just steps from your campsite. 📍 Take a virtual tour of Cascade Campground and plan your next adventure! Visit CampgroundViews.com for more immersive campground tours. 🔗 Follow @campgroundviews for more virtual campground ...
campgroundviews
4 likes • 455 views

🚗 Easy Access to Hot Springs

Hot Springs is just 5 miles away for laundry, restaurants, and gas. Reddit

🛶 Affordable Rentals

Rent kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards at great prices to enjoy the reservoir. Reddit

Curious why we traded a house for an RV? It’s all about family. 🏡➡️🚐 We get to do slow mornings and spend time exploring places like Angostura Recreation Area. We cherish our 45-minute family walks (which sometimes include kiddo bike rides). Living in an RV might seem unconventional to some, but for us, it’s all about making family our top priority. We chose this lifestyle because being toget...
followthoserogues
11 likes • 543 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Check Opening Times

Things get quiet Mon/Tues. Confirm what's open before you go! Reddit

☀️ Pack Sunscreen!

The sun is strong out on the water and trails. Stay protected! Reddit

🚗 Easy Access to Hot Springs

Hot Springs is just 5 miles away for laundry, restaurants, and gas. Reddit

🛶 Affordable Rentals

Rent kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards at great prices to enjoy the reservoir. Reddit

✨ Stargazing Gem

Southern sky views are beautiful with minimal light pollution. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(633 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Angostura Recreation Area, highlighting its beautiful reservoir, excellent camping facilities, and abundant water activities. The sandy beaches and affordable rentals are big draws, though some note that the area can become quiet mid-week and recommend checking operating hours.

"Amazing campground. We stayed in the Cheyenne loop, which was small with a playground and shower house. It was perfect. Site 2 was very nice, site 17 is private with an epic view of the water.
Pizza joint up on the weekends, marina with snacks, a very long paved biked trail which was awesome. Highly recommend. Hot springs is about 5 miles down the road which has laundry, restaurants, gas / diesel and alot to do."

RS

"This is a great place really has bathrooms. It has plenty of place to paddle. The scenery is awesome and I recommend it to anybody to spend the day out on it.a little crowded on the weekends lots of parking"

Dawn

"Really enjoyed the park! Only suggestion is to make sure you know what is open and when. It gets pretty quiet Mondays and Tuesdays of a normal week."

Steve Watkins

What People Like

Beautiful reservoir views
Great camping amenities
Affordable water rentals

What People Dislike

Quiet mid-week
Need to check hours

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Angostura Recreation Area is located near Hot Springs, South Dakota. It's easily accessible by car, with Hot Springs being about 5 miles down the road for amenities like gas and restaurants. Reddit

Yes, Angostura Recreation Area offers RV spots, with various campgrounds providing different amenities. Some sites are described as spacious. Instagram

While specific directions vary, the area is generally accessed via roads leading from Hot Springs, South Dakota. It's a popular destination for those camping in the region. Reddit

Public transportation options are limited to reach Angostura Recreation Area. It is best accessed by private vehicle. Reddit

The recreation area is quite large with 36 miles of shoreline. Driving is the primary way to get between campgrounds and points of interest, though a paved bike trail offers scenic travel within certain areas. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Angostura Recreation Area is part of the South Dakota State Park system. Typically, state park entrance fees or camping fees apply. It's advisable to check the official South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks website for current fee structures. Instagram

The recreation area is generally open year-round for access, but specific facilities like campgrounds, marinas, and rental services will have their own operating hours, which can vary seasonally. It's noted that it can get quiet on Mondays and Tuesdays. Reddit

Camping fees vary depending on the type of site (tent, RV, cabin) and the specific campground. Affordable rental options for watercraft are also available. Check the official park website for the most up-to-date pricing. Reddit

Advance booking for campsites and cabins is highly recommended, especially during peak season and weekends, to secure your preferred spot. You can typically book through the South Dakota State Parks reservation system. Instagram

Day-use fees may apply for visitors not camping. These fees help support the maintenance and operation of the park. Check with the park office or website for current day-use rates. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can swim, fish, boat, kayak, paddleboard, and enjoy the sandy beaches. There's also a long paved bike trail and opportunities for stargazing. TikTokInstagramReddit

Yes, Angostura Recreation Area features sandy beaches and areas suitable for swimming. TikTokInstagram

Angostura Reservoir is popular with anglers. The 36 miles of shoreline offer ample opportunities for fishing. TikTok

There are multiple campgrounds, including Cheyenne, Cascade, and Hat Creek. They offer sites for tents and RVs, and some have cabins. Amenities can include playgrounds and shower houses. Instagram+2

Yes, affordable rental options for kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, and lily pads are available at the main office or marina. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While there isn't extensive dining within the park itself, a pizza joint operates on weekends, and the marina offers snacks. Hot Springs, a short drive away, has various restaurant options. Reddit

Hot Springs, located about 5 miles away, provides a range of dining choices, from casual eateries to more established restaurants. Reddit

Absolutely! Picnicking is a popular activity, and bringing your own food and drinks is encouraged, especially for day trips or to enjoy at your campsite. TikTok

The closest town with a grocery store is likely Hot Springs, which is about a 5-mile drive from the recreation area. Reddit

The marina typically offers snacks and basic provisions, perfect for a quick bite while enjoying time on the water. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Look for scenic overlooks along the shoreline, especially during sunrise and sunset. Campground sites with water views, like Site 17 at Cheyenne Campground, offer great photo opportunities. InstagramReddit

While not a primary focus, the natural setting of the recreation area may offer chances to spot local wildlife. Early mornings and late evenings are often best for sightings. Instagram

The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset provide beautiful lighting for landscape and water photography. The clear southern sky also makes for excellent stargazing photography. Reddit

The vastness of the reservoir itself, the sandy beaches, and the campgrounds nestled along the shore are the main visual attractions. The marina area can also be picturesque. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive reservoir views. A telephoto lens can be useful if you hope to photograph any distant wildlife. Don't forget a tripod for low-light or stargazing shots. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Angostura Recreation Area is a fantastic spot for families. The Cheyenne Campground loop is particularly noted for its family-friendly atmosphere, featuring a playground and shower house.Instagram The sandy beaches are perfect for kids to play and swim, and the availability of affordable watercraft rentals like kayaks and paddleboards offers fun for all ages.Reddit The long paved bike trail is also great for family bike rides or walks.Reddit Remember to pack plenty of snacks and drinks, and consider the weekend pizza joint for an easy meal option.Reddit

🎣 Anglers and Boaters Paradise

If fishing and boating are your passions, Angostura Reservoir is a prime destination. The 36 miles of shoreline provide ample space for anglers to cast their lines, and the reservoir is known for being popular with boaters.TikTok You can bring your own boat or take advantage of the rental options for kayaks and paddleboards if you prefer a more personal watercraft experience.Reddit The marina also offers snacks, making it convenient to spend a full day out on the water.

🏕️ Campers Seeking Serenity

Campers will find a welcoming environment at Angostura's various campgrounds. Sites like #17 at Cheyenne Campground offer private, epic water views, perfect for a serene getaway.Instagram Hat Creek Campground provides cozy cabins for those who prefer a bit more comfort while still being close to the water.Instagram While weekends can be lively with a pizza joint and marina, weekdays offer a quieter, more peaceful experience.Reddit The minimal light pollution also makes it a great spot for stargazing.Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Camping at Angostura: Your Home Away From Home

Angostura Recreation Area offers a variety of camping experiences across its different campgrounds, including Cheyenne, Cascade, and Hat Creek. Cheyenne Campground is noted for being family-friendly with a playground and shower house, and specific sites like #17 boast private, epic water views.Instagram Cascade Campground also provides a haven for outdoor lovers with hiking trails and beach access right from your campsite.Instagram Hat Creek Campground offers spacious sites and cozy cabins along the reservoir's shores.Instagram Many sites are suitable for RVs, and the overall atmosphere is geared towards enjoying the lake life.

When planning your stay, consider that weekends can be busier with amenities like a pizza joint and marina operating.Reddit If you prefer a quieter experience, weekdays, particularly Mondays and Tuesdays, tend to be more peaceful.Reddit Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially for cabins and prime weekend spots, to ensure you get the site that best suits your needs. Remember to pack essentials, as the nearest full-service town is Hot Springs, about 5 miles away.Reddit

Embracing the Water: Activities on Angostura Reservoir

The star attraction of Angostura Recreation Area is undoubtedly Angostura Reservoir, offering 36 miles of shoreline ripe for aquatic adventures. Visitors can enjoy swimming in designated areas and fishing, with the reservoir being a popular spot for anglers.TikTok For those seeking more active pursuits, kayaking, paddleboarding, and boating are highly encouraged. The recreation area provides affordable rental options for kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards, making it easy for anyone to get out on the water.Reddit

Beyond the immediate reservoir activities, a long, paved bike trail winds through the area, offering a scenic route for cycling or leisurely walks.Reddit The water levels have been noted to be low at times, allowing visitors to walk and encompass larger areas of the lakebed, which can be a unique experience.Reddit Regardless of your chosen activity, remember to bring plenty of sunscreen, as the sun can be intense during long days spent outdoors.Reddit

Beyond the Lake: Exploring the Surroundings

While Angostura Recreation Area is a destination in itself, its proximity to Hot Springs, South Dakota, offers additional conveniences and attractions. Hot Springs, located just about 5 miles away, provides essential services such as laundry facilities, a variety of restaurants, and gas stations.Reddit This makes it a convenient base for stocking up on supplies or enjoying a meal out after a day at the reservoir.

For those interested in exploring further afield, the region around Angostura is rich in natural beauty and outdoor activities. While not directly within the recreation area, nearby attractions like Custer State Park, Wind Cave National Park, and the Badlands offer world-class hiking and scenic drives [^R]. Angostura serves as a great base for exploring these iconic South Dakota landmarks, combining lake recreation with the rugged beauty of the Black Hills region.

You may also like

1 of 2