Depending on where you live in South Dakota, school is starting in just a week or two. But that doesn’t have to mean that summer is over! We know that these warm temperatures will last well into September, so it’s definitely not too late to plan a quick weekend trip. Here’s a little recreation area that has a nice beach…but it’s often overshadowed by the great fishing opportunities here. Plan a short trip in the next few weeks – there’s something fun here for the whole family.

The Oahe Downstream Recreation Area is located at 20439 Marina Loop Road in Fort Pierre.

Oahe Downstream Recreation Area/Facebook

This pretty recreation park is the perfect place to spend a weekend. You’ll pay $6/vehicle to access the area.

Oahe Downstream Recreation Area/Facebook

The beach here is nice and sandy, with plenty of room to put your umbrella, sand chairs and blankets. You can easily spend an entire day lounging by the lake.

Oahe Downstream Recreation Area/Facebook

Build some sand castles!

Oahe Downstream Recreation Area/Facebook

Visit the Butterfly Garden near the entrance of the park. You’ll find 17 species of plants here, and tons of butterflies.

Oahe Downstream Recreation Area/Facebook

While you’re here, play a round of disc golf; you’ll love the challenging, 18-hole course.

Oahe Downstream Recreation Area/Facebook

You won’t want to leave without doing some fishing. The lake is full of walleye, sauger, northern pike, bass, salmon, trout and more.

Oahe Downstream Recreation Area/Facebook

Stay overnight in one of eight cabins at this park. Cabins sleep four people and cost just $40/night.

Oahe Downstream Recreation Area/Facebook

You can also bring your tent or RV and stay in one of the 205 campsites. They all offer electricity, and cost just $19/night.

South Dakota Game, Fish & Parks

Plan now to visit for a weekend, and make a few more family memories for the summer of 2017.

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Have you played on the beach at Oahe Downstream Recreation Area? Tell us about your day there!

Oahe Downstream Recreation Area/Facebook

South Dakota Game, Fish & Parks

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If you have the time, take our Hidden Beaches Road Trip!

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