|
Lake Thompson is South Dakota’s largest natural lake, covering 18,000 square acres in Kingsbury County. Lake Thompson is ranked the second-best fishing spot in the state, after the Missouri River.
Originally called Dry Woods Lake by Native Americans, the lake was renamed for Jacob Thompson, Secretary of the Interior. The lake is mentioned as Twin Lakes in many of Laura Ingalls Wilder’s books, including "By the Shores of Silver Lake," and "The Long Winter."
In the 1930s, the lake was completely dry and used for pasture. In the 1980s, the area was a 9,000-acre marsh. The heavy rains and snowmelt in the mid-1980s filled the lake to over 20 feet deep. The lake is so distinct it was designated as a National Natural Landmark.
The location of Lake Thompson makes it especially appealing for a state recreation area. It offers camping, a group rental lodge, boat ramps, swimming beaches, shoreline trails, picnic and playground areas and a park shop and office.
Lake Thompson offers 103 campsites (97 with electrical hookups). Two camping cabins offer breathtaking views of the lake.
The lake is located within a 60-mile radius of 17 counties, which contain 40 percent of the state's population.
Outdoor Activities |
