MAIN Beaches US South Dakota Beaches

Even if South Dakota lacks a number of big cities, that doesn't mean you have to travel for miles to find a summer place to cool down.

Swimming beaches around Rapid City number more than a dozen, including Angostura Reservoir which is famous for breathtaking, scenic views, crystal clear blue water, 36 miles of shoreline, and some of the finest sandy beaches in the state.

In Aberdeen, popular places for camping, fishing, or swimming from lakeside beaches include Mina Lake and Richmond Lake.

In fact, the Mount Rushmore State features miles of beaches and acres of lake shore for sun, sand and summer adventure — like hiking treks in and around Sylvan Lake (photo, top left) considered the "crown jewel" in the array of attractions at Custer State Park. (Also don't miss Custer State Park's scenic swimming beach area at Stockade Lake just east of the park's west entrance along Highway 16A.) 

Did we mention the other Great Lakes? South Dakota's got 'em -- at the Big Four Missouri River lakes located in central South Dakota including lakes Oahe, Sharpe, Francis Case and Lewis and Clark.

The crystal blue waters of the Angostura Recreation Area near Rapid City

South Dakota state parks also hold a treasure trove of other prime locations for lazing the days away camping or swimming in summer. Prime " hotspots" include Lake Louise, (located 14 miles northwest of Miller off U.S. Highway 14) Sandy Shore in Watertown, and Hartford Beach State Park in the northeastern part of the state.

And you thought South Dakota was only great plains and buffalo? Not by a long shot.

Have fun!

More about South Dakota lake beaches around the Web:

Where are the South Dakota Beaches? - An avid camper has compiled a little list ... including every lake beach in locations from Aberdeen to Yankton, with photos and contact information.

10 Best Family Beaches in South Dakota - Check out this colorful photo reveiw of top picks for kid-friendly beaches throughout the state including ewis & Clark Recreation Area Beach in Yankton, Angostura State Recreation Area Beach in Hot Springs, and more.