Pierson Ranch Recreation Area — RV Camping in Yankton, SD

Pierson Ranch Recreation Area, located just 4 miles west of Yankton, South Dakota on Highway 52, holds the distinction of being the oldest campground in the area, established in 1959 following the completion of Gavins Point Dam. Nestled between Chief White Crane and Lewis and Clark Recreation Areas along the Missouri River corridor, this South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks managed site offers 67 campsites with full electrical hookups including 30-amp and 50-amp service, water hookups, and a dump station for self-contained rigs. Campers enjoy modern amenities including flush toilets, showers, picnic tables, grills, and a playground, with ADA-accessible facilities throughout. The recreation area is a hub for outdoor activities — hiking and biking trails wind through the grounds, while the nearby Missouri River beckons anglers, kayakers, canoeers, and paddleboarders. Birdwatching, disc golf, volleyball, and horseshoes round out the recreational offerings. Pet-friendly and family-oriented, Pierson Ranch also features a large day-use area ideal for group gatherings. Its prime location near Yankton makes it a convenient base for exploring the Lewis and Clark Lake region and broader southeastern South Dakota.