Lake Hiddenwood Recreation Area

Traditionally home to several Native American tribes, in 1927 the Department of Game and Fish dammed off a local river to create Lake Hiddenwood, the first official manmade lake in the Dakotas.

Kayaking is hugely popular in the surrounding rivers, and in Lake Hiddenwood itself. The local Okobojo and LaFramboise rivers are host to a diverse array of wildlife and plant species. Fishing is also encouraged. Kayaks and fishing poles are available for rental at the Hiddenwood Resources Office, more info on which can be found on their website. Rentals for kayaks are restricted to those over 18 years of age.

Safety classes for youngsters looking to get out and paddle are offered during the spring and summer months only and are offered through the local school districts' "After Hours Scouts" program. If you are looking to get your child involved, more info is available on their website. There are 11 miles of hiking trails, all of which are paved and easily accessible. Dogs are permitted on these trails as well, as long as they are kept on a leash. 

Park officials ask that individuals keep visiting groups and tours in mind when enjoying the more well-traveled areas. Lake Hiddenwood hosts 13 unique campsites, 2 of which host beachfront camping pavilions. These deluxe sites, as well as the more standard, can be reserved up to 120 days out, so if you're interested, make sure to get ahead of the pack. All 13 sites are dog-friendly, provided your canine stays on its leash at all times. 

The recreational area is also host to an array of events, most of them during the summertime. The local community college provides free botany gatherings twice monthly, and encourage people of all ages to attend. Lake Hiddenwood's event calendar runs all throughout the spring and summer months, full details of which can be found on the city's current events calendar on their website.