Pierson Ranch Recreation Area

Pierson Ranch Recreation Area covers a total area of 60-acres of land near Yankton city, Yankton County, South Dakota. To get to the park just travel four miles west of Yankton off SD Highway 52. Pierson Ranch was established in 1959 and was the first campground constructed after the Gavins Point Dam was completed.

The Pierson Ranch Recreation Area is located between two other recreation areas, namely the Lewis and Clark recreation areas and the Chief White Crane recreational areas. All three recreational areas provide a wide array of activities that you can enjoy. The Pierson Ranch Recreation Area is popular for its easy access to shelters, picnic area, campsites, a and a day-use area that families and large groups love to use.

Some of the other activities popular at the park include educational activities, family activities, planned recreation, playground, outdoor sports and games, camping, bird watching, fishing, boating, biking, hiking, and snowmobiling. Amenities at the park include 67 campsites, 2 cabins (each of which can accommodate 4 people) and 1 kitchenette, picnic shelter, resort atmosphere, planned activities, playground, BBQ facilities, quiet atmosphere, family park, 24hr courtesy patrol, 50-amps electricity, firewood available, drinking water, vault toilets, flush toilets/showers, dump station, and game checkout. The park is also ADA accessible.

Pets are welcome at the park at no additional cost, which means that you can bring your dog to the park. You will, however, need to follow standard South Dakota state park rules that include keeping your dog on a leash no longer than 10 feet long. Maintaining immediate control of your pooch and not letting them stray into buildings or get closer than 200 feet from other guests to the park. That said, you can bring your dog to the tent and camping areas. You are also expected to always clean up after your dog and it is, therefore, a clever idea to bring poop bags with you for your convenience.