West Whitlock Recreation Area

The 260-acre area where the West Whitlock Recreation Area sits was converted into a park and named after one of the early American pioneers, Mrs. J.F. Whitlock, who owned most of the land where the park currently resides. To get to the main entrance to the recreation area, just travel 18 miles west of Gettysburg, South Dakota off US 212.

West Whitlock Recreation Area is popular for several reasons, one of which is its historical significance. Historically, the West Whitlock Recreation Area was a popular campsite among the Arikara and Mandan people. Today, the place is famous for drawing anglers and modern-day campers who can experience the beautiful land which includes the Missouri River.

Some of the amenities that you can find at the West Whitlock Recreation Area include a beach, playground, boat ramp, canoe/kayak rentals, dump station, fish cleaning station, paddleboard rentals, snowshoe checkout, picnic shelter, camping cabins, 100 campsites (87 of which have electrical power), flush toilets/showers, drinking water, and vault toilets. These amenities facilitate popular activities at the park including birdwatching, boating, camping, swimming, fishing, canoeing/kayaking, snowshoeing, and hiking

Bringing your dog to this recreational area is allowed at no additional cost just like with any other South Dakota State Park. You will, of course, also need to follow strict park rules that include the following: As the dog owner, your pooch must be under your immediate control and you must keep the dog at least 200 feet away from other visitors at the recreational park. Furthermore, you must always keep your dog on a leash no more than 10-feet long as well as stay away from buildings and designated swimming areas. You are however allowed to bring your dog to tent and camping areas. Finally, cleaning after your dog is a must and it is, therefore, a good idea to carry some emergency poop bags with you.