Being lakeside is one of my favorite things, and there are plenty of beautiful lakes in South Dakota that are perfect for just that. Whether you enjoy a stroll on the sandy beaches or prefer to be in or on the water, these 10 best lakes in South Dakota are both scenic and fun. The best time to be at one of these lakes is at dusk after a full day of fun. They truly have a magical way about them then. Check out some of the most beautiful lakes in South Dakota.

1. Legion Lake
Legion Lake, East Custer, SD 57730, USA
Tonto7/Tripadvisor
This scenic lake is tucked up in the Black Hills near Custer, South Dakota. The sheer cliffs around it give it a very private setting, perfect for a getaway at the lake. Legion Lake is one of the most picturesque South Dakota lakes. Go visit it today.
2. Pactola Lake
Pactola Lake, West Pennington, SD 57702, USA
Frank D/Tripadvisor
Pactola Lake is a huge reservoir - the largest in the area - that is loved by many for its beauty and all of the fun things you can do there. Learn more about Pactola Lake, one of the most beautiful lakes in South Dakota, then plan your next visit.
3. Lake Mitchell
Lake Mitchell, Mitchell, SD 57301, USA
Chocopups/Flickr
This serene lake near Mitchell is great for a lakeside stroll or a calm day out on the water for some good ol' fishing.
4. Horse Thief Lake
Horse Thief Lake, Mount Rushmore UT, SD 57751, USA
Mark Goebel/Flickr
The closest lake to Mount Rushmore is hidden among the ponderosa pines at this gorgeous spot. It's one of the best lakes in South Dakota for swimming, so check it out on a hot day!
5. Lake Oahe
Lake Oahe, United States
JinAbr/Tripadvisor
This massive reservoir spans across 370,000 acres, starting just north of Pierre and extends all the way into North Dakota. It is the fourth largest reservoir in the entire country. Learn more about Lake Oahe, then plan your visit there.

Related Stories

South Dakota's Most Refreshing Hike Will Lead You Straight To A Beautiful Swimming Hole

South Dakota's Most Refreshing Hike Will Lead You Straight To A Beautiful Swimming Hole

 This Swimming Hole In South Dakota Is So Hidden You’ll Probably Have It All To Yourself

This Swimming Hole In South Dakota Is So Hidden You’ll Probably Have It All To Yourself

 Here Are 15 Of The Most Beautiful Lakes In South Dakota, According To Our Readers

Here Are 15 Of The Most Beautiful Lakes In South Dakota, According To Our Readers
6. Sheridan Lake
Sheridan Lake, Mount Rushmore UT, SD 57702, USA
Sheridan Lake Marina/Tripadvisor
Sheridan Lake is located near Rapid City and is quite popular with fishers, campers, and more. Start planning your visit to Sheridan Lake.
7. Angostura Reservoir
Angostura Reservoir, Northeast Fall River, SD 57747, USA
Kim Z/Tripadvisor
A gorgeous lake like this is surrounded by campgrounds with perfect access and view of the lake, making it a pretty popular destination near Hot Springs. Learn more about one of the most crystal clear lakes in South Dakota, and then pencil in your next visit.
8. Sylvan Lake
Sylvan Lake, East Custer, SD 57730, USA
D N/Tripadvisor
This is sometimes referred to as the "crown jewel" in Custer State Park, and you can see why. The views here are fantastic and unique. Sylvan Lake even holds that title of most beautiful lake in South Dakota, so don't forget your camera when you visit!
9. Sand Lake
Sand Lake Resevoir, South Dakota, USA
CSSnowshoer/Tripadvisor
This lake is located in the upper northeast corner of South Dakota, not far north from Aberdeen. The Sand Lake Refuge is located there, which is abundant with waterfowl.
10. Lake Vermillion
East Vermillion Lake, Greenland Township, SD, USA
TheHappyCampers227/Tripadvisor
Lake Vermillion has a popular recreation area that is frequented by many who enjoy the beautiful sights along side this peaceful lake, and for those who enjoy jumping in and enjoying the water. Go ahead and start planning a day trip to this picture perfect South Dakota lake.

Do you agree that these are some of the best lakes in South Dakota? Do you have any lake plans coming up? The great thing about South Dakota lakes is that there are many year-round activities!

South Dakota has many more beautiful places hidden in various locations across the state. Check out the most jaw-dropping places in South Dakota for some of the best of the best.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

best lakes in South Dakota

Jessica Bohl | May 18, 2022

What are some of the best lakes in South Dakota for swimming?

There are some great swimming holes in South Dakota that you will want to visit when it gets hot out. Legion Lake is one of the four lakes in Custer State Park and is perfect for swimming on a warm day. The Angostura Reservoir has nearly 40 miles of shoreline, which makes it great for swimming and for building sandcastles. So grab your swimsuit and checkout one of these great South Dakota lakes.

What are some scenic lakes in South Dakota?

There are some truly gorgeous lakes in South Dakota that are worthy of a day trip. Pickerel Lake in South Dakota is absolutely stunning and visitors have even captured photos of the Northern Lights there. So if you want some jaw-dropping scenery, head over to this beautiful lake. Lewis and Clark Lake is another stunner. Located on the edge of Yankton, this community comes alive in the summer. So be sure to put it on your lake bucket list!

Related Articles

Explore South Dakota