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Home >  United States  >  South Dakota  >  Harrisburg  >  

Lake Alvin State Recreation Area

Lake Alvin State Recreation Area

United States, South Dakota, Harrisburg 

Sandee

Lake Alvin State Recreation Area

United States, South Dakota, Harrisburg 

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Lake Alvin State Recreation Area is a picturesque destination located near Harrisburg, South Dakota. This 59-acre park is renowned for its beautiful beach facilities and excellent fishing opportunities, making it a popular spot for family outings and water enthusiasts. The lake itself is a 105-acre artificial impoundment formed by a dam across Nine Mile Creek and is named after Alvin Dempewolf, a World War I soldier from Harrisburg. The area offers a variety of activities such as boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming, all within a no-wake zone to protect the shoreline. The park's proximity to Sioux Falls and other attractions like Good Earth State Park makes it an ideal day-trip destination.

The park is open year-round, although some facilities like showers and flush toilets may be closed between October 1 and April 30. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching, picnicking, and walking on park roads, making it a versatile spot for nature lovers and families alike.

The scenic views and tranquil atmosphere of Lake Alvin Recreation Area provide a perfect setting for photography and relaxation, especially during sunset when the sky is painted with vibrant colors.

For dining options near Lake Alvin State Recreation Area, visitors can explore several restaurants in the nearby area. Fresh Horses Saloon in Harrisburg offers a casual atmosphere with live music and a great selection of beers and cocktails. Another popular choice is Big J's Road House, known for its BBQ and comfort food. For those looking for a more upscale dining experience, 22TEN Kitchen Cocktails in Sioux Falls provides a trendy atmosphere with a diverse menu. Additionally, Crawford's offers a unique blend of rustic and vintage accents in an upscale setting.

Accommodations near Lake Alvin State Recreation Area are primarily located in Sioux Falls. The Hampton Inn & Suites Southwest/Sioux Falls offers a simple yet comfortable stay with an indoor pool and free breakfast. Another option is the Ramada by Wyndham Sioux Falls Airport-Waterpark & Event Ctr, which features an indoor water park. For extended stays, Homewood Suites by Hilton Sioux Falls provides relaxed accommodations with kitchens.

Lake Alvin Recreation Area offers a range of amenities to enhance visitor experiences. The park includes picnic tables, group picnic shelters, and playgrounds, making it suitable for family gatherings. There are also boat ramps and fishing piers for anglers, with shore fishing access available. Restrooms are available, including vault toilets that remain open year-round. The park is accessible for visitors with disabilities, featuring ADA-accessible features such as fishing piers and picnic areas.

For those interested in water activities, the park offers opportunities for boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding, although boats must operate at a speed of 5 mph or less to maintain the no-wake zone.

Visitors can enjoy scenic views and engage in birdwatching or walking on the park roads.

Lake Alvin Recreation Area is a haven for water enthusiasts and nature lovers. Popular activities include swimming, boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The lake is renowned for its excellent fishing, with species such as walleye, northern pike, and crappie. Birdwatching is another favorite pastime, given the diverse bird species in the area. Visitors can also enjoy picnicking and walking on the park roads, which offer scenic views of the surrounding landscape.

The no-wake zone ensures a peaceful environment, making it ideal for canoeing and paddleboarding. The park's proximity to other attractions like Good Earth State Park adds to its appeal as a day-trip destination.

Lake Alvin Recreation Area provides accessible facilities for visitors with disabilities. The park features ADA-accessible fishing piers, picnic tables, and group picnic shelters. The entrance and parking lots are also wheelchair accessible, ensuring that all visitors can enjoy the park's amenities. Additionally, the park's restrooms are designed to accommodate visitors with disabilities, making it an inclusive destination for families and groups of all abilities.

The accessible pathways and facilities allow everyone to participate in activities like fishing and picnicking.

Parking at Lake Alvin Recreation Area is convenient, with designated parking lots available near the boat ramps and picnic areas. The park operates on a self-serve entrance kiosk system, and visitors can purchase daily or annual passes. The daily fee is $10 for residents and $15 for non-residents, while annual passes cost $40 for residents and $60 for non-residents. The parking areas are generally well-maintained and offer easy access to the park's facilities.

The proximity of the parking lots to the lake and picnic areas ensures that visitors can easily transport their gear and enjoy their day without hassle.

Lake Alvin Recreation Area has a rich history and several interesting facts. The lake was named after Alvin Dempewolf, the only World War I soldier from Harrisburg who died overseas. The dam that formed the lake was completed in August 1954, and the lake was fully filled by 1957. The park's no-wake zone is designed to protect the shoreline from erosion, ensuring a peaceful environment for visitors. The lake's diverse fish population, including walleye and northern pike, makes it a popular spot for anglers.

The scenic beauty of the area, with its rolling hills and wooded valleys, offers excellent opportunities for photography and nature observation.

Lake Alvin Recreation Area is surrounded by several attractions that complement its natural beauty. One of the nearby attractions is Good Earth State Park, which offers stunning vistas and diverse bird species across its 615 acres. Another popular spot is the Country Apple Orchard, known for its family-friendly activities and Fall Festival. For those interested in unique experiences, Abby Normal's Museum of the Strange provides a quirky and intriguing visit.

Basic Details

INParking

INRestroom Available

INBeige

IN27225 480th Ave, Harrisburg, SD 57032

Know Before You Go

Amenities

  • ATM

  • Barbecue

  • Boat Ramp

  • Dogs

  • Entry Fee

  • Fire Pits

  • Hidden

  • Lifeguard

  • Marine Life

  • Pier

  • Playground

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesRestrooms

  • Shops

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesShowers

  • WiFi

  • Picnic Table

  • Activities

  • Bike Paths

  • Camping

  • Clubs Party Scene

  • Fishing

  • Hiking

  • Nude

  • Paddle boarding

  • Scuba Diving

  • Snorkeling

  • Surfing

  • Tours

  • Volleyball

  • Cave

  • Rentals

  • ATV

  • Bikes

  • Boat

  • Fishing Boats

  • Jet Skiing

  • Kayaking Canoeing

  • Chair Rentals

  • Sailing

  • Speed Boats

  • Umbrella Rental

  • Waterskiing

  • Windsurfing

  • Yachts

  • Food

  • Bars

  • Food Snacks

  • Local Beach Vendor

  • Lounge

  • Restaurants

  • Access

  • Bike Racks

  • Car Access

  • Disabled Access

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesFoot Access

  • Parking - Free

  • Parking - Paid

  • Parking - RV Parking

  • Parking - Street

  • Public Bus Stop

  • Stairs to Beach

  • Boat Access

  • Features

  • Blue Flag

  • Jellyfish

  • Pebbles

  • Riptide

  • Rocky

  • Sharks

  • LGBTQ+

  • Lake Alvin State Recreation Area - Beach Map

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    Frequently Asked Questions

    Surf through our FAQs to help you find your perfect beach!

    Does Lake Alvin State Recreation Area have parking? If so, is it free or paid?

    No, this Beach does not have dedicated parking but has street parking near the entrance.

    Does Lake Alvin State Recreation Area have lifeguards?

    No, this Beach does not have lifeguards monitoring the beach - please be careful when swimming on this beach.

    Is Lake Alvin State Recreation Area a family-friendly beach?

    No, this Beach is not family-friendly and does not have restrooms, lifeguards, and nearby food.

    Is Lake Alvin State Recreation Area good for swimming?

    No, this Beach is not generally considered a good swimming beach.

    Does Lake Alvin State Recreation Area have restrooms?

    Yes, Restrooms are conveniently available on or adjacent to the beach at this Beach.

    Is Lake Alvin State Recreation Area a nude beach?

    No, this Beach maintains a family-friendly atmosphere and does not allow nude bathing.

    Is there food near Lake Alvin State Recreation Area?

    No, this Beach does not have nearby food options - please plan your beach day accordingly.

    What are the activities at Lake Alvin State Recreation Area?

    Yes, this Beach is a good place to Paddleboarding

    Does Lake Alvin State Recreation Area have accommodations for people with disabilities?

    No, this Beach does not have accommodations for people with disabilities.

    Is Lake Alvin State Recreation Area a dog-friendly beach?

    No, this Beach is not dog-friendly.

    Is Lake Alvin State Recreation Area good for surfing?

    No, this Beach is not generally considered to be good for surfing.

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