Pelican Lake Recreation Area

17450 450th Avenue
Watertown, SD 57201

605-882-5200

Naturalists enjoy the migrating birds and vast numbers of prairie grasses and wildflowers at Pelican Lake Recreation Area. Winter enthusiasts appreciate the park's cross-country ski trails, snowshoeing and ice fishing.

Pelican Lake is a popular stopping point for migrating waterfowl. Each fall, geese and ducks use the lake's open waters as a resting area. A variety of shore birds spend their entire summer in or near the park.

Most noticeable are the large white pelicans that frequent the lake. Pelicans were so numerous when the region was first settled that the lake was named in their honor. An observation tower on one of the hiking trails gives visitors a bird's-eye view of the area.

Activities:

Archery range
Basketball
Biking
Birdwatching
Boating
Camping
Canoeing/Kayaking
Cross country skiing
Fishing
Hiking
Horseback Riding
Horseshoes
Snowshoeing
Soccer
Swimming

Amenities:'

Beach
Boat Ramp
Campground
Camping cabins
Canoe/kayak rentals
Drinking water
Dump station
Electric campsites
Fishing pole checkout
Flush toilets/showers
Game checkout
Horse camp
Picnic Shelter
Playground
Snowshoe checkout
Vault toilets

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South Dakota