Recreation AreaRecreation.gov

Lake Sharpe

Fort Thompson, South Dakota · Lyman County

Big Bend Dam, SD takes its name from the unique bend in the Missouri River 7 miles upstream from the dam. At this point in its course, the Missouri makes almost a complete loop, traveling 25 miles before returning to the "neck" where the land is not quite a mile wide. The 19 Lake Sharpe recreation areas vary from primi…

🧭 Get Directions
Advertisement
44.03833, -99.44667
Open in OpenStreetMap

About Lake Sharpe

Big Bend Dam, SD takes its name from the unique bend in the Missouri River 7 miles upstream from the dam. At this point in its course, the Missouri makes almost a complete loop, traveling 25 miles before returning to the "neck" where the land is not quite a mile wide. The 19 Lake Sharpe recreation areas vary from primitive to highly developed and provide opportunities for camping, boating, picnicking, and fishing.

Plan Your Visit to Lake Sharpe

Heading to Lake Sharpe? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for Lake Sharpe?

No central reservation system listed for Lake Sharpe. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/282) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to Lake Sharpe?

From Sioux Falls, west on I-90 to Reliance, then north on SD 47.

How do I contact Lake Sharpe?

You can reach the park at phone: (605) 245-2255.

Guides & rankings

More on South Dakota parks & hiking

View all posts →
Sunlit forest trail winding through tall conifersPhoto: Sergei Akulich
State Rankings

The 10 Longest Hiking Trails in South Dakota, Ranked

South Dakota's longest mapped hiking trails, ranked by distance with notes on what makes each route worth the commitment.

By The OutsideAtlas Team7 min
Mountain peaks silhouetted against an orange sunsetPhoto: David Marcu
State Rankings

South Dakota's 10 Most Punishing Trails by Elevation Gain

Steep is hard. These are the ten South Dakota trails with the most total elevation gain — quad-burners earned by hard climbing.

By The OutsideAtlas Team4 min
Cascading waterfall through a green moss-covered ravinePhoto: Maddi Bazzocco
State Rankings

The Best Beginner-Friendly Hikes in South Dakota

Ten gentle, well-marked South Dakota trails perfect for first-time hikers, families, or recovery days.

By The OutsideAtlas Team7 min
Hiker on a high alpine ridge above a glacial valley at dawnPhoto: Tobias Mrzyk
State Rankings

The 10 Most Challenging Hikes in South Dakota

South Dakota's ten hardest hikes — expert difficulty, big mileage, or serious exposure. Reserved for experienced hikers.

By The OutsideAtlas Team6 min
Going down the Grand Canyon. Seeing our destination from afar. So worth! If you find this picture useful, consider donating! Venmo: @diegonachoPhoto: Diego Lozano
Parks & Travel

The Best National Parks & Recreation Areas in South Dakota

Federal parks and recreation areas in South Dakota ranked by what they actually offer hikers and campers, not just popularity.

By The OutsideAtlas Team6 min
Alpine lake reflecting jagged mountain peaks at sunrisePhoto: Joshua Earle
State Rankings

Best Waterfall Hikes in South Dakota: 10 Trails to See Falls Up Close

South Dakota's best hikes to named waterfalls — from short family-friendly viewpoints to all-day cascade chasing.

By The OutsideAtlas Team3 min