10/18/2005

Lodge/Group Camping Reservations in SD State Parks Open Nov. 1 for 2006 Arrivals

PIERRE, S.D. – Beginning Nov. 1, visitors planning group outings to South Dakota state parks can begin making lodge and group camping reservations for 2006 arrivals.

"More and more visitors are making South Dakota state parks the site for their group get-togethers," said Doug Hofer, state parks director. "Getting a big group together for a weekend of camping or at the lodge can be quite a task. The Nov. 1 opening date helps these groups make their plans earlier and in an easier manner."

Lodge reservations for all arrival dates in 2006 will also open Nov. 1, two months earlier than previous years. According to Hofer, the change will help visitors to make reservations for the New Year’s holiday and other winter excursions. The previous policy accepted lodge reservations for the upcoming year beginning on Jan. 2, which made it difficult for visitors to make plans for trips early in the year. Lodges are found at Lake Thompson, Shadehill and Mina Lake Recreation Areas.

Reservations for group campsites during the 2006 reservation season will also open Nov. 1. To qualify as a group reservation, a minimum of 10 sites must be reserved. Reservations can only be made for those sites designated as group sites. A limited number of group sites are available in each park. Prime sites are not included. Cabins and picnic shelters may be included as part of the group reservations in some parks. Regular camping fees apply. At Custer State Park, group camping takes place in separate group areas and a $3/person per night fee applies ($60 minimum).

Group sites are reservable for arrival dates between May 19 and Sept. 4. A two-night minimum stay is required. Reservations can be made in parks accepting fall reservations through Oct. 9. Group sites are not available for holiday weekends and some special event weekends.

Lodge reservations can be made online at www.CampSD.com or by calling (800) 710-CAMP (2267). Group camping reservations are only available through the call center. The call center is open 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily (CT); online reservations can be made 24 hours a day. All camping fees must be paid at the time the reservation is made. There is a $5 per site non-refundable reservation fee, which is not applicable to South Dakota residents. A valid park entrance license is required in designated fee areas.

The first day to make individual campsite reservations for the 2006 reservation season is Feb. 18. Campsites can be reserved within 90 days of arrival for arrivals between May 19 and Sept. 4, 2006, and until Oct. 9 for parks accepting autumn reservations.

For more information on reservations and for a complete listing of parks accepting group reservations, visit the Division of Parks and Recreation website at www.sdgfp.info/Parks.