Dept. of Game, Fish and Parks
For Immediate Release: Wednesday, Jan. 30, 2002
For more information:  Amy Urban, 773-4235

STATE PARK CAMPGROUND RESERVATION SYSTEM OPENING

PIERRE – The state park’s campsite reservation center will begin taking reservations Feb. 16 for campers planning a May 18 arrival. Campers planning to spend time in South Dakota’s state park campgrounds can call 1-800-710-CAMP (2267) or go online to www.campSD.com to reserve a campsite.

Reservations can be made at most state campgrounds up to 90 days before the arrival date. At Custer State Park, reservations are currently being accepted for the entire camping season. Campsites may be reserved for arrival dates between May 18 and Sept. 2 at most park areas. The telephone reservation center is open 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily (CST) through Sept. 30.

"Last year, South Dakota’s state park system hosted more than 8.3 million visitors, making it the busiest summer in history," said Doug Hofer, state parks director. "The growing number of people camping in state park areas makes the reservation system all the more appealing. It’s helpful to know that your campsite will be waiting for you when you arrive."

To make reservations for the spring open house weekend, May 18-19, campers can call as early as February 16. During the open house weekend, individuals can visit any of the state parks without purchasing a state park license. Free fishing is also permitted on that weekend. Campers will still have to pay the regular camping fees.

Campers making Memorial Day weekend plans can make reservations as early as Feb. 23 for a May 24 arrival. A three-night stay is required during holiday weekends at all state parks, except Custer State Park.

There is a $5 per site non-refundable reservation fee charged to nonresidents of South Dakota. Camping fees must be paid when the reservation is made. Fees can be paid with credit card, money order or personal check. All non-credit card payments must be received within five days after making the reservation.

A $10 cancellation fee will be charged for each campsite or camping cabin reserved if you cancel any part of your reservation by phone. A camper who cancels any part of a reservation after arrival at the park will pay a minimum of one day's camping fee for each campsite reserved. A $15 fee will be charged for canceling a lodge reservation at least 30 days in advance. A $25/night fee will be charged on lodge cancellations made less than 30 days in advance. All other fees will be refunded.

A new campsite reservation brochure is available from the S.D. Division of Parks and Recreation. For more detailed campsite information, including the most current maps of individual campgrounds on the reservation system, a 2002 edition of the state parks Campground Maps book is also available for $5.

To get a copy of the Campground Maps book send $5 per book along with a note requesting the number of books being purchased to: Division of Parks and Recreation, 523 E. Capitol, Pierre, S.D. 57501, or via the Internet at www.sdgfp.info. This 76-page book includes the same updated site maps used by reservation center operators. It also has a detailed 90-day calendar that helps determine the earliest date to make a reservation.

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