How to Spend a Perfect Day Outdoors in Watertown

From the gentle lap of waves to the crisp snap of a perfect drive on the golf course, Watertown, South Dakota, is packed with outdoor activities. Whether you’re planning a lake day, family camping trip or relaxing afternoon exploring the best things to do in Watertown, this guide highlights some of the city’s top outdoor experiences.

Lake Life in Watertown

Lake life is a quintessential way to experience South Dakota. For the best places to spend the day on the water, Watertown’s lakes are tough to beat. To help visitors make the most of their time outdoors, local outfitters offer rentals ranging from Jet Skis and pontoons to kayaks.

Sprawling northwest of downtown, Lake Kampeska calls to anglers eager to hook smallmouth bass and walleye. Before hitting the water, stock up on tackle, bait, snacks and souvenirs at the Kampeska Lodge & Store. The lake’s Sandy Shore Recreational Area invites you to relax on Kampeska’s beaches, dive into the refreshing water or scout the area by bike. The grounds also hold 15 electric campsites and two cozy camping cabins for sleeping under the stars.

To the southwest of downtown sits Pelican Lake. This peaceful oasis is perfect for bird-watching and features an archery range and on-site kayak rentals. Lace up your boots to hike more than 5 miles of winding trails, and wrap up your night inside one of two rustic log cabins. 

Trails for Walking, Running & Biking

With multiuse recreational paths stretching across Watertown, you can soak in the scenery and culture on foot or by two wheels. 

The Watertown Recreation Trail weaves 28 miles via three paved and dirt-surface loops through the area’s best landscapes. The Red Loop keeps you close to the heart of the city, where you can explore Historic Downtown Watertown with opportunities to duck into shops and eateries before perusing the Watertown Artwalk. It also connects to the Redlin Art Center, featuring a new exhibit showcasing famous Americana artist Terry Redlin’s unfinished works. 

The Blue Loop takes you to Lake Kampeska, tree-filled city parks and an opportunity to meet the 500 animals that call the Bramble Park Zoo home. Finally, the Orange Loop completely circles Lake Kampeska, guiding you along its four beautiful shoreline parks.

Golf & Disc Golf Courses

Grab your clubs or discs and tee off at some of South Dakota’s most scenic and beautifully maintained courses. If traditional golf is your game, choose between two spectacular options adjacent to Lake Kampeska. Prairie Winds Golf Club challenges players with 18 holes of rolling fairways before treating them to celebratory drinks at Bunkers Par & Grill. Also along the waterfront, Cattail Crossing Golf Course serves up a family-friendly atmosphere across 27 fairways that will test even the lowest-handicap player in the foursome.

For disc golf enthusiasts, the Jackson Crossing Disc Golf Course offers a quick, nine-hole round on flat, grassy terrain at Jackson Park near Lake Kampeska. For more, head to the Slumberland Disc Golf Course. Located along the Big Sioux River, this 18-layout course tests your skills with heavily wooded holes and strategically placed water features.

See more of Watertown:

• Guide to the Redlin Art Center
• 9 Incredible Experiences to Have In and Around Watertown
• Why Watertown is a Must-Stop on Your Next Family Road Trip
• Foodie Road Trip From Watertown to Sioux Falls

Ready to experience everything Watertown has to offer? Start planning your visit.