Chief White Crane Recreation Area

Watch the bald eagles at this gorgeous recreation area.

The Chief White Crane Recreation Area is about 1.5 miles downstream of the Gavins Point Dam and Lewis and Clark Lake. There are 146 campsites and 10 camping cabins that are open year-long. There is fresh water, flush toilets, a dump station, picnic areas, a playground, and a boat ramp. Guests can stop by the camp store for firewood, ice, and other necessary supplies upon arrival. This great outdoor recreation area offers boating, canoeing, kayaking, fishing, biking, hiking, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. The marina has boat rentals, a casino, plus a swimming pool nearby.

Chief White Crane is home to many bald eagles. They often spend their winters below the Missouri River dams because of the amount of fish in the open water. Typically the bald eagle perches within 50 feet of the riverbank in the tall cottonwood trees. They feed in the morning and rest in their roosting trees in the afternoon hours. Visitors must be aware and comply with the Department of Game, Fish, and Parks that prohibits visitors from disturbing the bald eagles' roosts and nests because they will abandon them if disturbed by humans. Enjoy the views and wonderful activities at this recreation area in southeastern South Dakota.