OMAHA, Ne -- Visitors wishing to enjoy nights under the stars at either Cottonwood Springs or Cold Brook Lake will now be able to reserve campsites up to and including the day of arrival through recreation.gov.
Just a short 5 mile drive west of Hot Springs, SD, Cottonwood Springs Lake provides a quiet opportunity to wet a line and possibly catch a large mouth bass, rainbow trout, and a variety of pan fish. Canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, or any other small non-gas motorized boat can commonly be seen on the lake. The non-motorized gravel path in the wildlife area is a great spot for a short hike or for letting pets enjoy being off a leash. Archery hunting is permitted in designated areas only and both hunting and fishing regulations are established and enforced by the state of South Dakota. Campgrounds feature 17 primitive campsites without water or electric hook-ups. Amenities like potable water, flush toilets, and a playground are provided onsite to help improve the camping experience. Additionally, a camp host is also on site to greet visitors and help with any questions they may have.
Located less than one mile north of Hot Springs, SD, Cold Brook Lake is nearly 33 acres in size and is a fishing hot spot for bank or paddler fisherman to land largemouth bass, northern pike, catfish, rainbow trout, and various pan fish. As the summer heats up, the beach tends to be a popular hangout for both locals and tourists. The non-motorized two-track path in the wildlife area is a great spot for a short hike or letting pets enjoy being off a leash. Other popular outdoor recreational opportunities include picnicking, playing at the playground, wildlife viewing, photography, and archery hunting. Cold Brook Campgrounds feature 12 primitive campsites without water or electric hook-ups. Potable water is available in the main part of the campground across from the camp host. A camp host is available to greet visitors and help with any questions they may have. Sites 12 and 13 are right on the lake while the rest of the sites are a short drive or walk to the lake. Once there you will observe rugged hills, crystal clear water and evergreen trees creating a picturesque site.
Feedback from prior customers and potential visitors indicated a common request to have security concerning site availability. Now, with just a simple call to (877) 444-6777, or by visiting recreation.gov, visitors are able to quickly and securely reserve their site up to and including the day of arrival. To transition to zero day reservations, the only form of payment accepted will be Credit/Debit Card. If planning to arrive without a reservation, check on campsite availability by calling (877) 444-6777 or checking online at recreation.gov. To reserve a campsite, pay over the phone or online with your Credit/Debit Card, and just hold onto your reservation number to confirm. Campgrounds will have instructions posted, as well as volunteer’s onsite who will be able to assist with setting up a reservation.
For more information, please contact the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Hot Spring office at 605-745-5476.