Goat Island Primitive Camping
00 reviewGoat Island Primitive Camping
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
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About this campground
Discover your perfect island escape with two distinct tent-only camping areas nestled in pristine wilderness. The southern campground welcomes adventurers today, while an exciting northern site is set to debut in 2022. For those seeking true solitude, primitive camping beckons throughout the island's untamed landscape – simply pitch your tent wherever nature calls. During the established hunting season (Labor Day through January), camping is thoughtfully limited to designated areas for everyone's safety. Ready to embark on your backcountry adventure? Simply reach out at 605-665-0209 or drop us an email to secure your backcountry use permit from Park Headquarters.
Goat Island supports primitive, dispersed camping only. This type of camping emphasizes a rugged, self-reliant experience.
Campsite details
Sites SizeSites are primitive and dispersed across Goat Island, allowing for a flexible camping arrangement depending on camper preference. Specific dimensions for sites are not stated.
Sites PrivacyThere is a high degree of privacy as the camping is dispersed and the island is described as less visited.
Total Campsites2 campsites
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Null
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Cancellation PolicyInformation doesn't specify
Activities you can enjoy
Camping on Goat Island offers a rugged, backcountry experience with opportunities to immerse oneself in nature. The location within the Missouri National Recreational River area suggests potential for water-based activities.
Winter Activities
Winter camping is allowed, but due to the hunting season restrictions (after Labor Day to January), camping is limited to designated areas during this time. Snow and freezing conditions may also occur.Water Sports
Although no specific mention of water sports is made, the location on the Missouri River provides potential for activities like kayaking or canoeing.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
Hazards
Weather forecast
56
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 69%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 5.2 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
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Temperature Trends
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Weather Summaries
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Good to know
Trash and recyclingNo specific trash or recycling facilities are indicated. Campers should follow Leave No Trace principles, packing out all trash and waste.
Campground Map
Driving directions"Goat Island lays within the 59-Mile District of the Missouri National Recreational River in between the two cities of Yankton and Vermillion, South Dakota. Goat Island is 3.6 river miles long and located between River Mile 786.2 and 782.6."
Camper Reviews
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0 reviews
Goat Island Primitive Camping has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
There are no user reviews available for Goat Island Primitive Camping. It is described as less visited, suggesting limited exposure to public feedback.
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Last updated August 10, 2025