River of the Double Bend Campground

For South Dakotans seeking a campground experience that goes beyond the ordinary, offering not just a place to stay but a vibrant, community-focused atmosphere, River of the Double Bend Campground in Trent, SD, presents a truly unique option. Situated alongside the Big Sioux River in a quaint rural town, this campground is less about pristine, secluded sites and more about fostering connections, enjoying river activities, and embracing a relaxed, almost "village" like vibe. It's a special place that has cultivated a loyal following, where guests often return to create lasting memories with new and old friends.

This article aims to provide a clear, engaging, and factual overview of River of the Double Bend Campground, specifically tailored for South Dakota residents. We will delve into its distinctive location, the essential services it offers, and the standout features that make it a one-of-a-kind destination. Understanding what makes this campground tick can help you decide if its unique charm and community spirit align with your ideal outdoor getaway, ensuring a memorable and perhaps even transformative experience right here in your home state.

In a landscape where many campgrounds strive for manicured perfection, River of the Double Bend embraces a more authentic, lived-in feel. It's a testament to the idea that the true value of a camping trip often lies in the shared experiences, the warmth of human connection, and the simple pleasures of being by the water. This ethos is palpable in the feedback from visitors who describe it as a place where "people come back to and create family at," a "small village of people," and "its own world." For many South Dakotans, this communal aspect is precisely what makes a return visit so appealing.

River of the Double Bend Campground is located at 400 W 1st St, Trent, SD 57065, USA. This places it at the entrance of the very small rural town of Trent, right alongside the banks of the Big Sioux River. Its central location makes it accessible from various points in South Dakota, being approximately 25 miles north of Sioux Falls, and also centrally located between Brookings, Madison, and Pipestone, MN.

Accessibility to the campground is generally straightforward, situated near the town entrance. For those navigating, it's easily found within Trent. Being alongside the Big Sioux River is a major advantage for its recreational offerings. The river's condition can vary with weather and season; as one review noted, it can be "very full," sometimes "up 10ft," creating strong currents ideal for floating but not suitable for young children swimming directly in the river due to depth and current. Visitors are advised to exercise caution and assess river conditions upon arrival, especially with inexperienced boaters or children.

Despite its rural setting, the campground is within reasonable driving distance to larger communities, providing access to more extensive services if needed. Its proximity to the Big Sioux River is key to its identity, drawing those who enjoy river-based activities like canoeing and kayaking. The ease of finding the campground within Trent, combined with its immediate access to the river, defines its appeal for local South Dakotans looking for a specific type of riverside experience.

Services Offered:

• Camping Sites: Offers RV sites (including pull-through and back-in options, with full hookups available) and tent camping spots. Sites can be tightly packed, indicating a popular, busy atmosphere.
• Affordable Rates: Noted for being a "very affordable place," with tent spots reportedly as low as $12, including access to showers.
• Restrooms & Showers: Provides access to rooms with toilets and hot, unlimited showers. It's noted that these facilities can become busy and potentially dirty during peak times due to high usage, reflecting the campground's popularity.
• Canoe & Kayak Rentals: A major service, offering rentals for canoeing and kayaking on the Big Sioux River. Staff can even arrange drop-off upstream for a float back to the campground.
• Small Convenience Store: Available on-site for basic necessities like firewood, ice, and some general convenience items.
• Internet / WiFi: Available on-site.
• Pet-Friendly: Dogs are allowed, but must be kept on a leash when outside your vehicle.

Features / Highlights:

• Unique Community Atmosphere: A defining characteristic of River of the Double Bend is its strong sense of community. It's described as a "family campground for working families" where "many people here know each other for a long time," creating a "small village of people who might know each other too much." This "tribal love" fosters an "own world" feeling, with people often socializing together, sometimes extending to local establishments like "Steve's."
• Big Sioux River Access: The campground is located directly alongside the Big Sioux River, which is the focal point for many activities. While fishing may not always be great, the river itself is highly valued for floating, canoeing, and kayaking.
• Affordability: A major draw for many, with very reasonable rates, especially for tent sites, which include access to hot showers.
• Outdoor Activities: Beyond just camping, the campground facilitates river activities like canoeing and kayaking. Fishing is available, though its quality can vary. There's also a swimming pond nearby.
• Rural Charm & Local Immersion: Located at the entrance of a small rural town, it offers a glimpse into local life. While this includes the authentic "smell like cow" that comes with a rural setting, it contributes to the genuine, unpretentious atmosphere.
• Challenges with Bugs/Mosquitoes: Be prepared for insects, as reviews mention "lots of bugs and mosquitoes," especially depending on the South Dakota weather and season.
• Rustic Comforts: While the bathhouse might get busy, the availability of hot, unlimited showers is a significant amenity for an affordable campground.

The experience at River of the Double Bend Campground is distinctly different from a pristine, quiet state park. It's lively, communal, and can be quite busy, with sites that are "tightly packed." This is a place where social interaction and shared experiences are part of the fabric of the stay. Visitors should manage expectations regarding seclusion and quiet, especially during peak times. However, for those who embrace this unique, family-like "village" setting, it offers an unforgettable and highly affordable camping adventure.

Contact Information:

Address: 400 W 1st St, Trent, SD 57065, USA

Phone: (605) 428-5472

Mobile Phone: +1 605-428-5472

River of the Double Bend Campground is exceptionally suitable for South Dakotans, particularly those who value affordability, a strong sense of community, and direct access to river-based activities. For locals, this campground offers a genuine slice of rural South Dakota life, where connections are easily forged and a laid-back, "tribal love" atmosphere pervades. It's a place where many "people come back to and create family at," fostering an environment that feels less like a temporary stop and more like a cherished annual tradition.

Its affordability is a significant draw, making quality outdoor recreation accessible to "working families" and anyone on a budget. The inclusion of hot, unlimited showers, even with the understanding that facilities might get busy, adds a layer of comfort that is highly valued, especially at such a reasonable price point. The direct access to the Big Sioux River for canoeing and kayaking is a major highlight, perfectly aligning with South Dakota's outdoor pursuits, even if the fishing isn't always prime or the river current demands caution.

While some might find the "tightly packed" sites or the occasional "cow" smell and bugs a departure from more manicured campgrounds, these elements contribute to the authentic, unpretentious charm of River of the Double Bend. It's not about pristine isolation; it's about authentic connection and a unique "own world" experience. For South Dakotans who appreciate real community, an affordable and active riverside vacation, and don't mind embracing the genuine quirks of a lively local campground, River of the Double Bend offers an unparalleled and memorable camping adventure right in their home state.