Fort Pierre, SD

River View RV Park (23-25 Jul)

We only had a short stay, but we did our best to pack in as much as we could to see the State Capitol in Pierre and the other local sights.  We arrived mid-afternoon and after setting up, we drove out to the Oahe Dam which forms the Oahe Lake on the Missouri River.  

The Oahe Dam is one of the largest rolled earthen dams in the world!  Constructed by the Corps of Engineers from 1948-1961, President John F. Kennedy officially dedicated the first two power generators in 1962.  The dam forms Oahe Lake which covers 370,000 acres and reaches a depth of 205 feet.  It is a sight to behold! 

On our second and only full day in town, we played tourist to downtown Pierre, SD where we visited the Capitol Complex to include the Veterans’ Memorial.  We also saw several bronze statues of former SD Governors and visited the South Dakota Cultural Heritage Center.  The Heritage Center, among other things, is also home to the “Verendrye Plate” which has a story of its own.  Originally buried on a hill very near our campground, it was placed on site in 1743 to denote the land as being claimed on behalf of France by the Verendrye brothers.  Discovered by some high school youngsters in 1913, it is now part of SD history and is housed in the Heritage Center.  The center was quite enlightening on the history and growth of the state and is worth a visit if you are in the area!  

As we said . . .only a quick stop, but very interesting and educational!

On a closing note, the River View RV Park was a jewel of a camp!  A barebones campground as far as geography – all gravel, no trees – the view perched high on the riverbank is unbeatable!  The owner, Lila, was a phenomenal hostess and was all about making you welcome.  A small, family run operation, but they were constantly ensuring the guests were entertained or informed on all the things to see and do in the area.  I would stay here again in a heartbeat!