Platte Creek State Recreation Area

State: South Dakota

Address 1: 35316 SD Hwy 44

City: Platte

Zip: 57369

Phone: (605) 337-2587

Open: Open from May through October

Number of Sites: 54

Electric: 39

Camp URL: http://www.sdgfp.info/Parks/Regions/Heartland/PlatteCreek.htm

Full Hook: Yes

Fishing and water recreation draws a quieter crowd to Platte Creek Recreation Area to enjoy Lake Francis Case on the Missouri River. Visitors to Platte Creek RA enjoy natural features similar to those at Snake Creek RA, but from a quieter campground with similar amenities.

The 107-mile long Lake Francis Case is surrounded by 540 miles of shoreline. Some of this shoreline hosts the “burning bluffs,” which are created by oil-bearing shale. Lightning strikes or chemical reactions ignite the shale, which may then smoke for years.

Walleye is easily the most popular catch on this reservoir of the Missouri River. Other species you’ll find on your line include smallmouth bass, northern pike, sauger, panfish and an occasional channel catfish. The park also features a kids’ fishing pond.

Recreation: Camping. Boating. Fishing.

Fishing/Boating: Fish cleaning station. Three-lane boat ramp. Fishing license required.