On the water
Lewis & Clark Lake
A 31,000-acre reservoir on the Missouri River formed by Gavins Point Dam, just west of Yankton. Boating, walleye fishing, swimming beaches and sunsets over open water.
Haven by the Lake
Local Attractions
Lewis & Clark Lake and the Missouri River, right on your doorstep
Things to do nearby
Yankton sits where the Missouri River meets Lewis & Clark Lake — one of the best stretches of water in the Dakotas. Whether you're here to fish, boat, hike, or just sit still for a few days, there's plenty within easy reach.
Parks & trails
Lewis & Clark Recreation Area
South Dakota's state park on the lake's south shore, with sand beaches, a full-service marina, paved trails and picnic shelters. A state park entrance licence is required.
Sightseeing
Gavins Point Dam & Visitor Center
The dam that created Lewis & Clark Lake, with an overlook and a visitor centre covering the Missouri River, the Corps of Engineers projects and local wildlife.
On the water
Missouri National Recreational River
Below the dam the Missouri runs free for 59 miles — one of the last undammed stretches, with sandbars, chalkstone bluffs and the braided channel Lewis and Clark actually saw. Managed by the National Park Service.
Sightseeing
Meridian Bridge
Yankton's landmark double-decker lift bridge, now a pedestrian and bike crossing linking South Dakota and Nebraska. Worth walking at sunset.
Parks & trails
Auld-Brokaw Trail
A paved multi-use trail running through Yankton, connecting neighbourhoods, parks and the riverfront. Easy walking, running and cycling.
Parks & trails
Riverside Park
Yankton's riverfront park on the Missouri, with green space, playgrounds, boat access and a direct connection to the Meridian Bridge.
Food & shops
Historic Downtown Yankton
Yankton was the capital of Dakota Territory, and its historic Third Street district still carries that architecture — local restaurants, coffee, breweries and independent shops.
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