Oakwood Lakes State Park in South Dakota offers paddlers a unique experience across eight interconnected glacial lakes. The park provides excellent kayaking opportunities with calm, lazy waters ideal for beginners. An swimming beach serves as a convenient put-in spot, with cleaner water reported here compared to other areas of the park.

The lakes are known for their abundant wildlife. Paddlers can expect to see a variety of birds including geese, ducks, pelicans, great blue herons, and egrets. In the fall, large flocks of geese gather on the south side of East Oakwood Lake. As you paddle west, you'll encounter "Cormorant Island," a notable landmark.

Water quality can vary across the lakes. Some areas have been reported to have cleaner water than others, so paddlers should be prepared to scout for the best conditions. The park is open year-round, though facilities may be limited in the off-season. Between October 1 and April 30, showers and flush toilets may be closed, but vault toilets typically remain accessible.

For those interested in camping, the park offers 145 campsites, 6 cabins, and 6 horse campsites. Picnic areas and shaded campgrounds complement the park's boating facilities. The park has historical significance, having once served as a summer camp and annual gathering place for American Indians. A log cabin built by Samuel Mortimer in 1869 still stands within the park.

Oakwood Lakes State Park is located 7 miles north and 3 miles west of Volga, SD, off US Highway 14, or can be accessed via Exit 140 on I-29. The nearest town is Bruce. Daily admission to the park is $8 per vehicle, with kayak rentals available on-site for an additional fee.