Oak Lake is a 396-acre lake in Brookings County, South Dakota. The lake is managed by South Dakota State University's Oak Lake Field Station, which makes facilities available for public use including camping, canoeing, and other recreational activities.

Access to the lake requires contacting the Oak Lake Field Station in advance to check availability and make reservations. Limited facilities are available for camping, canoeing, hiking, fishing and picnic activities. Camping is restricted to tents in designated areas.

Paddling activities are permitted but must comply with field station rules. Off-road driving, unauthorized collecting of plants and animals, excavation, alcoholic beverages and pets are prohibited on field station property. All visitors must obtain permission before accessing the lake.

The lake environment includes hardwood forest, upland prairies, and wetlands. The area is part of the eastern South Dakota ecosystem, home to diverse waterfowl and other wildlife species.

The field station is open year-round, though most activities are limited to spring, summer and fall months due to severe winter traveling conditions. Winter activities focus on cross-country skiing and ice fishing rather than paddling.

Anglers can expect to find Northern Pike, Yellow Bullhead, Yellow Perch, and Saugeye in the lake.

The lake serves as an educational and research facility for South Dakota State University, hosting undergraduate and graduate research, environmental workshops, and summer science camps for middle school students.

Paddlers should contact the Oak Lake Field Station directly for current conditions and specific paddling guidelines before planning their trip.