Nestled along the wooded shores of Mina Lake, Mina Recreation Area is a water-lover’s haven with plenty of room for boating, fishing and swimming. When you leave the water, a spacious campground, hiking trail, and several picnic areas provide hours of family fun.

Mina was one of the first man-made lakes in northeast South Dakota. Its beginning dates back to the 1930s, when area residents sought relief from years of drought.

In 1934, the Mina Dam was completed and the lake was named Shake Maza, a Lakota word for “shaped like a horseshoe.” The name never quite caught-on, however, and it was later renamed in honor of a railroad president’s daughter.

Mina Lake Spillway Public Meeting

In, 2019, a localized large rain even caused severe damage to the spillway and temporary repairs were made in 2020. It was recommended by our consultant engineering firm the spillway be replaced as soon as possible as a long-term solution. Mina Lake Dam is considered a high hazard dam based on the damage it could cause if a breach were to occur. Spillway design is nearing completion and the department would like to provide information to the public about the logistics and how it may affect outdoor recreation and the property owners along the lake. A temporary draw down will be necessary for a contractor to perform the work that includes a diversion channel and complete spillway replacement. Lake elevations, spillway design, wildlife and fisheries management, lake access, construction timelines, road closures, and several other impacts will be addressed in the department’s presentation.

March 9 Public Meeting Recording

Question and Answer Document

Park Specs

Open: Year-round. Between Oct. 1 and April 30, showers, flush toilets and other water systems may be closed. Please contact the park directly for current status. Vault toilets usually remain open.

Park Size: 38 campsites, 1 cabin (sleeps 4 people) and 1 modern cabin (sleeps 8 people)

Directions:

12 miles west of Aberdeen off US Hwy 12

Nearest Town: Mina