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The Native Americans called Lake Thompson
Dry Woods Lake before it was renamed in honor of Jacob Thompson, Secretary
of the Interior under President James Buchanan. Lake Thompson has gone
through a number of other changes at well. In the 1930s, the lake was
completely dry and used for pasture. Then in early 1980s it was a 9,000-acre
marsh. In the mid-80’s heavy rains and snowmelt filled the marsh
until it appeared as the lake it is today. Lake Thompson is 20 feet
deep and covers 18,000 surface-acres. This distinct lake is designated
as a National Natural Landmark.
Lake Thompson provides 103 South Dakota campsites, each with a fire
ring and picnic table, and 97 of which have electrical outlets. There
area also 4 cabins with spectacular views of the lake.
Lake Thompson is a very good South Dakota fishing lake and produces
walleyes, perch and northern pike. A number of boat-launching ramps
provide access to both Lake Henry and Lake Thompson. |
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