Lake Poinsett is one of the largest natural lakes in eastern South Dakota, a glacial lake in Hamlin and Brookings counties north of Arlington. Cabins and homes line much of the shore.
We rent MasterCraft wakesurf boats, Sea-Doo jet skis and water toys on Lake Poinsett, and everything is ready for you at the lake. Add a captained charter with lessons.
Lake Poinsett Recreation Area has a boat ramp, beach and campground, and the lake is a favorite for summer water sports.
Boat, jet ski and water toy rentals at Lake Poinsett
Just show up and ride — your boat, jet skis and gear are ready at Lake Poinsett with no towing required.
- MasterCraft boat rentals – roomy premium boats with surf boards, wakeboards and tubes, so the whole group can ride at Lake Poinsett.
- Sea-Doo jet ski rentals – quick, easy-to-ride watercraft for exploring every cove of Lake Poinsett.
- Boat tours & private charters – relax while an experienced driver-instructor handles the boat, with wakesurf, wakeboard and ski lessons for every level.
- Water toys and towables – tubes, lily pads and paddle boards for kids and grown-ups alike.
Book Now or call or text 1-888-594-6610 – we answer 7 a.m.–10 p.m. every day.
Lake Poinsett at a glance
| Location | Hamlin and Brookings counties, north of Arlington |
|---|---|
| Type | A natural glacial lake |
| Recreation area | Lake Poinsett Recreation Area |
| Launches | Ramps in the recreation area and public access areas |
| Camping | Lake Poinsett Recreation Area |
| Beach | A swim beach in the recreation area |
| Fishing | Walleye, perch, northern pike and white bass |
| Nearby | Brookings and Watertown |
Best things to do on Lake Poinsett
- Wakesurfing – open glacial-lake water.
- Jet skiing – cruise the shoreline.
- Water skiing and tubing – a lake-cabin summer favorite.
- Beach days – at the recreation area.
- Fishing – walleye and perch.
- Camping – at Lake Poinsett Recreation Area.
- Birding – waterfowl around the lake.
- Brookings – SDSU and the McCrory Gardens.
Where to launch at Lake Poinsett
- Lake Poinsett Recreation Area – a boat ramp, plus other public access areas.
Ramps change with the water level; check with South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks before you go. Your rental from us is ready at the lake.
Tips for a great day on Lake Poinsett
- A South Dakota park entrance license is required for vehicles in state parks and recreation areas, including their boat ramps.
- Prairie winds can build waves fast on these shallow glacial lakes.
- Watch for flooded trees and shallow spots near shore.
- Stock up in Arlington or Brookings.
- Reserve campsites early for summer weekends.
South Dakota boating rules to know
- Every boat must carry a wearable life jacket for each person. Children under 7 must wear one when the boat is above no-wake speed unless they’re in a cabin, and everyone on a jet ski must wear one (inflatables don’t count). A person being towed must wear one or have one in the towing boat.
- Water skiing, tubing and wakesurfing aren’t allowed from half an hour after sunset to half an hour before sunrise.
- On a jet ski, the engine cut-off lanyard must be attached to the driver, clothing or life jacket.
Map of Lake Poinsett
Lake Poinsett rental & boating FAQ
What can I rent at Lake Poinsett?
Premium MasterCraft surf and ski boats, Sea-Doo jet skis, tubes, lily pads and paddle boards, and captained boat tours with lessons.
Do I need a truck to tow the boat?
No. Your boat or jet skis are ready for you at Lake Poinsett, so there's no towing.
Where is Lake Poinsett?
North of Arlington in Hamlin and Brookings counties, South Dakota.
Is Lake Poinsett a natural lake?
Yes. It’s one of the largest natural lakes in eastern South Dakota.
Is there camping at Lake Poinsett?
Yes, at Lake Poinsett Recreation Area.
What fish are in Lake Poinsett?
Walleye, perch, northern pike and white bass.
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