Henry Sheldon Museum of Vermont History | Middlebury

Information

Landmark: Henry Sheldon Museum of Vermont History
City: Middlebury
Country: USA Vermont
Continent: North America

Henry Sheldon Museum of Vermont History, Middlebury, USA Vermont, North America

Pelican Lake Recreation Area is a public park located in Watertown, South Dakota, USA.

Visual Characteristics

The area features a 1,000-acre lake with a shoreline composed of mixed grasses and scattered deciduous trees. Water clarity varies, with shallower areas exhibiting a greenish hue and deeper sections appearing darker. The lakebed consists of sand and gravel.

Location & Access Logistics

Pelican Lake Recreation Area is situated approximately 5 kilometers (3 miles) west of downtown Watertown, South Dakota. Access is via State Highway 20. Parking is available at designated lots near the boat ramp and picnic areas. Public transport is not available to the recreation area.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Pelican Lake is a natural glacial lake, formed during the last ice age. The surrounding land was developed into a recreation area by the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks Department in the mid-20th century to provide public access for outdoor activities.

Key Highlights & Activities

Activities include boating, fishing for walleye and perch, swimming in designated areas, and picnicking. A boat ramp provides access for watercraft. Hiking trails are present around the perimeter of the developed park sections.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available at the main park entrance and near the picnic areas. Several picnic tables and shelters offer shade. Cell phone signal (4G) is generally available within the developed areas of the park. No on-site food vendors are present; visitors should bring their own provisions.

Best Time to Visit

For photography, early morning and late afternoon offer optimal lighting conditions. The best months for general recreation are May through September, with July and August being the warmest. Water levels are generally stable year-round.

Facts & Legends

Local lore suggests the lake was named after a large flock of pelicans that historically frequented the area during migration. A specific tip for anglers: fishing near submerged structure in the lake's deeper sections often yields better results for larger walleye.