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Lake Kampeska — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast

This page provides information on the current water temperature in Lake Kampeska, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.

Big Stone Lake, United States
Big Stone Lake, United States © By McGhiever, CC BY-SA 3.0

Current Water Temperature

12.9°C
Today
11.2°C
Yesterday
14.0°C
A Week Ago
Get instant access to real-time water temperatures for this and all other locations with our iOS and Android apps.

Water Temperature in Lake Kampeska today is 12.9°C.

Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast

⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 54°F (12°C) to 60°F (15°C). The water is significantly warmer, and swimming becomes possible for most people. However, caution may still be required for prolonged stays in the water, as extended exposure can cause discomfort. This is a suitable temperature range for short swims and for those accustomed to cooler water. For more comfortable swimming, it is recommended to use proper gear. It is important to note that these swimming tips and recommendations apply only in good weather. When the air temperature is below 68°F (20°C), and sometimes even below 77°F (25°C), swimming can be unpleasant even with relatively high water temperatures.

Water Temperature Chart Over the Last 30 Days

From September 12 to October 13

Table of Daily Sea Temperature Data

Date Current Average Forecast
OCT 514.0°C11.5°C
OCT 613.6°C11.5°C
OCT 712.6°C11.5°C
OCT 813.2°C11.5°C
OCT 913.1°C11.5°C
OCT 1012.8°C11.5°C
OCT 1111.2°C11.5°C
OCT 1211.8°C11.5°C
OCT 1311.5°C12.8°C
OCT 1411.5°C12.8°C
OCT 1511.5°C12.7°C
OCT 1611.5°C12.6°C
OCT 1711.5°C12.6°C
OCT 1811.5°C12.5°C
OCT 1911.5°C12.4°C

* Current - Actual water temperature value

** Average - Average water temperature on this day in recent years

*** Forecast - Our water temperature forecast

Actual nearshore water temperatures may fluctuate by several degrees from the reported values, especially following heavy rainfall or extended periods of strong winds. Certain wind patterns can cause colder, deeper waters to rise and replace the sun-warmed surface water, leading to noticeable variations.

Our forecast is based on a proprietary mathematical model that considers real-time water temperature changes, historical trends, key weather patterns, wind strength and direction, and air temperature specific to each region. Additionally, we incorporate data from other resorts to enhance accuracy.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month Min Avg Max
January1°C7°C12°C
February1°C8°C15°C
March0°C9°C17°C
April2°C11°C20°C
May7°C14°C22°C
June14°C19°C24°C
July17°C23°C29°C
August20°C24°C28°C
September17°C21°C25°C
October5°C12°C18°C
November3°C7°C10°C
December1°C5°C8°C

Lake Kampeska: Water Temperature by Location

Lake Kampeska: Weather Forecast

October 13

° / °
overcast
rain: 6% | wind:

October 14

° / °
overcast
rain: 5% | wind:

October 15

° / °
moderate drizzle
rain: 26% | wind:

October 16

° / °
overcast
rain: 11% | wind:

October 17

° / °
clear sky
rain: 1% | wind:

October 18

° / °
clear sky
rain: 1% | wind:

Location & Local Information

Lake Kampeska, near Watertown, experiences marked seasonal shifts in water temperature. In spring, surface temperatures typically rise from roughly 40–60°F (4–16°C) as runoff and warming air increase the lake’s heat. By early summer the water often sits around 60–70°F (16–21°C), and in midsummer surface readings commonly reach 70–80°F (21–27°C), occasionally climbing into the low 80s (about 27–28°C) during hot spells. In autumn the lake cools back through the 50s to near freezing — roughly 50–60°F (10–16°C) early in the season and falling toward 32–40°F (0–4°C) by late fall. Winter brings ice cover and temperatures at or below 32°F (0°C), with thickness varying year to year.

Swimming in Lake Kampeska is generally allowed and is a typical summer activity because of public access points and shoreline parks, but conditions govern whether it is advisable on any given day. Warm summer temperatures make open-water swimming comfortable, yet local advisories for water quality, such as harmful algal blooms, can temporarily close areas. Safety considerations include variable underwater conditions, boat traffic, absence of lifeguards at many spots, and hypothermia risk outside peak summer; visitors should heed posted rules and current water-quality and ice-safety information before entering.

Nearby Lakes

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current water temperature in Lake Kampeska?
Water Temperature in Lake Kampeska today is 12.9°C.
What is the water temperature in Lake Kampeska during the summer months?
The water temperature in Lake Kampeska in summer fluctuates in the range of 14°C - 29°C.
Is it possible to swim in Lake Kampeska and what are the possibilities for this?
Yes, it is possible to swim in Lake Kampeska, South Dakota. The lake offers public beach areas and is often used for recreational swimming during warm seasons.