Known for its clear waters and abundant fish, Lake Vermillion Recreation Area is a popular area among fishermen, boaters and swimmers. During the fall, sportsmen can find waterfowl and upland game within minutes from the park. This 512-acre reservoir is located 27 miles west of Sioux Falls.

Lake Vermillion was created by impounding waters from the east fork of the Vermillion River in 1958. The river itself was first noted on an 1801 map by a French trapper who called it Otter Stream.

The word vermillion means vivid red color. Some say the stream got its name from the outcropping of red quartzite along its bank.