McCook Lake Reopens After Flood Cleanup

City, county leaders release joint statement on safety and recovery efforts for popular South Dakota recreation area.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 10:19pm

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A sweeping, atmospheric landscape painting depicting the serene and expansive McCook Lake, surrounded by rolling hills and a dramatic, cloudy sky. The lake's waters reflect the moody, natural conditions, with only a few small boats or docks visible in the distance, dwarfed by the overwhelming scale of the scene.The tranquil waters of McCook Lake, once ravaged by floodwaters, now beckon visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of this South Dakota landmark.North Sioux City Today

Following extensive flood damage and debris buildup in 2024, officials from North Sioux City, Union County, the McCook Lake Association, and the McCook Lake Izaak Walton League have released a joint statement on the reopening of McCook Lake for recreational use this summer. The statement details ongoing cleanup efforts, water quality testing, and safety precautions for residents using the lake.

Why it matters

McCook Lake is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and other water activities in the region. Its closure due to flood damage in 2024 had a significant impact on the local economy and community. The joint statement aims to reassure residents that the lake is safe to use again after extensive recovery efforts.

The details

Over 64 tons of debris and 20,000 cubic yards of sediment have been removed from McCook Lake since the 2024 flood. The McCook Lake Association has begun pumping water back into the lake, and the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks has lifted wake restrictions. Water quality and fish contaminant testing have shown the lake is within safe levels for recreational use.

  • In June 2024, McCook Lake received significant damage from flooding of the Big Sioux River.
  • Since the flood, recovery and cleanup efforts have been ongoing.
  • The McCook Lake Association began pumping water back into the lake this week.
  • On April 1, 2026, the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks lifted the wake restriction on the lake.
  • Officials hope the lake will be open for the Memorial Day holiday in 2026.

The players

Jeff Dooley

The city manager of North Sioux City, South Dakota.

McCook Lake Association

A local organization that has been leading cleanup and recovery efforts on McCook Lake.

McCook Lake Izaak Walton League

A conservation organization that has been involved in the McCook Lake recovery process.

South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks

The state agency responsible for managing natural resources, including McCook Lake.

Three Oaks, Inc.

A company that has assisted with debris and sediment removal from McCook Lake.

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What they’re saying

“Known and identified debris will continue to be marked with buoys and removed as water levels increase and allow for better access.”

— Jeff Dooley, North Sioux City City Manager

“Increased water levels will assist with accessing and removing debris and help maintain water circulation within the lake.”

— Jeff Dooley, North Sioux City City Manager

What’s next

Officials say they will continue monitoring water quality and debris removal as the lake's water levels rise. They urge residents to assist by cleaning up private shorelines and ensuring docks are in safe condition.

The takeaway

The joint statement from city, county, and community organizations demonstrates a collaborative effort to restore McCook Lake as a safe and accessible recreational resource for the region following the devastating 2024 flood. Their commitment to ongoing cleanup and safety measures should provide reassurance to residents eager to return to the lake this summer.