The Watertown Community

New Life Evangelical Free Church is located in Watertown, SD. in the Glacial Lakes region of northeastern SD. Watertown is the county seat of Codington County. Situated at the intersection of I-29 and US Highway 212, Watertown borders western Minnesota, with the twin cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul less than a 4 hour drive to the east. 2 hours north is Fargo, ND and 90 minutes south is Sioux Falls SD, both thriving cities with populations of 200,000 +. Watertown is in the heart of the High Plains Region with 4 distinct seasons; hot summer weather is perfect for water sports while winter provides enough snow and cold for snowmobiling, cross country skiing and ice fishing. Autumn is color filled and offers some of the best pheasant and waterfowl hunting in the region.

Watertown is the fifth largest city in the state of SD, with an estimated population of 23,019. We are a vibrant growing community with a thriving economy of businesses and opportunities serving as the hub for much of northeast South Dakota. We have a variety of shopping options and restaurants, from locally owned stores to large chains. Coupled with a strong workforce, low taxes, unique shopping and dining the quality of life in Watertown is fantastic.

Nestled between Lake Kampeska and Pelican Lake, Watertown has excellent outdoor recreation, hunting and fishing opportunities. The Park & Recreation department maintains many quality of life amenities including nearly 100 miles of trails, youth and adult sports, tennis and pickleball courts, 2 golf courses along with camping, activities and beaches at the two lakes within the city limits. Other amenities include the Watertown Family Aquatic Center, Prairie Lakes Wellness Center, Prairie Lakes multi sheet ice arena, the Bramble Park Zoo and the Redlin Art Center, featuring the artwork of one of America’s most beloved artists, Terry Redlin.

Our neighborhoods are clean, quiet and safe. Our hospital, Prairie Lakes Healthcare System, is the largest privately owned facility in South Dakota. The school district is one of the best in the state, with 4 elementary schools, an intermediate and middle school and one high school. There are 3 private grade schools and a private high school. Higher education is served by the Lake Area Technical College, recognized as a national leader in education, as well as Mount Marty University. The Watertown Regional Airport provides a state-of-the art facility to connect Watertown to the world.