Top Dispersed Camping near Badlands National Park

If you're looking for a place to dispersed camp near Badlands National Park, look no further. The Dyrt provides you with a diverse selection of places to camp, from dispersed backcountry camping to boondocking, and everything in-between. Each dispersed site offers quick access to one or more of Badlands National Park's most popular destinations.

Best Dispersed Camping Sites Near Badlands National Park, SD (7)

    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping

    1.

    Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping

    111 Reviews
    364 Photos
    1357 Saves
    Wall, South Dakota

    The Wall is a part of Buffalo Gap National Grasslands. It is near The Badlands National Park and is dispersed camping.

    There is only one small developed recreation area on the Buffalo Gap National Grassland. The National Grassland Visitor Center is located in Wall, South Dakota. This site provides the history behind the system of the National Grasslands located across the West.

    While there is only one developed campground, there are plenty of open spaces to camp. Bring your horse, your bicycle or your OHV and spend some quiet time in the wide open spaces of the Grassland.

    https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/nebraska/recarea/?recid=30333

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    Camper-submitted photo from The Wall Boondocking Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from The Wall Boondocking Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from The Wall Boondocking Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from The Wall Boondocking Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from The Wall Boondocking Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from The Wall Boondocking Dispersed

    2.

    The Wall Boondocking Dispersed

    19 Reviews
    40 Photos
    149 Saves
    Wall, South Dakota

    Welcome to The Wall Boondocking Dispersed area, nestled in the Buffalo Gap National Grassland in South Dakota. This spot is a favorite among campers for its breathtaking views and wide-open spaces. Perched along a ridge, it offers stunning vistas of the Badlands, making it a perfect place to catch a sunrise or sunset.

    This location is all about simplicity and natural beauty. There are no facilities here—no toilets, showers, or drinking water—so come prepared. It's a true boondocking experience, but the payoff is worth it. The views are unparalleled, and the night sky is a stargazer's dream.

    Visitors have noted that it can get quite windy, so make sure to secure your gear. The soil can also get tricky when wet, turning into a slick mess, so keep an eye on the weather. Despite these challenges, campers rave about the experience. The area is spacious, allowing for plenty of room to spread out, though privacy can be limited due to the open terrain.

    Pets are welcome, and there's no need for a permit, making it an easy and accessible spot for a spontaneous getaway. It's also free, which is always a bonus. Just remember to pack out what you pack in, as there are no trash services available.

    Whether you're in a tent or an RV, The Wall offers a unique and memorable camping experience. It's a great spot to unwind, enjoy the scenery, and maybe even meet some fellow campers. So, grab your gear and head out to The Wall for an unforgettable adventure.

    • Pets
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Gap National Grassland
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Gap National Grassland
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Gap National Grassland
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Gap National Grassland
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Gap National Grassland
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Gap National Grassland

    3.

    Buffalo Gap National Grassland

    16 Reviews
    52 Photos
    566 Saves
    Wall, South Dakota

    This area is divided into two areas located in southern South Dakota. One area is south and northeast of Hot Springs and the other is south and west of Wall. There are few developed recreation sites, but plenty of space for all kinds of recreational opportunities.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Baja Area Dispersed - Buffalo Gap National Grassland
    Camper-submitted photo from Baja Area Dispersed - Buffalo Gap National Grassland
    Camper-submitted photo from Baja Area Dispersed - Buffalo Gap National Grassland
    Camper-submitted photo from Baja Area Dispersed - Buffalo Gap National Grassland
    Camper-submitted photo from Baja Area Dispersed - Buffalo Gap National Grassland
    Camper-submitted photo from Baja Area Dispersed - Buffalo Gap National Grassland

    4.

    Baja Area Dispersed - Buffalo Gap National Grassland

    6 Reviews
    13 Photos
    136 Saves
    Interior, South Dakota

    There is only one small developed recreation area on the Buffalo Gap National Grassland. The National Grassland Visitor Center is located in Wall, South Dakota. This site provides the history behind the system of the National Grasslands located across the West.

    While there is only one developed campground, there are plenty of open spaces to camp. Bring your horse, your bicycle or your OHV and spend some quiet time in the wide open spaces of the Grassland.

    Overnight camping in developed sites is on a first-come, first-served basis. Campfires are allowed unless restrictions are posted. Red Cloud Campground site features 13 sites with picnic tables and fire grates, and a vault toilet. From Chadron, NE travel eight miles south of on U.S. Highway 385 to the campground.

    Backcountry, dispersed or primitive camping (no facilities) is allowed anywhere on the National Forest.

    Practicing Leave No Trace principles ensures that the next person to visit will have the same sense of discovery as those who came before.

    The seven principles are:

    Plan ahead and prepare, Camp and travel on durable surfaces, Dispose of waste properly, Leave what you find, Minimize campfire impacts, Respect wildlife, Be considerate of other visitors.

    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    • No image available
      • No image available

        6.

        Sage Creek Basin Camp

        1 Review
        25 Saves
        Wall, South Dakota
        • Pets
        • Phone Service
        • RVs
        • Tents
        • Equestrian
        • Standard (Tent/RV)
        • No image available

        Recent Dispersed Reviews In Badlands National Park

        155 Reviews of 7 Badlands National Park Campgrounds


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        Frequently Asked Questions

        Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Badlands National Park?

        According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Badlands National Park is Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping with a 4.8-star rating from 111 reviews.

        What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Badlands National Park?

        TheDyrt.com has all 7 dispersed camping locations near Badlands National Park, with real photos and reviews from campers.