Wildlife viewing starts before you even set up camp. Visitors have spotted bison herds moving through this dispersed camping area within Buffalo Gap National Grassland, and the open sightlines toward the eroded rock formations of the Badlands make the surrounding landscape a constant presence from any site.
The setup here is more structured than typical dispersed camping. Numbered, signed sites are spaced to provide separation between campers, and the area accommodates rigs up to 40 feet on the southern loop, though most sites are not level. Tim R. advises driving the full area before committing to a site: "We wished we had driven around first and picked the best site instead of stopping early." A few designated tent-only sites are also marked. The contrast between the rugged rock formations to one side and the wide grasslands to the other gives each site a distinct character depending on which direction it faces.
Wind is the one condition every reviewer mentions. It can shift quickly from manageable to disruptive, particularly for rooftop tent setups. Check forecasts before arrival. Cell coverage is a practical plus: multiple reviewers confirm workable signal from T-Mobile and Verizon, and satellite also functions well. There are no other amenities on site, so arrive with water, food, and everything else you need.
Access is straightforward from I-90. Take the Wall exit south and watch for two radio towers marking the turn into the camping area. The Badlands Boondocking and Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping areas sit nearby for overflow or alternative spots. Camping is free with a 14-day limit. Kai Z. sums it up simply: "Waking up in the morning to the incredible views is absolutely worth it." Come with low-maintenance gear, flexibility on leveling, and a windbreak if you have one.
Map & DirectionsBadlands Boondocking Area is located in South Dakota near Wall
Dispersed CampingCoordinates
43.89241353412375 N
102.22794115409869 W
Connectivity
T-MobileLTEGood CoverageVerified by 47 usersLast on 8/28/26- VerizonLTEGood CoverageVerified by 67 usersLast on 9/2/26
AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 50 usersLast on 8/28/26
Connectivity
- T-MobileLTEGood CoverageVerified by 47 usersLast on 8/28/26
- VerizonLTEGood CoverageVerified by 67 usersLast on 9/2/26
- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 50 usersLast on 8/28/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- Phone Service
- Alcohol
- Pets
DISPERSED CAMPING
Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.
Drive Time
- 52 min from Rapid City, SD
- 4 hrs 26 min from Casper, WY
- 4 hrs 28 min from Bismarck, ND
- 5 hrs 9 min from Cheyenne, WY
