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Dispersed Camping

Blackhills NF Dispersed Site

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Blackhills NF Dispersed Site is located near the Black Hills in South Dakota, featuring forested terrain with rolling hills. Temperatures range from lows in the 20s Fahrenheit during winter to highs in the 80s during summer. Nearby attractions include Mount Rushmore National Memorial and Custer State Park, offering opportunities for exploration and sightseeing.

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Location

Blackhills NF Dispersed Site is located in South Dakota

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

44.21714168464663 N
103.65346156135747 W

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Connectivity

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    T-Mobile5G
    Good Coverage
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    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
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    AT&T5G
    Excellent Coverage

Drive Time

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Connectivity

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  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Good Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Excellent Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Site Types

  • Dispersed

Features

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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.


PERMIT might be REQUIRED

We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Blackhills NF Dispersed Site needs a permit.


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Reviews

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2 Reviews

Reviewed May. 23, 2025

Nice mountain camp

Never saw a cattle guard (bridge)or wire gap like in photo.. road had lots of muddy pot hole going in .. has deep cut ruts.. all time 4x4.. made it thought.. Drove right to it.. slant, has fire pit but did not use it..

Siteto right , end of the road
Month of VisitMay
Reviewed Sep. 6, 2023

Not open when I stopped over Labor Day

Fenced off when I was there.  Little green "bridge" but I don't think this was intended for people to access.  Worth checking out if you're on your way to/from Deadwood but I wouldn't bank on it.

Month of VisitSeptember
  • Review photo of Blackhills NF Dispersed Site by Clint M., September 6, 2023

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the rules for dispersed camping in Black Hills National Forest?

Dispersed camping in Black Hills National Forest typically follows standard Forest Service regulations: camp at least 100-200 feet from water sources, use existing fire rings when available, pack out all trash, and limit your stay to 14 days within a 30-day period. At Blackhills NF Dispersed Site, you'll find some established fire rings, but should always verify if fire restrictions are in place. Be aware that some areas may be temporarily fenced off or have access limitations. Always practice Leave No Trace principles and check with the Black Hills National Forest Service for current regulations before your trip.

What are the best dispersed camping areas in the Black Hills for RVs?

Blackhills NF Dispersed Site isn't ideal for RVs due to difficult access roads with muddy potholes, deep ruts, and terrain that requires 4x4 vehicles. The site itself is on a slant, making leveling challenging for larger rigs. Better dispersed camping for RVs in the Black Hills can be found along established Forest Service roads with wider pullouts and more level ground. Contact the Black Hills National Forest offices in Custer, Rapid City, or Spearfish for specific recommendations on dispersed camping areas that can accommodate RVs.

Is dispersed camping allowed near Mount Rushmore?

Dispersed camping is not permitted within the immediate vicinity of Mount Rushmore National Memorial itself. However, you can find dispersed camping options in the surrounding Black Hills National Forest, including sites like Blackhills NF Dispersed Site. Keep in mind that access to some dispersed sites may be challenging, with muddy roads and difficult terrain. For camping near Mount Rushmore, consider established campgrounds in the area or dispersed sites that are within a reasonable driving distance of the monument.

Where can I find free dispersed camping in the Black Hills of South Dakota?

Free dispersed camping is available in designated areas throughout Black Hills National Forest. Blackhills NF Dispersed Site is one option, but access can be challenging as the road leading to it often has muddy potholes and deep ruts that may require 4x4 vehicles. While exploring dispersed camping opportunities in the Black Hills, be prepared for variable site conditions and always check with the local Forest Service office for the most current information on accessibility and restrictions before planning your trip.