Map showing campground location near Hill City, South Dakota

Camper submitted image from Mt. Rushmore Resort & Lodge at Palmer Gulch

Mt. Rushmore Resort & Lodge at Palmer Gulch

Fishing, swimming, and a waterslide give campers plenty to do at this large resort along Palmer Creek in Hill City, South Dakota. With over 600 sites, the campground runs large enough that site assignments can vary significantly from what was reserved, so confirming site type at booking is worth the extra call. Full hookups, showers, pickleball, mini golf, and horseback riding are all on-site. Reservations are recommended, and pets are allowed. Campers exploring the area can also find places to camp near Hill City spread across the surrounding Black Hills.

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Map & DirectionsMt. Rushmore Resort & Lodge at Palmer Gulch is located in South Dakota near Hill City

Private Campground

Coordinates

43.90481114501664 N
103.53648396051939 W

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Connectivity

T-Mobile
No Coverage
Verified by 3 users
Last on 9/15/26
Verizon
Possible Coverage
Verified by 15 users
Last on 9/15/26
AT&TLTE
Good Coverage
Verified by 13 users
Last on 9/15/26

Connectivity

T-Mobile
No Coverage
Verified by 3 users
Last on 9/15/26
Verizon
Possible Coverage
Verified by 15 users
Last on 9/15/26
AT&TLTE
Good Coverage
Verified by 13 users
Last on 9/15/26

Access

Drive-In
Park next to your site
Walk-In
Park in a lot, walk to your site.
Hike-In
Backcountry sites.

Site Types

Tent Sites
RV Sites
Cabins
Equestrian

Features

For Campers

Market
Trash
Picnic Table
Firewood Available
Phone Service
Reservable
WiFi
Showers
Electric Hookups
Toilets
Alcohol
Pets
Fires

For Vehicles

Sanitary Dump
Sewer Hookups
Water Hookups
Pull-Through Sites
Big Rig Friendly

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Reviews3 Camper Reviews - Mt. Rushmore Resort & Lodge at Palmer Gulch

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5 Stars

4 Stars

3 Stars

2 Stars

1 Star

4.0

out of 5

3 Reviews

John L.

Guide

Reviewed Sep. 11, 2026

Massive KOA resort

If you like resort style camping this is it. Busy location with lots of activities, kid zones, on site store, laundry, pools, also lots of traffic. I gave it 4 stars because it does what it’s supposed to do, only miss was cleanliness on ladies room which was stinky and messy (says my wife…) Tried to have site selection but ended up on a very busy intersection with lots of traffic. Choose a middle site from their map to get some shielding from the camp roads. We’re here off season so some areas are closed. Don’t expect any kind of wilderness experience. Site was a bit small but mainly level, many to choose from at different price levels. I’m cheap so got what I paid for.

Site334

Month of VisitSeptember

(4) View All

Max H.

Scout

Reviewed Jun. 18, 2026

Rv park

This is a huge Rv park with lots of amenities including but not limited to a pool waterslide mini golf horse back riding showers and full hook up sites

Site356

Month of VisitJune

Greg H.

Traveler

Reviewed Jul. 8, 2025

Great Location for Families

It's a huge campground with over 300 campsites. Has campsites for most any camping needs. With the exception of hike in or boat in campsites. Located in Hill City along Palmer Creek. They have a fishing pond I wasn't able to list with it's amenities. Would have given them 5 stars if they hadn't changed my reserved site from a pull thru site to a back in site. That change forced me to be farther away from their general store, restaurant and main office as well as many other amenities. I must change the number of campsites they have available to in excess of 600 campsites. As well as the amenities they have available I missed checking the boxes. Including pickle ball, movies, jumping pillow, sand volleyball, and several others. It has too many amenities to list. Or that I'm taking the time to list anyway. Lol sorry just being as honest as possible.

Site199

Month of VisitJuly

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find a map of Palmer Gulch KOA?

Maps of Palmer Gulch KOA are available at the front desk/check-in area when you arrive at the resort. Given the size of this campground (over 300 campsites), a map is essential for navigation. You can also request a map in advance by calling the campground directly. For the most current layout, visit the official KOA website where downloadable campground maps are typically provided. The map will show you the layout of the various camping areas, amenities, fishing pond, and the location of Palmer Creek that runs through the property.

Where is Palmer Gulch KOA located in relation to Hill City and Mount Rushmore?

Palmer Gulch KOA is located in Hill City, South Dakota, making it very convenient for town access. The campground sits along Palmer Creek within the Hill City area, providing a scenic setting with water features. For those wanting to visit Mount Rushmore National Memorial, the campground serves as an excellent base camp, as the famous monument is a short scenic drive away. This strategic location makes it popular for visitors exploring the Black Hills region who want easy access to both natural attractions and town amenities.

What lodging options are available at Mount Rushmore KOA Resort at Palmer Gulch?

Mount Rushmore KOA Resort at Palmer Gulch offers diverse lodging options beyond traditional campsites. The resort features cabin accommodations and lodge rooms for those seeking more comfortable amenities. For RV campers, there are over 300 campsites with various hookup options to accommodate different needs and sizes. Traditional tent camping sites are also available throughout the property. The resort caters to most camping styles, though it doesn't offer hike-in or boat-in sites. For specific availability and amenities for each lodging type, contact the resort directly.

What do reviews say about the Lodge at Palmer Gulch?

The Lodge at Palmer Gulch provides comfortable accommodations for visitors preferring not to camp. It's part of the broader resort complex that includes the extensive campground facilities. The Lodge offers a more traditional hotel experience while still allowing guests to enjoy the resort's amenities, including the fishing pond and other recreational options. The property maintains a good reputation for offering diverse accommodation options that cater to different comfort preferences. For specific room types, amenities, and current rates at the Lodge, contacting the resort directly is recommended.