A
Adam L.
Guide
GuideCamp 5 Dispersed
Hide from the winds
Great spot, just be careful because the road down is steep and rustic- was very slippery with light snow on it.
Best Campgrounds in South Dakota
Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping and The Wall Boondocking Dispersed provide free camping options in South Dakota, with both located near Badlands National Park. South Dakota campgrounds range from primitive dispersed sites on public lands to fully developed private campgrounds with cabin rentals and RV hookups. Several established campgrounds in the Badlands region offer toilets and picnic tables at free or low-cost sites, while campgrounds near Mount Rushmore and Custer State Park provide more amenities including electric hookups and shower facilities.
The Black Hills region contains numerous campgrounds with varying amenities and reservation requirements. Cedar Pass Campground in Badlands National Park offers electric hookups and water but prohibits fires, while Sylvan Lake Campground in Custer State Park provides full amenities including showers and firewood. Dispersed camping areas typically have no facilities but allow pets and alcohol. Several campgrounds close seasonally, with most operating between May and October. A camper noted, "This is our third time here and this time there are markers for where to park to camp. The Forest service is managing the area so people cannot park right at the edge of the cliff like in times past."
National grasslands and forest service roads provide numerous opportunities for dispersed camping throughout South Dakota. Campers report particularly scenic experiences at overlooks within Buffalo Gap National Grassland. According to one review, "Beautiful overlook of the Cheyenne River on FS land. Gorgeous colorful landscape. Large turnaround with plenty of room." Established campgrounds in the Mount Rushmore area feature concrete pads, landscaped grounds, and resort amenities like pools and recreation facilities. Private campgrounds often include cabin rentals alongside traditional tent and RV camping options. Seasonal variations affect road conditions, especially for accessing dispersed camping areas, with some requiring high-clearance vehicles after rainfall. Many campgrounds implement fire restrictions during dry periods, particularly in the Badlands region.
Best Camping Sites in South Dakota (536)
1. Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping
134 ReviewsWall, SDWebsite+1 (605) 279-2125"I camped on the ridge in the South Dakota grasslands. I was able to look out my front door and see the badlands or or see the grasslands out my rear window."
"The site is about 6-8 miles from the town of Wall, so while you are in a remote area, you still have ready access to food, shopping, and gas if you need it."
2. Sage Creek Campground
117 ReviewsWall, SDWebsite+1 (605) 433-5361"Definitely pay your park entrance fee! BUT it’s true - this spot is completely free. Lots of people dig this spot. Doesn’t feel too crowded though."
"Great views, prairie dogs were so cool to see running around the camp site. Bison everywhere on the drive in and a few even walking around the camp site. Super close to badlands park entrance."
3. Cedar Pass Campground — Badlands National Park
115 ReviewsInterior, SDWebsite+1 (605) 433-5460$37 - $47 / night
"Stayed one night in a converted Sprinter while traveling through South Dakota, we needed a place with showers. The showers and restrooms were pay to use, with a single curtain as privacy."
"Relatively private site as most sites are behind you. Beautiful view of prairie ans badlands in the distance. Picnic table shelter is positioned so you have shade in the afternoon."
4. Badlands Hotel & Campground
62 ReviewsInterior, SDWebsite+1 (605) 433-5335$24 - $174 / night
"We liked: tent sites on the outskirts, trail / dog-hiking area, proximity to Badlands. Showers and price were ok. To earn 5 stars it needs more seclusion and trees for tent sites."
"The campground was great and super close to the Badlands park entrance. The owners were very nice and helpful."
5. Badlands / White River KOA
59 ReviewsInterior, SDWebsite+1 (605) 433-5337"Although the camp ground is outside the park, the views from the areas surrounding the campground are great."
"v=hoIu_r-fQ5E) Product Review:
During our road trip around the US, I was able to try out the GO camper from SylvanSport."
6. Mount Rushmore KOA at Palmer Gulch
55 ReviewsHill City, SDWebsite"Make the most of your South Dakota vacation by spending it camping. My group tented and had a great time."
"The location is amazing and so beautiful. There are tons of amenities and fun activities. The staff are very nice and very helpful."
7. Elk Mountain Campground — Wind Cave National Park
45 ReviewsPringle, SDWebsite+1 (605) 745-4600$12 - $45 / night
"This campground is centrally locates to some great activities in South Dakota. We made day trips to visit the Badlands, Wall Drug Store, Wind Cave and Mount Rushmore."
"Passing through South Dakota rests a very unique park unlike any other you will find. "
8. Sylvan Lake Campground — Custer State Park
42 ReviewsCuster, SDWebsite+1 (605) 255-4515"This lake is beautiful, its one of my favorite places inside Custer state park. There are a ton of trails, all within easy walking distance. Make sure you pack plenty of water."
"We had one of the spots that was more out in the open and close to our neighbors, but the sites on the outside of the middle loop were much more private."
9. The Wall Boondocking Dispersed
39 ReviewsWall, SDWebsite+1 (605) 279-2126"I spent a couple of weeks in the Badlands area of South Dakota this past summer. I camped for 5 night along The Wall. "
"Arrived past dark, could determine where to go so parked along roadside. In AM found The Wall well populated with overnight campers. We can see why!"
10. Spearfish City Campground
41 ReviewsSpearfish, SDWebsite+1 (605) 642-1340"Nice city campground along Spearfish Creek and super close to downtown and has easy access to Spearfish Canyon. We definitely took advantage of the creek and proximity to downtown during our stay."
"We picked a site near the back of the camp grounds located near the creek and close to a small parking lot (close by to the pet exercise area on the map - though it's labelled as an ice rink on grounds"
Recent Camping Photos in South Dakota
911 Photos of 536 South Dakota Campgrounds
Doug W.
Snake Creek Recreation Area — Snake Creek State Recreation Area
Ryan B.
Black Hills National Forest Comanche Park Campground
Jennifer P.
Hidden Valley Campground
Jennie R.
Hot Springs / Black Hills KOA
Tami S.
Sunset RV Park
Scott S.
Cold Springs School Road - Forest Road Pull Out
Audrey F.
Lake Thompson Recreation Area
Bibs O.
West Pollock Recreation Area
Penelope G.
Richland Dam and Recreation Area
Kara S.
Dispersed Camping near Calumet Road
kenneth B.
Hill city/ Needles HWY KOA
Recent Reviews in South Dakota
3129 Reviews of 536 South Dakota Campgrounds
MickandKarla W.
LegendHidden Gem Campground
Newer Campground
The campground (CG) was easy to find right off SD-46. Our friends got in before us and were told to go pick a site and then check in at the Pad 71 restaurant/bar. They passed that info to us, and we went straight to back-in site 53 with FHUs. It had been raining, and the gravel site was narrow and at 90 degrees. We ended up putting ruts in the ground. The campground is fairly new, and there were not many campers— a few transient workers and maybe full timers— but their sites were clean and well organized. The water hookup was in the middle of the site, but the electric and sewer were at the very end, so we needed about 25’ of sewer hose. All the sites were back-in. We got 3 bars on both Verizon and T-Mobile. There were no trees in this campground, so satellite is not an issue. None of the campsites had a picnic table nor fire pit. There were no formal dog areas, but there was plenty of room to walk your dog. When we stayed there, there were no restroom/shower facilities nor a dump station. The CG did not have Wi-Fi. There is no dumpster in the CG area, so you have to drive up to the back of the bar/restaurant building. There’s pickleball, volleyball, and horseshoe pits at Pad 71. The town of Wagner, South Dakota, has several useful amenities for RVers, including a full-service grocery store, hardware store, multiple gas stations, a laundromat, and a few restaurants. This campground worked well for our 6-days stay to pheasant hunt.
- JJared F.
Scoutmidway camp, Volga South dakota
Good spot
Spent 2 weeks here in january. Fairly priced with full hookup year round. The sites seem a little tight if it were to get filled up in the summer but very spacious this time of year. The owners were a little hard to get a hold of but are nice enough
Freddy A.ScoutTabor Lakeside Use Area Camping
Quiet gems
Tabor Lakeside is one of those quiet gems you almost hope people don’t find out about. The gravel road sets the mood, trees, hills, and then suddenly this peaceful little cluster of campsites right above Lewis& Clark Lake. The sites are close, but most nights it feels like you have the place nearly to yourself. If you can snag the cliff spot, do it— watching the Nebraska bluffs burn orange at sunset is unreal. It’s simple, first-come, self-pay camping done right, and absolutely worth the drive. https://snaptroids.download/
Andrew S.GuideHidden Gem Campground
Great Facilities, Quiet Campgrounds
The campground was built a couple years ago and the campsites are very well maintained with water electric and sewer. There is plenty of room and the campground is very peaceful. If you’re so inclined there is a bar and grill walking distance from the campground that is a fun local watering hole. Just call the phone or stop by the bar to reserve a camping spot, they have permanent spots or daily rentals for a fair price.
- Andrew S.Guide
Palisades State Park Campground
Neat area with nice facilities
The site and facilities were well maintained and the palisades are a cool place to explore for a day. We visited in November so there was hardly anyone else, it’s a very large campground that is a good spot for families with young kids.
- JJosh B.Scout
Badlands Boondocking Dispersed Camping Area
Decent
Was there in July and it was hot and lots of flies other than that it was great views. Sunrise and sunset were amazing here!
Crystal B.LegendRoy Lake West — Roy Lake State Park
Nice equipped campground with nice sites nearly lake
This is a large campground with lakeside campsites available. Hiking trails, beach, boating, paddling area. Campground has nice views and is well maintained.
- Crystal B.Legend
Fort Sisseton State Park Campground
Historical grounds with campgrounds.
This is an historically significant area that has activities for the history buff. The campground is pretty basic with nothing fancy other than a place to camp for the night. Large grassy area. Small cabins available.
Guide to South Dakota
Camping in South Dakota offers a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. From serene lakes to sprawling grasslands, there’s something for everyone. Here’s what you need to know before you pack your bags.
What to do
- Fishing: Many campgrounds, like Richland Reservoir Dispersed Camping, are great for fishing. One camper mentioned, “Lake is full of small Crappie. Lots of wildlife. Deer, antelope, pheasants.”
- Hiking and Biking: Trails abound in places like Oahe Downstream Recreation Area. A visitor shared, “Good walking paths for humans and dogs and saw many folks cycling.”
- Wildlife Watching: Campers often spot bald eagles and other wildlife. One review noted, “There was a bald eagle hunting the reservoir.”
What campers like
- Peaceful Atmosphere: Many campers appreciate the tranquility. One reviewer said, “Great quiet camping spot. Only one other camper while here for 4 days.”
- Clean Facilities: Campgrounds like Farm Island State Recreation Area are well-maintained. A visitor remarked, “The bathrooms/showers are clean as is the campgrounds.”
- Affordable Rates: Campers enjoy the low costs. One camper mentioned, “$15 for water, electric and dump station.”
What you should know
- Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Fort Pierre National Grassland, have few facilities. A reviewer noted, “No fees No water No open fires.”
- Weather Considerations: Be prepared for wind and storms. One camper at Richland Reservoir said, “The wind howled all night!!!”
- Road Conditions: Some access roads can be tricky. A visitor shared, “The road is clay and when it gets wet it becomes very difficult to travel on.”
Tips for camping with families
- Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and water access. One review of Farm Island State Recreation Area mentioned, “Great for kids. Kayak rentals. Playground and beach area.”
- Safety First: Always keep an eye on kids near water. A camper advised, “Hubby could walk out of the camper and fish,” highlighting the need for supervision.
- Pack Snacks: Having food on hand can make family outings smoother. One camper noted, “They brought us ice,” showing that some campgrounds offer helpful services.
Tips from RVers
- Check Hookups: Make sure your site has the right hookups. A visitor at River View RV Park said, “Campsites are close together with full hookups.”
- Be Prepared for Cold: If camping in cooler months, be ready for freezing conditions. One camper mentioned, “Our water hookup was frozen so they moved us to a spot where they had a heated cover on water pipe.”
- Explore Nearby Towns: Don’t miss local attractions. A reviewer at Griffin City Park said, “There is a marina with a boat launch that is right next door.”
Camping in South Dakota is a fantastic way to connect with nature and enjoy the great outdoors. Whether you're fishing, hiking, or just relaxing, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best campgrounds in South Dakota for families?
What are the best campgrounds in South Dakota for families?
South Dakota offers excellent family camping destinations with activities for all ages. Newton Hills Campground — Newton Hills State Park provides spacious, clean facilities perfect for families with young children, offering a blend of adventure and relaxation away from city life. Another great option is Big Sioux Recreation Area — Big Sioux, which features large sites that back up to bike paths and the river. The area has a new bathhouse, very clean facilities, and plenty of recreational activities. It's only a half-hour drive to Sioux Falls, making it convenient for day trips. Both locations offer the natural beauty and outdoor experiences that make family camping in South Dakota memorable.
What are the top tent camping locations in South Dakota's national parks?
What are the top tent camping locations in South Dakota's national parks?
South Dakota's national parks offer exceptional tent camping experiences. Sylvan Lake Campground — Custer State Park is renowned for its beautiful lake setting and network of hiking trails within easy walking distance. The stunning scenery makes it one of the most popular spots in the Black Hills region, though hikers should be prepared for sometimes steep terrain and South Dakota's changeable weather. Cedar Pass Campground — Badlands National Park provides a more rugged experience with iconic badlands views. For a more primitive option, Sage Creek Campground in Badlands offers free camping with basic facilities. Elk Mountain Campground in Wind Cave National Park is another excellent choice for tent campers seeking access to underground and above-ground wonders.
Where can I find private campgrounds in South Dakota with full amenities?
Where can I find private campgrounds in South Dakota with full amenities?
South Dakota has several private campgrounds offering comprehensive amenities. Mount Rushmore KOA at Palmer Gulch provides an excellent alternative to expensive hotels near Mount Rushmore, with full facilities for both tent and RV camping. This is an ideal base for exploring the area's attractions. Kennebec KOA is another well-maintained private option with clean bathrooms and showers, some shaded sites, and friendly owners. It's conveniently located just a short drive from the highway, making it perfect for travelers passing through. While there's minimal road noise, the campground remains quiet and comfortable. Many private campgrounds in South Dakota offer hookups, Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, and camp stores for a comfortable outdoor experience.
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