Best Camping near Badlands National Park

Like all of South Dakota, Badlands National Park enjoys sunny summers and harsh winters. While you can go at any time, this park, like most, is crowded during the summer. While getting campsites in peak season isn’t impossible, it isn’t always easy.

With only one reservable campground, getting a camping spot in Badlands is tricky. That being said, with large amounts of federal land surrounding it, free camping is abundant. However, RV campers will appreciate the availability of sites in the park that can accommodate them. Buffalo Gap National Grassland offers the best camping near Badlands National Park if you can’t snag a camp spot. For campers and roadtrippers alike, a stop (or stay) in Wall, SD, is a must.

Map showing campgrounds near Badlands National Park, South Dakota

Best Camping Sites Near Badlands National Park, SD (23)

1. Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping
121 Reviews
•413 Photos•
1575 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
2. Cedar Pass Campground — Badlands National Park
110 Reviews
•408 Photos•
451 Saves
Interior, South Dakota
Located near the Ben Reifel Visitor Center, the Cedar Pass Campground has 96 level sites with scenic views of the badlands formations. This campground offers flush toilets and coin operated showers in the summertime.
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Market
3. Sage Creek Campground
100 Reviews
•374 Photos•
156 Saves
Wall, South Dakota
Sage Creek Campground is a primitive campground. There is no charge to stay here and camping is available on a first come first serve basis. The campground rarely fills to capacity.
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
- Equestrian
- Standard (Tent/RV)
4. Badlands Hotel & Campground
57 Reviews
•217 Photos•
343 Saves
Interior, South Dakota
Just a mile from the iconic Badlands National Park, our hotel and full-service campground offers a great base camp to explore South Dakota’s Badlands, Black Hills, and the historic small town of Interior.
With a variety of rooms, RV sites, and tent sites, we are ideal for couples getaways, family vacations, or traveling groups. We also offer an on-site restaurant, outdoor pool, fire pits, and complimentary WiFi.
Your Badlands getaway awaits. What are you waiting for?
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
$24 - $174 / night
5. Badlands / White River KOA
58 Reviews
•131 Photos•
232 Saves
Interior, South Dakota
Welcome to the oasis of the Badlands! This KOA is just 4 miles from Badlands National Park. The rugged beauty of the Badlands includes a rich fossil bed and the nation's largest protected mixed-grass prairie, where you'll find bison, bighorn sheep and prairie dogs. The campground is in a quiet rural setting with hundreds of large shade trees beside the White River. Enjoy the pool, fun-bike rentals, mini golf and a large pet park. Pancake breakfasts, Indian tacos and more are served Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. Choose from Deluxe Cabins, Camping Cabins, full-hookup Pull-Thru RV Sites, tepees, Premium Tent Sites (with shelter, sink and electricity), standard shaded Tent Sites and big-rig friendly sites with a patio area. Free Wi-Fi! Stop by the grocery store and gift shop. Max pull thru: 120 feet
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
6. The Wall Boondocking Dispersed
29 Reviews
•86 Photos•
210 Saves
Wall, South Dakota
- Pets
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
- Dispersed
7. Sleepy Hollow Campground
30 Reviews
•41 Photos•
120 Saves
Wall, South Dakota
Sleepy Hollow is located one block from the world famous Wall Drug! The city of Wall, The Window to the West, also the west entrance of the Badlands National Park Loop and bordering the Buffalo Gap National Grasslands. Mount Rushmore and Sturgis are 65-70 minutes away!
All of our 59 RV sites are pull thrus. We offer a heated swimming pool and cable TV. Pets are welcome and we have a new dog park.
We are a Good Sam Park and AAA approved. Our restrooms were rated 10 out of 10 in 2015 for the 5th consecutive year by Trailer Life/Good Sam Club
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
8. Buffalo Gap National Grassland
18 Reviews
•55 Photos•
627 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
9. Baja Area Dispersed - Buffalo Gap National Grassland
7 Reviews
•25 Photos•
173 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
10. Minute Man RV Park & Lodging
5 Reviews
•
18 Saves
Interior, South Dakota
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
$25 - $40 / night

Showing results 1-10 of 23 campgrounds

Popular Camping Styles near Badlands National Park

Tent Camping near Badlands National Park

RV Parks near Badlands National Park

Free Dispersed Camping near Badlands National Park

Cabins near Badlands National Park

Dog Friendly Camping near Badlands National Park

Glamping near Badlands National Park

Horse Camping near Badlands National Park

Pet-friendly camping near Badlands National Park

Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping

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

Badlands Hotel & Campground

57 Reviews

217 Photos

343 Saves

Interior, South Dakota

Just a mile from the iconic Badlands National Park, our hotel and full-service campground offers a great base camp to explore South Dakota’s Badlands, Black Hills, and the historic small town of Interior.

With a variety of rooms, RV sites, and tent sites, we are ideal for couples getaways, family vacations, or traveling groups. We also offer an on-site restaurant, outdoor pool, fire pits, and complimentary WiFi.

Your Badlands getaway awaits. What are you waiting for?

Pets
Fires
Electric Hookups
Phone Service

$24 - $174 / night

Badlands / White River KOA

58 Reviews

131 Photos

232 Saves

Interior, South Dakota

Welcome to the oasis of the Badlands! This KOA is just 4 miles from Badlands National Park. The rugged beauty of the Badlands includes a rich fossil bed and the nation's largest protected mixed-grass prairie, where you'll find bison, bighorn sheep and prairie dogs. The campground is in a quiet rural setting with hundreds of large shade trees beside the White River. Enjoy the pool, fun-bike rentals, mini golf and a large pet park. Pancake breakfasts, Indian tacos and more are served Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. Choose from Deluxe Cabins, Camping Cabins, full-hookup Pull-Thru RV Sites, tepees, Premium Tent Sites (with shelter, sink and electricity), standard shaded Tent Sites and big-rig friendly sites with a patio area. Free Wi-Fi! Stop by the grocery store and gift shop. Max pull thru: 120 feet

Pets
Fires
Electric Hookups
Phone Service

The Wall Boondocking Dispersed

Pets
Phone Service
RVs
Tents

Sleepy Hollow Campground

Sleepy Hollow is located one block from the world famous Wall Drug! The city of Wall, The Window to the West, also the west entrance of the Badlands National Park Loop and bordering the Buffalo Gap National Grasslands. Mount Rushmore and Sturgis are 65-70 minutes away!

All of our 59 RV sites are pull thrus. We offer a heated swimming pool and cable TV. Pets are welcome and we have a new dog park.

We are a Good Sam Park and AAA approved. Our restrooms were rated 10 out of 10 in 2015 for the 5th consecutive year by Trailer Life/Good Sam Club

Pets
Fires
Electric Hookups
Phone Service

Buffalo Gap National Grassland

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

View All

Recent Reviews In Badlands National Park

556 Reviews of 23 Badlands National Park Campgrounds

P
Paul K.
Traveler
October 4, 2024
The Wall Boondocking Dispersed
Can’t get better than free
Great spot, lots of campers here, but still found a spot. Watch out for grumpy old coot who parks right where everyone drives in and then tells you to slow down coz it’s too dusty. Hey mate drive further in and there’s no traffic! Duh.
michael V.
Guide
October 4, 2024
The Wall Boondocking Dispersed
Great views, easy to get to
A lot of campers of all kinds as it is free and right outside the park but it’s easy to get to and views are amazing. Regardless of the amount of people there tons of area to set up so doubtful someone won’t get a spot.
Ken G.
Guide
September 25, 2024
Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping
Beautiful view from top of cliff, but windy
We camped here on a Sunday night. Lots of campers along a road which was about 6 miles long along the top of a cliff. We thought we found a nice spot away from others, but two huge campers pulled in after dinner right next to us on the opposite side of the road. Beautiful view of the badlands and we enjoyed watching the sunset from our site. After we went to bed, the wind picked up big time and howled for several hours. It was strong enough to shake the trailer. It died down before midnight. You can't really hike down into the badlands from the cliff so the only place to walk is along the top of the cliff past the other campers. No services, but free.
Ken G.
Guide
September 25, 2024
Sage Creek Campground
Hot and dry, buffalo wandered through the camp
This was a free site in the Badlands. It's a dirt road to get there, washboards, but OK.
The cg is in a prairie dog town so we kept the dog close.
It was full on a Saturday night in September, but we got one of the last sites. Very basic campground with a few trails to hike. Views were OK, but nothing great.
Buffalo wandered through camp at dinner time. We basically camped on the road that circles the campground.
Some picnic tables had a shade covering. Pit toilets were clean.
Jeff M.
Traveler
September 16, 2024
Sage Creek Campground
Base to the Badlands
Great location to set out to explore the Badlands? Low reception with Verizon in the valley bye still have good contact. Great reception, small hike to the top of the hill.
Jeff M.
Traveler
September 16, 2024
Sage Creek Campground
Great location for a base, to explore the Badlands
Free dispersed camping, with clean vault toilets. no water or power you will have to bring your own. Quiet and tranquil location, Surrounded by prairie dogs as you sit in the valley with low rolling hills around you.
K
Karsten
Traveler
August 31, 2024
Cedar Pass Campground — Badlands National Park
Good place to stay
We stayed for 2 nights in the group loop. At first we were sure about the quality of the site - the group loop also serves as the entrance to the dump site - but we’re convinced the site is great. Our site faces into the badlands with a great view, it is very quiet and you are very private (there were no groups around us). The campground is very clean and every evening there is program prepared by the rangers as well as a presentation of the stars.
We would always come back here.
Shawn A.
Ranger
August 29, 2024
Badlands Boondocks
Easy access for my 30ft RV.
Only 7 miles south of Wall, SD. It was windy but beautiful views. And Free!
Jennifer H.
Legend
August 21, 2024
Sleepy Hollow Campground
Across the street from wall drug
It’s a nice place heading east or west to land for the night. We’ve stayed at sleepy hollow before and find it and the proximity to wall drug a fun landing stop for the night on our trek across SD. Dinner, ice cream and splash pad fun at wall drug is the perfect end to a day on the road for our family.
Kelly V.
Traveler
August 20, 2024
The Wall Boondocking Dispersed
Not just another brick in the wall
Fabulous! Views and several spaces both on the edge of grassland dropping off into the badlands wall and farther back. At least 25 campers there last night. It was breathtaking. Do be prepared for I tense wi d; this is prairie with no trees to cut wind. Well worth a visit.
ron R.
Guide
August 19, 2024
Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping
simply amazing views and a perfect ballance of sun and wind to keep it grea
I camping here from 8/15 to 8/21. Far, the weather has been amazing. I moved spots about 3 days in. The first spot was great except for Cell Service (t-mobile) that exact spot was a dead spot. After moving south one spot about 60 feet, i went from 1-2mb/s to 40-60mb/s. Roads are rough but do-able I am pulling a 29ft toyhauler with a Chevy silverado 1500. I cecomend taking the north entrance or if taking the main (by Radio towers) then turn left when you get to the wall.
J
Jon D.
Guide
August 16, 2024
Love's RV Stop-Box Elder 602
Quiet Night
Pulled up at the Loves in Box Elder just after midnight. It was an easy, quiet night, but there were some sketchy people there in the morning
Chris P.
Guide
August 9, 2024
Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping
free sunrise
Thursday night you August was busy. However, the sunrise the next morning made it worth the stop.
M
Marissa H.
Scout
August 7, 2024
Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping
Super windy, not good for tents
We have stayed here twice, it was easy to find and lots of available spots but it’s just on a cliff’s edge so there are TONS of strong gusts of winds, it caused our tent to cave in and I ended up sleeping in the car. There was a goat, that was cool, but otherwise I don’t recommend for tent camping (go to sage creek campground, also free)
M
Marissa H.
Scout
August 4, 2024
Sage Creek Campground
Good
I really liked this site, they had tables with shade, out house, flat ground, and compared to the dispersed camping wayyy less windy. We did not see bison today but there were prairie dogs
Tyler C.
Guide
July 31, 2024
Buffalo Gap National Grassland
Amazing views
What this spot has going for it is the amazing views. Stayed for 1 night and the wind was absolutely insane! Be prepared for that! We opted to car camp over pulling out the tent. Plenty of space to be spread out.
Erica L.
Scout
July 28, 2024
Cedar Pass Campground — Badlands National Park
Very cool place to camp
Loved the Badlands in the background. No trees or privacy, but was nice to be camping in the Badlands. We went in July and it was very hot (100) and super windy. Not ideal for a popup with no a/c.
Elise V.
Traveler
July 26, 2024
The Wall Boondocking Dispersed
Favorite Dispersed Campsite EVER!
Gorgeous site! Very popular site with neighbors close by, but ours were very kind and friendly! We got lucky and didn’t have any problems with wind. Enjoyed the sunrise and sunset from this spot!
S
Stephanie W.
Guide
July 24, 2024
The Wall Boondocking Dispersed
Loved my night here!
I loved camping at this spot! It was easy to find, and even though there was a good amount of people there it was spaced out and I felt comfortable. There is zero privacy, so be prepared for that. If you’re in a tent also be prepared because it is extremely windy at night! Even my little teardrop was shaking. But the view is incredible and the sunrise was stunning.
A
APK's
Scout
July 23, 2024
Cedar Pass Campground — Badlands National Park
A Scenic Retreat in Badlands National Park
Cedar Pass Campground in Badlands National Park offers 96 scenic sites with amenities like flush toilets and summer coin-operated showers. Located near the Ben Reifel Visitor Center, it provides a great base for exploring the park. Reviews highlight its beautiful views and convenient facilities.
Brianna R.
Scout
July 22, 2024
Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping
Safe, Free Camping for Solo Travelers
I stayed here for 2 nights as a solo female traveler. It is minutes from the Badlands entrance. There were a lot of people around (I stayed in early July) so I always felt safe even at nights. It's pretty open land so it was hard finding a private area to use the bathroom. I slept in a tent the first night, but it got really windy on night 2, so I just slept in the car. Overall, I highly recommend staying here as it is free and absolutely beautiful.
andrew
Guide
July 20, 2024
Sleepy Hollow Campground
A Place to Stay
The campground is fine. FHU with cable. $65 might be steep but,....
You can walk to Wall Drug Store if you are so inclined.
Plenty of space to walk the dogs.
8 miles from Badlands National Park entrance.
COMPLAINT - not the parks fault but....they were/are doing construction on the railroad crossing that prevents you from following your navigation guide. The detour signs are terrible or non-existent. We drove down a street with cars parked on both sides, and found ourselves at road closed even thought we could see the park. We had to call and ask how to get into the park.
James P.
Legend
July 19, 2024
Badlands Hotel & Campground
Nice campground
Close to NP. Level sites. Hookups are a little wonky. Some sites they are on the wrong side. Gravel sites and roads. Nice staff. Would stay here again.
Brooke R.
Traveler
July 18, 2024
Cedar Pass Campground — Badlands National Park
Great Views! Mid Price!
The views were amazing from this campground, but the price for the amenities provided was mediocre.
There was very little shade, and it did get very hot while we were there.
Conviently located close to the visitors center end of part but if you want to be closer to Wall you may want a different campground.
samuel C.
Ranger
July 17, 2024
Buffalo Gap National Grassland
Peaceful
Tends to be a bit windy, but this is a beautiful place to stay. Lots of sites and they all have great views.
samuel C.
Ranger
July 17, 2024
The Wall Boondocking Dispersed
Love it here!
Great views here!! Any car and any size can make it ! Tons of spots and amazing proximity to the park. 100% would recommend. I have stayed here multiple times.
Molly W.
Guide
July 17, 2024
Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping
Some BAD lands! 🔥
I arrived solo with my kitty road companion, and ended up meeting so many other solo travelers. We moved together in the same area and somehow a few day trip turned into 11 days.
Such a great place to camp. HOT AF though during the day when I was there. At night the WIND BE WIND’N.
I’d definitely come back.

Guide to Badlands National Park

Camping near Badlands National Park, South Dakota, offers a unique experience with stunning landscapes and a variety of campgrounds to choose from. Whether you're looking for a rustic experience or a more established site, there's something for everyone.

What to do:

Explore the Badlands: The park is famous for its dramatic landscapes and hiking trails. Many campers enjoy the breathtaking views and wildlife sightings. One visitor at Cedar Pass Campground said, "Cedar Pass Campground in Badlands National Park offers 96 scenic sites with amenities like flush toilets and summer coin-operated showers."
Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for bison, prairie dogs, and other wildlife. A camper at Sage Creek Campground mentioned, "Woke up to a buffalo 30 yards from my tent. Other people said they walk right thru camp."
Stargazing: The clear skies in the area make for excellent stargazing opportunities. A camper at Buffalo Gap National Grassland noted, "Amazing views. Stayed for 1 night and the wind was absolutely insane! Be prepared for that!"

What campers like:

Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful landscapes. One visitor at The Wall Boondocking Dispersed said, "Fabulous! Views and several spaces both on the edge of grassland dropping off into the badlands wall."
Free Camping Options: Many campgrounds, like Buffalo Gap National Grassland, offer free camping, which is a big plus for budget travelers. A camper shared, "What this spot has going for it is the amazing views."
Community Feel: Campgrounds often have a friendly atmosphere. A camper at Sage Creek Campground mentioned, "What a sweet little spot! This is a 22 site, first come first served campground."

What you should know:

Windy Conditions: Many campers report strong winds, especially at dispersed sites. One camper at Buffalo Gap National Grassland said, "Tends to be a bit windy, but this is a beautiful place to stay."
Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like The Wall Boondocking Dispersed, have no drinking water or toilets. A visitor noted, "There is zero privacy, so be prepared for that."
Busy Seasons: The campgrounds can fill up quickly during peak seasons. A camper at Cedar Pass Campground mentioned, "If you want to stay in the park and explore the Badlands this is a great location."

Tips for camping with families:

Choose Established Campgrounds: Sites like Cedar Pass Campground offer amenities like flush toilets and showers, making it easier for families. A camper said, "The campground is very clean and every evening there is a program prepared by the rangers."
Plan for Wind: If you're tent camping, be prepared for windy nights. A camper at Sage Creek Campground shared, "It caused our tent to cave in and I ended up sleeping in the car."
Wildlife Safety: Teach kids to respect wildlife. A visitor at Sage Creek Campground advised, "Be respectful!!!"

Tips from RVers:

Check Road Conditions: Some roads can be rough, especially for larger RVs. A camper at The Wall Boondocking Dispersed noted, "Roads are rough but doable."
Look for Level Sites: Many RVers prefer campgrounds with level sites. A visitor at Badlands Hotel & Campground said, "Level sites. Hookups are a little wonky."
Be Prepared for Heat: Summer temperatures can soar. A camper at Badlands / White River KOA mentioned, "The pool was small and cloudy but needed as it is so hot."

Camping near Badlands National Park, South Dakota, is an adventure filled with natural beauty and unique experiences. Whether you're in a tent or an RV, there's a spot waiting for you!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Badlands National Park?
According to TheDyrt.com, Badlands National Park offers a wide range of camping options, with 23 campgrounds and RV parks near Badlands National Park and 7 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Badlands National Park?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Badlands National Park is Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping with a 4.8-star rating from 121 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Badlands National Park?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 7 free dispersed camping spots near Badlands National Park.
What parks are near Badlands National Park?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 6 parks near Badlands National Park that allow camping, notably Wind Cave National Park and Black Hills National Forest.

Best Camping near Badlands National Park

Best Camping Sites Near Badlands National Park, SD (23)

1. Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping

2. Cedar Pass Campground — Badlands National Park

3. Sage Creek Campground

4. Badlands Hotel & Campground

5. Badlands / White River KOA

6. The Wall Boondocking Dispersed

7. Sleepy Hollow Campground

8. Buffalo Gap National Grassland

9. Baja Area Dispersed - Buffalo Gap National Grassland

10. Minute Man RV Park & Lodging

Popular Camping Styles near Badlands National Park

Tent Camping near Badlands National Park

RV Parks near Badlands National Park

Free Dispersed Camping near Badlands National Park

Cabins near Badlands National Park

Dog Friendly Camping near Badlands National Park

Glamping near Badlands National Park

Horse Camping near Badlands National Park

Pet-friendly camping near Badlands National Park

Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping

Badlands Hotel & Campground

Badlands / White River KOA

The Wall Boondocking Dispersed

Sleepy Hollow Campground

Buffalo Gap National Grassland

Recent Reviews In Badlands National Park

556 Reviews of 23 Badlands National Park Campgrounds

Guide to Badlands National Park

What to do:

What campers like:

What you should know:

Tips for camping with families:

Tips from RVers: