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.

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

    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping

    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
    Camper-submitted photo from Cedar Pass Campground — Badlands National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cedar Pass Campground — Badlands National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cedar Pass Campground — Badlands National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cedar Pass Campground — Badlands National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cedar Pass Campground — Badlands National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Cedar Pass Campground — Badlands National Park

    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
    Camper-submitted photo from Sage Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sage Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sage Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sage Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sage Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sage Creek Campground

    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)
    Camper-submitted photo from Badlands Hotel & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Badlands Hotel & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Badlands Hotel & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Badlands Hotel & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Badlands Hotel & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Badlands Hotel & Campground

    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

    Camper-submitted photo from Badlands / White River KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Badlands / White River KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Badlands / White River KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Badlands / White River KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Badlands / White River KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Badlands / White River KOA

    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
    Camper-submitted photo from The Wall Boondocking Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from The Wall Boondocking Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from The Wall Boondocking Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from The Wall Boondocking Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from The Wall Boondocking Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from The Wall Boondocking Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Sleepy Hollow Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sleepy Hollow Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sleepy Hollow Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sleepy Hollow Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sleepy Hollow Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sleepy Hollow Campground

    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
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Gap National Grassland
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Gap National Grassland
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Gap National Grassland
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Gap National Grassland
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Gap National Grassland
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Gap National Grassland

    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
    Camper-submitted photo from Baja Area Dispersed - Buffalo Gap National Grassland
    Camper-submitted photo from Baja Area Dispersed - Buffalo Gap National Grassland
    Camper-submitted photo from Baja Area Dispersed - Buffalo Gap National Grassland
    Camper-submitted photo from Baja Area Dispersed - Buffalo Gap National Grassland
    Camper-submitted photo from Baja Area Dispersed - Buffalo Gap National Grassland
    Camper-submitted photo from Baja Area Dispersed - Buffalo Gap National Grassland

    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
    • No image available

      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

    Pet-friendly camping near Badlands National Park

    Recent Reviews In Badlands National Park

    556 Reviews of 23 Badlands National Park Campgrounds


    • Camper-submitted photo from The Wall Boondocking Dispersed
      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.

    • Camper-submitted photo from The Wall Boondocking Dispersed
      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.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping
      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.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Sage Creek Campground
      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.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Sage Creek Campground
      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.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Sage Creek Campground
      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.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Cedar Pass Campground — Badlands National Park
      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.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Sleepy Hollow Campground
      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.

    • Camper-submitted photo from The Wall Boondocking Dispersed
      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.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping
      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.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Love's RV Stop-Box Elder 602
      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

    • Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping
      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)

    • Camper-submitted photo from Sage Creek Campground
      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

    • Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Gap National Grassland
      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.

    • Camper-submitted photo from The Wall Boondocking Dispersed
      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!

    • Camper-submitted photo from The Wall Boondocking Dispersed
      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.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Cedar Pass Campground — Badlands National Park
      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.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping
      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.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Sleepy Hollow Campground
      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.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Badlands Hotel & Campground
      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.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Cedar Pass Campground — Badlands National Park
      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.

    • Camper-submitted photo from The Wall Boondocking Dispersed
      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.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping
      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.