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Best Dispersed Camping near Badlands National Park

192 Reviews

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.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Badlands National Park (9)

    1. Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping

    130 Reviews
    Wall, SD
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 279-2125

    "Amazing sunrise, easy to find, beautiful views, only ones there, minutes from Badlands National Park entrance and FREE!!"

    "Great place to spend the night, right outside the north entrance to to badlands national park. Ton of Ridgeline spots for RV/van camping, not so many even spots."

    2. The Wall Boondocking Dispersed

    32 Reviews
    Wall, SD
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 279-2126

    "Fantastic views No facilities but worth checking it out for a night while in Badlands Unlimited space Sage Creek also free camping with 22 sites No big RVs We travel in a Ford Transit 19"

    "We enjoyed two nights at the Badlands Boondocking Area. We stayed at the northernmost area of the camping and enjoyed the view down the entirety of the wall."

    3. Buffalo Gap National Grassland

    18 Reviews
    Wall, SD
    8 miles

    "Take a right at the tv towers and drive in to the rim of the wall. Free disbursed camping a mile north of the entrance to the Badlands National Park."

    "Dry camped at Buffalo Gap National Grassland just south of Wall South Dakota off of 240. Plenty of space with flat ground for tent or RV. Spectacular view and right by I90 for easy access."

    4. Baja Area Dispersed - Buffalo Gap National Grassland

    7 Reviews
    Interior, SD
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (308) 432-0300

    "Really fun on a dirt bike, u can drive around with a car if u want as well, some mellow spots allow non high clearance cars to get around"

    "Passed a couple campervans on the way in. Ended up getting a great spot with nobody around us and amazing views of the badlands. Only down side is there were A LOT of mosquitoes."

    5. Badlands Boondocks

    6 Reviews
    Wall, SD
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 233-2800

    "Easy access camp out of park about 1/2 mile right on the rim 8 miles from Wall S.D very windy but views awesome"

    "Just outside Badlands Nat’l Park. Great view and found a level site."

    6. Badlands Boondocking Area

    3 Reviews
    Wall, SD
    6 miles

    "Beautiful BLM 14 day camping just outside Badlands National Park. I saw a herd of bison coming in. Good Verizon cell phone signal."

    7. Sage Creek Basin Camp

    2 Reviews
    Wall, SD
    9 miles

    "This location is Sage Creek Basin Overlook and trailhead. It is beautiful up here at higher elevation. 4g and 5g cell service is available here on Tmobile. There are no toilets."

    "Really recommend if you enjoy camping a little more off grid but still having others to hangout with"

    8. Badlands Boondocking Dispersed Camping Area

    Be the first to review!
    Wall, SD
    8 miles
    Website

    9. Railroad Buttes OHV Area

    1 Review
    Hermosa, SD
    34 miles

    "I had my mountain bike..so that was a plus , near sunset it was just me .. mostly dirt.. so if a rain came be a mess.. does have compost type privy.. did not use it.. really kinda rough."

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Badlands National Park

151 Photos of 9 Badlands National Park Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Badlands National Park

192 Reviews of 9 Badlands National Park Campgrounds

Guide to Badlands National Park

Experience the beauty of the Badlands National Park while enjoying the freedom of dispersed camping. This area offers stunning landscapes, incredible views, and a chance to connect with nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Badlands National Park in South Dakota

  • Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping is conveniently located just outside the park, providing easy access to breathtaking views and a peaceful atmosphere.
  • The Wall Boondocking Dispersed area allows for a variety of camping setups, accommodating both tents and RVs, making it a versatile choice for all campers.
  • Be prepared for windy conditions, especially at sites like The Wall Boondocking, where the open prairie can amplify gusts, so securing your gear is essential.

Enjoy stunning sunrises and sunsets while free camping near Badlands National Park

  • Many campers rave about the spectacular sunrises and sunsets at Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping, where the views over the Badlands are simply unmatched.
  • The Wall Boondocking Dispersed offers a unique vantage point for watching the sun dip below the horizon, creating a picturesque backdrop for your camping experience.
  • Sage Creek Basin Camp is another great spot for catching the early morning light, with its expansive views that make waking up early worthwhile.

Dispersed campers should check out the Baja Area for a quieter experience

  • The Baja Area Dispersed site is known for its tranquility, allowing campers to find secluded spots away from the crowds while still being close to the park.
  • This area offers wide-open spaces and beautiful night skies, perfect for stargazing after a day of exploring the Badlands.
  • Campers at Baja Area have noted the ease of access and the opportunity to enjoy nature without the noise of nearby roads or facilities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Badlands National Park?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Badlands National Park is Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping with a 4.8-star rating from 130 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Badlands National Park?

TheDyrt.com has all 9 dispersed camping locations near Badlands National Park, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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