Buffalo Gap National Grassland provides free dispersed camping on public land approximately 5-7 miles south of Wall, South Dakota. The area sits at roughly 2,900 feet elevation with sites distributed along a high ridge that forms a natural border with Badlands National Park. Most sites are arranged along dirt roads that branch from Highway 240, with camping now restricted to designated posts marked with tent symbols to prevent erosion and overuse.
What to do
View wildlife at dawn and dusk: Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. "We heard some coyotes getting caught up in something in the middle of the night but the whole family loved it," reports Josh Z. from The Wall Dispersed Camping.
Night sky photography: The area experiences minimal light pollution for exceptional stargazing. "The stars were gorgeous and the sunrise was unrivaled," notes Blake R. from Buffalo Gap National Grassland. Set up your camera facing east for stunning Milky Way shots over the Badlands formations.
Day trips to Wall Drug: Located just 6 miles north of the camping area, Wall Drug makes an easy supply run or tourist stop. "Wall is an interesting town, mostly a tourist trap," explains Sarah W., who stayed at the dispersed camping area near the national park entrance.
What campers like
Designated camping areas: Recent management changes have improved the camping experience. "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. It is safer for people & prevents more erosion from the top of the cliff," notes Audrey F. from Badlands Boondocks.
Terrain variety: The landscape offers contrasting views in different directions. "The location offers a unique contrast—rugged rock formations on one side and the wide-open grasslands of the Buffalo Gap National Grasslands on the other," explains Tim R. from Badlands Boondocking Area.
Spacious campsites: Despite popularity, the area rarely feels crowded. "Arriving on an early Monday afternoon there were several dozen campers spread out along the road. Plenty more spaces and if you don't see one you like, keep driving and check around the next bend," advises Jason D.
What you should know
Cell coverage: Most major carriers work well in this remote location. "4g and 5g cell service is available here on Tmobile," reports Alex P. from Sage Creek Basin Camp.
Road conditions: Access roads can vary significantly after weather events. "The road is gravel with some hills and turns, but it was recently graded and we made it up to our site without any trouble," notes Jack T. After rain, some sections become rutted and may challenge low-clearance vehicles.
Cattle grazing: The national grassland serves as active rangeland. "You will have more neighbors in the cows than people. The west side is a wide open pasture with cows roaming," explains Angelo V. Cattle frequently graze near camping areas and may wander through sites.
Tips for camping with families
Preparation for exposure: The ridge offers no natural shade or shelter. "You will want shade and good tent stakes to accommodate for the heat and wind," advises Elizabeth A. Bring pop-up canopies, sun hats, and plenty of sunscreen for children.
Wildlife education opportunities: The grasslands host diverse prairie species. "I saw a herd of bison coming in," mentions Mona M. from Pinnacles Camping Area. Bring binoculars and wildlife identification guides for educational moments with children.
Plan arrival timing: Securing preferred sites requires strategy. "I considered the magic hour for arrivals, most folks appear to use this area as a layover and not a destination, so there was a lot of turnover of sites each day. If you arrive mid-day and hang around you'll have your choice of sites as folks leave for the next phase of their journey," suggests Staci I.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for large rigs: RVers should scout locations before committing. "We pulled our 46' fifth wheel to the top where you can view Badlands NP and that hill could leave damage to your set up. Park only at designated camp posts," cautions Bianca G. from Buffalo Gap National Grasslands.
Wind considerations: The exposed location requires special RV preparations. "The wind was alittle bit or a struggle but we have everything tied down and all our windows are open," shares Sierra S. Secure awnings, stabilize your rig, and position with prevailing winds in mind.
Water management: With no services available, water conservation becomes essential. "If you need water there is a spigot just past the park entrance," notes Francois T. Most RVers recommend arriving with full tanks and planning to leave after 3-4 days.
