Best Equestrian 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 Equestrian Sites Near Badlands National Park (5)

    1. Sage Creek Campground

    111 Reviews
    Wall, SD
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 433-5361

    "Sage Creek is a sweet little spot within Badlands National Park. Definitely pay your park entrance fee! BUT it’s true - this spot is completely free. Lots of people dig this spot."

    "A crowded, but nice, site right in Badlands National Park! A great scenic drive in on awesome and well maintained gravel roads. Large loop site with tons of space for tents and parking."

    2. Badlands Hotel & Campground

    58 Reviews
    Interior, SD
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 433-5335

    $24 - $174 / night

    "Close and convenient spot for easy access to Badlands National Park."

    "This is a great campground just a mile outside of Badlands National Park. I stayed for a week and really enjoyed it. The campground has full hookups and a 24 hour laundry room."

    3. 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."

    4. French Creek Camping Area

    5 Reviews
    Fairburn, SD
    43 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 745-4107

    "All sites are walk-in tent only.

    The only issue we experienced were the horse flies but this would not deter us from staying again."

    "Great views all around with a pleasant stream running through, BLM road behind the site for a stroll/potential free camping. The BLM road was not passable mid-october due to flooding."

    5. Woodland Ranch

    1 Review
    Merriman, SD
    38 miles

    $1 - $100 / night

    "We are near the North American Pole of Inaccessibility, making this one of the most remote regions of the continent... but you'll still get cell service!"

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Recent Equestrian Camping Photos near Badlands National Park

1 Photos of 5 Badlands National Park Campgrounds


Equestrian Camping Reviews near Badlands National Park

176 Reviews of 5 Badlands National Park Campgrounds



Guide to Badlands National Park

Horse camping near Badlands National Park in South Dakota offers a unique opportunity to explore stunning landscapes while enjoying the company of your equine friends. With a variety of campgrounds catering to horse campers, you can find the perfect spot to set up camp and hit the trails.

Equestrian campers like these nearby activities

  • At Sage Creek Campground, you can enjoy wide-open spaces and basic trails, perfect for a leisurely ride through the prairie dog town.
  • The Badlands Hotel & Campground is just a mile from the park entrance, making it an ideal base for exploring the park's scenic trails on horseback.
  • French Creek Camping Area offers a peaceful setting with access to horse trails, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area.

Most campgrounds have horse-focused amenities like

  • Woodland Ranch provides electric hookups and clean facilities, ensuring a comfortable stay for both you and your horse.
  • At Sage Creek Basin Camp, you can find a relaxed atmosphere with fellow campers, although it lacks amenities like water and electricity.
  • Badlands Hotel & Campground features full hookups and a convenient store, making it easy to stock up on supplies for your equestrian adventure.

Tips for equestrian camping near Badlands National Park in South Dakota

  • Bring plenty of water and supplies, as many campgrounds, like Sage Creek Campground, do not provide drinking water or electric hookups.
  • Be prepared for basic amenities at places like French Creek Camping Area, which offers pit toilets but no showers or trash services.
  • Keep your horse close at Sage Creek Basin Camp, where buffalo may wander through the area, adding to the unique experience of camping in the Badlands.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Badlands National Park is Sage Creek Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 111 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 5 equestrian camping locations near Badlands National Park, with real photos and reviews from campers.