Best Dog-Friendly Camping near Badlands National Park in South Dakota

Looking for the best options for camping with dogs near Badlands National Park? Find the best information on pet-friendly camping near Badlands National Park, including sites, reviews, and tips for getting the most out of your RVing experience. Search nearby campgrounds that allow pets or find top-rated spots from other campers.

Best Dog-Friendly Sites Near Badlands National Park, SD (17)

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Showing results 1-10 of 17 campgrounds

Recent Dog-Friendly Reviews in Badlands National Park

344 Reviews of 17 Badlands National Park Campgrounds


  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sage Creek Basin Camp
    Dec. 20, 2024

    Sage Creek Basin Camp

    Stunning Views at Overlook

    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. The two toilets, one at each end of the campground, are located a few miles away at Sage Creek Campground. A few fellow park tourists stopped to see the views and hike. I spent two nights here.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping
    Oct. 29, 2024

    Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping

    Great Camping / Views

    This is a great dispersed site right next to The Badlands National Park. In October, there were only about 20 campers at most (lots of available space). The views from here are amazing, as well as sunrise and sunset. It can get quite windy. Very quiet!

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping
    Oct. 22, 2024

    Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping

    Great Views

    This was an our first time dispersed camping so we weren’t sure exactly what to expect. There were lots of campers (probably 20 other cars), but the views are unmatched. Waking up at dawn and watching the sunrise over the Badlands is breathtaking! Really easy access. We saw people with all size trailers parked. Lots of space to spread out. Not much for privacy, but with views like that, who cares!

  • Zina L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from 24 Express RV Campground
    Oct. 19, 2024

    24 Express RV Campground

    Closed!

    There were signs up along the freeway. Nothing indicate that it was closed. Is it for the season? Not sure date of visit was October 19, 2024.

  • stephen W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping
    Oct. 13, 2024

    Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping

    Outside the Badlands/trip tip

    Loved the close proximity to the badlands literally just down the road from the scenic loop. Plenty of spaces this time of year had my pic. Only downside was the wind which died down in the evening. Stars were fantastic. Wall drug had free water. Oh and I came in from Mitchell SD from the east and skipped the highway and took HWY 248 which runs paralell but I had the road to myself for 2 hours what a peace scenic ride.

  • PThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from The Wall Boondocking Dispersed
    Oct. 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.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from The Wall Boondocking Dispersed
    Oct. 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.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping
    Sep. 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.

  • Jennifer H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sleepy Hollow Campground
    Aug. 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.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from The Wall Boondocking Dispersed
    Aug. 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.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping
    Aug. 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.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Love's RV Stop-Box Elder 602
    Aug. 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

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping
    Aug. 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)

  • Tyler C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Gap National Grassland
    Jul. 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.

  • Elise V.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from The Wall Boondocking Dispersed
    Jul. 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!

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from The Wall Boondocking Dispersed
    Jul. 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.

  • Brianna R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping
    Jul. 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 The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sleepy Hollow Campground
    Jul. 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.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Badlands Hotel & Campground
    Jul. 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.

  • samuel C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from The Wall Boondocking Dispersed
    Jul. 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.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping
    Jul. 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.

  • Aly E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping
    Jul. 15, 2024

    Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping

    Absolutely stunning

    This area is so remote and quiet, stars everywhere and the wind is wild! We showed up super late in the evening on a weekend and had zero issues finding a spot. Closest gas station is 10 minutes away for anyone who needs a restroom nearby or a grocery store.


Drive Time


Guide to Badlands National Park

Camping with your furry friends near Badlands National Park offers a unique experience filled with stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures. Many campgrounds in the area welcome pets, making it easy to enjoy nature together.

Tips for camping with dogs near Badlands National Park

  • Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping: This site allows pets and offers plenty of space for your dog to roam while you enjoy breathtaking views of the Badlands.
  • Badlands / White River KOA: With a friendly atmosphere and amenities like a pool, this campground is perfect for families traveling with pets.
  • Sleepy Hollow Campground: Located conveniently near Wall Drug, this site provides a great base for exploring the area with your dog.

Dog owners appreciate the spacious sites and scenic views

  • The Wall Boondocking Dispersed: Known for its incredible views, this area allows pets and offers ample space to set up camp away from the crowds.
  • Buffalo Gap National Grassland: This location features stunning vistas and is pet-friendly, making it a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts with dogs.
  • Badlands Boondocks: Just outside the national park, this site is free and welcomes pets, providing a peaceful environment for you and your furry companion.

Pet owners like the convenience of nearby attractions

  • Minute Man RV Park & Lodging: Close to the Badlands, this park offers easy access to local attractions while being pet-friendly.
  • Wall Drug RV Parking: Located right in Wall, this parking area allows pets and is just a short walk from the famous Wall Drug Store.
  • Badlands Ranch and Resort: This resort welcomes pets and is situated near the park, making it a convenient choice for those looking to explore the Badlands with their dogs.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Badlands National Park?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Badlands National Park is Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping with a 4.8-star rating from 125 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Badlands National Park?

    TheDyrt.com has all 17 dog-friendly camping locations near Badlands National Park, with real photos and reviews from campers.