Best Campgrounds near Belle Fourche, SD

Campgrounds in the Belle Fourche area of South Dakota include both established facilities and dispersed camping opportunities. The Belle Fourche Reservoir provides free dispersed camping along its shoreline with basic amenities including pit toilets, fire rings, and gravel paths. Nearby, Rocky Point Recreation Area offers developed camping with showers, electric hookups, and tent and RV sites. Wyatt's Hideaway Campground in Belle Fourche features cabins, RV hookups, and tent sites along the riverfront, while several additional campgrounds extend into neighboring Spearfish, about 15 miles south.

Seasonal considerations affect camping accessibility in the region, with most developed campgrounds operating between April and October. The Belle Fourche Reservoir dispersed camping areas remain open year-round but may experience high winds and varying water levels. Many campsites around the reservoir feature waterfront locations, though the shoreline can be muddy when water levels are low. Road conditions to dispersed sites may include corrugated sections requiring slower driving speeds, though most areas remain accessible to larger vehicles including fifth wheels and Class A motorhomes. According to one visitor, "Initial road in is seriously corrugated- just drive slowly until you turn off to side road. We bought our 30" 5th in without problems, and our (distant) neighbors were a class A with trailer."

The Belle Fourche Reservoir consistently receives positive reviews for its spacious camping areas with sites well-spaced for privacy. Campers particularly appreciate the waterfront locations that provide scenic views despite occasional wind. Several visitors mentioned good cell service in most areas, though coverage can vary depending on exact location. Noise levels remain relatively low at the reservoir, creating a peaceful environment enhanced by the water views. The tent and RV areas at Wyatt's Hideaway Campground provide riverfront sites where "the sound of the river helped drowned out the nearby highway noise." Though insects can be problematic near water, especially in evenings, many campers find the overall experience worthwhile. The region's mix of developed facilities and dispersed options accommodates various camping preferences, whether seeking full hookups or more primitive experiences.

Best Camping Sites Near Belle Fourche, South Dakota (136)

    1. Spearfish City Campground

    40 Reviews
    Spearfish, SD
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 642-1340

    "We picked a site near the back of the camp grounds located near the creek and close to a small parking lot (close by to the pet exercise area on the map - though it's labelled as an ice rink on grounds"

    "Nice city campground along Spearfish Creek and super close to downtown and has easy access to Spearfish Canyon. We definitely took advantage of the creek and proximity to downtown during our stay."

    2. Wyatt's Hideaway Campground

    12 Reviews
    Belle Fourche, SD
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 892-0600

    $29 / night

    "The tent sites are right on the river and it makes for a peaceful sleep

    The highway is very close but the road noise is pretty low considering the proximity."

    "Tent site was near the river, and the sound of the river helped drowned out the nearby highway noise."

    3. Rocky Point Recreation Area

    12 Reviews
    Belle Fourche, SD
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 641-0023

    $30 / night

    "Dump station and potable water

    If you can boondock, plenty sites on opposite side of lake ( see Belle Fourche Dam & Reservoir, and it’s free)

    Ground was so parched-grass do dry that it hurts pooch"

    "Camped at site 27E, which was close to showers/bathrooms and playground. Site was on water’s edge. Campground is large and was nearly full on a Friday night so it was somewhat loud."

    4. Belle Fourche Reservoir

    10 Reviews
    Belle Fourche, SD
    8 miles
    Website

    "Great waterfront camping. tons of space around, we stayed on middle loop in spot 12 near pit toilets."

    "Easy to find from town and can set up anywhere around the reservoir. Some shaded areas. There are fire rings and gravel paths. A lot of boating is happening."

    5. Chris' Campground

    17 Reviews
    Spearfish, SD
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 642-2239

    $23 - $65 / night

    "Close to freeways and many day drive towns and memorial sites. Arrived weekend after Sturgis Rally… Pretty quite 😀🐐🦬🌄"

    "They are close to Spearfish Canyon which has wonderful hiking trails and trout fishing. The area is beautiful.There are also close to Deadwood and Lead, both of which are worth exploring!"

    6. Spearfish KOA

    10 Reviews
    Spearfish, SD
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 642-4633

    "Nice people, very clean bathrooms, close to highway so there’s some road noise. Nature trail with off leash dog area, and a small dog park in the middle for off leash doggy play time."

    "Located within 8 miles of services and shopping, the hosts were very friendly and helpful. Sites are a little close together, but well kept."

    7. Elkhorn Ridge RV Resort & Cabins

    10 Reviews
    Spearfish, SD
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 722-1800

    "Easy access off I-90 and super close to Spearfish, Deadwood, Lead and all this area of South Dakota has to offer."

    "Campground is very clean and has quick and easy access to the highway. "

    8. Belle Fourche Dispersed Site

    3 Reviews
    Belle Fourche, SD
    8 miles
    Website

    "Belle Fourch but after a little exploring I found a great private spot in Free Dispersed area but the site were furnished with a fire ring and table and a great view of a beautiful lake."

    "Woke up to a beautiful sunrise next to the reservoir. Plenty of sites to choose from with vault toilet close enough to walk between sites."

    9. Mount Roosevelt Road Dispersed Campsite

    11 Reviews
    Deadwood, SD
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 673-9200

    "This is not a thru road there is only one entrance off of the CanAm Highway. Roughly about 10 sites depending on set-up. Bathroom close by the entrance/trailhead to Roosevelt Friendship Tower."

    "Our spot was nice and a short walk to a vault toilet and trailhead. The trail led to a cool tower that we climbed to watch the sunset."

    10. Spearfish Quarry

    4 Reviews
    Spearfish, SD
    15 miles

    "There is an OHV trail just outside the quarry border, but wasn't used very much.   Had just a few people come and stayed the night.  Would definitely stay here again. "

    "It's close to town, Spearfish is an awesome place, easy drive to much of the northern Nlack Hills area."

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Recent Reviews near Belle Fourche, SD

670 Reviews of 136 Belle Fourche Campgrounds


  • Shirlee A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Hanna Campground

    Quiet haven

    Such a beautiful campground on one of the most scenic routes … The colors of fall , the mountains and the little creek were perfect.

    It is close to the road but it’s pretty quiet not many cars pass.

    $15.00 to camp - only 5 sites and a tent area There is a mile hike up the mountain too

  • Travis A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 30, 2025

    Fort Meade Recreation Area

    Raised the prices

    Lots of hiking, biking, picnicking area. Near Alkali Horse campgrounds. The price used to be $6.00 during the open season and free after October 1st. BLM just raised the price to $24, per day all year around and $30 per day at the Alkali Horse camp. The site dies not have a camp host all year around. There are picnic tables, 5 sites for RVs, fire rings, 12 tent camping sites. Some of the tent sites require a short hike. Pit toilet, bike rake station and a water fountain. Recommend using a water bandit with hose if filling up large containers. Just a few minutes outside Sturgis

  • Travis A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 30, 2025

    Ft. Meade Horse Camp

    Raised the price

    It use to be free camping after October. They have raised the price to $30 a day, per site

  • Therese S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 23, 2025

    Bear Butte State Park Campground

    Nice Quiet Spot

    Nice, quiet spot on the water. Potable water spigot near the vault restrooms. Level sites with picnic tables.

  • TF The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 22, 2025

    Custer Trail

    Established Campground

    Smallest campground on the lake from what I saw. There are 4-5 RV sites and a handful of walk-in tent sites. Trailhead is marked no camping. Staying in mid September, there was no camping/fee signage so I stayed for free. Was the only one there. Super duper quiet, and right on the water for a quick morning paddle.

  • Lindsey R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 21, 2025

    Bear Butte State Park Campground

    Great spot. Gorgeous setting

    We were lucky to find this state park pristine. Perhaps a few of the campers were there long term but everyone's site was neat and tidy. The only other folks we saw were there to enjoy the beautiful peaceful lake fishing. Very quiet. Bathrooms were very clean though door locks didn't seem to work. We camped at main site. Entrance a little way past main entrance to Bear Butte on opposite side of road. There is actually another entrance almost immediately across from The Bear Butte entrance that offers horse and trailer camping with a corral as well as at least 2 pull off sites just above the lake. There is even a bathroom on this more "dispersed" side of lake. Highly recommend fir RVs or tents! Beautiful walking/hiking trail across earthen dam for the lake from main campground that wraps around and crosses road to the trail up Butte! Highly reccomend. Excellent Cell Service too!!

  • Karen V.
    Sep. 20, 2025

    Days End Campground

    Great campground, friendly staff, easy check-in and out

    Reserved a site by text, showed up 3 hours prior to check in time and Ronda still accommodated us. Place is pretty empty a month after the rally. Woke up to deer munching on acorns right outside our rig. Not too many full timers. There was road construction taking place a few yards away so it was pretty noisy, but not unbearable. Nights are peaceful.

  • Trey C.
    Sep. 15, 2025

    Storm Hill BLM Land Dispersed Site

    Fantastic views

    Unreal views. Gorgeous sunrise and set views. Only negative was a lot of ground bees but they didnt sting just more of an annoyance. Road in is fine dirt and pretty rutted. Def can see it would be hard to drive when wet.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 12, 2025

    Rod & Gun Campground

    Nice quiet little campground

    Nice quiet little campground. There is a small creek running next to some campsites. The campground is very open with very little privacy between campsites.


Guide to Belle Fourche

The Belle Fourche area provides access to diverse camping opportunities along the northern edge of the Black Hills. Located at approximately 3,200 feet elevation, this region experiences temperature swings of up to 30 degrees between day and night, even in summer months. Fall camping often features frost by early October, while spring campers should prepare for muddy conditions through May.

What to do

Hike to Roosevelt Tower: Located near Mount Roosevelt Road Dispersed Campsite, this short trail leads to a scenic overlook. "Walking distance to the Roosevelt Friendship Tower hike which is highly recommended. Tons of bees in the wildflowers but they never bothered us," notes one camper who found it a "great base to visit Deadwood, Lead, Spearfish Canyon, and Devils Tower."

Fishing opportunities: The Belle Fourche Reservoir supports multiple fish species and offers shoreline access. According to visitors at Rocky Point Recreation Area, "Our site (and many others) had a little path so you could put your feet in the lake and watch fish and birds enjoy the water." Another camper mentioned it is "a great fishing lake too. I have never had a bad experience from the times I've been there."

Visit Spearfish Fish Hatchery: Located adjacent to the city campground, this free attraction provides an educational stop between outdoor adventures. One visitor noted, "Fish hatchery within walking distance, bike path goes through," while another added that "the hatchery was great as well. We spent a lot of time exploring Spearfish Canyon/Roughlock Falls/Lead/etc but spent one day just to relax at the campground/hatchery/Park."

What campers like

Sunset views: Lakefront camping at Belle Fourche Reservoir provides exceptional evening views. A camper at Rocky Point Recreation Area wrote, "Most sites are on the water, with sweeping views of the sunset. Our site (and many others) had a little path so you could put your feet in the lake and watch fish and birds enjoy the water." Another visitor simply noted, "We had a site right on to the lake. Would highly recommend, it checks all the boxes and that sunset!"

Privacy between sites: Despite being developed campgrounds, several locations offer good separation between campsites. At Rocky Point, one camper "stepped off our space at close to 70+ feet wide" and noted that "the space between sites is admirable." Even during holiday weekends, "the campground was completely full but it did not feel crowded."

Riverside camping: The sound of moving water enhances the camping experience at Wyatt's Hideaway Campground. One tent camper explained, "The tent sites are right on the river and it makes for a peaceful sleep. The highway is very close but the road noise is pretty low considering the proximity." Another visitor appreciated how "the sound of the river helped cut that noise."

What you should know

Weather considerations: The region experiences significant wind, especially at the reservoir. A camper at Belle Fourche Reservoir noted, "It's windy, but honestly it's good because it's 106 out." Another mentioned, "Nice with breeze most days we were there."

Water levels fluctuate: Reservoir access points change with water levels. "Lake is low, shore is mud," reported one visitor. Another camper noted, "The water was way down and appeared murky so we stayed out of it. Most lots are not level so pick accordingly if unable to self level."

Road conditions: Access roads to dispersed sites require slower driving. One visitor to Belle Fourche Reservoir advised, "Initial road in is seriously corrugated- just drive slowly until you turn off to side road." Similarly, at Mount Roosevelt, "The gravel road was accessible and pretty easy with the camper," though some noted not to venture past "the super bumpy road about a mile in."

Tips for camping with families

Pools and playgrounds: For families wanting water fun without swimming in the reservoir, Elkhorn Ridge RV Resort & Cabins offers developed recreation. "My kids loved the outdoor pool and hot tubs the playground was fantastic And there is even a bar by the pool if you want a cocktail," shared one parent. The resort also features "basketball and pickleball courts" for active children.

Stream exploration: Natural water features provide endless entertainment. At Spearfish City Campground, "The stream running through the campground is crystal clear and the kids loved playing in it," according to one family. Another visitor mentioned, "We stayed in July and the city of Spearfish had activities in the park (about 1/4 mile away) every evening (magician, concerts, etc)."

Bug preparation: Evening insects can be problematic, especially near water. A visitor to Belle Fourche Reservoir warned, "There were bugs but nothing crazy. If I could handle them, you could too." At Mount Roosevelt, campers noted "tons of bees in the wildflowers but they never bothered us."

Tips from RVers

Leveling requirements: Many sites require adjustment for larger rigs. At Spearfish Quarry, "It's just a big parking area, room for a few big rigs." Meanwhile, at Rocky Point, "Almost all sites will accommodate a 45' class A but some sites may be tough for a Class A to level."

Site selection guidance: Specific loops or site numbers can make a difference for larger vehicles. One experienced RVer at Spearfish City Campground advised, "Sites 1 and 30 are pull throughs. 31-34 easily accommodate large RVs. If we are in the area and want FHU we would definitely stay again."

Utility placement: Consider hookup locations when selecting sites. At Elkhorn Ridge, a visitor appreciated that "all sites have concrete pads with hookups" and noted the campground is "very well maintained with great amenities."

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any free or low-cost camping areas around Belle Fourche?

Yes, several free and budget-friendly camping options exist around Belle Fourche. Belle Fourche Dispersed Site offers completely free camping with surprising amenities – sites feature fire rings and tables with beautiful lake views, making it perfect for car camping. For those willing to cross into Wyoming, Belle Fourche Campground at Devils Tower offers affordable first-come, first-served camping with fire rings and free firewood. While not free, this national monument campground provides excellent value with clean bathrooms and running water. The Belle Fourche area also offers numerous undeveloped dispersed camping opportunities on public lands, particularly around the reservoir, where boondocking is possible on the opposite side of the lake from Rocky Point Recreation Area.

Where are the best campgrounds in Belle Fourche, South Dakota?

The best campgrounds near Belle Fourche offer stunning natural settings and convenient amenities. Belle Fourche Reservoir is highly rated for its waterfront camping with spacious sites, particularly the middle loop near pit toilets. Water and dump stations are available in the state recreation area (daily entrance fee applies) or for free at the Belle Fourche visitor center. For a more remote experience, Beaver Creek Campground is an idyllic, out-of-the-way spot near the Wyoming border with basic amenities including a water spigot. If you're looking for more amenities, Elkhorn Ridge RV Resort offers full hookups, while many campers also enjoy visiting the nearby Devils Tower area campgrounds for their proximity to this natural landmark.

What camping options are available near Belle Fourche, SD?

Belle Fourche offers diverse camping options for all preferences. Rocky Point Recreation Area provides spacious sites with electric hookups, drop toilets, and a dump station with potable water at Belle Fourche Reservoir. For those who enjoy exploring the Black Hills, Black Fox Campground offers a more secluded experience with only 8-10 well-spaced sites, each with a fire pit and picnic table. The area also features RV-friendly options like Wyatt's Hideaway Campground with full hookups. Many campers also use Belle Fourche as a base to explore nearby attractions, including Devils Tower National Monument in Wyoming, which has its own camping facilities just over the state line.