Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Black Hills National Forest, SD has a lot to offer. Black Hills National Forest is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Black Hills National Forest camping trip.
"With views of Black Elk Peak, a 30 minute drive to most attractions near Mt Rushmore, you can’t beat it. The kids loves the pool area, splash park, and mini-golf."
"Make the most of your South Dakota vacation by spending it camping. My group tented and had a great time."
"This lake is beautiful, its one of my favorite places inside Custer state park. There are a ton of trails, all within easy walking distance. Make sure you pack plenty of water."
"We had one of the spots that was more out in the open and close to our neighbors, but the sites on the outside of the middle loop were much more private."
$28 / night
"A tent-only area, which I appreciate- those tend to be quieter than the RV spots, and the tent area was close to the reservoir. Standard campsite amenities- tables, fire pits, bathrooms."
"A tent-only area, which I appreciate - those tend to be quieter than the RV spots, and the tent area was close to the reservoir. Standard campsite amenities - tables, fire pits, bathrooms."
$28 / night
"We visited the Sheridan Lake Black Hills National Forest on our 2019 family vacation in August & it was awesome!! Stayed at a primitive site with gorgeous views of the forest & lake."
"This campground offers over 90 sites along the shores of a lovely reservoir in the vacation wonderland of the Black Hills of South Dakota."
"My Son and I stayed here while visiting Mount Rushmore and the surrounding area's other attractions. There's a lot of dispersed spots here but most spots don't have a fire ring that I could see."
"Camping area near Mount Rushmore. I was able to find a camping area without a problem. The road does have some bumps in it but overall you do not need a four-wheel drive."
$30 / night
"Horsethief Lake Campground in Black Hills National Forest was surprisingly peaceful and serene though it is close to Mount Rushmore."
"If you're touring the Black Hills, and hitting all of the outdoor attractions, Horsethief Lake is perfectly placed to access it all."
"We had a beautiful campsite in the “Ranch” section that had lots of trees and was a fair distance away from our neighbors."
"Everything is clean and the site we stayed at was located under trees with lots of distance to the next neighbors."
"It is bordered by the Black Hills Natl. Forest. It has site for tent camper, pop-ups and bigger RV's and cabins. Due to the topography you will have to do some leveling."
"Spacius sites about half and half primitive to full hookups showers available, Amazing views and hiking and lake close by. Horseshoe pits and basketball court. Cabins available to."
"Not much to do if you’re not a climber, but luckily that’s all we came to South Dakota to do. Walking distance to nearby climbing and nice views from the huge boulder in the vicinity."
"Scenic campgrounds with 100s of climbing routes within walking distance. There is no water or electricity and only one latrine."
$30 / night
"Campground Review:
The Stockade Lake North Campground is located just inside the west entrance to Custer State Park in Custer, South Dakota."
"There is a nice walking path that drops down to the lake from the south part of the campground. I literally walked across the road from SN33E and stepped on the trail to walk my dogs."
ScoutWe needed a night to plug in, take a shower and do some laundry. Very friendly staff, overall quiet and nice sites in the trees and close to local attractions,
TravelerMinimal traffic, about a half dozen or so sites easily accessible, another dozen or so further down you'll need 4x4 for. A few great spots for group RVs. Some nice hiking opportunities with great views. Service was okay with Verizon.
GuideGreat location for visiting the Black Hills and all its attractions. Staff friendly, coffee shop definitely a bonus. Sites can be smaller with little room around fire pit to enjoy a fire. All in all, quiet despite close sites, great if you’re out and about most of the time.
TravelerI believe that there’s only two sites but there might be more if you take the road to the left after you enter. I’m just not sure because I didn’t go down that way. I camped at the far end campsite and it was perfect for a tent. If you have a pickup truck with a pod you’re good for the back spot. The first spot closer to the road is much better suited for an RV. It’s quiet and peaceful at night. There was some trash left behind by some previous people but it was just some mayo packets pretty stupid not to pick those up honestly.
TravelerThe owner was really helpful. The site was clean and had all amenities. There is a stream and a place to free range well behaved dogs. There is a regional trail attached. It’s by the road into town so close to activities. Cash or check only.
TravelerUp the hill are spots for 3 or 4 campers. Partially shaded with nice views and extremely quiet. Pit toilets down the road a bit.
RangerWe stayed in a rustic cabin - no water or bathroom. Only electric, heat/air. The cabin was perfect! We were able to put our hammock up between trees, there was beautiful hiking nearby with stunning views.
RangerWe had a great time tent camping here. The bathroom and shower facilities were great, the site was wonderful and neighbors were nice.
LegendWe stayed in RV site #5. Great site. Nice grassy area, firepit, grill, picnic table. Sites are FHU and we arrived preseason so they had just turned on the water at the sites. Still off season so the taproom, cabins, laundry were closed. We stayed almost 2 weeks and enjoyed it very much. A lot to see in the Black Hills area and this was a good central location to all of the attractions and grocery, gas, etc. The resort has a nice common area near the taproom which would be fun in the busy season to interact with other campers.
Camping near Black Hills National Forest, South Dakota, offers a fantastic mix of outdoor adventures and beautiful scenery. Whether you're pitching a tent or rolling in with an RV, there’s something for everyone in this stunning area.
Camping near Black Hills National Forest, South Dakota, is a great way to enjoy nature and create lasting memories. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy all the beauty this area has to offer!
Frequently Asked Questions
According to TheDyrt.com, Black Hills National Forest offers a wide range of camping options, with 248 campgrounds and RV parks near Black Hills National Forest and 34 free dispersed camping spots.
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Black Hills National Forest is Mount Rushmore KOA at Palmer Gulch with a 4.2-star rating from 53 reviews.
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 34 free dispersed camping spots near Black Hills National Forest.
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 7 parks near Black Hills National Forest that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.
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