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Camping near Black Hills National Forest

1,576 Reviews

Black Hills National Forest encompasses numerous campgrounds across South Dakota, from established resorts to primitive sites. The region includes popular developed campgrounds like Sylvan Lake Campground in Custer State Park, Mount Rushmore KOA, and Rafter J Bar Ranch, which provide tent and RV sites with varying amenity levels. Dispersed camping options exist along forest roads, including North Pole Road and RD 356 dispersed sites which offer free camping with minimal facilities. Cabins are available at several mixed-use campgrounds, particularly near Hill City and Keystone, providing alternatives to traditional tent camping.

Camping seasons generally run from May through September or early October, with most established campgrounds closing during winter months. Many sites require advance reservations, especially during the busy summer tourist season when visitors flock to nearby attractions like Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse Memorial. According to one visitor, "This campground was absolutely gorgeous and a great place to stay while visiting the Black Hills, Mt. Rushmore, Crazy Horse, and Devil's Tower." Road access varies considerably, with some dispersed sites requiring high-clearance vehicles. Cell service can be limited in remote areas, though campgrounds closer to towns typically offer better connectivity. Elevation differences create temperature variations throughout the region, with cooler nights even during summer months.

Campers report high satisfaction with campgrounds that offer strategic locations for exploring regional attractions. The centralized location of many campgrounds provides convenient access to major sights while offering natural settings. "Great location. The camp hosts are very welcoming and accommodating," noted one reviewer about a Hill City campground. Several visitors mentioned the value of staying on properties with direct access to recreational trails, particularly the Mickelson Trail which connects multiple communities through the Black Hills. While some campgrounds offer spacious sites with ample privacy, others feature more compact arrangements. Many campgrounds include amenities like showers, laundry facilities, and camp stores, which prove especially valuable for travelers on extended stays exploring the region's numerous outdoor destinations.

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Best Camping Sites Near Black Hills National Forest (263)

    1. Mount Rushmore KOA at Palmer Gulch

    55 Reviews
    Hill City, SD
    8 miles
    Website

    "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."

    2. Sylvan Lake Campground — Custer State Park

    42 Reviews
    Custer, SD
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 255-4515

    "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."

    3. RD 356 Dispersed Site Black Hills National Forest

    33 Reviews
    Hill City, SD
    8 miles
    Website

    "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."

    4. Sheridan Lake South Shore Campground

    31 Reviews
    Hill City, SD
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 673-9200

    $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."

    5. Pactola Reservoir Campground

    31 Reviews
    Silver City, SD
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 673-9200

    $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."

    6. Horsethief Lake Campground

    31 Reviews
    Keystone, SD
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 673-9200

    $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."

    7. Rafter J Bar Ranch

    20 Reviews
    Hill City, SD
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 574-2527

    "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."

    8. Horse Thief Campground and RV Resort

    19 Reviews
    Hill City, SD
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (800) 657-5802

    "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."

    9. Wrinkled Rock

    25 Reviews
    Keystone, SD
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 673-4853

    "Wrinkled Rock, near Keystone, South Dakota, is a hidden gem for outdoor lovers seeking tranquility and stunning views.🏕️ Just minutes from Mount Rushmore, this spot offers excellent tent camping with"

    "Wrinkled Rock, near Keystone, South Dakota, is a hidden gem for outdoor lovers seeking tranquility and stunning views.🏕️ Just minutes from Mount Rushmore, this spot offers excellent tent camping with"

    10. North Pole Rd Dispersed Camping

    34 Reviews
    Custer, SD
    15 miles
    Website

    "This was a great spot despite the thunderstorm I got caught in and nearly destroyed my tent."

    "Chances are you’ll be a ways away from other campers. Great spots to get away from the crowded campgrounds."

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Recent Camping Photos near Black Hills National Forest

627 Photos of 263 Black Hills National Forest Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Black Hills National Forest

1576 Reviews of 263 Black Hills National Forest Campgrounds

  • cThe Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 11, 2025

    Balsar Gulch Dispersed Camping

    Not for family

    Old tents, trash, 9mm casings, pretty pine trees that have been shot up, good pine trees cut down for fire wood. Remnants of old deer carcasses, bones , hair, but the trees are pretty and it was quiet will I was here during the week.

  • Susan B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 10, 2025

    Bogus Jim Creek Campsite

    Beautiful area

    Gorgeous black hills, a little bit of rocks to get over to get into the site right off of Bogus Jim Creek Rd that is 7 mins of dirt road up to the site from the paved road. I have Jeep Renegade TrailHawk and had no problems even with going further into the area down a more rugged road. The only reason I didn’t set up camp and stay overnight is because I needed to use my Verizon mobile internet router to do some work online. But I had ZERO cell service anywhere within 10 min drive from here. The app specifies “some” Verizon service but if that was the case, I’d be able to work because my extra mobile internet box gives me plenty of strength even with just one bar. So please know you will not get any service with Verizon. There’s room for group camping. No amenities or facilities. Very quiet. Farms in the area with horses. Dirt bike/ motor crossing roads are further down the 4x4 trail but none were in the area while I was there. If I didn’t need just one bar of cell service, I would rate with 5 stars.

  • Ben E.
    Oct. 28, 2025

    Sunrise Ridge Campground

    Friendly and welcoming

    Very friendly, and cozy atmosphere. Nestled right next to town, yet secluded enough to feel in the hills with nice views. Service is excellent on Verizon network and WiFi is provided. Correct placement on sewer hookup and spigot make dumps and water management super easy. Highly recommend, and reasonably priced!

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 25, 2025

    Legion Lake Campground — Custer State Park

    Beautiful Views, Great Location, Great Price

    We loved everything about this place. Price was best of our month long vacation. Sites nice and level. Beautiful lake and trail across the street. Other than electric your on your own so bring water containers and empty tanks. Camp host was super nice. Really great location to explore the entire area. Custer is as good as any national park.

  • Cable A.
    Oct. 20, 2025

    Ellsworth AFB FamCamp.

    Good resupply and laundry point

    Typical RV park. This is not camping. Spots are on top of each other and in a neighborhood. All amenities available including WiFi and laundry. Overpriced.

  • Cable A.
    Oct. 20, 2025

    Fort Meade Recreation Area

    Overpriced and full of rattlesnakes.

    Campground is subpar. Very close spots, has a water fountain but no spigot. There is trash and vault toilets. Full of prairie rattlesnakes. Lots of trails for walking. Sits between a creek, a dusty road and the interstate.

  • Meghan B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 20, 2025

    Blue Bell Campground — Custer State Park

    Blue Bell Campground - Custer State Park

    Well maintained by friendly staff and hosts. It's nearing the end of the season, so the store wasn't well-stocked. Campsites have electric, which is great for chilly October nights. Showers are push-button with pre-set temp (warm, but not hot). AT&T cell service is great. Lots to see and do in this park. Beware of deer while driving--we've seen LOTS along the road.

  • Jim A.
    Oct. 18, 2025

    Kemp's Kamp

    Perfect base for exploring local landmarks

    Kemp’s Kamp near Keystone, South Dakota, is one of those special places that perfectly blends comfort, nature, and convenience. Tucked away in the beautiful Black Hills, it’s the perfect base for exploring local landmarks like Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park, and the Crazy Horse Memorial, all just a short drive away. The campground offers something for everyone, from cozy, well-kept cabins to shaded tent sites and roomy RV spots with full hookups. Everything is clean and well-maintained, and the staff makes you feel genuinely welcome from the moment you arrive. The peaceful sound of Battle Creek running nearby adds to the charm and makes it feel like a quiet escape while still being close to the area’s main attractions. One of the highlights is the pool area, which is perfect for cooling off after a day of exploring. The bathrooms and showers are spotless, and the laundry facilities make longer stays easy and comfortable. Small touches like these show how much care the owners put into making the campground a relaxing and enjoyable place to stay. https://aethersx2bios.net/

Guide to Black Hills National Forest

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.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Exploring: The trails around the campgrounds are perfect for hiking. One camper mentioned, "The drive from Mt Rushmore to the campsite was incredible, and some great hiking just around the campsite" at Sylvan Lake Campground.
  • Fishing: Many campgrounds are near lakes, making fishing a popular activity. A visitor at Pactola Reservoir Campground said, "The reservoir is huge, and many consider it to be one of the best fishing 'holes' in the state."
  • Wildlife Viewing: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. One camper at Stockade North Campground shared, "We drove the Wildlife Loop Road twice, once late morning and saw about 1000 buffalo blocking the road."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review for Elk Mountain Campground noted, "The bathroom was right next door and clean enough."
  • Spacious Sites: Many enjoy the roomy campsites. A visitor at Sheridan Lake South Shore Campground mentioned, "The camp sites were very spread out and decently flat for tent camping."
  • Friendly Hosts: Campground hosts often receive praise for their helpfulness. One camper at Horsethief Lake Campground said, "The attendant was very friendly and helpful."

What you should know:

  • Crowded Campgrounds: Some areas can get busy, especially during peak season. A camper at Sylvan Lake Campground noted, "It’s busy and loud here... Lots of folks coming and going."
  • Limited Cell Service: Be prepared for spotty cell service in many campgrounds. A visitor at Mount Rushmore KOA at Palmer Gulch mentioned, "I got no cell reception here between Xfinity, Verizon, and T-Mobile."
  • Reservations Recommended: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, so booking in advance is wise. A camper at Blue Bell Campground advised, "Sites for Custer start booking a year in advance."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and activities for kids. One camper at Mount Rushmore KOA at Palmer Gulch said, "Playgrounds for the kids (big kids also)."
  • Plan for Meals: Many campgrounds have dining options nearby. A visitor at Elk Mountain Campground mentioned, "There were nightly Ranger Talks at the Amphitheater."
  • Safety First: Always check the weather and prepare for storms. A camper at Horsethief Lake Campground appreciated the camp hosts who warned them about an incoming storm.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Spearfish City Campground noted, "Sites are closer than the worst KOA. Very unlevel."
  • Full Hookups: Look for campgrounds with full hookups for convenience. A visitor at Pactola Reservoir Campground mentioned, "The prices and inventory at the marina store were great."
  • Explore Nearby Attractions: Many campgrounds are close to attractions like Mount Rushmore. A camper at Stockade North Campground shared, "The campground is very convenient to all the local attractions."

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

Where are the best campgrounds in Black Hills National Forest?

The Black Hills National Forest offers excellent campgrounds for various preferences. Sheridan Lake South Shore Campground provides primitive sites with stunning forest and lake views, perfect for those seeking peaceful seclusion. Horsethief Lake Campground offers a serene setting despite its proximity to Mount Rushmore, with access to the Black Elk Wilderness trail. For family-friendly options, consider Big Pine Campground with its spacious, tree-covered spots west of Custer. Each location serves as an excellent base for exploring the region's attractions while providing unique camping experiences.

Is dispersed camping allowed in Black Hills National Forest?

Yes, dispersed camping is allowed in Black Hills National Forest. You can find free, primitive camping sites throughout the forest, but you must follow specific regulations. RD 356 Dispersed Site Black Hills National Forest and North Pole Rd Dispersed Camping are two established dispersed camping areas. Some campers use these areas as bases to scout out more remote locations. Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles, camp at least 100 feet from water sources, and stay in previously used sites when possible. Most dispersed sites have no amenities, so bring what you need and pack everything out.

What are the requirements for RV camping in Black Hills National Forest?

RV camping in Black Hills National Forest requires advance planning. Most developed campgrounds accommodate RVs, but size restrictions vary by location. Steel Wheel Campground & Trading Post provides good access for RVs and serves as a central location for exploring the region. Spokane Creek Resort offers RV-friendly sites that back up to the national forest. Many forest campgrounds have limited or no hookups, so come prepared for dry camping. Reserve sites in advance during peak season (June-August), as campgrounds fill quickly. RV length restrictions typically range from 30-40 feet, but some sites can accommodate larger rigs. Check specific campground details when planning your stay.

What are the top attractions in Black Hills National Forest?

Black Hills National Forest offers diverse attractions for all interests. Mount Rushmore is a must-visit landmark, easily accessible from Grizzly Creek Primitive campground. Black Elk Peak (formerly Harney Peak) provides spectacular hiking with panoramic views, visible from Mount Rushmore KOA at Palmer Gulch. The forest features beautiful lakes for swimming, fishing, and paddleboarding, including Center Lake and Sheridan Lake. Custer State Park, adjacent to the forest, offers wildlife viewing opportunities with its famous bison herds. The Black Elk Wilderness area provides serene trails through pristine forest landscapes, and the Needles Highway showcases dramatic rock formations throughout the region.

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