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.
They have a full stable of horses and guided horseback tours.
Rushmore and Crazy Horse. We were in a minivan, so we fit easily through the smallest tunnels on the road.
Go out the back past the cabins toward the horse trails and there’s something of a dirt road that leads to a river—you won’t regret it!
Campground Review:
If you are looking for a family and pet friendly place to camp while visiting the Black Hills South Dakota area, look
$60 - $100 / night
Crazy Horse and Mt Rushmore are 30 minutes away.
Close to Mount Rushmore and crazy horse! Pirates cove mini golf is a short drive away! Great facility with standard KOA amenities.
Very close to Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse, Rapid City and Hill City. Lake Sheridan was a great place to go cool off.
We don’t have horses but seeing them come in and out of camp was a lot of fun.
Pay the access fee and enjoy the trail with hikers, bikers, and horses.
It is open to vehicles in the summer and equestrian and hike in during the winter. Road is rough but was passable in our truck.
ScoutThis campground is awesome! 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. Multiple activities each day for the kids to do.
Sites are mostly level and easy in and out, many pull-thru sites. Bath houses are clean and modern. Staff is courteous and helpful. We enjoyed the horseback rides into the Black Hills National Forest from the on-site stables. I definitely recommend staying here for a Black Hills vacation.
GuideSo you're going to Mount Rushmore.... I discovered during my trip to the area June 2015 that hotel rates in the area are very high for what you get & hard to find availability. The solution is to camp! Make the most of your South Dakota vacation by spending it camping. My group tented and had a great time. Keep in mind though for those coming from other areas of the country, South Dakota does experience rain and thunderstorms. Pack and camp accordingly. This campground is nearby many SD attractions, within easy driving distance and minutes of Hill City, Custer, Keystone, Rapid City, Mount Rushmore. There are many options at the campground such as purchasing firewood to renting bikes. Check out KOA's campground map for campground layout. RV hookups, tent sites, heated pools, splash pad, and much more to keep everyone entertained. Remember that this area of South Dakota hosts high volumes of tourists each season, especially summer and during Sturgis Motorcyle Rally. I highly recommend making reservations far in advance!
GuideWe enjoyed our stay at this well run clean campground. There were lots of horses as Buffalo Roundup was occurring. Good WIFI, clean bathrooms, wide open mountain views and close to Custer State park. Plan on some horse poop in your hiking boots treads and enjoy.
GuideThis 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. Some of the hikes are pretty steep and South Dakota in notorious for fast changing weather. The lake itself can be pretty busy, especially during the weekend. Lot of people swimming and kayaking. Needles highway is a must if your in the area
TravelerThis beautiful location is wonderful to wake up to. Bison on the hills around. Prairie dogs galore! Coyotes howling in the distance. Wonderful scenery!
However, this site offered no water and no availability for cooking unless you brought your own stove. There were however bathrooms and specific places to hitch up your horse. Hopefully your horse will not need water.
LegendThis place is mainly for people with horses but anyone can camp here. They have spacious, level, clean sites with full hookups and fire rings. The entire property is pristine. Even the horse stalls are immaculate. The cabins are cute and CLEAN looking. Most campground cabins have that skeevy vibe. These don’t. There is a small inn. This camp is located 3.9 miles off of the main road. Which is a bonus because unlike many of the campgrounds we passed on our way in, this one has zero road noise. It is very peaceful and serene. The views of the mountains are beautiful and tonight’s sunset was gorgeous. The only occasional sounds are the whinnying of horses. Which is a great sound. We can’t believe this place is $49 a night. Unbelievable value. I wish we lived closer because we would come back on a regular basis! This campground is very close to downtown Custer (adorable) and to all the local attractions!
GuideStayed here for 5 nights on one of their tent campgrounds. Although the campground is mostly for RVs and horses, the tent space is a small shaded area right behind the main office. Besides the neighing of the horses, the campground was quiet. Everyone, including park staff and fellow guests was kind and friendly!
Lastly, and I left this until the end because it’s unbelievable: the bathrooms are VERY clean and beautiful! Definitely the nicest facilities I’ve ever seen on a campground! Will be staying here again!
TravelerTent, RV sites as well as camping cabins . Horse stables and trail rides onsite.Walking distance to store and excellent restaurant. Wildlife includes bison, deer, birds...
ScoutI am a solo, female, camping alone. The site-hosts came banging on my car & yelling, and kicked me out in the middle of the night, stating that I canceled my reservation. I did NOT cancel my reservation. I have a credit card receipt for payment of my reservation. The host refused to look at any of my proving evidence that I paid for a site. 15E. They just kept yelling for me to “Get out!” And kicked me out at 9:30 PM, and leaving me stranded/homeless in South Dakota. I do not live in the state and had no idea what to do. They have endangered my safety. Do not stay here! They can kick you out whenever they want.
Horse camping near Black Hills National Forest in South Dakota offers a unique blend of scenic beauty and equestrian-friendly amenities, making it a perfect getaway for horse lovers.
Frequently Asked Questions
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Black Hills National Forest is Mount Rushmore KOA at Palmer Gulch with a 4.2-star rating from 53 reviews.
TheDyrt.com has all 22 equestrian camping locations near Black Hills National Forest, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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