Located on the western edge of South Dakota, Black Hills National Forest encompasses over 1.2 million acres of forested hills and mountains reaching elevations of 7,242 feet at Black Elk Peak. The region experiences distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during day and 45-55°F at night. Campgrounds throughout the forest offer both primitive and developed sites on terrain that ranges from dense pine forests to meadow clearings.
What to do
Hiking on the Mickelson Trail: Access this 109-mile converted railroad trail from several RV parks including Fort Welikit Family Campground. "We came up to ride bikes on the Mickelsen trail which was fantastic and if you are a cyclist you should definitely check it out. We could have ridden from the camp to the trail but had to purchase or pass so drove into Custer and parked right by the trail," notes camper Bret D.
Visit Sylvan Lake: Located just minutes from multiple campgrounds, this popular destination offers swimming, kayaking and fishing. "It is 5 miles from Sylvan Lake, minute to Custer, 30 minutes to Wind cave National Park. Full hookups, level site, good cell phone reception," shares Christy W. from Fort Welikit.
Explore Wind Cave National Park: One of America's oldest national parks is accessible from most area campgrounds. "This campground is 5 minutes from Custer State Park and close to Wind Cave National Park. The hosts are accommodating and friendly," according to Mike C. at Custers Last Chance RV Park and Campground.
What campers like
Centralized location: Many campgrounds serve as ideal basecamps for regional exploration. "Fort Welikit (We-Lik-It) is very centrally located to many of the memorials, caves, and drives within the park and surrounding area," notes Tom D. about Fort Welikit Family Campground and RV Park.
Spacious wooded sites: Many rv sites near Black Hills National Forest feature natural spacing and shade. "Horse Thief has beautiful, big tent camping sites with gorgeous views of the Black Hills all around. The staff was friendly and helpful. The kids loved playing catch in the large field," mentions Gay P. from Horse Thief Campground and RV Resort.
Clean facilities: Consistently mentioned in reviews is the exceptional maintenance of bathrooms and showers. "The bathhouse was great for me, grab bars in the ADA restroom plus a great easy access shower. Bathroom was very clean," shares Kathie O. about Horse Thief Campground.
What you should know
Limited cell reception: Service varies significantly between campgrounds. "We had a bumper pull RV, our son joined us next day. The spot we were assigned had plenty of room for his tent, we parked his car in the main lot. There was no cell service and the wifi was not useful for uploading photos," shares Julie W. about Horse Thief Campground.
Highway noise: Some campgrounds are situated near busy roads. "This park is situated right on a four-lane highway. We were almost as far from the highway as was possible and the highway noise is unreal. I can't imagine being in the cabins or the row of sites next to the highway," reports Sam from Heartland RV Park and Cabins.
Limited shade in some areas: Depending on campground location, tree cover varies. "During a hot week mid June, we were grateful for full hookups, clean shower facilities, and a (small) pool to keep cool BUT the little trees beside each site provide no shade for the rigs," notes Derek & Kristen A. from Heartland RV Park.
Tips for camping with families
Look for built-in activities: Several campgrounds offer on-site entertainment. "This is a nice campground with unique flare. On site restaurant for breakfast, lunch and dinner with live music each night," shares Bonnie F. about Heartland RV Park And Cabins.
Choose campgrounds with playground areas: Kid-friendly options are available throughout the region. "Fort Welikit allows Amazon deliveries. A nice touch. The owners have kept the tall pines in the campground. Our site #6 was almost always shaded. The sound of the wind in the trees truly put you to sleep," notes Tom D.
Consider sites with wildlife viewing: Many campgrounds offer nature encounters right at your site. "The wildlife is everywhere. I have had deer, turkey, and rabbit within 50 feet. Awesome place!" reports Trevor A. about Fort Welikit Family Campground.
Tips from RVers
Look for level sites: The topography can present challenges for larger rigs. "The sites are a comfortable size. Lots of room for activities," notes Abby O. about Fort Welikit Family Campground and RV Park.
Book early for premium sites: The most desirable RV campsites fill quickly. "The park has not only multiple pull throughs, but most sites handle a 45 foot coach with ample room for the toad. Just far enough off the hiway to be quiet during even bike week, and super clean," mentions Jeff V. from Custers Gulch RV Park.
Water quality varies: Some campgrounds have mineral-heavy water. "The water quality is awful! We went to the next site possible and flushed all water systems due to the bad quality," warns Dutchess S. from Rushmore View RV.
