Best Camping near Blackhawk, SD

Blackhawk is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Blackhawk is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Blackhawk. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Best Camping Sites Near Blackhawk, SD (239)

    Camper-submitted photo from Mount Rushmore KOA at Palmer Gulch
    Camper-submitted photo from Mount Rushmore KOA at Palmer Gulch
    Camper-submitted photo from Mount Rushmore KOA at Palmer Gulch
    Camper-submitted photo from Mount Rushmore KOA at Palmer Gulch
    Camper-submitted photo from Mount Rushmore KOA at Palmer Gulch
    Camper-submitted photo from Mount Rushmore KOA at Palmer Gulch

    1. Mount Rushmore KOA at Palmer Gulch

    54 Reviews
    214 Photos
    165 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    Camper-submitted photo from Pactola Reservoir Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pactola Reservoir Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pactola Reservoir Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pactola Reservoir Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pactola Reservoir Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pactola Reservoir Campground

    2. Pactola Reservoir Campground

    31 Reviews
    89 Photos
    217 Saves

    Overview

    This campground is nestled in the pine trees along the south shore of Pactola Reservoir, offering guests lake views and access to a multitude of recreational opportunities both on land and water. Pactola Visitor Center is located in close proximity to the campground, providing opportunities for conservation education and information to visitors.

    Recreation

    Black Hills National Forest offers recreational opportunities for all ages. Visitors can take advantage of opportunities for hiking, fishing, horseback riding, mountain biking, and riding off-highway vehicles (OHVs) on moderate terrain. From Pactola Reservoir, hikers can access the 2.2-mile Osprey Trail which includes two loop trails and a spur trail to an overlook. The trail is named for the ospreys that are often seen in the area. Pactola Reservoir is an ideal spot for fishing and boating. The reservoir is stocked with rainbow, lake and brown trout as well as largemouth and rock bass, kokanee salmon and yellow perch. Record lake trout are caught here annually, and large brown trout find habitat in Rapid Creek above and below the reservoir.

    Natural Features

    Located in western South Dakota and northeastern Wyoming, Black Hills National Forest encompasses nearly 1.25 million acres of rugged rock formations, canyons and gulches, open grassland parks, tumbling streams, deep blue lakes, and unique caves. Derived from the Lakota language, the words "Paha Sapa," meaning "hills that are black," honor the dark, pine-covered hills rising several thousand feet above the surrounding prairie. Pactola Reservoir is the largest and deepest reservoir in the Black Hills, boasting 14 miles of shoreline and 150 foot depths on 800 acres. The Bureau of Reclamation manages the dam and water. Wildlife in the area abounds. Bighorn sheep navigate mountainous terrain, while elk, deer and pronghorn gather in forests and prairies. Bald eagles, hawks, osprey, peregrine falcon, and hundreds of other bird species can be found in the forest, especially along streams, lakes and rivers.

    Contact Info

    For facility specific information, please call (605) 574-4402.

    Nearby Attractions

    Nearby Jewel Cave is the second longest cave in the world at 159.29 miles. It features sparkling calcite crystals and other rare formations, as well as some of the largest concentrations of passageways in the world. Other possible day trips include Mount Rushmore National Memorial, Custer State Park, Crazy Horse Monument, Devils Tower National Monument and Wind Cave National Park.

    Charges & Cancellations

    No refunds wil be given for weather or related events.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $28 - $34 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Sheridan Lake South Shore Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sheridan Lake South Shore Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sheridan Lake South Shore Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sheridan Lake South Shore Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sheridan Lake South Shore Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sheridan Lake South Shore Campground

    3. Sheridan Lake South Shore Campground

    30 Reviews
    152 Photos
    192 Saves

    Overview

    This campground is along the south shore of Sheridan Lake. Within its 5 large loops, there are many sites with direct access to the lake. Access to the south boat ramp and the Flume Trailhead from within the campground and easy access to the South Beach Area, this recreational complex has everything needed for a fun, family camping experience.

    Recreation

    Black Hills National Forest offers a multitude of recreational opportunites throughout all seasons. Hiking, fishing, horseback riding, mountain biking, and riding off-highway vehicles are popular in summer and early autumn. Winter landscapes are ideal for snowshoeing, skiing and snowmobiling. The Dakota Point Trailhead for the popular Centennial Trail is located on the northeast side of Sheridan Lake, as is the Calumet Trailhead for the Flume Trail. At 11 miles (plus a 3-mile loop), the Flume Trail has been designated a National Recreation Trail because of its historical significance to the local people. The Rockerville Flume carried water 20 miles, from Spring Creek west of present day Sheridan Lake, east to the placer diggings near Rockerville. The flume operated until 1885, and the trail follows the actual flume bed for much of its length. Along the way are historic artifacts and parts of the flume itself. Sheridan Lake is an ideal spot for fishing, swimming and boating. The reservoir supports populations of rainbow, brown trout, northern pike and perch. Fly fishing is popular in Spring Creek below the dam, and ice fishing is popular on the lake in winter.

    Natural Features

    Located in western South Dakota and northeastern Wyoming, Black Hills National Forest encompasses nearly 1.25 million acres of rugged rock formations, canyons and gulches, open grassland parks, tumbling streams, deep blue lakes, and unique caves. Derived from the Lakota language, the words "Paha Sapa," meaning "hills that are black," honor the dark, pine-covered hills rising several thousand feet above the surrounding prairie. Wildlife in the area abounds. Bighorn sheep navigate mountainous terrain, while elk, deer and pronghorn gather in forests and prairies. Bald eagles, hawks, osprey, peregrine falcon, and hundreds of other bird species can be found in the forest, especially along streams, lakes and rivers.

    Contact Info

    For facility specific information, please call (605) 574-4402.

    Nearby Attractions

    Nearby Jewel Cave is the second longest cave in the world at 159.29 miles. It features sparkling calcite crystals and other rare formations, as well as some of the largest concentrations of passageways in the world. Other possible day trips include Mount Rushmore National Memorial, Custer State Park, Crazy Horse Monument, Devils Tower National Monument and Wind Cave National Park.

    Charges & Cancellations

    No refunds will be given for weather or related events.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)

    $28 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Sylvan Lake - Custer State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Sylvan Lake - Custer State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Sylvan Lake - Custer State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Sylvan Lake - Custer State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Sylvan Lake - Custer State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Sylvan Lake - Custer State Park

    4. Sylvan Lake - Custer State Park

    39 Reviews
    176 Photos
    411 Saves

    Anyone who has camped at Sylvan Lake campground in South Dakota’s Custer State Park knows that Black Hills camping doesn’t get much better than this. Sylvan Lake Campground is one of eight designated campgrounds in Custer State Park, and one of the best public land destinations for camping in the Black Hills of southwest South Dakota. The region’s expanse of dense forests, rolling prairies and granite mountain peaks (the very same peaks that were used to form Mount Rushmore) offer photo-snapping tourists and laced-up explorers alike a chance to dive into the ecology of the American West. For campers looking for a comfortable and convenient basecamp for diving into the region’s scenery and activities, Sylvan Lake campground is the place to be for many reasons. First, the 40-site campground offers access to the popular swimming spot of Sylvan Lake, where campers might feel inclined to spend their entire stay on the rocky beach of this scenic body of water. There’s also access to multiple hiking trails, suitable for all skill levels, including a trail that takes you to the curious and beautiful Black Elk Peak, the highest summit-able point east of the Rocky Mountains. Both a family-friendly spot and a hardcore adventurer’s playground, Sylvan Lake is Black Hills camping for everyone.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    Camper-submitted photo from Horsethief Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Horsethief Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Horsethief Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Horsethief Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Horsethief Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Horsethief Lake Campground

    5. Horsethief Lake Campground

    30 Reviews
    105 Photos
    313 Saves

    Overview

    Located 10 miles south of Hill City, South Dakota, Horsethief Lake Campground is a delightful setting for visitors seeking recreation and relaxation in Black Hills National Forest. This campground is 2 miles from Mount Rushmore National Memorial and adjacent to Horsethief Lake. Sites are tucked into a forest of towering ponderosa and lodgepole pine.

    Recreation

    Black Hills National Forest offers visitors a multitude of recreational opportunites throughout all seasons. Hiking, fishing, horseback riding, mountain biking, and riding off-highway vehicles are popular in summer and early autumn. Winter landscapes are ideal for snowshoeing, skiing and snowmobiling. Hundreds of miles of trails and roads offer a variety of terrain for mountain bikers. Hikers and bikers can access the nearby George S. Mickelson Trail, which traverses over 100 miles through the heart of the Black Hills. The majority of the trail follows an abandoned railroad branch line and includes 4 tunnels, over 100 converted railroad bridges, and 15 established trailheads. The trail surface is packed gravel, traversing mountain, meadow, and forest terrain. The trail is named in honor of the former South Dakota governor who crusaded for the trail. For those seeking higher elevations, a day-long trek to the summit of nearby Black Elk Peak is worth the effort. Black Elk Peak is the highest natural point in the United States east of the Rocky Mountains. Most of the summit is bare granite and offers expansive views of the surrounding area. An old stone tower at the top(Harney Lookout Tower), once used as a fire lookout, is still open to hikers.

    Natural Features

    Located in western South Dakota and northeastern Wyoming, Black Hills National Forest encompasses nearly 1.25 million acres of rugged rock formations, canyons and gulches, open grassland parks, tumbling streams, deep blue lakes, and unique caves. Derived from the Lakota language, the words "Paha Sapa," meaning "hills that are black," honor the dark, pine-covered hills rising several thousand feet above the surrounding prairie. Wildlife in the area abounds. Bighorn sheep navigate mountainous terrain, while elk, deer and pronghorn gather in forests and prairies. Bald eagles, hawks, osprey, peregrine falcon, and hundreds of other bird species can be found in the forest, especially along streams, lakes and rivers.

    Contact Info

    For facility specific information, please call (605) 574-4402.

    Nearby Attractions

    Explore Mount Rushmore National Memorial, host to almost 3 million visitors a year from across the country and around the world. Visitors may want to inquire about any Independence Day Celebrations taking place on the Mountain. Possible day trips include Custer State Park with its many Buffalo and other wildlife, Crazy Horse Monument and Wind Cave National Park as well as Jewel Cave which is the second longest cave in the world at 159.29 miles. It features sparkling calcite crystals and other rare formations, as well as some of the largest concentrations of passageways in the world..

    Charges & Cancellations

    No refunds will be given for weather related events.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)

    $26 - $28 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Rapid City KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Rapid City KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Rapid City KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Rapid City KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Rapid City KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Rapid City KOA

    6. Rapid City KOA

    21 Reviews
    60 Photos
    61 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from RD 356 Dispersed Site Black Hills National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from RD 356 Dispersed Site Black Hills National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from RD 356 Dispersed Site Black Hills National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from RD 356 Dispersed Site Black Hills National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from RD 356 Dispersed Site Black Hills National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from RD 356 Dispersed Site Black Hills National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Center Lake - Custer State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Center Lake - Custer State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Center Lake - Custer State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Center Lake - Custer State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Center Lake - Custer State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Center Lake - Custer State Park

    8. Center Lake - Custer State Park

    28 Reviews
    51 Photos
    115 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $20 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Wrinkled Rock
    Camper-submitted photo from Wrinkled Rock
    Camper-submitted photo from Wrinkled Rock
    Camper-submitted photo from Wrinkled Rock
    Camper-submitted photo from Wrinkled Rock
    Camper-submitted photo from Wrinkled Rock

    9. Wrinkled Rock

    21 Reviews
    33 Photos
    450 Saves

    Accessibility is not guaranteed, always scout ahead before driving down dirt roads. Learn more: https://www.campendium.com/camping/boondocking-101/

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    Camper-submitted photo from Sage Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sage Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sage Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sage Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sage Creek Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sage Creek Campground

    10. Sage Creek Campground

    101 Reviews
    389 Photos
    158 Saves

    Sage Creek Campground is a primitive campground. There is no charge to stay here and camping is available on a first come first serve basis. The campground rarely fills to capacity.

    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Equestrian
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
Showing results 1-10 of 239 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Blackhawk

Recent Reviews In Blackhawk

1308 Reviews of 239 Blackhawk Campgrounds


  • M
    Camper-submitted photo from Gold Camp Cabins
    Oct. 29, 2024

    Gold Camp Cabins

    Embrace Nature at Gold Camp Cabins

    Gold Camp Cabins offers a unique retreat experience in scenic areas, ideal for nature lovers seeking a quiet getaway. These cozy cabins provide an opportunity to disconnect and enjoy the outdoors, just as Wordle Unlimited offers players a fun, uninterrupted escape with endless puzzles.

  • Ella J.
    Camper-submitted photo from Comanche Park
    Oct. 28, 2024

    Comanche Park

    Good

    In light of your positive approach and tremendous support for your professional development, I'd want to take this opportunity to convey my heartfelt gratitude. space waves game

  • Gome S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Gold Camp Cabins
    Oct. 24, 2024

    Gold Camp Cabins

    Good

    I can't thank you enough for being a rock in my life and for everything you've done to help me grow personally and professionally. gacha life game

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Bob Marshall Dispersed
    Oct. 22, 2024

    Camp Bob Marshall Dispersed

    Beautiful and remote

    Several spots along the Bob Marshall camp road to pull off and camp. We went a bit more off the path by turning right, going up past a water treatment plant and parking near the end of the road. It was secluded and pretty. Lots of coyotes in the area. No camp fires when we were there due to dry conditions. The road after the turn off was in rough shape. I wouldn’t take a trailer up it, but we were in a large SUV and it was just fine. A great place to disperse camp in the state park. We stayed two nights.

  • S
    Camper-submitted photo from Gold Camp Cabins
    Oct. 22, 2024

    Gold Camp Cabins

    Cozy Retreats at Gold Camp Cabins

    It’s a great place to unwind and recharge, much like the exhilarating thrill of navigating the fast-paced challenges in the Slope Game. Both experiences offer a break from the routine and a chance to immerse yourself in fun and adventure. For more details, check out their website!

  • T
    Camper-submitted photo from French Creek RV Camp
    Oct. 22, 2024

    French Creek RV Camp

    Tolido1

    You have arrived at the online home of Papa Louie. All of the best Papa Louie games are available here for free online play. So, what exactly is a Papa Louie game like? Awesome challenge, dubious business tactics, and tasty food! The majority of papa's games center around the kitchen and the management of eateries. Working in Papa's kitchen is exciting, yet challenging.

  • Zina L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from 24 Express RV Campground
    Oct. 19, 2024

    24 Express RV Campground

    Closed!

    There were signs up along the freeway. Nothing indicate that it was closed. Is it for the season? Not sure date of visit was October 19, 2024.

  • Makenzie S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Spring Creek Road
    Oct. 15, 2024

    Spring Creek Road

    Very Quiet Cozy Area

    Loved this area, saw many deer near sunset, very peaceful and quiet. Tent camping it was easy to find a site since we didn’t go too far, but if you have an big RV you might need to go further down the road. Otherwise very pretty especially with the creek right next to us.

  • Lisa B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sage Creek Campground
    Oct. 14, 2024

    Sage Creek Campground

    Breathtaking & Best Smelling Bathrooms

    My boy Palo and I camped in my Outback for a night. It was a great experience. They have the cleans best smelling bathrooms I have venture into.

  • YThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Echo Valley Park Campground
    Oct. 13, 2024

    Echo Valley Park Campground

    Hidden gem

    Great campsite nestled in the hills. Conveniently located near Crazy Horse monument (literally, you can see Crazy Horse from the campground; see attached photos), and less than 20 miles from Mount Rushmore. You can access Mickelson Bike Trail from the property. Also, has many hiking and walking trails for your use. Fresh artesian water. The water was delicious! We were tenting and the ground was perfect for setup. Echo Valley campground has the option for dry site, water site, electric site, or water and electric site, for all travelers whether tent, RV, or camper. Has a shower house with bathrooms, and washer/dryer setup. Washer/dryer were out of order when we were there. Shower house has antiquated controls. We think owner is working on updating everything because bathrooms had new sinks and toilets (at least the women’s did; men’s had new sinks). Assuming it was the owner who checked us in, on a Friday late afternoon. He was humorous, gregarious, and welcoming. Welcoming to pets. During our two night stay almost every other camper had pets. Our only complaint was we couldn’t have a fire because the whole area was on an extreme fire danger risk. Not the sites fault, but that was our only real complaint

    On a final note: if you want to stay at a modern site, with all the amenities and distractions, Echo Valley is not for you. This campsite was serene, beautiful, peaceful. There was enough access to the local environment, you didn’t need to go see the local sites to remain engaged and entertained.

  • WThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Wild Bill's Campground
    Oct. 9, 2024

    Wild Bill's Campground

    Nicely tucked away spot

    We stayed one evening when traveling thru. Had a hard time finding a spot open (and with bathrooms) after October 1st! Called ahead to confirm and Matthew was very helpful answering questions and confirming availability before making other travel plans. Park had a pub to eat and watch some football.

  • Roger W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Elk Mountain Campground — Wind Cave National Park
    Oct. 9, 2024

    Elk Mountain Campground — Wind Cave National Park

    Nice Setting

    Elk Mnt -Wind Cave NP 10/24

    (72 yr olds in 27’ trailer.)

    Overall Rating: 4 for stopover convenience, setting, and exploring the NP Price 2024: $ 6(the off season, no water price) w interagency pass Security: no Usage during visit: light - this cg is shutting down in a few days. Only 1 loop is now open. Visual Privacy Between Adjacent Sites: no Site Spacing: pull over sites in Loop B were 50+ feet apart.
    Pad surface: gravel Reservations: yes Campground Noise: quiet Outside Road Noise: none Through Traffic in campground: none Electric Hookup: no Sewer Hookup: no Dump Station: no Potable Water Available: yes, but currently turned off Bathroom: pit toilet is clean and open.
    Showers: no Pull Throughs: Some pullovers- in b loop have nice view of grassland rolling hills. However, not all will allow for a driver’s side slide. Our site, #15 did have room,barely. Cell Service (AT&T): no bars. Setting: attractive rolling grasslands and pine forest. Recent Weather: highs in the 70s. Solar: yes Insects: none Host: none this time of year.
    Rig Size: some sites will probably allow for a 40’ or so trailer. Check carefully when reserving on rec dot gov.
    Sites: 16, 20, 18, 15: I like these pull over sites, because they have a nice view of the rolling grasslands. However, in our site, number 15, we were able to barely get our slide out without it protruding over the campground road. Some of the other pullover sites in B loop offer less room for a safe slide out usage. Other loops have wider pullover sites for trailers with slide outs. I took pictures of some of these sites with their numbered posts.

  • wayne M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Days End Campground
    Oct. 5, 2024

    Days End Campground

    Worst campground ever

    The lots are so small you can’t open your awning. Limited sewer locations, coin operated showers with low water pressure and no hot water, front desk is useless and owner care only about the dollars they can take you for. Go to one of the other campgrounds around Sturgis.

  • PThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Echo Valley Park Campground
    Oct. 4, 2024

    Echo Valley Park Campground

    It’s okay

    Was not sure driving in but old mate running the show was funny and friendly. Showers were interesting but all plumbing in US is weird and inconsistent about how you operate it. Laundry was out of action. I think this guy running the show is trying very hard, he’s too cheap ($45) so always chasing his tail. Real close to crazy horse so nothing really to complain about. Wish him the best.

  • Mike C.
    Camper-submitted photo from Custers Last Chance RV Park and Campground
    Oct. 4, 2024

    Custers Last Chance RV Park and Campground

    Great Hosts

    This is a nice campground very close to Custer State Park and Wind Cave National Park. The hosts are accommodating and friendly. The sites are basic with full hookups and will fit any size rig, they have clean water and perfect power. The location is less windy than most parks in the area and even though it's next to the highway we haven't heard any vehicle noise. Just a few blocks to beautiful downtown Custer. We had a fantastic stay and know you will too.

  • michael V.
    Camper-submitted photo from North Pole Rd Dispersed Camping
    Oct. 4, 2024

    North Pole Rd Dispersed Camping

    Nice and secluded

    About 8-10 spots along the road, all flat and plenty of space for whatever you’re camping with. Chances are you’ll be a ways away from other campers. Great spots to get away from the crowded campgrounds.

  • T
    Camper-submitted photo from Spring Creek Road
    Sep. 28, 2024

    Spring Creek Road

    Secluded, quiet, dispersed sites close to lots of Black Hills attractions.

    The road in was fairly easy to find and smooth. I drove all the way to the end of the road to check out the sites and turned around and went back to the one I liked the best. There was only one other camper set up down along the stream and the couple there looked comfortable. I chose a nice level turn out that I could drive my pickup and ATV trailer into and was able to drive through the spot so I didn't have to back in or out. It was a very pretty site next to the road and big enough for my 30' rig. It was level enough that it only took one block under one wheel of the ATV trailer I had my roof top tent mounted on. Traffic was light and only about half a dozen vehicles passed my site the evening I was there. No problem with dust from the traffic. There were signs that cattle were in the area but I didn't see any. Probably not a place you would want to spend a lot of time staying at unless you planned to use it as a base for hitting all the tourist spots around Deadwood and Keystone. The main problem is the sites are nearly all too small for more than one camper so if you are traveling with other campers you won't be able to park close together.  The sites are fairly far apart, more suitable for lone campers looking for a spot to rest for a night or two. No amenities and cell service was hit or miss but the price was right (free). I would definitely stay here again if I was passing through the area.

  • Ben H.
    Camper-submitted photo from RD 356 Dispersed Site Black Hills National Forest
    Sep. 26, 2024

    RD 356 Dispersed Site Black Hills National Forest

    Nice

    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. The spot I camped at I was able to have decent Verizon signal however the area is a bit spotty for Verizon. The area seems to not allow for campfires. Trails nearby. One Trail is gated off and seems to mainly be a horse trail. Some of the camping spots seem to support larger vehicles. Also had a good view.

  • Ken G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sage Creek Campground
    Sep. 25, 2024

    Sage Creek Campground

    Hot and dry, buffalo wandered through the camp

    This was a free site in the Badlands.  It's a dirt road to get there, washboards, but OK.

    The cg is in a prairie dog town so we kept the dog close.

    It was full on a Saturday night in September, but we got one of the last sites.  Very basic campground with a few trails to hike.  Views were OK, but nothing great.

    Buffalo wandered through camp at dinner time.  We basically camped on the road that circles the campground.

    Some picnic tables had a shade covering.  Pit toilets were clean.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Belle Fourche Dispersed Site
    Sep. 21, 2024

    Belle Fourche Dispersed Site

    Beautiful Sunrise

    Rolled in late night. 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.

  • Ryan F.
    Camper-submitted photo from Fishy Wilderness
    Sep. 17, 2024

    Fishy Wilderness

    Pull thru and nice view

    Great view of everything and was able to pull thru. Very level. Would NOT recommend if you don’t have a high lived RV and Vehicle.



Guide to Blackhawk

Camping near Blackhawk, South Dakota, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a peaceful retreat, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Explore Mount Rushmore: Just a short drive away, this iconic landmark is a must-see. Campers often mention how close they are to the site, making it easy to visit. One reviewer from Mount Rushmore KOA at Palmer Gulch said, "The location is about 1/2 hour from 90 but close to Mount Rushmore."
  • Hiking and Fishing: Many campgrounds, like Pactola Reservoir Campground, offer great hiking trails and fishing opportunities. A visitor noted, "The reservoir is huge, and many consider it to be one of the best fishing 'holes' in the state."
  • Wildlife Viewing: Custer State Park is nearby, where you can see bison and other wildlife. One camper at Game Lodge Campground shared, "Many of the sites, like ours, are located just feet from a babbling creek."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review for Stockade North Campground highlighted, "The restrooms (including the pit toilets at the far end of the loop) are all extremely clean and nice."
  • Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds offer roomy sites. A visitor at Sheridan Lake South Shore Campground mentioned, "The camp sites were very spread out and decently flat for tent camping."
  • Family-Friendly Activities: Campgrounds like Sylvan Lake Campground have playgrounds and swimming areas. One reviewer said, "The lake is gorgeous. The trails are clear. Endless fun."

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. Although there aren’t that many sites, they are quite close together."
  • Limited Cell Service: Many campgrounds have poor cell reception. A visitor at Horsethief Lake Campground mentioned, "I got no cell reception here between Xfinity, Verizon, and T-Mobile."
  • Reservation Tips: Some campgrounds fill up quickly, so it's best to book in advance. A camper at Center Lake Campground advised, "Reservations for this campground open at 6 AM mountain time."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Amenities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and swimming areas. One parent at Mount Rushmore KOA at Palmer Gulch said, "Playgrounds for the kids (big kids also)."
  • Plan for Activities: Bring games and outdoor gear to keep kids entertained. A reviewer at Spearfish City Campground mentioned, "Clean bathrooms. Mowed and maintained very well."
  • Safety First: Always keep an eye on kids, especially near water. A camper at Pactola Reservoir Campground noted, "The marina staff was very helpful and informative."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A visitor at South Dakota Spearfish Campground said, "Sites are closer than the worst KOA. Very unlevel."
  • Utilize Amenities: Look for campgrounds with full hookups. A camper at Blue Bell Campground mentioned, "Great campground, clean bath house and level sites."
  • Plan for Dump Stations: Know where the nearest dump stations are located. A reviewer at Stockade North Campground shared, "There are two dump station locations."

Camping near Blackhawk, South Dakota, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends. With a variety of campgrounds and activities, there's something for everyone!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Blackhawk, SD?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Blackhawk, SD offers a wide range of camping options, with 239 campgrounds and RV parks near Blackhawk, SD and 32 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Blackhawk, SD?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Blackhawk, SD is Mount Rushmore KOA at Palmer Gulch with a 4.2-star rating from 54 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Blackhawk, SD?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 32 free dispersed camping spots near Blackhawk, SD.

  • What parks are near Blackhawk, SD?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 8 parks near Blackhawk, SD that allow camping, notably Black Hills National Forest and Wind Cave National Park.