Top Horse Camping near Blackhawk, SD

Horse camping is the perfect way to enjoy Blackhawk. If you're an equestrian lover who prefers nature-based adventure, yet still wants comfort, this is the perfect opportunity for you. Whether you own a horse or are joining a tour group, equestrian camping is an adventurous and unique way to experience the city. Find our top-rated horse campsites from other campers like you. Plan the perfect trip in minutes.

Best Equestrian Sites Near Blackhawk, SD (21)

    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 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

    2. 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 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

    3. Rapid City KOA

    21 Reviews
    60 Photos
    61 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    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

    4. 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)
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Bell Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Bell Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Bell Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Bell Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Bell Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Bell Campground

    5. Blue Bell Campground

    28 Reviews
    93 Photos
    211 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Fort Welikit Family Campground and RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Fort Welikit Family Campground and RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Fort Welikit Family Campground and RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Fort Welikit Family Campground and RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Fort Welikit Family Campground and RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Fort Welikit Family Campground and RV Park

    6. Fort Welikit Family Campground and RV Park

    21 Reviews
    24 Photos
    95 Saves

    Located on the scenic Norbeck Byway away from the areas busy highways yet just one mile North of the historic city of Custer as you enter the heart of the Black Hills. Your adventure begins the minute you leave our gates. Just minutes from Crazy Horse, Sylvan Lake, The Needles, Jewel Cave, and Custer State Park. Easy access to Mt. Rushmore, Deadwood, Sturgis, and all the Black Hills Area attractions. 100 unique sites situated in the tall, cool pines that make camping in the Black Hills an experience not soon forgotten. Sites range from full service to rustic and from private to group and family friendly, so that everyone can have the camping or RV experience they desire. ​​​ All the amenities with the cozy feeling of camping in a National Forest campground.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Custer-Mt. Rushmore KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Custer-Mt. Rushmore KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Custer-Mt. Rushmore KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Custer-Mt. Rushmore KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Custer-Mt. Rushmore KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Custer-Mt. Rushmore KOA

    7. Custer-Mt. Rushmore KOA

    17 Reviews
    29 Photos
    68 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $32 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping near Calumet Road
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping near Calumet Road
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping near Calumet Road
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping near Calumet Road
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping near Calumet Road
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping near Calumet Road

    8. Dispersed Camping near Calumet Road

    5 Reviews
    11 Photos
    101 Saves

    Setting up your own campsite away from developed fee sites, also known as dispersed camping, is allowed on most of the Forest for a maximum of 14 days in any 60-day period. However, around developed reservoirs and campgrounds, camping is allowed only in designated areas. Check with the closest Forest Service office for specific information.

    General rules: Camp 100 feet away from any creek or stream and 1/2 mile away from developed recreation sites, including campgrounds and picnic areas. Motorized vehicles allowed 300 feet off of roads as shown on the Motor Vehicle Use Map (dots) for dispersed camping on the Black Hills National Forest. Around developed reservoirs and campgrounds, camping is allowed only in designated campsites. Can camp for a maximum of 14 days in any 60-day period. No open campfires in South Dakota portions of the national forest. Open campfires are permitted in Wyoming portions of the national forest, unless a special order prohibiting such is in effect. Check with the closest Forest Service office for more specific information about dispersed camping.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • No image available

      9. Elk Creek RV Park Lodge & Resort

      3 Reviews
      8 Saves
      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Electric Hookups
      • Phone Service
      • ADA Access
      • RVs
      Camper-submitted photo from Whistler Gulch Campground & RV Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Whistler Gulch Campground & RV Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Whistler Gulch Campground & RV Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Whistler Gulch Campground & RV Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Whistler Gulch Campground & RV Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Whistler Gulch Campground & RV Park

      10. Whistler Gulch Campground & RV Park

      8 Reviews
      13 Photos
      23 Saves
      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Electric Hookups
      • Phone Service
      • Reservable
      • ADA Access
    Showing results 1-10 of 21 campgrounds

    Recent Equestrian Reviews In Blackhawk

    284 Reviews of 21 Blackhawk Campgrounds


    • 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.

    • 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.

    • 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.

    • Jeff M.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Sage Creek Campground
      Sep. 16, 2024

      Sage Creek Campground

      Base to the Badlands

      Great location to set out to explore the Badlands? Low reception with Verizon in the valley bye still have good contact. Great reception, small hike to the top of the hill.

    • Jeff M.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Sage Creek Campground
      Sep. 16, 2024

      Sage Creek Campground

      Great location for a base, to explore the Badlands

      Free dispersed camping, with clean vault toilets. no water or power you will have to bring your own. Quiet and tranquil location, Surrounded by prairie dogs as you sit in the valley with low rolling hills around you.

    • Kelly V.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Camp Bob Marshall Dispersed
      Aug. 18, 2024

      Camp Bob Marshall Dispersed

      Gate locked

      However, there is a spot on outlaw ranch rd you see before outlaw ranch road the gps takes you to that is nice and enough back for more privacy. Others know of it too, and 2 more cars tried to pull in after dark. I turned on a light and they were cool about backing out. Sorry to be unable to be more specific, want to say this spot really nice.

    • M
      Camper-submitted photo from Sage Creek Campground
      Aug. 4, 2024

      Sage Creek Campground

      Good

      I really liked this site, they had tables with shade, out house, flat ground, and compared to the dispersed camping wayyy less windy. We did not see bison today but there were prairie dogs

    • Christopher W.
      Camper-submitted photo from Mount Rushmore KOA at Palmer Gulch
      Jul. 31, 2024

      Mount Rushmore KOA at Palmer Gulch

      Enormous KOA

      Stayed 7-30-24

      If you like KOAs, you will love this place. Big, super clean and nice, all you can eat pancakes for $3.50 and play grounds for the kids (big kids also)

      If you don't like KOAs because you want to camp by a quiet lake back 20 miles back on a dirt road, that's great but you don't want to stay here.

    • Heather S.
      Camper-submitted photo from Camp Bob Marshall Dispersed
      Jul. 21, 2024

      Camp Bob Marshall Dispersed

      Dispersed Camping in Custer SP Area

      Dispersed Camping off the main road thru Custer State Park that is National Forest. Turn on the road that marks the Bob Marshall Camp. You pass a water treatment area and go thru the gate. 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. We towed in a small teardrop but I wouldn't recommend a large rig. There are several areas to set up camp but pack in and pack out! No water sources spotted so bring enough in with you (didn't even see any water for filtering). Saw a preexisting stone fire pit from past campers too. Super quiet and near all the great things of Custer. We did experience biting flies. Coordinates: 43.7851324, -103.5041771

    • KThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Willow Creek Horse Camp
      Jul. 21, 2024

      Willow Creek Horse Camp

      Nice spot close to Mt Rushmore

      We reserved a spot and paid online. When we got here the place was literally deserted. Other than a couple of cars at the trailhead just before the campsite we haven’t seen anyone.

    • Lane J.
      Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping near Calumet Road
      Jul. 17, 2024

      Dispersed Camping near Calumet Road

      Very awesome

      The ruts become somewhat steep once the entrance road terminates. There are plenty of spots to set up beforehand, but you might be able to drive around them. Only one other camper on the main road, so it's really peaceful. Great day hikes and exploration opportunities abound on this undulating landscape.

      mapquest driving directions

    • James P.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Custer-Mt. Rushmore KOA
      Jul. 14, 2024

      Custer-Mt. Rushmore KOA

      Very Nice

      Very nice KOA. Great staff. Nice sites under pine trees. Pool, cafe, and laundry facilities are well maintained. Will stay here again.

    • Angie A.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping near Calumet Road
      Jul. 13, 2024

      Dispersed Camping near Calumet Road

      Great find

      Very close to Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse, Rapid City and Hill City. Lake Sheridan was a great place to go cool off. Very dispersed camping. Pack in Pack out. No cell service. At first we didn’t think there was a spot to pull off and then found a perfect circular area for us in our travel trailer and our friends car camping. No fires allowed when we were there. We stayed 2 nights and planned to sight see so left our stuff and was never bothered.

    • cThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Sage Creek Campground
      Jul. 12, 2024

      Sage Creek Campground

      Hot

      At first we didn’t love it. It’s hot. No shade. No fires. Some picnic tables have a shade but they were all taken. I guess about 20 sights here I found trails to the creek. Win for me. Up early and holy WOW, buffalo start roaming through camp! 2 came right on through the middle of the campers loop scratching on posts and rolling in dirt behind our tent. Unbelievable. A handful more were roaming around on the other side of the creek. Me may have gotten bitten by prairie dog fleas though and they have a plague. I read the sign in the morning AFTER and we were leaving. I think we will survive. Worth every bite. The toilet house is nice with trash and hand sanitizer. No signal or water or electricity here. Lots of stars at night.

    • Rich J.
      Camper-submitted photo from Rapid City KOA
      Jul. 2, 2024

      Rapid City KOA

      Good

      Friendly staff. Very clean bathrooms and showers. Sites well maintained. Lots of amenities. Only complaint are sites a little close.

    • Alex D.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Sage Creek Campground
      Jun. 21, 2024

      Sage Creek Campground

      Sleep with the Buffalo!!

      What a sweet little spot! This is a 22 site, first come first served campground - no reservations & a 14 day limit. We visited in June & it was BUSY. The sites were all full by 4pm - but there is room to squeeze in extra tents/cars! There are no fires allowed here but there are two bathroom, and plenty of trash cans. The best part though is I can almost promise you’ll get up close & personal with some buffalo. Be respectful!!!

    • My Life - D.
      Camper-submitted photo from Mount Rushmore KOA at Palmer Gulch
      Jun. 19, 2024

      Mount Rushmore KOA at Palmer Gulch

      Luxury camping at a great price

      To me with our RV this is a luxury camping for us! Anything you can imagine, right here and if not there is something close by! The pools, activities, all around people.... Great place highly recommend! The showers are great and hot however they all need new curtains and a 1 store stool and hooks on the wall would be great

    • L
      Camper-submitted photo from Sage Creek Campground
      May. 13, 2024

      Sage Creek Campground

      Free camping with wildlife

      Campground is basic. Only 2 (very clean) vault toilets, no water or electricity. I got there a little before 3pm on mother's day; it was full by 8. Only a handful of sites have sun covers over the picnic tables. You will be very close to other campers. Most are respectful. I would just recommend getting there before dark to keep from disturbing everyone. Prairie dogs galore in the center and on the periphery of the campground. My dog was fascinated by them. As noted by others, you will most likely be serenaded by coyotes and have morning visits from the bison. I also heard wild turkeys off in the woods.

    • Nate R.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Sage Creek Campground
      Nov. 12, 2023

      Sage Creek Campground

      Free camp in Badlands!

      It is a area about the size of a city block that you camp in the middle of and park around. It is popular so try not to show up late. Plenty of tent camping inside the loop. Parking can be and issue. By 9.pm some small RVs came and couldn't find space left to park. Vault toilets, trails, some picnic tables, scenery. Woke up to a buffalo 30 yards from my tent. Other people said they walk right thru camp. Prairie dogs everywhere, so watch your step for holes. I got yelled at by a prairie dog on my hike up the hill lol. Our stay was short but enjoyable.

    • E
      Camper-submitted photo from Blue Bell Campground
      Oct. 21, 2023

      Blue Bell Campground

      Solo female kicked out in the middle of the night

      I 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.

    • Jennifer H.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping near Calumet Road
      Oct. 21, 2023

      Dispersed Camping near Calumet Road

      Quiet, many spots to camp

      We were in a camper van and the road wasn’t bad, we didn’t need 4WD. There were a few other cars that went by that were camping too, but it was very quiet and peaceful other than that. There were a lot of places to pull off that were flat for a tent or camper, I’d definitely recommend!

    • James B.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Rapid City KOA
      Oct. 8, 2023

      Rapid City KOA

      Needed a place for the week with hookups

      We booked as it appeared I might have to leave town for work. Kept reservation as work got cancelled. Sites are very close to one another. Staff very helpful and friendly.
      Sites were clean but very close to one another.
      An ok stay but too many people too close together.

    • Tammy B.
      Camper-submitted photo from Fort Welikit Family Campground and RV Park
      Oct. 6, 2023

      Fort Welikit Family Campground and RV Park

      Best campground in the Black Hills SD

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      Tammy B

      Local Guide·293 reviews·337 photos

      an hour ago

      NEW

      We were camphosts for the 2023 season.I can't say enough on how Kelly, Steve and his entire family makes sure your well taken care of..they added a second dog park for the little pups, renovated 5 site to give a better camping experience in … More

      Amy Kinzler Illg

      4 reviews

      a month ago

      Vacation | Family

      Stayed two nights here and overall a very good experience. Nicely equipped campground with a little shop for necessities. We stayed in a tent site with no electricity. Was a very pretty campground with deer, turkeys, a little play area for … More

      Travis Trussell

      Local Guide·74 reviews·256 photos

      a month ago

      Vacation | Family

      I can't say enough good things about this campground after staying for 6 nights. The spots are spacious and the hookups are located in a perfect spot to make things easy. Bathrooms and showers are very nice and clean. They have a nice dog … More

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      Houston & Carolynn

      Local Guide·168 reviews·289 photos

      a month ago

      A very quiet campground. The staff are friendly and I love the showers for they are private little rooms. They have a playground, laundry and these cute little kegs you can stay overnight in. I would recommend this place. The site are very nice. Houston enjoyed the shade and met another friend. … More

      

      

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      Fort Welikit Family Campground - Custer, South Dakota

      Ft. Welikit was lovely and well-maintained. The owners are onsite and very helpful. If you are traveling with small children, this is your place! They ...

      9/10(135) · $$$

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      Fort Welikit Family Campground Reviews updated 2023

      Oct 29, 2013 — This is a really cute family-owned campground. The staff is friendly and helpful. They shared a lot of good information about the area with us.

      4.0(11) · 50

      Fort Welikit Family Campground

      https://www.blackhillsrv.com

      Fort Welikit Family Campground: Black HIlls Campgrounds

      ​ · ​ · ​ · OPEN MAY 1st to OCTOBER 15th · ​ · Located on the scenic Norbeck Byway away from the aeras busy highways yet just one mile North · of the ...

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      Fort Welikit Family Campground - Custer, SD

      Aug 30, 2016 — It is a very nice place to spend your evenings. Deer and turkeys in the campground everyday. Has a fenced dog park and a small playground for ...

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      Fort Welikit Family Campground and RV Park Camping

      Absolutely loved our stay here!! Our check in was easy and the staff super pleasant. This is a family oriented campground with a great play area for the kiddos.

      4.4(20) · $

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      Fort Welikit Family Campground | Custer SD

      Fort Welikit Family Campground · Page · Campground · (605) 673-3600 · blackhillsrv.com · Rating · 4.4 (388 Reviews).

      4.4(133)

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      Fort Welikit Family Campground site? - Airstream Forums

      Feb 20, 2019 — We are planning a visit to Mt. Rushmore in May and are thinking of staying at Fort Welikit Family Campground. They have some good reviews but

      Good Sam

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      Fort Welikit Family Campground

      It was very quiet and peaceful even though we were there during a peak summer period. The campground is well maintained, family owned and well run. The ...

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      Tammy B

      Local Guide·293 reviews·337 photos

      an hour ago

      NEW

      We were camphosts for the 2023 season.I can't say enough on how Kelly, Steve and his entire family makes sure your well taken care of..they added a second dog park for the little pups, renovated 5 site to give a better camping experience in those sites. If you need something they are on it..they have the best options for camping.. cabins, teepees, barrel kegs, tent, electric tent, w/e 30 amp, 30 amp full h/hu, 50 amp f/hu, and big rig sites..they have worked endlessly to supply you with the best experience. The campground is not your typical parking lot camping..each site is individually unique..it was made around hills, tons of shade trees,and rock formations. Each site is as level as possible. Restroom are individual with shower sink and toilet.. they are very clean. There is a fort playground for the kids that's fantastic. There is a pavilion that can be used for family gatherings. Several reunions are hosted every year..You will have local wildlife visit daily including deer and turkeys. In the spring the new fawns and chick turkeys are born and are adorable. They are centralized to all attractions..perfect location to everything. The several clients that have been repeat customers for years..staying for 6 to 8 weeks..that speaks for it self..everybody loves it. It's very quiet, the store has everything you need. Michelson trail is approximately 1 mile away which can be walked or ride bikes the 114 miles through the mountains. The hospital is 1 mile away. If your in the area, and you need an excellent place to stay..at the best price.. this is where you want to be.. It's very family friendly including your dogs and cats.

    • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Sage Creek Campground
      Oct. 5, 2023

      Sage Creek Campground

      Free!

      Great free campground in the Badlands Wilderness area. Follow Sage Creek Rd and watch for signs for the campground. Made it no problem in a 26’ motorhome, but it is a 12 mile dirt road with a lot of washboard so things get rattled and covered in fine powdery dirt. Totally worth it though because on the way out you get amazing views from the top along the ridge of Badlands plus bison, pronghorn antelope, bighorn sheep, coyotes, and hundreds of prairie dogs along the road on the way. 

      The campground is a loop that has parallel parking around it and sites are designated by numbered posts. There is a horse camp area to one side and toward the right as you pull in and many people just made up spots not in the loop but behind the bathroom and along near the horse camp, so if you made the long drive out you should have at least somewhere to squeeze in for the night.

      There are picnic tables, some which are covered and two pit toilet bathrooms. Also there is garbage and recycling. There is no water here so be sure to bring enough as temps can get quite hot. Some reviews mention the wind being an issue and though it was windy at first it died down and was calm all night. 

      It was nice when we were there in late Sept. There were plenty of empty spots in late afternoon but filled up through the evening. Bison frequently come through the campground and use the posts to scratch themselves. Don’t be an idiot though (we saw some of that) these are huge wild animals and do not want selfies with you! 

      There were also a lot of coyotes that came through at night so be aware if you have a pet. 

      Weak and spotty cell reception with ATT and Verizon and no TMobile.

    • Emily T.
      Camper-submitted photo from Sage Creek Campground
      Sep. 22, 2023

      Sage Creek Campground

      best camping spot ever

      Wild animals everywhere, you're camping on the ground with the prarie dogs, lots of rabbits, birds, and bison coming through the campground as well. Next to the campground is a small walk up a steep hill to get good overlooks, and trails down to the creek with fossils.



    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

    • Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Blackhawk, SD?

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

    • What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Blackhawk, SD?

      TheDyrt.com has all 21 equestrian camping locations near Blackhawk, SD, with real photos and reviews from campers.