Best Equestrian Camping near Blackhawk, SD

Broken Arrow Horse and RV Campground provides spacious, level sites with full hookups for equestrians camping near Blackhawk, South Dakota. The campground features immaculate horse stalls and pristine grounds throughout the property. Located 3.9 miles off the main road, the campground offers a peaceful environment with no road noise and beautiful mountain views. The sites include fire rings and ample space for horse trailers. Campers report seeing wildlife including deer and turkeys regularly moving through the campground. The facility maintains exceptionally clean accommodations, including cabins that avoid the typical "skeevy vibe" of many campground cabins. Horse owners appreciate the well-maintained equine facilities where even the stalls remain spotless.

Direct access to Black Hills riding trails makes this location ideal for equestrians seeking extended trail experiences. The campground sits close to downtown Custer and major attractions including Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial, and Custer State Park. Blue Bell Campground in Custer State Park also accommodates horses with on-site stables and trail rides available at the entrance to the campground. The park features horse trails throughout its extensive network of paths. Riders can access the Mickelson Trail from several nearby points, with an access point located a few miles from Black Fox Campground. The French Creek Camping Area offers hitching posts for horses but no water access, requiring riders to bring their own water supplies. Campers should note that reservations are recommended during peak season, as these horse-friendly sites fill quickly during summer months and special events like the Buffalo Roundup.

Map showing campgrounds near Blackhawk, South Dakota

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Best Equestrian Sites Near Blackhawk, South Dakota (24)

1. Rapid City KOA
25 Reviews
Rapid City, SD
10 miles
Website
+1 (605) 348-2111
"Close to Mount Rushmore and crazy horse! Pirates cove mini golf is a short drive away! Great facility with standard KOA amenities."

"My parents were able to rent a deluxe cabin right next to our campsite. My parents don’t “camp,” so this was perfect for a family vacation."
2. Mount Rushmore KOA at Palmer Gulch
55 Reviews
Hill City, SD
20 miles
Website
"Make the most of your South Dakota vacation by spending it camping. My group tented and had a great time."

"It’s basically a small town with two pools, a village of shops and restaurants, tons of activities, and a large horse stable with trail rides."

3. Sylvan Lake Campground — Custer State Park
42 Reviews
Custer, SD
24 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."

"Pricey (entrance fee plus campground fee) but worth it. Beautiful lake with great access to hiking trails, and just a short drive to Mt Rushmore and Crazy Horse."
4. Elk Creek RV Park Lodge & Resort
3 Reviews
Piedmont, SD
5 miles
Website
+1 (605) 787-4884
"Pleasant campground tucked away in the black hills of SD"

5. Rafter J Bar Ranch
20 Reviews
Hill City, SD
22 miles
Website
+1 (605) 574-2527
"Rushmore, Crazy Horse, and Devil’s Tower. We had a beautiful campsite in the “Ranch” section that had lots of trees and was a fair distance away from our neighbors."

"Centrally located! Just across the street from access to Mt. Rushmore and the Needles Highway and down the road from Crazy Horse. Beautiful view of the hills."
6. Dispersed Camping near Calumet Road
7 Reviews
Keystone, SD
16 miles
Website
+1 (605) 673-9200
"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."

"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."

7. Blue Bell Campground — Custer State Park
35 Reviews
Custer, SD
31 miles
Website
+1 (605) 255-4515
"This is closest to the southern entrance. We had bison herds South of us and North. We never managed to make it East where the long trail is, which seems to be known for wildlife."

"Horse stables and trail rides onsite.Walking distance to store and excellent restaurant. Wildlife includes bison, deer, birds..."
8. Fort Welikit Family Campground and RV Park
24 Reviews
Custer, SD
29 miles
Website
+1 (605) 673-3600
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"Campground Review:

If you are looking for a family and pet friendly place to camp while visiting the Black Hills South Dakota area, look no further!!"

9. Sage Creek Campground
117 Reviews
Wall, SD
49 miles
Website
+1 (605) 433-5361
"Definitely pay your park entrance fee! BUT it’s true - this spot is completely free. Lots of people dig this spot. Doesn’t feel too crowded though."

"There is is space for RVs and horses. It is a national park so check on pet regulations.

The upside, Buffalo can wander through your camp. Or pose in the prairie next to the camp."
10. Whistler Gulch Campground & RV Park
10 Reviews
Deadwood, SD
24 miles
Website
+1 (605) 578-2092
"Location is quiet. There is a place to walk dogs. Deadwood trolley comes right to the CG to transport you downtown."

"They are really close to town, so it’s really convenient. We have a larger side by side, so when I called they made sure that we would have a spot to fit that too."

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Recent Equestrian Camping Photos near Blackhawk, SD

38 Photos of 24 Blackhawk Campgrounds

Equestrian Camping Reviews near Blackhawk, SD

388 Reviews of 24 Blackhawk Campgrounds

Billy B.
Guide
Aug. 30, 2016
Sylvan Lake Campground — Custer State Park
Best campground in Custer State park
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. 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
Leasa W.
Guide
Jul. 30, 2016
Mount Rushmore KOA at Palmer Gulch
Excellent tenting option for vacationing near Mt. Rushmore
So 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!
Hope H.
Traveler
May. 30, 2018
Black Fox Campground
Quaint and Cozy Campground!
Nestled up in the beautiful Black Hills of South Dakota, Black Fox is our 'go to' campground because of how small it is. 8-10 sites that are spread out so you're not right beside other campers. Black Fox has 1 vaulted toilet and every camp site has its own fire pit and picnic table. There is a small creek that runs right behind many of the camp sites so if you feel like doing a little rainbow trout fishing, you can. If your not into fishing, just hop on to your ATV and go explore the many trails that are situated right around the campground. Not only will you be able to enjoy nature, but you will see elk, deer, turkey and if your lucky, a mountain lion!
Lucille W.
Ranger
Jul. 27, 2020
Sage Creek Campground
Easy, breezy, beautiful
The other reviewers had it right. Sage Creek is a sweet little spot within Badlands National Park. Definitely pay your park entrance fee! BUT it’s true - this spot is completely free. Lots of people dig this spot. Doesn’t feel too crowded though. Tons of tents, vans, and car campers fit into this somewhat small but open space. Bison are common visitors. Plus, there is a prairie dog town right in the center of the loop the road creates in the camp. They are so fascinating to watch! There are two basic but clean restrooms. Several pic nic tables with small shade shelters. A nearby creek for water filtering / road trip baths. Make sure to bring lots of water or a filter people! We saw folks asking around for extra water. Be prepared. Definitely would highly recommend for anyone traveling through South Dakota. Badlands National Park is so unique and so special.
E
Elizabeth M.
Scout
Oct. 21, 2023
Blue Bell Campground — Custer State Park
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.
Danielle R.
Guide
Sep. 16, 2018
Blue Bell Campground — Custer State Park
Amazing View
Exceptionally large park. This is closest to the southern entrance. We had bison herds South of us and North. We never managed to make it East where the long trail is, which seems to be known for wildlife. We had easy access to the West exit and had a great dining experience as well as quick access to all the local monuments. The campground was very peaceful. The showers and bathrooms were very clean. There is a centrally located atrium for events that we didn't see used. We ended up next to a group of young college age people who were spread out and noisier than most, but that was just our luck. We had a break in the tree line to see stars from our tent. There is a gas station and store right at the campground. We didn't plan enough time to give the hiking trails a chance. This campground does have horse trails.
Tammy B.
Scout
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

1

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

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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).

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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

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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.
Annie C.
Legend
Sep. 11, 2016
Sylvan Lake Campground — Custer State Park
Sylvan Lake- Custer State Park
Pricey (entrance fee plus campground fee) but worth it. Beautiful lake with great access to hiking trails, and just a short drive to Mt Rushmore and Crazy Horse. Nice campground, trailer lots seemed more level than tent sites. Some, not all, had tent pads. Nice clean shower house. Great starting point to hike Harney Peak and Cathedral Spires.
G
Greg G.
Traveler
May. 28, 2022
Sylvan Lake Campground — Custer State Park
A top 10 campground
This campground is one of the best . We snagged an awesome site that was large , wooded , secluded , and quiet . The area was beautiful with the Needles and the wildlife drives that were spectacular with buffalo , pronghorn ,and deer in your face. Very close to major attentions such as Mt Rushmore , Crazy Horse Monument , Wind Caves National Park , and the Badlands . The lake is a jewel with a great hike and granite spires bordering the end of the lake - postcard perfect . I also hooked 5 wild rainbows !! We will return

Guide to Blackhawk

Blackhawk, South Dakota sits at approximately 3,600 feet elevation in the Black Hills region, where dense ponderosa pine forests transition to rolling prairies. The area experiences dramatic temperature swings from summer highs averaging in the mid-80s to winter lows frequently dropping below freezing, with most campgrounds operating from May through October. Winter camping options are limited with few facilities maintaining year-round operations.

What to do

Hiking trails access: Sylvan Lake Campground offers direct access to Black Elk Peak trails within walking distance. "The trail to Harvey Peak isn't far from Lake Sylvan. If you don't enjoy crowds and you are a hiker; I would suggest camping on one of those trails," explains a camper at Sylvan Lake Campground — Custer State Park.

Wildlife viewing opportunities: Some of the best equestrian campgrounds near Blackhawk, South Dakota provide excellent wildlife watching. At Sage Creek Campground, you'll find abundant wildlife: "Buffalo, coyotes, badgers, and birds make it feel very natural," with one camper reporting they "Saw a fox, heard the howling wolves at night."

Local transportation options: Stay near historic Deadwood and skip driving altogether. "You can trolley from the campground into town Deadwood it's $1.00 each way. Some trolley drivers are so funny they seem to have a good time," notes a visitor at Whistler Gulch Campground, making it convenient for exploring without moving your vehicle.

What campers like

Private, spacious sites: Many campers appreciate the natural separation between sites at Rafter J Bar Ranch: "We had a beautiful campsite in the 'Ranch' section that had lots of trees and was a fair distance away from our neighbors." Another visitor mentions, "My site is easily over 100 ft long, back up to a wooded hill and leaves me lots of space from neighbors."

Scenic tent camping spots: Mount Rushmore KOA at Palmer Gulch receives praise for its natural beauty. One reviewer mentions: "The front of the campground is nice" while another shared "By far my favorite thing every morning was the 'cowgirl wake up call' when they rounded up the horses and herded them to the front of the campground along a channel near our campsite."

Free dispersed camping options: For equestrian camping near Blackhawk with more solitude, dispersed camping provides alternatives to established campgrounds. "There were a lot of places to pull off that were flat for a tent or camper," reports a camper at Dispersed Camping near Calumet Road, adding "there were a few other cars that went by that were camping too, but it was very quiet and peaceful other than that."

What you should know

Campground size variations: The campgrounds range from intimate to massive. At Blue Bell Campground — Custer State Park, "Sites are large and could easily accommodate a RV/trailer or 2+ cars/trucks." Conversely, Mount Rushmore KOA at Palmer Gulch is described as "huge—maybe too big for it's own good. There are hundreds of sites, tents and campers are all mixed together."

Weather preparedness: The region experiences extreme conditions. At Sage Creek Campground, campers warn that "the wind is relentless, making cooking outdoors difficult," and "at least one tent has either blown away or was flattened by wind" during their stays. Another mentions "Temps went from 50F to 96F" during a single week in July.

Bathroom facilities vary: Quality of facilities differs considerably between campgrounds. Fort Welikit Family Campground earns praise for "the best wash house ever" with "very large and very clean with private showers." Meanwhile, at Rapid City KOA, a camper reports "the showers are filthy due to ventilation not working properly" with "mold in every crevice."

Tips for camping with families

Swimming options: Look for campgrounds with pools for summer visits. At Rafter J Bar Ranch, "Kids loved the pool, hot tub, basketball, and volleyball court" while at Fort Welikit Family Campground, one visitor mentioned they stayed "9 days in site 20" and their "kids love playing in the kids play area."

Junior Ranger programs: Blue Bell Campground offers educational opportunities for children. One family reports "The jr. Ranger programs were great for our girls and we enjoyed the learning," making it ideal for families wanting to combine recreation with education during their camping experience.

Activity-packed options: For families seeking structured entertainment, Palmer Gulch KOA provides numerous organized activities. "There's a lot to do here—trail rides, cookouts, and lots of programs each day and evening geared towards the family," shares one visitor, though they caution "The place is huge! I can imagine kids wandering a getting lost."

Tips from RVers

Site selection considerations: At Whistler Gulch Campground, RVers warn about terrain challenges: "Not many level sites here and the site we were told to go to was not long enough for our camper let alone the tow vehicle." Another mentions sites are "small and very Unlevel," so advance research is crucial.

Winter camping options: Few campgrounds remain open year-round in this region. Elk Creek RV Park Lodge & Resort is one exception, with a winter visitor noting: "Lovely hiking on the site. Very friendly staff. Clean, well serviced. Far enough from freeway so you feel like you are really camping, but very convenient. So glad they are open during the winter."

Hookup availability: For horse-friendly campgrounds near Blackhawk with full amenities, Rafter J Bar Ranch provides complete services. A visitor remarks, "My site is easily over 100 ft long, back up to a wooded hill and leaves me lots of space from neighbors. All the full hookup connections are logically placed."

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 Rapid City KOA with a 4-star rating from 25 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 24 equestrian camping locations near Blackhawk, SD, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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Best Equestrian Camping near Blackhawk, SD

Best Equestrian Sites Near Blackhawk, South Dakota (24)

1. Rapid City KOA

2. Mount Rushmore KOA at Palmer Gulch

3. Sylvan Lake Campground — Custer State Park

4. Elk Creek RV Park Lodge & Resort

5. Rafter J Bar Ranch

6. Dispersed Camping near Calumet Road

7. Blue Bell Campground — Custer State Park

8. Fort Welikit Family Campground and RV Park

9. Sage Creek Campground

10. Whistler Gulch Campground & RV Park

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Recent Equestrian Camping Photos near Blackhawk, SD

38 Photos of 24 Blackhawk Campgrounds

Equestrian Camping Reviews near Blackhawk, SD

388 Reviews of 24 Blackhawk Campgrounds

Best campground in Custer State park

Excellent tenting option for vacationing near Mt. Rushmore

Quaint and Cozy Campground!

Easy, breezy, beautiful

Solo female kicked out in the middle of the night

Amazing View

Best campground in the Black Hills SD

Sylvan Lake- Custer State Park

A top 10 campground