Several RV campgrounds near Blackhawk, South Dakota provide convenient access to the Black Hills' attractions. Located at an elevation of approximately 3,500 feet, this area experiences seasonal temperature swings with summer highs around 85°F and winter lows frequently below freezing. Gravel or concrete pads are standard at most facilities, with varying levels of shade depending on location.
What to do
National monuments access: From Heartland RV Park, travelers can conveniently reach Mount Rushmore and other major attractions. "Heartland RV Park is located relatively close to Custer State Park and Mount Rushmore and many other tourist sites," notes Daryl L. The park provides information about drive times: "They provide a printout with all the local attractions and how far they were! So helpful."
Wildlife viewing: The region offers exceptional wildlife observation opportunities within a short drive. "We spent 6 nights and had awesome day trips with wildlife experience the entire stay," shares Barbara F. from Heartland RV Park. Visitors frequently recommend Custer State Park for buffalo herds and the Wildlife Visitor Center at dusk for optimal viewing.
Evening entertainment: Several parks provide on-site activities after a day of sightseeing. At Rush No More Campground, guests enjoy various amenities. "There is a playground for the kids and a beer garden for the adults. Entertainment on certain nights, food and fun," according to Monique C. Some parks host live performances regularly, with one guest noting, "Live band on Sunday. Outstanding."
What campers like
Central location: Holy Smoke Resort receives praise for its strategic position. Lawrence P. explains, "Mt. Rushmore, Crazy Horse and many of the other attractions are very close and easy to get to from here. If you need a big city feel, Rapid City is a short ride away as well." This balance of natural attractions and urban amenities appeals to many visitors.
Clean facilities: Campground cleanliness consistently earns positive comments from guests. At Rapid City RV Park & Campground, Wendy M. appreciates "great location with an awesome view! The spots were pretty level; bathrooms were clean; great laundry facility and the arcade room was nice to have!" Similar comments appear across multiple properties in the region.
Extra amenities: Swimming pools, hot tubs, and community spaces enhance the camping experience. Laura F. at Heartland RV Park mentions, "Easy to get to, pool, hot tub, showers and restrooms. Level sites, and friendly staff." Some facilities offer dining options, with Bonnie F. sharing, "This place is fun with unique flare. On-site restaurant for breakfast, lunch and dinner with live music each night."
What you should know
Highway noise: Many RV parks in the Blackhawk area sit close to major roadways, creating noise concerns for light sleepers. At Black Hills RV Park, one camper notes, "Only more expensive. Sites very close-- and neighbors a self-storage site, so you really feel you may be in storage." Highway 79 generates significant traffic sounds at some properties.
Limited shade: The region's landscape means limited natural cover at many parks. Emily C. at Rapid City RV Park explains, "It's off a highway but the site is around woods so it's peaceful." Another visitor mentions, "Very open spots but not bad if you're traveling through."
Reservation requirements: Booking well in advance proves essential, particularly during summer. Even less popular sites fill quickly for peak periods. At Lazy JD RV Park, scarlett K. found it to be a "Cash only Rv campground. Only one washer/drier on honor system. It is located close to all services in rapid city SD."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Children need recreation space after long drives. Love's RV Stop-Box Elder 602 offers play areas as noted by Ileana I.: "There's also a playground and dog park on site." Similarly, Amy C. appreciates that Heartland RV Park has "a nice children's play area which is fenced in."
Recreational options: Look for campgrounds with activities beyond traditional camping. At Holy Smoke Resort, Matt D. notes, "Nice centrally located RV park with 14-15 large pull-through sites with full water, sewer and 30/50 amp hookups." Many parks provide gathering spaces where families can relax together after sightseeing.
Bathroom facilities: Clean, accessible restrooms matter significantly for families. Tina M. shares that Heartland has a "Small little pool to cool off," while another visitor mentions, "The shower stalls are small and curtains are short so the dressing room floor got wet so could get dress without getting cloths wet."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many Blackhawk area campgrounds feature sloped terrain requiring leveling equipment. Kara C. at Rapid City RV Park & Campground shares, "Only thing was the sites are a little small but even I had no issue parking my 33'6" motorhome and I had only stayed at two other locations prior to this visit."
Internet access: WiFi quality varies significantly between properties. At Three Flags RV Park, Michael B. notes, "No Wifi streaming, Verizon is pretty slow, but acceptable." Some parks offer premium WiFi options for additional fees, which becomes important for longer stays.
Year-round considerations: Most parks operate seasonally, typically April through October. Ron R. at Three Flags observes, "This Park is kept very clean. Laundry room and machines are organized and in great operating condition. Bathrooms and showers are cleaned very often. RV spots are level." Sites with concrete pads generally remain serviceable later into fall than those with gravel bases.
