Camping near Buffalo Gap, South Dakota offers access to a diverse range of landscapes with elevations ranging from 2,800 to 3,400 feet throughout the area. The region sits at the junction of the Black Hills to the west and the Great Plains to the east, creating a transitional zone with pine forests giving way to prairie. Weather patterns here typically include summer highs in the 80s-90s with night temperatures dropping into the 50s, making sleeping bags necessary even in summer months.
What to do
Wildlife photography: 5-7 am or dusk: In Elk Mountain Campground, visitors frequently spot diverse wildlife at dawn and dusk. "The campground is secluded and quiet. You can see the bison as you come into camp if you're lucky. There was also a wild turkey that was wandering around the whole time we were there," reports Jaci M.
Explore Fall River: Zero entry access: The warm spring-fed water makes this ideal for families with small children. "Nice out of the way smaller campground...The Fall River is fed by hot springs so the water stays nice and just slightly chilled. Almost feels like getting into a heated pool," notes Hayley K. from Allen Ranch Campground.
Night sky viewing: Minimal light pollution: The campgrounds away from town provide excellent stargazing opportunities. "We heard lots of animals through the night and loved it. Our only complaint was that the lights from the very simple bathrooms were so bright at night they ruined our night vision. Do not choose a site near the bathrooms," advises Aaron C. about Elk Mountain Campground.
What campers like
Creek-side sites: Natural white noise: Campers appreciate sites with natural water features for both ambiance and recreation. "Site 36, which was right next to a little creek. At night, we could hear the water running and it was so calming. Tent pads were elevated," reports Sara P. about her stay at Game Lodge Campground.
Pine forest shade coverage: Temperature control: The Black Hills campgrounds offer significant tree cover. "Sites are gravel, open with some ponderosa pines, showers are adequate with a push button and pre-set temperatures," explains Kirby & Donna D. about Stockade North Campground.
Fishing access: Stocked lakes: Multiple fishing opportunities exist within short distances. "We were able to put our hammock up between trees, there was beautiful hiking nearby with stunning views," says Jenny about their stay at Blue Bell Campground. At Angostura Recreation Area, "the lake was amazing and beautiful. It was too cold for us to swim but we grabbed a 1 day fishing license and caught soooooooo many fish. They have an amazing fishing cleaning station as well," explains Kelly A.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Limited winter facilities: While some campgrounds remain open year-round, services are reduced in winter. "Stayed a night in early November. Didn't see any notice that the bathroom we picked a spot near was closed for the season… that meant a really long cold walk to the pit toilet," warns Laura S. about Game Lodge Campground.
Variable cell service: Download maps in advance: Cell reception varies significantly across the area. "When I visited the elevators were not operating and this limited access to the cave itself," notes Crystal C. about Elk Mountain Campground, highlighting the need for backup plans.
Insects: Seasonally intense: Campsites near water sources can experience significant bug activity. "The bugs here are horrible, they are attracted to light of any kind, so do yourself a favor and grab quite a few of those citronella candles," advises Kelly A. about their stay at Angostura Recreation Area.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: Request specific sites: Several campgrounds offer play areas for children. "Clean, clean water that is good for riding on the boat, tubing, and kayaking," mentions Ashley E. about Angostura Recreation Area, making it perfect for active families.
Junior Ranger programs: Educational opportunities: Many campgrounds offer organized activities. "The jr. Ranger programs were great for our girls and we enjoyed the learning," says Joe W. about Blue Bell Campground.
Beach access: Natural swimming areas: Lakes and streams provide swimming opportunities. "The beaches are sandy and clean. Cascade Campground is our favorite! Clean bathrooms and campfires :) There are usually afternoon thunderstorms and wind," reports Laurie L. about Angostura Recreation Area.
Tips from RVers
Electric-only hookups: Plan water usage: Many campgrounds offer electric but limited water or sewer. "Electric sites only, however water and dump stations are available on your way in. We stayed in Cascade which is full on the weekends," reports Toni S. about Angostura Recreation Area.
Off-season RV camping: Check road conditions: Winter and shoulder season camping requires preparation. "Found an easy route around the construction and arrived with no issues. Check-in was quick and easy. There's a $3.50 CG fee along with tax," shares MickandKarla W. about their experience at Stockade North Campground.
Dump station locations: Limited options: Plan ahead for waste management. "Our site was a very un-level gravel pad that was within a few feet of the back of cabins. There was little in terms of privacy," notes Stacia R., highlighting the importance of site selection for larger rigs at Hot Springs / Black Hills KOA.
