Camping facilities near Buffalo Gap sit at elevations ranging from 3,000-4,000 feet in the southern Black Hills region, where summer temperatures typically reach 75-85°F during peak season. Many campgrounds feature mature ponderosa pines providing partial shade for tent sites, though RV spots often have limited natural coverage. Cell reception varies significantly throughout the area with signal strength typically stronger at higher elevation camping areas.
What to do
Wildlife viewing at Custer State Park: Located approximately 30 minutes from several Buffalo Gap area campgrounds, the park's Wildlife Loop offers opportunities to view bison herds, especially during morning or evening hours. "We spent 6 nights and had awesome day trips with wildlife experience the entire stay," notes a camper from Heartland RV Park And Cabins.
Explore local cave systems: Wind Cave National Park sits approximately 45 minutes south of most camping areas near Buffalo Gap. "After my surgery (6 days later) we were able to drive to Keystone and Hill City. Both fun little towns. Hermosa is very close. Has a nice chicken restaurant next to a nice antique/gift shop and has a drive in theater," notes a visitor at Heartland RV Park And Cabins.
Hiking at Sylvan Lake: The trails around Sylvan Lake offer routes suitable for various experience levels. "5 miles from Sylvan Lake, minute to Custer, 30 minutes to Wind cave National Park. Full hookups, level site, good cell phone reception," writes a camper staying at Fort Welikit Family Campground and RV Park.
What campers like
Central location for attractions: Many rv sites near Buffalo Gap, South Dakota provide convenient access to multiple regional destinations. "Heartland RV Park is located relatively close to Custer State Park and Mount Rushmore and many other tourist sites," notes one reviewer at Heartland RV Park.
On-site amenities: Some campgrounds offer unexpected services that enhance convenience. "The small restaurant with limited menu and a bar is a big plus. They are located in the Event Center which hosts live music on many evenings. They had a free wine tasting of local wines most of which are made from berries instead of grapes," reports a visitor to Holy Smoke Resort.
Quiet camping environments: Several campgrounds prioritize peaceful settings. "This park is extremely well-maintained. The grounds, sites and bathroom/shower/laundry facilities were immaculate," notes a guest at Wheels West RV Park. Another visitor to Horse Thief Campground and RV Resort comments: "It is off a major highway so nighttime is quiet. There's a mix and tree and open areas. The open area is great for night sky watching."
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the Black Hills feature uneven terrain. "The sites are small and dirt only but we did have a covered shelter and electricity. I would have give those up for one of the grassy sites down the hill with no electricity," notes a tent camper at Fort Welikit Family Campground.
Seasonal operating schedules: Most rv parks near Buffalo Gap are seasonal operations. "This campground has recently been remodeled with all new pads, electric and water. Only a couple miles to the west entrance of Custer SP. 3.5 miles from Custer," reports a visitor to Wheels West RV Park and Campground during the summer season.
Limited water sources: Some campgrounds require water management. "Electric only, but water is available. Great WiFi. Everyone was nice, we were met as we entered the campground and shown to our spot," notes a visitor to Custers Last Chance RV Park and Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: Several campgrounds offer dedicated children's areas. "The work campers are all so nice, They keep busy everyday! We felt that the food was great and so convenient. We had breakfast here many mornings and pizza and wings a few times. The live bands were a nice touch," reports a family staying at Heartland RV Park.
Swimming options: Some sites provide pools for cooling off during summer heat. "During a hot week mid June, we were grateful for full hookups, clean shower facilities, and a (small) pool to keep cool BUT the little trees beside each site provide no shade for the rigs," notes a family that stayed at Heartland RV Park.
Kid-friendly campground activities: Look for campgrounds with on-site entertainment. "There is breakfast and dinner available on-site, and they will deliver it right to you! We had both breakfast and dinner while we were there," writes a family that stayed at Custers Gulch RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing considerations: RV campgrounds vary significantly in site spacing. "We got into Custer's Gulch at night in a thunderstorm. The staff left out our reservation paperwork so we knew where to go. As dark as it was at night pulling into the spot was a breeze. Fairly level and kinda far back off the road," reports an RVer at Custers Gulch RV Park.
Highway noise concerns: Some campgrounds experience road noise. "What keeps this from being a 5 are the size of the sites and the proximity to the highway 79. The sites are smallest I have been to and there is absolutely no privacy. I had to wear earplugs at night to be able to sleep at night," notes an RVer at Heartland RV Park.
Utility reliability: Most campgrounds offer consistent services, but exceptions occur. "We had two instances where the shower had no hot water. We were right next to a wifi repeater but had consistent connection issues so we couldn't use the park wifi," reports a guest at Heartland RV Park.
