The Mount Rushmore State is home to seven National Park Service sites that range from jewel-encrusted caves to ancient fossil beds. Black Hills National Forest in the western side of the state covers an additional 1.2 million acres that spill over the border into Wyoming and hold the highest peak east of the Rockies. At about 71,000 acres, nearby Custer State Park is one of the largest state parks in the country and home to an annual buffalo roundup that offers a true taste of the American West. The Black Hills, often referred to as the “island in the prairie,” is a perfect spot to start your South Dakota camping trip!


Travelers looking to lounge lakeside will be pleased with the many camping options available near the region’s 17 lakes. With stunning rock formations reaching out from the water, Sylvan Lake is one of the area’s most iconic places to take a dip and do some South Dakota camping. Nearby, Horsethief Lake is tucked into the surrounding ponderosa pines, yet only two miles away from the ultimate road trip stop, Mount Rushmore National Memorial. Those looking to pick up some speed can head north to Pactola Lake for a day of water skiing and a night of s’mores.


Prefer solitude? Strap on your backpack and hike the state’s 111-mile Centennial Trail, which provides a north to south taste of the Black Hills through prairie grasslands, dense forests, and high country terrain. Check with the different land management agencies along the way for specifics on where backcountry camping is allowed or where to find established campgrounds. Rather bike? The 109-mile George S. Mickelson Trail runs parallel to the Centennial Trail and is a rails-to-trails, car-free dream.


South Dakota camping is for everyone, and whether you’re exploring by foot or by RV, you’ll be able to find the perfect place to rest your head. Private and public campgrounds near the town of Custer offer RV hookups, and are a quick drive to Crazy Horse Memorial, the world’s largest in-progress mountain carving. Begun in 1948 by sculptor Korczak Ziolkowski at the request of Oglala Lakota Chief, Henry Standing Bear, this memorial is more than a work of art. It is a mission to preserve and honor the culture and tradition of Native Americans. 


After camping on the island in the prairie, make sure to head east and watch the landscape roll into waves of grasslands before crashing into Badlands National Park. Head east farther still, and you’ll meet up with the mighty Missouri River. Use The Dyrt to find South Dakota camping options along the way that will open your eyes to the hidden beauties of the heartland.

South Dakota

The Best Camping in South Dakota | 100+ SD Campgrounds

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Custer National Forest, SD is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Custer National Forest. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Custer National Forest

The Best Camping Near Custer National Forest, South Dakota

Wayside RV Park

Broadus Motels & White Buffalo Campground

A campground on the Ashland Ranger District. Camp sites: 3 Trash Pickup: No Firewood: No No Reservations: This campground does not use a reservation system, it is managed on a first-come, first-served basis. Be aware the campground may fill up on weekends & holidays during the summer months and you should arrive in the early afternoon to ensure there is a space available for the night. There is a 10 day stay limit. Information: Ashland District Office Box 168, Hwy 212 Ashland, MT 59003 (406) 784-2344

Holiday Spring Campground

## Overview

Diamond Butte Lookout is perched atop a 30-foot masonry tower on Diamond Butte at an altitude of 4,245 feet in the Custer National Forest approximately 40 miles from Ashland, Montana. The lookout was moved from its original location of Yeager Butte in 1958 and was an active fire lookout until 2001. Guests can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. This vantage point offers the chance to enjoy sunrises, sunsets and star gazing on clear nights. The lookout is accessible by car, but it is a 200-foot walk up a steep hill to the lookout from the parking area. Guests should be prepared to bring most of their own supplies and gear. 

## Recreation

You can enjoy hiking, horseback riding and mountain biking near the lookout. Opportunities are available to enjoy off-road vehicle riding and hunting. 

## Facilities

The lookout can accommodate 4 people and is furnished with a table, chairs and1 twin bed with mattress, a double futon with mattress and a cot. Propane appliances include a cook stove with an oven, lights and a heater. A few cooking and eating utensils are provided, along with a broom, mop and bucket. Parking and an outhouse with a pit toilet are located at the gate 200 feet below the lookout. A wagon is stored in the lookout's basement to help haul gear. Water and electricity are not available. Guests must bring their own water for drinking, cooking and washing. Items such as bedding, lanterns or flashlights, matches, extra toilet paper, first aid supplies, trash bags, dish soap, towels and an ice chest are not available. Guests are expected to pack out their trash and clean the cabin before leaving.

## Natural Features

The lookout offers expansive views of the nearby hills and the distant Bighorn Mountains, which are about 100 miles away. Vegetation is sparse, but sagebrush and lupin thrive on the surrounding landscape. Wildlife in the area includes fox, black bear, antelope and a variety of bird species ( bear safety ).

Diamond Butte Lookout

A campground on the Ashland Ranger District. **Camp sites:** 14 **Trash Pickup:** No **Firewood:** No No Reservations: This campground does not use a reservation system, it is managed on a first-come, first-served basis. Be aware the campground may fill up on weekends & holidays during the summer months and you should arrive in the early afternoon to ensure there is a space available for the night. There is a 10 day stay limit. ** **Information:** Ashland District Office Box 168, Hwy 212 Ashland, MT 59003 (406) 784-2344**

Red Shale Campground & Geocache Site

## Overview

Whitetail Cabin sits at an altitude of 4,048 feet in the north end of the Custer National Forest approximately 20 miles from Ashland, Montana. The cabin was built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps. Formerly a ranger station, it is now a registered historic site.  
  
The cabin is available year-round and is accessible by car, but guests should be prepared to hike about 100 yards to the cabin in winter, depending on road conditions. Some creature comforts are provided, but guests will need to bring several of their own amenities. 

## Recreation

Hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding are popular options in the area. Horse facilities are provided at the cabin. In winter, the landscape is ideal for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. The cabin is popular with hunters during elk, deer and turkey hunting seasons.

## Facilities

The 2-room cabin sleeps 4 and comes furnished with 2 sets of bunkbeds with mattresses, a table with 4 chairs, electric range, electric refrigerator, cleaning equipment and some basic cooking and eating utensils. A wood burning stove is provided, along with a limited supply of firewood. A picnic table and campfire ring are located in front of the cabin. An outhouse with pit toilet is located nearby. Horse facilities include a corral, 1 hitching rails and approximately 5 acres of fenced area to contain livestock. Seasonal spring water can be used for livestock consumption only, but guests should call the Ranger District to check water availability in advance. No water is available at the cabin. Guests must bring their own supply of water for drinking, cooking and washing. Items such as bedding, lanterns or flashlights, matches, extra toilet paper, first aid supplies, trash bags, dish soap, and towels are not available. Guests are expected to pack out their trash and clean the cabin before leaving.

## Natural Features

The cabin sits in an open area backed by a stand of ponderosa pine. It is located in the Ashland Ranger District, which features a landscape of ponderosa pines and steep rocky outcroppings. Custer National Forest supports populations of bear, mule and whitetail deer, antelope, elk, cougar and bobcat ( bear precautions ). A variety of birds also inhabit the area.

Whitetail Cabin

Located next to the Powder River, this site contains a semi-developed, yet primitive, campground popular for fall hunting camps, but beautiful to camp in year round. BLM managed lands are nearby providing hunting and many other recreational activities. Moorhead Campground is also a Special Recreation Management Area (SRMA) that has become a very popular area for many recreationists seeking to get away from it all!

Moorhead Recreation Site

Campground with 7 sites and two day use picnic sites near Ekalaka on the Ekalaka Hills Unit, Sioux Ranger District. **Accessible Facilities:** Toilet **Trash Pickup:** No **Firewood:** No No Reservations: This campground does not use a reservation system, it is managed on a first-come, first-served basis. There is a 14 day stay limit. ** **Information:** Sioux District Office Box 37, Main & First Camp Crook, SD 57724 (605) 797-4432**

Ekalaka Park Campground

A campground on the Ashland Ranger District. **Camp sites:** 4 **Picnic Site:** 1 **Accessible Facilities:** Toilet **Trash Pickup:** No **Firewood:** No No Reservations: This campground does not use a reservation system, it is managed on a first-come, first-served basis. Be aware the campground may fill up on weekends & holidays during the summer months and you should arrive in the early afternoon to ensure there is a space available for the night. There is a 10 day stay limit. ** **Information:** Ashland District Office Box 168, Hwy 212 Ashland, MT 59003 (406) 784-2344**

Cow Creek Campground And Picnic Area

A campground on the Ashland Ranger District. **Camp sites:** 2 **Accessible Facilities:** Toilet **Trash Pickup:** No **Firewood:** No No Reservations: This campground does not use a reservation system, it is managed on a first-come, first-served basis. ** **Information:** Ashland District Office Box 168, Hwy 212 Ashland, MT 59003 (406) 784-2344**

Blacks Pond Campground

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Sioux Falls. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Sioux Falls, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. Find the best campgrounds near Sioux Falls, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Sioux Falls

The Best Camping Near Sioux Falls, South Dakota

East of the Black Hills, South Dakota has a lot to offer. Near Rapid City, SD, and not too far from Mount Rushmore, you can take in the historic monument before heading off to camp and explore. Nearby Black Hills National Forest, Custer State Park and Wind Cave National Park have plenty of adventures to offer. Spend the day exploring trails or rock climbing. It’s hard to beat exploring the Black Hills on horseback and there are several campgrounds that accommodate equestrians. Whether you stay in a tent or a spacious, multi-level cabin, Rapid City has some of the best camping spots in the area. There are also RV campsite options with half and full hookups.

Rapid City

The Best Camping Near Rapid City, South Dakota

Aberdeen is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Aberdeen campgrounds just for you. Find the best campgrounds near Aberdeen, SD. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

Aberdeen

The Best Camping Near Aberdeen, South Dakota

Brookings is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Brookings is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Brookings camping trip.

Brookings

The Best Camping Near Brookings, South Dakota

Are you in need of a campground near Watertown, SD? Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Watertown campgrounds just for you. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Watertown. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Watertown

The Best Camping Near Watertown, South Dakota

Looking for the best campgrounds near Mitchell, SD? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that South Dakota camping has to offer. Find the best campgrounds near Mitchell, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Mitchell

The Best Camping Near Mitchell, South Dakota

Looking for the best campgrounds near Yankton, SD? Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Yankton is surrounded by family-friendly activities. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your South Dakota camping adventure.

Yankton

The Best Camping Near Yankton, South Dakota

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Pierre. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Find the best campgrounds near Pierre, SD. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Pierre

The Best Pierre, SD Camping | South Dakota Campgrounds

Looking for the best campgrounds near Huron, SD? There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Huron. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Huron

The Best Camping Near Huron, South Dakota

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Vermillion, SD is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Vermillion. Discover great camping spots near Vermillion, reviewed by campers like you.

Vermillion

The Best Camping Near Vermillion, South Dakota

Like all of South Dakota, Badlands National Park enjoys sunny summers and harsh winters. While you can go at any time, this park, like most, is crowded during the summer. While getting campsites in peak season isn’t impossible, it isn’t always easy.

With only one reservable campground, getting a camping spot in Badlands is tricky. That being said, with large amounts of federal land surrounding it, free camping is abundant. However, RV campers will appreciate the availability of sites in the park that can accommodate them. Buffalo Gap National Grassland offers the best camping near Badlands National Park if you can’t snag a camp spot. For campers and roadtrippers alike, a stop (or stay) in Wall, SD, is a must.

Badlands National Park

Are you in need of a campground near Badlands National Park, SD? Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Badlands National Park, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. Discover great camping spots near Badlands National Park, reviewed by campers like you.

The Best Camping Near Badlands National Park, South Dakota

With views of the Black Hills, open prairies, and pine forests, some of the best camping spots are in Wind Cave National Park. Near Hot Springs, SD, campers can stock up on camping supplies before pitching their tents. Campgrounds around the South Dakota park accommodate RV drivers, and also offer cabins and yurts as additional sleeping options. Backpack through the park watching birds perch calmly on the backs of bison. Elk and pronghorn antelopes also roam the prairies and forests. Campsites by the cave are a prime opportunity to discover the underground marvels that include the famous Wind Cave, and the subterranean chambers known as the Post Office and Elk’s Room.

Wind Cave National Park

The Best Camping Near Wind Cave National Park, South Dakota

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Black Hills National Forest, SD has a lot to offer. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Black Hills National Forest and user-submitted reviews.

Black Hills National Forest

The Best Camping Near Black Hills National Forest, South Dakota

Searching for the best camping near Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area, SD? Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area. Find the best campgrounds near Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area

The Best Camping Near Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area, South Dakota

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Jamestown Reservoir. Jamestown Reservoir is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Jamestown Reservoir

The Best Camping Near Jamestown Reservoir, South Dakota

Pipestem Lake, SD is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Pipestem Lake is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Find the best campgrounds near Pipestem Lake, SD. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Pipestem Lake

The Best Camping Near Pipestem Lake, South Dakota

Conestoga Lake is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that South Dakota camping has to offer. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Conestoga Lake and user-submitted reviews.

The Best Camping in Custer National Forest

Top Campgrounds in Custer National Forest (11)

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