262 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Several campgrounds sit close to Deadwood, making it a good base for exploring the Black Hills. Ellsworth AFB FamCamp works well for bigger RVs with its full hookups and room to spread out. Many campers head to Custer State Park, where you'll find different camping areas and trails that wind through the hills. Horse Thief Campground and RV Resort has extras like a swimming pool and playground that kids enjoy. If you want to camp by water, Pactola Reservoir Campground puts you right on the lake with good fishing spots. Horsethief Lake Campground keeps things simple with basic facilities, and it's not far from Mount Rushmore. Summer brings the best camping weather to the area, though most places stay open from May through September. Weather in South Dakota can change quickly, so pack layers and rain gear even for summer trips. The roads to these campgrounds are mostly well-maintained, but it's smart to check conditions if there's been heavy rain recently.
"Drove about 15 min to Deadwood and about an hour to Mt Rushmore. I will come back."
"We picked a site near the back of the camp grounds located near the creek and close to a small parking lot (close by to the pet exercise area on the map - though it's labelled as an ice rink on grounds"
"It was so peaceful and relaxing, yet only minutes from Deadwood. We truly enjoyed our stay, the views, and the wildlife!"
"Strongly recommend access from the north entrance via US Hwy 85 which is a MUCH smoother dirt road. Multiple flat parking places in this spot, so good for tents and trailers."
"They are close to Spearfish Canyon which has wonderful hiking trails and trout fishing. The area is beautiful.There are also close to Deadwood and Lead, both of which are worth exploring!"
"The owners are very helpful and friendly, The campground is close to lots of great activities such as Spearfish Canyon, as well as Deadwood and Lead."
from $23 - $65 / night
Check Availability"Easy access off I-90 and super close to Spearfish, Deadwood, Lead and all this area of South Dakota has to offer."
"Close to freeway and at intersection heading to Deadwood. All the things you could ask for in a campground: beautiful pool, great store, camping cabins, great bathhouses."
"It's a pretty small campground down the road from deadwood. You can take the bus into deadwood."
"Our initially reserved campground nearby was sketchy, so we called KOA Deadwood at 4:30 hoping for a last minute reservation (even though the app said they were full)."
"This little camp is not mentioned in the Deadwood promotional booklet and that's just fine with us! It was not crowded, but busy."
"Easy to find, very close to Deadwood, clean showers and bathrooms and it has a bar a grill! Bar and grill was so good and I’m still dreaming about that burger."
from $28 - $160 / night
Check Availability"It has a beer garden, restroom facilities and it's right on the outskirts of town."
"Helpful convenient right next to freeway so noisy all else is great!"
from $0 - $800 / night
Check Availability"We were also close to the 7.5-mile nature trail entrance from the park to the river, which was great for walking our dogs. The CG has curbside trash pick-up plus firewood& ice for sale."
"Right next to a nice walking trail by the river."
"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."
"Small, but has 3 shaded sites next to the creek (1,2,3). Nice 1.1 mile hike that starts next to Host site. If you just tent camp, there are about 5 sites off by themselves with a vault toilet."
"Great little spot nestled in the woods next to a small stream. Quiet road that is part dirt at times. Would highly recommend"
TravelerThe location was perfect, just outside of the town of Custer and at the entrance to Custer State Park. It was clean and quiet, had a nice laundry facility and friendly staff. They even picked up our trash everyday! We had a shady, wooded campsite. It was just a very nice stay!
TravelerGreat access to Custer but also tucked away in the woods enough to stay sane from the sardine trailer parks down the road.
GuideVery close to Deadwood .Full hook up does not mean that you have sewer. Full hook up is electric and water.
ScoutThey’ve got a store on site. A gas station with reasonable prices. Propane refill on site. You feel very safe while being here. The views around are amazing. They even have an 18 hole disc golf course which I played and enjoyed. They have a nine hole ball golf course. Both of these are free! When you are a member of RPI you get all this for $30 per night. Yay! Loved it!
The sites were a little close to each other but we came at a time of year (mid September) when it wasn’t that busy.
ScoutGreat little spot with amazing views. Short walk to Friendship Tower and watched sunset. Only saw 3 cars pass on rd. Got here on Sunday afternoon late and had no trouble locating spots. There are more down the road but this was perfect. There are 2 other spots within sight of here but no one there.
ScoutNo beavers, no lake. The Staff was extremely helpful, caring and courteous. The campground was meticulously maintained and the shower building was very clean. I bought a shirt and forgot it on a table and they called me before I’d gone too far to turn back. The covered picnic table was much appreciated.
GuideClean bathrooms and showers. Unfortunately still in a fire ban but beautiful area and close to Crazy Horse, Mt Rushmore and we are still exploring!
GuideEasy checkin by friendly staff. Restroom / shower / laundry area was well kept. Pool was open. Decent sized lots that were fairly level. Close to interstate so expect some traffic noise.
TravelerQuiet dispersed camping site just off main road about a mile before the Jewel Cave NM entrance when traveling from the west. Quiet, spacious, no frills spot to stay for the night.
Camping spots near Deadwood, South Dakota offer diverse terrain at elevations ranging from 4,500 to 5,500 feet throughout the northern Black Hills. The area's pine-covered slopes provide natural shade at many campgrounds while creating distinct microclimates that can be 5-10 degrees cooler than surrounding lowlands. Most primitive camping areas close by mid-October due to early snowfall potential in the higher elevations.
Hike to Roosevelt Friendship Tower: Located at Mount Roosevelt Road Dispersed Campsite, this free area offers a short trail with panoramic views. "Had an amazing time at this prime free dispersed campsite! Make sure to hit the hike to the tower and overlook!" shares Bruce S., who notes the area has approximately 10 sites depending on your setup.
Explore Spearfish Canyon: Stay at Spearfish City Campground to access the scenic canyon. "Spend a day driving Spearfish canyon and hiking to waterfalls," suggests Glenda, who appreciates the campground's proximity to natural attractions. The creek that runs through the campground adds natural white noise for sleeping.
Visit historic sites: Many campgrounds provide easy access to Lead, Deadwood and other mining towns. "We spent a lot of time exploring Spearfish Canyon/Roughlock Falls/Lead/etc but spent one day just to relax at the campground/hatchery/Park," notes Megan R., highlighting the balance between sightseeing and downtime.
Natural water features: Campers consistently mention creek access as a highlight. "The beautiful creek runs along the camp. It was nice going to sleep and waking up with the sound of the water," writes Shirlee A. about Spearfish City Campground. Many sites offer creekside locations for natural cooling and ambiance.
Transportation options: Several campgrounds near Deadwood provide shuttle service to town. "The trolley to town runs on the hour, it cost $1. Best deal in town," says Brian W. about Deadwood KOA. This allows campers to enjoy Deadwood's attractions without parking hassles.
Wildlife viewing: Many campers report deer sightings near their sites. Karen V. shares about Days End Campground: "Woke up to deer munching on acorns right outside our rig." The forested setting of most campgrounds attracts various wildlife species throughout the season.
Reservation timing matters: During peak season (June-August), campgrounds fill quickly. "We made reservations 6 months in advance for a long level site," notes one reviewer at Whistler Gulch Campground, suggesting early planning especially for specific site requests.
Weather variability: The Black Hills experience rapid temperature shifts, even in summer. Evening temperatures can drop 30+ degrees from daytime highs, requiring proper bedding even in July and August.
Site layout considerations: Many campgrounds have close quarters. "The sites are very close together (no privacy) but people were quiet and respectful," explains Aida K. at Hanna Campground, which offers a more secluded alternative with "only 3 sites have shade, others are in direct sunlight until dusk."
Pools and playgrounds: Several campgrounds offer recreational amenities. "The outdoor pool and hot tubs the playground was fantastic," notes Amber W. about Elkhorn Ridge RV Resort & Cabins, which offers family-friendly features along with upscale amenities.
Educational opportunities: Visit nearby attractions that combine learning with fun. "They are close to Spearfish Canyon which has wonderful hiking trails and trout fishing... also close to Deadwood and Lead, both of which are worth exploring!" suggests Theresa H. about Chris' Campground.
Evening activities: Look for campgrounds with nearby entertainment options. "The city of Spearfish had activities in the park (about 1/4 mile away) every evening (magician, concerts, etc)," shares Megan R., highlighting free family programming that supplements the camping experience.
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the Black Hills region have uneven terrain. "We did not have many sites to choose from when making our reservations and had the site next to us had an RV and vehicle parked we would not have been able to get in," explains Tom D., recommending specific sites at Spearfish City Campground: "Sites 1 and 30 are pull-throughs. 31-34 easily accommodate large RVs."
Off-season benefits: Consider camping in May or September for fewer crowds and better availability. "We paid a $44 per night off-season rate with Good Sam discount," notes one RVer about Elkhorn Ridge RV Resort, where concrete pads and modern hookups provide comfort in the shoulder season.
Road access considerations: Most campgrounds have paved access, but some require navigating steeper roads. "The road was in good shape. Lots of deer and wildlife so watch out," cautions one reviewer about Mount Roosevelt Road, emphasizing the need for vigilance when driving to camp.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Deadwood, SD?
According to TheDyrt.com, Deadwood, SD offers a wide range of camping options, with 262 campgrounds and RV parks near Deadwood, SD and 37 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Deadwood, SD?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Deadwood, SD is Spearfish KOA camp with a 4.4-star rating from 41 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Deadwood, SD?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 37 free dispersed camping spots near Deadwood, SD.
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