Best Equestrian Camping near Deadwood, SD

Days of 76 Campground in Deadwood provides designated horse camping sites with stables for equestrians traveling with their animals. The campground features gravel sites throughout, with several spots specifically designed to accommodate both camping units and horse trailers. Campers can access full hookup RV sites or tent camping areas while keeping their horses nearby in the on-site stables. The bathroom and shower facilities remain clean and spacious, convenient for riders returning from trail excursions. This campground serves as an excellent basecamp for those exploring the extensive trail systems throughout the Black Hills region. The location offers a short, safe walk into downtown Deadwood for visitors wanting to experience the historic mining town after a day of riding.

The Black Hills National Forest surrounding Deadwood contains numerous horse-friendly trails accessible from local campgrounds. Riders can access multiple trail systems that wind through forested terrain and open meadows, offering varied terrain for all experience levels. Water access points for horses are available along many trails, though riders should verify seasonal availability. Horse owners should pack out all manure from camping areas and practice proper trail etiquette on shared pathways. Campground reservation policies vary seasonally, with higher demand during summer months and special events. The region experiences significant weather variations, so equestrians should prepare for changing conditions. Most campgrounds in the area require advance booking for sites that accommodate horses and trailers.

Map showing campgrounds near Deadwood, South Dakota

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Best Equestrian Sites Near Deadwood, South Dakota (21)

1. Whistler Gulch Campground & RV Park
10 Reviews
Deadwood, SD
1 mile
Website
+1 (605) 578-2092
"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."
2. Iron Creek Lake Campground
6 Reviews
Lead, SD
13 miles
Website
+1 (605) 642-5851
$30 - $38 / night
"We camped at Iron Creek Lake after the rally, at the end of August. It was wonderful, not crowded. The cafe/diner has things like burgers and ice cream, and the fishing in the lake is great. "

"Tucked away in the beautiful Black Hills, this is a favorite to many locals. Hiking, fishing, and great views."

3. Days of 76 Campground
3 Reviews
Deadwood, SD
1 mile
Website
+1 (605) 578-2872
"They have several horse camping sites too and a few guests were using the stables."

"Small campground close to the street. We had a dry campground ($28) close to the office, but Wifi was not working good. Clean and spacious showers and restrooms."
4. Mount Rushmore KOA at Palmer Gulch
55 Reviews
Hill City, SD
34 miles
Website
"Make the most of your South Dakota vacation by spending it camping. My group tented and had a great time."

"It’s basically a small town with two pools, a village of shops and restaurants, tons of activities, and a large horse stable with trail rides."

5. Black Fox Campground
4 Reviews
Silver City, SD
17 miles
Website
"Nestled up in the beautiful Black Hills of South Dakota, Black Fox is our 'go to' campground because of how small it is. 8-10 sites that are spread out so you're not right beside other campers."

"The drive to Black Fox is along quite a few ranches and follows a river. The drive is enjoyable and not very difficult to handle. The campground is right along the river."
6. Sylvan Lake Campground — Custer State Park
42 Reviews
Custer, SD
38 miles
Website
+1 (605) 255-4515
"This lake is beautiful, its one of my favorite places inside Custer state park. There are a ton of trails, all within easy walking distance. Make sure you pack plenty of water."

"Pricey (entrance fee plus campground fee) but worth it. Beautiful lake with great access to hiking trails, and just a short drive to Mt Rushmore and Crazy Horse."

7. Elk Creek RV Park Lodge & Resort
3 Reviews
Piedmont, SD
21 miles
Website
+1 (605) 787-4884
"Pleasant campground tucked away in the black hills of SD"
8. Rapid City KOA
25 Reviews
Rapid City, SD
35 miles
Website
+1 (605) 348-2111
"Close to Mount Rushmore and crazy horse! Pirates cove mini golf is a short drive away! Great facility with standard KOA amenities."

"My parents were able to rent a deluxe cabin right next to our campsite. My parents don’t “camp,” so this was perfect for a family vacation."

9. Rafter J Bar Ranch
20 Reviews
Hill City, SD
35 miles
Website
+1 (605) 574-2527
"Rushmore, Crazy Horse, and Devil’s Tower. We had a beautiful campsite in the “Ranch” section that had lots of trees and was a fair distance away from our neighbors."

"Centrally located! Just across the street from access to Mt. Rushmore and the Needles Highway and down the road from Crazy Horse. Beautiful view of the hills."
10. Hay Creek Ranch
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Nemo, SD
10 miles
Website
+1 (605) 578-1142

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Recent Equestrian Camping Photos near Deadwood, SD

28 Photos of 21 Deadwood Campgrounds

Equestrian Camping Reviews near Deadwood, SD

264 Reviews of 21 Deadwood Campgrounds

Billy B.
Guide
Aug. 30, 2016
Sylvan Lake Campground — Custer State Park
Best campground in Custer State park
This lake is beautiful, its one of my favorite places inside Custer state park. There are a ton of trails, all within easy walking distance. Make sure you pack plenty of water. Some of the hikes are pretty steep and South Dakota in notorious for fast changing weather. The lake itself can be pretty busy, especially during the weekend. Lot of people swimming and kayaking. Needles highway is a must if your in the area
Leasa W.
Guide
Jul. 30, 2016
Mount Rushmore KOA at Palmer Gulch
Excellent tenting option for vacationing near Mt. Rushmore
So you're going to Mount Rushmore.... I discovered during my trip to the area June 2015 that hotel rates in the area are very high for what you get & hard to find availability. The solution is to camp! Make the most of your South Dakota vacation by spending it camping. My group tented and had a great time. Keep in mind though for those coming from other areas of the country, South Dakota does experience rain and thunderstorms. Pack and camp accordingly. This campground is nearby many SD attractions, within easy driving distance and minutes of Hill City, Custer, Keystone, Rapid City, Mount Rushmore. There are many options at the campground such as purchasing firewood to renting bikes. Check out KOA's campground map for campground layout. RV hookups, tent sites, heated pools, splash pad, and much more to keep everyone entertained. Remember that this area of South Dakota hosts high volumes of tourists each season, especially summer and during Sturgis Motorcyle Rally. I highly recommend making reservations far in advance!
Hope H.
Traveler
May. 30, 2018
Black Fox Campground
Quaint and Cozy Campground!
Nestled up in the beautiful Black Hills of South Dakota, Black Fox is our 'go to' campground because of how small it is. 8-10 sites that are spread out so you're not right beside other campers. Black Fox has 1 vaulted toilet and every camp site has its own fire pit and picnic table. There is a small creek that runs right behind many of the camp sites so if you feel like doing a little rainbow trout fishing, you can. If your not into fishing, just hop on to your ATV and go explore the many trails that are situated right around the campground. Not only will you be able to enjoy nature, but you will see elk, deer, turkey and if your lucky, a mountain lion!
Jenifer K.
Guide
May. 11, 2019
Days of 76 Campground
Walk to downtown Deadwood
We stayed overnight in a PT W/E site for $38. The whole park is gravel, with some muddy potholes. They have several horse camping sites too and a few guests were using the stables. It's a short and safe walk into downtown Deadwood, if you'd like to do some drinking and walk home... which is exactly what we did.
E
Elizabeth M.
Scout
Oct. 21, 2023
Blue Bell Campground — Custer State Park
Solo female kicked out in the middle of the night
I am a solo, female, camping alone. The site-hosts came banging on my car & yelling, and kicked me out in the middle of the night, stating that I canceled my reservation. I did NOT cancel my reservation. I have a credit card receipt for payment of my reservation. The host refused to look at any of my proving evidence that I paid for a site. 15E. They just kept yelling for me to “Get out!” And kicked me out at 9:30 PM, and leaving me stranded/homeless in South Dakota. I do not live in the state and had no idea what to do. They have endangered my safety. Do not stay here! They can kick you out whenever they want.
Danielle R.
Guide
Sep. 16, 2018
Blue Bell Campground — Custer State Park
Amazing View
Exceptionally large park. This is closest to the southern entrance. We had bison herds South of us and North. We never managed to make it East where the long trail is, which seems to be known for wildlife. We had easy access to the West exit and had a great dining experience as well as quick access to all the local monuments. The campground was very peaceful. The showers and bathrooms were very clean. There is a centrally located atrium for events that we didn't see used. We ended up next to a group of young college age people who were spread out and noisier than most, but that was just our luck. We had a break in the tree line to see stars from our tent. There is a gas station and store right at the campground. We didn't plan enough time to give the hiking trails a chance. This campground does have horse trails.
Tammy B.
Scout
Oct. 6, 2023
Fort Welikit Family Campground and RV Park
Best campground in the Black Hills SD
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Tammy B

Local Guide·293 reviews·337 photos

an hour ago

NEW

We were camphosts for the 2023 season.I can't say enough on how Kelly, Steve and his entire family makes sure your well taken care of..they added a second dog park for the little pups, renovated 5 site to give a better camping experience in … More

Amy Kinzler Illg

4 reviews

a month ago

Vacation | Family

Stayed two nights here and overall a very good experience. Nicely equipped campground with a little shop for necessities. We stayed in a tent site with no electricity. Was a very pretty campground with deer, turkeys, a little play area for … More

Travis Trussell

Local Guide·74 reviews·256 photos

a month ago

Vacation | Family

I can't say enough good things about this campground after staying for 6 nights. The spots are spacious and the hookups are located in a perfect spot to make things easy. Bathrooms and showers are very nice and clean. They have a nice dog … More

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Houston & Carolynn

Local Guide·168 reviews·289 photos

a month ago

A very quiet campground. The staff are friendly and I love the showers for they are private little rooms. They have a playground, laundry and these cute little kegs you can stay overnight in. I would recommend this place. The site are very nice. Houston enjoyed the shade and met another friend. … More

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Fort Welikit Family Campground - Custer, South Dakota

Ft. Welikit was lovely and well-maintained. The owners are onsite and very helpful. If you are traveling with small children, this is your place! They ...

9/10(135) · $$$

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Fort Welikit Family Campground Reviews updated 2023

Oct 29, 2013 — This is a really cute family-owned campground. The staff is friendly and helpful. They shared a lot of good information about the area with us.

4.0(11) · 50

Fort Welikit Family Campground

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Fort Welikit Family Campground: Black HIlls Campgrounds

· · · OPEN MAY 1st to OCTOBER 15th · · Located on the scenic Norbeck Byway away from the aeras busy highways yet just one mile North · of the ...

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Fort Welikit Family Campground - Custer, SD

Aug 30, 2016 — It is a very nice place to spend your evenings. Deer and turkeys in the campground everyday. Has a fenced dog park and a small playground for ...

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Fort Welikit Family Campground and RV Park Camping

Absolutely loved our stay here!! Our check in was easy and the staff super pleasant. This is a family oriented campground with a great play area for the kiddos.

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Fort Welikit Family Campground | Custer SD

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Feb 20, 2019 — We are planning a visit to Mt. Rushmore in May and are thinking of staying at Fort Welikit Family Campground. They have some good reviews but

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Fort Welikit Family Campground

It was very quiet and peaceful even though we were there during a peak summer period. The campground is well maintained, family owned and well run. The ...

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Tammy B

Local Guide·293 reviews·337 photos

an hour ago

NEW

We were camphosts for the 2023 season.I can't say enough on how Kelly, Steve and his entire family makes sure your well taken care of..they added a second dog park for the little pups, renovated 5 site to give a better camping experience in those sites. If you need something they are on it..they have the best options for camping.. cabins, teepees, barrel kegs, tent, electric tent, w/e 30 amp, 30 amp full h/hu, 50 amp f/hu, and big rig sites..they have worked endlessly to supply you with the best experience. The campground is not your typical parking lot camping..each site is individually unique..it was made around hills, tons of shade trees,and rock formations. Each site is as level as possible. Restroom are individual with shower sink and toilet.. they are very clean. There is a fort playground for the kids that's fantastic. There is a pavilion that can be used for family gatherings. Several reunions are hosted every year..You will have local wildlife visit daily including deer and turkeys. In the spring the new fawns and chick turkeys are born and are adorable. They are centralized to all attractions..perfect location to everything. The several clients that have been repeat customers for years..staying for 6 to 8 weeks..that speaks for it self..everybody loves it. It's very quiet, the store has everything you need. Michelson trail is approximately 1 mile away which can be walked or ride bikes the 114 miles through the mountains. The hospital is 1 mile away. If your in the area, and you need an excellent place to stay..at the best price.. this is where you want to be.. It's very family friendly including your dogs and cats.
B M.
Legend
May. 30, 2020
Whistler Gulch Campground & RV Park
Tight sites but great location
We stay in site # 220 with Full hook up. We backed up to a mountain not a bad view. Would have liked to have been a little closer to the pool and where the trolley picks up it was a walk from our site. The pool which was clean & refreshing and quiet.

You can trolley from the campground into town Deadwood it's $1.00 each way. Some trolley drivers are so funny they seem to have a good time. It's fun to see the shoot out in the street with Wild Bill Hickok & Calamity Jane. The cemetery where they are buried is a 5 minute drive or trolley from the campground.

They do have some ATV people camp there they go up the mountain & run around but it wasn't loud.

Sturgis is close, nice little drive. Fun place we didn't go when the big bike event.

Deadwood is a cool town love to eat at Saloon 10 a great Ribeye steak, doesn't hurt to make a reservation it can be very busy. Good burgers too. Deadwood Dick's is a bar/ Antique store we cruised through that Love his logo.
Chrissy D.
Traveler
Sep. 24, 2019
Whistler Gulch Campground & RV Park
Not great for tents
Maybe if your in an RV it’s better? Tent sites are all the way at the top of the hill. Not even in walking distance to bathrooms, showers or the pool. We felt remote up there, which I suppose isn’t a bad thing. Very uneven grassy spaces. They did have shuttle to town. Convenient to town deadwood and lead and to attractions.

Guide to Deadwood

Deadwood is situated in the northern Black Hills at 4,530 feet elevation, characterized by densely forested slopes and steep gulches. The region experiences significant temperature swings with summer days reaching 85°F while dropping to 45°F at night. Camping near Deadwood offers access to historic mining trails converted for recreational use and seasonal stream fishing opportunities.

What to do

Trout fishing access: Iron Creek Lake Campground provides fishing opportunities in a mountain setting. "Beautiful Mountain Lake. Wildlife all around. Great Trout, and even some Bass fishing," notes Russ N. The lake has several access points and a trail that circles the water.

ATV trail exploration: The Black Fox Campground connects directly to multiple off-highway vehicle trails. "If you're not into fishing, just hop on to your ATV and go explore the many trails that are situated right around the campground," shares Hope H. Trails range from beginner to advanced with elevation changes of 1,000+ feet.

Downtown Deadwood visits: Whistler Gulch Campground & RV Park offers trolley service to downtown. "You can trolley from the campground into town Deadwood it's $1.00 each way. Some trolley drivers are so funny they seem to have a good time," explains B M. The trolley runs every 30 minutes during summer months.

What campers like

Private woodland sites: Black Fox Campground offers secluded camping opportunities away from crowds. "Nestled up in the beautiful Black Hills of South Dakota, Black Fox is our 'go to' campground because of how small it is. 8-10 sites that are spread out so you're not right beside other campers," says Hope H.

Year-round options: Elk Creek RV Park Lodge & Resort accommodates winter visitors. "Lovely hiking on the site. Very friendly staff. Clean, well serviced. Far enough from freeway so you feel like you are really camping, but very convenient. So glad they are open during the winter," reports Laura M.

Water recreation: Iron Creek Lake Campground features lake activities beyond just fishing. "The trail around the lake is easy to walk and there is some beach area for frog catching and splashing around with little kids," notes Aaron S. The lake also offers kayak rentals during summer months.

What you should know

Cell service limitations: Coverage varies significantly between campgrounds near Deadwood. "This is a great place to camp they only downside is there's absolutely zero data connection or internet connection. I have a hotspot for my RV because I watch internet TV and for two days I couldn't do anything," reports Sandra E. about Elk Creek RV Park.

Site selection challenges: Many Black Hills campgrounds have limited level sites. "We made reservations 6 months in advance for a long level site. Not many level sites here and the site we were told to go to was not long enough for our camper let alone the tow vehicle," warns Tammy D. at Whistler Gulch.

Tent camping locations: Rapid City KOA has specific tent areas away from RV sections. "Geared toward RVs but there are a few decent sites for small tent with trees for shade. Game room, pool and hot tub are fun but the showers make it enjoyable because they're private," states AJ L.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Deadwood, SD?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Deadwood, SD is Whistler Gulch Campground & RV Park with a 2.9-star rating from 10 reviews.

What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Deadwood, SD?

TheDyrt.com has all 21 equestrian camping locations near Deadwood, SD, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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Best Equestrian Camping near Deadwood, SD

Best Equestrian Sites Near Deadwood, South Dakota (21)

1. Whistler Gulch Campground & RV Park

2. Iron Creek Lake Campground

3. Days of 76 Campground

4. Mount Rushmore KOA at Palmer Gulch

5. Black Fox Campground

6. Sylvan Lake Campground — Custer State Park

7. Elk Creek RV Park Lodge & Resort

8. Rapid City KOA

9. Rafter J Bar Ranch

10. Hay Creek Ranch

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Recent Equestrian Camping Photos near Deadwood, SD

28 Photos of 21 Deadwood Campgrounds

Equestrian Camping Reviews near Deadwood, SD

264 Reviews of 21 Deadwood Campgrounds

Best campground in Custer State park

Excellent tenting option for vacationing near Mt. Rushmore

Quaint and Cozy Campground!

Walk to downtown Deadwood

Solo female kicked out in the middle of the night

Amazing View

Best campground in the Black Hills SD

Tight sites but great location

Not great for tents