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Best Equestrian Camping near Fairburn, SD

381 Reviews

Broken Arrow Horse and RV Campground near Custer provides accommodations specifically designed for equestrians traveling with their animals. The campground features large sites suitable for horse trailers alongside tent sites, RV spaces, and cabin options. While detailed horse corral information is not specified, the campground is organized to support riders with essential facilities. French Creek Camping Area in Fairburn offers designated spaces for hitching horses, though visitors should note there is no water available on site. The natural setting includes bison visible on surrounding hills and prairie dogs throughout the area, creating an authentic South Dakota backdrop for riders and their horses.

Located approximately 30 minutes from Fairburn, the horse-friendly camping facilities connect to multiple riding opportunities through the Black Hills region. Both locations maintain trail access points that serve as gateways to broader riding networks. Horse owners planning extended stays should prepare for potential horse fly encounters during summer months. Custer State Park, which contains several of these campgrounds, features extensive trails that wind through pine forests and open meadows. Most horse-friendly sites require advance reservations, especially during peak summer months when equestrian campers converge on the region. Riders praise the level camping areas that accommodate both living quarters trailers and conventional setups, making these locations practical bases for exploring the scenic terrain on horseback.

Best Equestrian Sites Near Fairburn, South Dakota (24)

    1. Blue Bell Campground — Custer State Park

    35 Reviews
    Custer, SD
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 255-4515

    "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."

    "Horse stables and trail rides onsite.Walking distance to store and excellent restaurant. Wildlife includes bison, deer, birds..."

    2. Mount Rushmore KOA at Palmer Gulch

    55 Reviews
    Hill City, SD
    22 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."

    3. Sylvan Lake Campground — Custer State Park

    40 Reviews
    Custer, SD
    21 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."

    4. Fort Welikit Family Campground and RV Park

    26 Reviews
    Custer, SD
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 673-3600

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    4.6

    (369)

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    deer31

    mt. rushmore28

    custer state park27

    crazy horse memorial18

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    "Campground Review: If you are looking for a family and pet friendly place to camp while visiting the Black Hills South Dakota area, look no further!!"

    5. French Creek Camping Area

    5 Reviews
    Fairburn, SD
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 745-4107

    "All sites are walk-in tent only. The only issue we experienced were the horse flies but this would not deter us from staying again."

    "Great views all around with a pleasant stream running through, BLM road behind the site for a stroll/potential free camping. The BLM road was not passable mid-october due to flooding."

    6. Custer-Mt. Rushmore KOA

    19 Reviews
    Custer, SD
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 673-4304

    $60 - $100 / night

    "This campground is a short distance from Custer which has an Ace Hardware, grocery stores and friendly citizens. Crazy Horse and Mt Rushmore are 30 minutes away."

    "This campground is clean and comfortable, and the perfect jumping-off point for Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse, Custer State Park, Wind Cave State Park, and touring the Black Hills. "

    7. Rafter J Bar Ranch

    21 Reviews
    Hill City, SD
    24 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."

    "Mt Rushmore, Custer SP, Needles Highway, Crazy Horse Monument, Wind Cave NP & Badlands NP all within a short drive!"

    8. Sage Creek Campground

    116 Reviews
    Wall, SD
    42 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 433-5361

    "Definitely pay your park entrance fee! BUT it’s true - this spot is completely free. Lots of people dig this spot. Doesn’t feel too crowded though."

    "There is is space for RVs and horses. It is a national park so check on pet regulations. 
    The upside, Buffalo can wander through your camp. Or pose in the prairie next to the camp."

    9. Broken Arrow Horse and RV Campground

    6 Reviews
    Custer, SD
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 673-4471

    "There were lots of horses as Buffalo Roundup was occurring. Good WIFI, clean bathrooms, wide open mountain views and close to Custer State park."

    "One of my favorite parts of this campground was the location. You get a great view of the black hills, wide open sky for start gazing, and it’s close to Custer state park and Custer itself."

    10. Rapid City KOA

    25 Reviews
    Rapid City, SD
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (800) 562-8504

    "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."

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Equestrian Camping Reviews near Fairburn, SD

381 Reviews of 24 Fairburn Campgrounds

  • Joe C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 20, 2025

    Sheps Canyon Recreation Area

    Spacious Sites

    Nice spacious 50 amp campsites. We camped about 50 feet from the bathhouse which had four separate toilet/shower rooms which were very spacious and very clean. We were able to make the trek further down the reservoir and discovered the off grid sites. These off grid sites were very spacious and waterfront. Further down were equestrian sites with large gravel sites and private horse stalls. There was water available to fill our fifth wheel at the front of the camp where we entered along with a dump site that is not supposed to use this freshwater. We were one minute from the boat ramps. Just be aware that there is an additional fee for state parks in South Dakota. We paid $60 for a nonresident one year pass otherwise it would have been $15 per day park entry fee.

  • Billy B.
    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.
    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.
    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!

  • Lucille W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 27, 2020

    Sage Creek Campground

    Easy, breezy, beautiful

    The other reviewers had it right. Sage Creek is a sweet little spot within Badlands National Park. Definitely pay your park entrance fee! BUT it’s true - this spot is completely free. Lots of people dig this spot. Doesn’t feel too crowded though. Tons of tents, vans, and car campers fit into this somewhat small but open space. Bison are common visitors. Plus, there is a prairie dog town right in the center of the loop the road creates in the camp. They are so fascinating to watch! There are two basic but clean restrooms. Several pic nic tables with small shade shelters. A nearby creek for water filtering / road trip baths. Make sure to bring lots of water or a filter people! We saw folks asking around for extra water. Be prepared. Definitely would highly recommend for anyone traveling through South Dakota. Badlands National Park is so unique and so special.

  • E
    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.
    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.
    Oct. 6, 2023

    Fort Welikit Family Campground and RV Park

    Best campground in the Black Hills SD

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    4.6

    (369)

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    deer31

    mt. rushmore28

    custer state park27

    crazy horse memorial18

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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

    1

    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

    https://www.blackhillsrv.com

    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.

    

    4.4(20) · $

    

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    Fort Welikit Family Campground | Custer SD

    Fort Welikit Family Campground · Page · Campground · (605) 673-3600 · blackhillsrv.com · Rating · 4.4 (388 Reviews).

    

    4.4(133)

    

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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.

  • Annie C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 11, 2016

    Sylvan Lake Campground — Custer State Park

    Sylvan Lake- Custer State Park

    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. Nice campground, trailer lots seemed more level than tent sites. Some, not all, had tent pads. Nice clean shower house. Great starting point to hike Harney Peak and Cathedral Spires.

Guide to Fairburn

Fairburn sits at the base of the eastern slope of the Black Hills at an elevation of 3,058 feet. It's located near the French Creek tributary, which provides natural water access for horse camping in this South Dakota region. Summer daytime temperatures typically range from 75-90°F, while nights can drop to 50-60°F even during peak season.

What to do

Trail riding access points: French Creek Camping Area in Fairburn connects directly to multiple riding trails. "We only wish we could have stayed a few more nights. The lake is absolutely beautiful, the trails are well-maintained, and the fun feels endless," notes one visitor at Sylvan Lake Campground.

Scenic creek views: Several sites around French Creek offer opportunities for horses to drink while riders enjoy the scenery. "The wild turkey, rabbit, and deer roam the grounds regularly. No mosquitos, wolves, or bear in this area (we did hear coyote regularly) which was a very pleasant surprise," mentions a camper from Blue Bell Campground.

Wildlife observation: The prairie landscape hosts numerous wildlife viewing opportunities. One camper at French Creek notes, "Bison on the hills around. Prairie dogs galore! Coyotes howling in the distance. Wonderful scenery!"

What campers like

Level camping areas: Most equestrian sites provide flat, stable ground for setting up corrals and camping equipment. "We had a nice back in site on the edge of a hill with plenty of privacy. However most the full hookup sites were really tight and had no shade," explains a visitor at Mount Rushmore KOA.

Clean facilities: Despite the rustic nature of some horse camping sites, many provide well-maintained amenities. "The bathrooms and showers were some of the best we had ever seen in a campground. If your looking for a place to take a break from primitive camping for a night this is a good place to stop off," remarks a camper at Sylvan Lake Campground.

Natural setting: The region's landscape provides an authentic backdrop for horse camping. A visitor at French Creek Camping Area observed, "This beautiful location is wonderful to wake up to. Bison on the hills around. Prairie dogs galore! Coyotes howling in the distance."

What you should know

Water availability: Not all horse campsites provide direct water access. "This site offered no water and no availability for cooking unless you brought your own stove. There were however bathrooms and specific places to hitch up your horse. Hopefully your horse will not need water," advises a French Creek camper.

Weather changes: The Black Hills region experiences sudden weather shifts. "Camped here after spending some amazing time in Badlands NP. French Creek looks like a cozy place normally but we got unlucky with the weather," reports another French Creek visitor.

Site reservations: Most established campgrounds require advance booking. "Reserve online and drive directly to the reserved site. No check in on site, but vehicle fee is required to enter Custer State Park," notes a visitor at Sylvan Lake Campground.

Insect considerations: Prepare for seasonal insects. "The only issue we experienced were the horse flies but this would not deter us from staying again," mentions a camper at French Creek.

Tips for camping with families

Playground access: Several campgrounds near Fairburn offer dedicated play areas. "The kids loved the playground and there was plenty of room to run around. We don't have horses but seeing them come in and out of camp was a lot of fun," shares a visitor at Broken Arrow Horse Campground.

Junior Ranger programs: Educational activities are available for children. "We had a great week at our campsite. We hiked with the kids and saw a ton of wildlife. The jr. Ranger programs were great for our girls and we enjoyed the learning," explains a camper at Blue Bell Campground.

Day trip options: Multiple attractions within driving distance provide family entertainment. "It is very peaceful and serene. The views of the mountains are beautiful and tonight's sunset was gorgeous. This campground is very close to downtown Custer (adorable) and to all the local attractions," notes a visitor at Broken Arrow Horse Campground.

Tips from RVers

Site leveling: Many RV sites require adjustment for proper setup. "Sites are gravel, open with some ponderosa pines, showers are adequate with a push button and pre-set temperatures," reports a visitor at Fort Welikit Family Campground.

Hookup variations: Understand the specific utilities available at each site. "Limited services here tho. No dump site and the potable water fill station requires you block the road. Electric only at our site, very unlevel, hard to get into. Recommend a smaller rig than us, we were at 25 ft with two slides," advises a camper at Sylvan Lake Campground.

Weather preparation: South Dakota conditions can affect RV camping comfort. "Some sites aren't covered in gravel much, so you'll be stepping in lots of mud puddles, trying to get in and out your rig," notes a visitor describing post-rain conditions at a local campground.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Fairburn, SD is Blue Bell Campground — Custer State Park with a 4.5-star rating from 35 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 24 equestrian camping locations near Fairburn, SD, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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