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Best Campgrounds near Lead, SD

1,651 Reviews

Lead, South Dakota provides a variety of camping options within the Black Hills region, from established campgrounds to dispersed sites. Campgrounds such as Spearfish City Campground, Deadwood KOA, and Whistler Gulch offer tent and RV sites with amenities like electric hookups, showers, and water. Mount Roosevelt Road Dispersed Campsite offers free primitive camping for those seeking a more rustic experience. Cabin options are available at Wild Bill's Campground, Chris' Campground, and Wickiup Village Cabins for travelers wanting a middle ground between tent camping and hotels.

Camping season generally runs from April through October, with most established campgrounds closed during winter months due to heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures. Hanna Campground remains open year-round for hardy winter campers. Reservations are recommended during summer months, especially on weekends and during the annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in August when accommodations throughout the Black Hills fill quickly. Many campgrounds provide shuttle service to historic Deadwood, allowing easy access to town without moving vehicles. A camper noted, "You can trolley from the campground into town Deadwood for $1.00 each way. Some trolley drivers are so funny they seem to have a good time."

The Black Hills camping experience varies significantly between established and dispersed sites. Mount Roosevelt Road dispersed camping receives high ratings for its natural setting, with one visitor describing it as "flat, just off the road, dry, among trees, lovely view. Other campers around but still peaceful and private enough." Established campgrounds closer to towns offer more amenities but tend to have sites positioned closer together. The higher elevation areas provide cooler temperatures even in summer months. RV sites at several campgrounds can accommodate larger rigs, though some reviewers mention challenging terrain. A recent review about the dispersed camping area mentioned, "Up the hill are spots for 3 or 4 campers. Partially shaded with nice views and extremely quiet. Pit toilets down the road a bit."

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Best Camping Sites Near Lead, South Dakota (256)

    1. Spearfish City Campground

    41 Reviews
    Spearfish, SD
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 642-1340

    "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"

    "Nice city campground along Spearfish Creek and super close to downtown and has easy access to Spearfish Canyon. We definitely took advantage of the creek and proximity to downtown during our stay."

    2. Chris' Campground

    17 Reviews
    Spearfish, SD
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 642-2239

    $23 - $65 / night

    "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."

    3. Mount Roosevelt Road Dispersed Campsite

    11 Reviews
    Deadwood, SD
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 673-9200

    "The road is easy to drive if coming off the CanAm Hwy side of the mountain. Walking distance to the Roosevelt Friendship Tower hike which is highly recommended."

    "This is not a thru road there is only one entrance off of the CanAm Highway. Roughly about 10 sites depending on set-up. Bathroom close by the entrance/trailhead to Roosevelt Friendship Tower."

    4. Wild Bill's Campground

    10 Reviews
    Lead, SD
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 578-2800

    $28 - $160 / night

    "Our dogs loved the long walks around the campground, crossing over the creeks on the little bridges. There is an off leash dog park 10 minutes away in Lead, SD."

    "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."

    5. Deadwood KOA

    9 Reviews
    Lead, SD
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (605) 578-3830

    "We have stayed at this location twice (have gotten the same cabin actually) when Deadwood is having events."

    "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)."

    6. Hanna Campground

    10 Reviews
    Lead, SD
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 673-9200

    "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"

    7. Elkhorn Ridge RV Resort & Cabins

    10 Reviews
    Spearfish, SD
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 722-1800

    "Easy access off I-90 and super close to Spearfish, Deadwood, Lead and all this area of South Dakota has to offer."

    "Campground is very clean and has quick and easy access to the highway. "

    8. Whistler Gulch Campground & RV Park

    10 Reviews
    Deadwood, SD
    2 miles
    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."

    9. Wickiup Village Cabins

    7 Reviews
    Lead, SD
    7 miles
    Website

    $146 - $285 / night

    "great quiet cabins great location to see all kinds of beautiful sights.. great rides to get to your destination. Great friendly staff . love the creek that flows thru the campgrounds"

    "You've shared a very useful and entertaining blog post with the public mapquest driving directions"

    10. Days End Campground

    13 Reviews
    Sturgis, SD
    12 miles
    +1 (605) 347-2331

    $20 - $800 / night

    "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!"

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Recent Camping Photos near Lead, SD

620 Photos of 256 Lead Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Lead, SD

1651 Reviews of 256 Lead Campgrounds

  • Cable A.
    Oct. 20, 2025

    Ellsworth AFB FamCamp.

    Good resupply and laundry point

    Typical RV park. This is not camping. Spots are on top of each other and in a neighborhood. All amenities available including WiFi and laundry. Overpriced.

  • Cable A.
    Oct. 20, 2025

    Fort Meade Recreation Area

    Overpriced and full of rattlesnakes.

    Campground is subpar. Very close spots, has a water fountain but no spigot. There is trash and vault toilets. Full of prairie rattlesnakes. Lots of trails for walking. Sits between a creek, a dusty road and the interstate.

  • Meghan B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 20, 2025

    Blue Bell Campground — Custer State Park

    Blue Bell Campground - Custer State Park

    Well maintained by friendly staff and hosts. It's nearing the end of the season, so the store wasn't well-stocked. Campsites have electric, which is great for chilly October nights. Showers are push-button with pre-set temp (warm, but not hot). AT&T cell service is great. Lots to see and do in this park. Beware of deer while driving--we've seen LOTS along the road.

  • Jim A.
    Oct. 18, 2025

    Kemp's Kamp

    Perfect base for exploring local landmarks

    Kemp’s Kamp near Keystone, South Dakota, is one of those special places that perfectly blends comfort, nature, and convenience. Tucked away in the beautiful Black Hills, it’s the perfect base for exploring local landmarks like Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park, and the Crazy Horse Memorial, all just a short drive away. The campground offers something for everyone, from cozy, well-kept cabins to shaded tent sites and roomy RV spots with full hookups. Everything is clean and well-maintained, and the staff makes you feel genuinely welcome from the moment you arrive. The peaceful sound of Battle Creek running nearby adds to the charm and makes it feel like a quiet escape while still being close to the area’s main attractions. One of the highlights is the pool area, which is perfect for cooling off after a day of exploring. The bathrooms and showers are spotless, and the laundry facilities make longer stays easy and comfortable. Small touches like these show how much care the owners put into making the campground a relaxing and enjoyable place to stay. https://aethersx2bios.net/

  • Reds H.
    Oct. 17, 2025

    Big Pine Campground

    South Dakota’s best scenery

    Big Pine Campground in Custer, South Dakota, is one of those places that instantly makes you feel relaxed. Surrounded by tall pines and quiet trails, it’s perfect if you want to enjoy nature without giving up the little comforts. The campground is super clean, peaceful, and well-maintained, and the staff are genuinely kind and helpful. Whether you’re pitching a tent, parking an RV, or staying in one of their cabins or glamping spots, everything feels well thought out and easy. The bathrooms and showers are spotless, and the whole place has a cozy, welcoming vibe. It’s also really close to Custer State Park and Mount Rushmore, so there’s plenty to explore nearby. Overall, Big Pine Campground is the kind of spot you end up wanting to come back to. It’s quiet, comfortable, and surrounded by some of South Dakota’s best scenery. https://redzhubscriptdownload.com/

  • tThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 15, 2025

    Mt. Roosevelt Dispersed Camping

    Close to Deadwood

    This was a great site! Close to Deadwood. Very private. Lots of space. Outhouse at close trailhead.

  • hThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 14, 2025

    Calumet Rd Dispersed Camping

    Great location, easy access

    Plenty of spots off the service road. Spots have good distance from each other. Probably best for car/tent camping

  • dThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 13, 2025

    Mount Roosevelt Camp

    Vibrant Fall Aspen Trees

    Just a turn off the main road along a crest gave me a few days of great views. Not much traffic either.

  • S
    Oct. 12, 2025

    Hart Ranch RV Resort

    Hart ranch is okay

    There are a lot of changes going on here. Good and bad.not perfect but okay for a stay.

Guide to Lead

Camping near Lead, South Dakota, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're into tent camping or RVing, there are plenty of options to explore.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Exploring: The area around Sylvan Lake Campground — Custer State Park is known for its stunning views and great hiking trails. One camper mentioned, "The drive from Mt Rushmore to the campsite was incredible, and some great hiking just around the campsite."
  • Fishing and Boating: At Pactola Reservoir Campground, many enjoy fishing and renting boats. A reviewer said, "The reservoir is huge, and many consider it to be one of the best fishing 'holes' in the state."
  • Family Activities: Mount Rushmore KOA at Palmer Gulch has playgrounds and activities for kids. One visitor noted, "Big, super clean and nice, all you can eat pancakes for $3.50 and playgrounds for the kids."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the facilities. A review for Rapid City KOA stated, "Very clean bathrooms and showers. Sites well maintained."
  • Spacious Sites: Many enjoy the spaciousness of sites at Horsethief Lake Campground. One camper shared, "The attendant was very friendly and helpful. He gave me a last-minute booking which was very nice of him."
  • Beautiful Scenery: Campers rave about the views. A visitor at RD 356 Dispersed Site Black Hills National Forest said, "The views were incredible, and it was secluded from other sites."

What you should know:

  • Crowded Campgrounds: Some campgrounds can get busy, especially during peak season. A review for Sylvan Lake Campground mentioned, "It’s busy and loud here. Although there aren’t that many sites, they are quite close together and not much privacy."
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. For example, Pactola Reservoir Campground has no electric hookups or showers, as noted by a camper: "The vault toilets are clean and water is available from the many spigots."
  • Wildlife Encounters: Be prepared for wildlife. A camper at Horsethief Lake Campground shared, "Saw deer in the morning and cattle roaming in the evening."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like Mount Rushmore KOA at Palmer Gulch, which offers activities for kids. One parent said, "Great place highly recommend! The showers are great and hot."
  • Plan for Crowds: If you want a quieter experience, try to visit during weekdays. A camper at Sylvan Lake Campground noted, "Thursday and Friday were better in terms of crowds."
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having food on hand can save you time and money. A reviewer at Rapid City KOA mentioned, "Only complaint are sites a little close."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at South Dakota Spearfish Campground said, "Very unlevel, site 20 had to raise front 8 inches from hitch position."
  • Look for Full Hookups: If you need full hookups, check campgrounds like Rapid City KOA. One RVer mentioned, "Sites were clean but very close to one another."
  • Be Prepared for Tight Spaces: Some campgrounds have tight spots. A reviewer at Mount Rushmore KOA at Palmer Gulch shared, "The first time we came we got a pull through and it was really tight for our 42 footer."

Camping near Lead, South Dakota, has something for everyone, from families to seasoned RVers. Just be prepared for the crowds and enjoy the beautiful scenery!

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best season to camp in Lead, South Dakota?

The prime camping season in Lead runs from late May through early September when temperatures are mild and most facilities are fully operational. Pactola Reservoir Campground typically operates from May through mid-September, closing for the season around September 11th. Game Lodge Campground in nearby Custer State Park is one of the few year-round options in the region, though winter camping requires preparation for potentially harsh conditions. Summer offers ideal weather but comes with larger crowds, especially during the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in August. Spring and fall provide more solitude with pleasant daytime temperatures but cooler nights. Check campground schedules before planning as many close seasonally.

What amenities are available at Lead, SD camping facilities?

Camping facilities around Lead offer varied amenities to suit different needs. Fish'n Fry Campground and Cabins features a beautiful creek running through the property, friendly staff, and helpful local information. For those seeking luxury camping, Happy Holiday RV Resort provides full hookups at reasonable prices with accommodating owners. Most area campgrounds offer basic amenities like fire pits, picnic tables, and toilets. Higher-end facilities typically include shower facilities, laundry services, water hookups, and electricity. Some campgrounds like Whistler Gulch and Deadwood KOA offer Wi-Fi and camp stores. Nature-focused amenities include fishing access, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing opportunities. Amenities vary significantly between primitive forest service campgrounds and full-service private RV parks.

What are the best campgrounds near Lead, South Dakota?

The Lead area offers excellent camping options for exploring the Black Hills. Elkhorn Ridge RV Resort & Cabins provides easy access off I-90 with full hookups and is conveniently located for visiting Lead, Deadwood, and Spearfish. For a more rustic experience, Black Fox Campground features just 8-10 well-spaced sites, each with fire pits and picnic tables, making it perfect for those seeking a quieter Black Hills camping experience. Other notable options include Pactola Reservoir Campground for lakeside camping, Hanna Campground for its proximity to Lead, and Wild Bill's Campground near historic Deadwood. The area has campgrounds to suit every preference, from primitive forest camping to full-service RV resorts.

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