Best Equestrian Camping near Hermosa, SD

Iron Creek Horse Camp in the Black Hills National Forest provides rustic camping accommodations specifically designed for equestrians. The campground features vault toilets but no electricity or water hookups, making it suitable for those comfortable with primitive camping conditions. Sites include designated areas for horses with hitching posts. The natural setting offers scenic views of the surrounding forest landscape. The campground serves as a convenient base for accessing numerous horse trails throughout the Black Hills. Roads leading to the camp may have ruts that become steep in some sections, requiring careful navigation particularly for those hauling horse trailers.

Numerous trail riding opportunities connect directly from the campground to the extensive Black Hills National Forest trail system. French Creek Camping Area provides another option for equestrians with specific places to hitch horses, though riders should note there is no water available for horses or humans. Camp Bob Marshall offers dispersed camping areas accessible via rough roads that may not accommodate large horse trailers. The road conditions after turning off the main route can be challenging, with several reviewers noting they wouldn't recommend taking trailers up certain sections. Trails throughout the region offer varied terrain through pine forests, open meadows, and along scenic creeks. Horse flies can be prevalent during summer months in some camping areas.

Best Equestrian Sites Near Hermosa, South Dakota (24)

    1. Mount Rushmore KOA at Palmer Gulch

    55 Reviews
    Hill City, SD
    18 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."

    2. Sylvan Lake Campground — Custer State Park

    42 Reviews
    Custer, SD
    18 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."

    3. Blue Bell Campground — Custer State Park

    35 Reviews
    Custer, SD
    17 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..."

    4. Rapid City KOA

    25 Reviews
    Rapid City, SD
    16 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."

    5. Fort Welikit Family Campground and RV Park

    24 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!!"

    6. Rafter J Bar Ranch

    20 Reviews
    Hill City, SD
    20 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."

    7. Dispersed Camping near Calumet Road

    8 Reviews
    Keystone, SD
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 673-9200

    "Very close to Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse, Rapid City and Hill City. Lake Sheridan was a great place to go cool off. Very dispersed camping. Pack in Pack out. No cell service."

    "The ruts become somewhat steep once the entrance road terminates. There are plenty of spots to set up beforehand, but you might be able to drive around them."

    8. Sage Creek Campground

    117 Reviews
    Wall, SD
    39 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. Custer-Mt. Rushmore KOA

    18 Reviews
    Custer, SD
    24 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."

    "KOA doesn’t disappoint, they could widen their left clearance when first coming into the parking lot from the highway."

    10. French Creek Camping Area

    5 Reviews
    Fairburn, SD
    15 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."

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Equestrian Camping Reviews near Hermosa, SD

389 Reviews of 24 Hermosa 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

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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.

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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 Hermosa

Horse camping in South Dakota offers a unique blend of scenic landscapes and well-equipped facilities for equestrian enthusiasts. With a variety of campgrounds catering to both horses and their owners, adventurers can enjoy the great outdoors while ensuring their equine companions are well cared for.

Campers appreciate these amenities for horses

Equestrian campgrounds include essential features

  • Fort Welikit Family Campground and RV Park is well-reviewed for its clean facilities and friendly staff, ensuring a comfortable stay for both campers and their horses.
  • Custer-Mt. Rushmore KOA provides a variety of amenities, including a dog park and spacious sites, making it a great option for families traveling with horses.
  • High Country Guest Ranch features a family-friendly atmosphere with numerous activities, ensuring that both horse owners and their equine friends have a memorable experience.

Most campgrounds have horse-focused amenities like trails and access

  • Blue Bell Campground — Custer State Park offers easy access to scenic trails, making it ideal for horseback riding and exploring the beautiful surroundings.
  • Mount Rushmore KOA at Palmer Gulch is known for its family-friendly environment and proximity to various outdoor activities, including horseback riding.
  • Rapid City KOA provides a convenient location near local attractions, with ample space for horses and easy access to trails for riding adventures.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Hermosa, SD is Mount Rushmore KOA at Palmer Gulch with a 4.2-star rating from 55 reviews.

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

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