Hermosa, South Dakota sits at an elevation of 3,218 feet in the eastern foothills of the Black Hills. Located 25 miles south of Rapid City, Hermosa serves as a gateway to the Black Hills region while offering easier RV access than campgrounds deeper in the mountains. Summer temperatures typically range from 50°F to 85°F, with occasional thunderstorms during July and August.
What to do
Hiking at Custer State Park: Located 30 minutes west of Hermosa, the park offers numerous trails for all skill levels. "We were able to go to Needles Highway, the wildlife loop and Iron Mountain Road before I got sick. After my surgery (6 days later) we were able to drive to Keystone and Hill City," noted one visitor at Heartland RV Park.
Buffalo viewing: Plan evening visits to Custer State Park for optimal wildlife sightings. "We spent 6 nights and had awesome day trips with wildlife experience the entire stay," reports a camper from Heartland RV Park And Cabins.
Mickelson Trail cycling: Access this 109-mile rail-trail from nearby Custer. "We came up to ride bikes on the Mickelsen trail which was fantastic and if you are a cyclist you should definitely check it out. We could have ridden from the camp to the trail but had to purchase our pass so drove into Custer and parked right by the trail," explains a visitor at Fort Welikit Family Campground.
What campers like
Centralized location: Hermosa's positioning allows easy access to multiple attractions. "This park is extremely well-maintained. The grounds, sites and bathroom/shower/laundry facilities were immaculate. We stayed on a row where there was additional parking which was very nice," notes a reviewer from Custer's Gulch RV Park.
Evening entertainment: Several campgrounds near Hermosa offer on-site activities. "They had a free wine tasting of local wines most of which are made from berries instead of grapes because of the environment. The small restaurant with limited menu and a bar is a big plus. They are located in the Event Center which hosts live music on many evenings," shared one camper about their experience.
Laundry facilities: Multiple campgrounds maintain clean laundry rooms. "The laundry areas (3 of them) were clean and tidy, too. $2.00 for each, but 45 minutes on the dryer, so that's fair," mentions a camper discussing amenities available during their stay near Hermosa.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies throughout the region. "Cell service varies... no hot shower water on two occasions. Unreliable wifi connection," reports one camper about their experience at a nearby campground.
Highway noise: Some RV parks near Hermosa experience significant road noise. "This park is situated right on a four-lane highway. We were almost as far from the highway as was possible and the highway noise is unreal. I can't imagine being in the cabins or the row of sites next to the highway," cautions a reviewer.
Summer booking requirements: Reserve well ahead during peak season. "We spent a week at the end of June here!! Wonderful weather! On the needles highway and close to everything," notes a visitor at Horse Thief Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. "There is a nice children's playground area which is fenced in. There is a store on-site with ice, propane, beer, wine, snacks…a little of everything," mentions one family staying at a campground near Hermosa.
Pool considerations: Check if pool facilities are actually operational. "The heated pool was NOT heated and the hot tub was NOT hot. That is why I gave the CG four stars. I was really looking forward to using them."
Family-friendly staff: Look for campgrounds with supportive personnel. "The staff is so friendly, easy check in, very well kept, clean bathrooms and private showers. Pool and hot tub, close to everything. Campers observed quiet hours. We got a great nights rest, they offer a breakfast menu," shared a family camper at Rapid City RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Big rig access: Some parks accommodate large motorhomes better than others. "What keeps this from being a 5 are the size of the sites and the proximity to the highway 79. The sites are smallest I have been to and there is absolutely no privacy. I had to wear earplugs at night to be able to sleep at night."
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the region require leveling equipment. "The spots are a little difficult for us to level our rig on because the rocks kept slipping. We had to go purchase extra Xchocks."
Long-term RV options: Several parks offer extended stay possibilities. "Long term stay. Great rates. All staff very courteous. All facilities clean and well maintained. Level gravel pull through sites of varying sizes. Each site has grass area except on the new end."
