Best Equestrian Camping near Hot Springs, SD

Sheps Canyon Recreation Area features horse corrals alongside its camping accommodations, making it a practical choice for equestrian camping near Hot Springs. The campground offers spacious 50-amp campsites approximately 50 feet from clean bathhouse facilities, with four separate toilet/shower rooms. Equestrian sites are positioned further down the reservoir with large gravel sites and private horse stalls. The spacious off-grid waterfront sites provide ample room for horse trailers. Broken Arrow Horse and RV Campground, located 3.9 miles off the main road, provides immaculate horse stalls and pristine camping areas with full hookups and fire rings. The entire property maintains exceptional cleanliness standards, even in the horse facilities. Both campgrounds accommodate tent camping, RVs, and cabin options.

The Black Hills area offers extensive trail riding opportunities accessible from these horse-friendly campgrounds. Riders can explore scenic routes through Custer State Park, with wildlife viewing including bison herds, prairie dogs, and coyotes. Horse owners should note that Sheps Canyon requires a state park entrance fee ($60 for non-resident annual pass or $15 daily). The peaceful setting at Broken Arrow, with mountain views and occasional horse whinnying, creates an ideal base for equestrians. The campground's location provides convenient access to downtown Custer and major attractions while maintaining a serene environment away from road noise. Water access points for horses are available, though some locations may require bringing your own water containers. Most equestrian sites include picnic tables and fire rings, allowing riders to relax after trail excursions.

Best Equestrian Sites Near Hot Springs, South Dakota (18)

    1. Blue Bell Campground — Custer State Park

    35 Reviews
    Custer, SD
    20 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. Sheps Canyon Recreation Area

    3 Reviews
    Hot Springs, SD
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 745-6996

    $16 - $30 / night

    "Further down were equestrian sites with large gravel sites and private horse stalls."

    "There are at least 40 sites, including 2 group sites, & equestrian sites a little further down the road. The rest of the sites are pull-in & pull-through sites."

    3. Sylvan Lake Campground — Custer State Park

    42 Reviews
    Custer, SD
    29 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

    24 Reviews
    Custer, SD
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 673-3600

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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. Custer-Mt. Rushmore KOA

    18 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."

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

    6. Mount Rushmore KOA at Palmer Gulch

    55 Reviews
    Hill City, SD
    33 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."

    7. Opulent Acres

    1 Review
    Pringle, SD
    13 miles
    +1 (972) 363-5002

    $49 - $149 / night

    8. Broken Arrow Horse and RV Campground

    6 Reviews
    Custer, SD
    20 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."

    9. Rafter J Bar Ranch

    20 Reviews
    Hill City, SD
    32 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. Camp Bob Marshall Dispersed

    3 Reviews
    Custer, SD
    24 miles

    "It is open to vehicles in the summer and equestrian and hike in during the winter. Road is rough but was passable in our truck. We towed in a small teardrop but I wouldn't recommend a large rig."

    "We went a bit more off the path by turning right, going up past a water treatment plant and parking near the end of the road. It was secluded and pretty. Lots of coyotes in the area."

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Equestrian Camping Reviews near Hot Springs, SD

252 Reviews of 18 Hot Springs 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!

  • 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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    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 ...

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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.

  • G
    May. 28, 2022

    Sylvan Lake Campground — Custer State Park

    A top 10 campground

    This campground is one of the best . We snagged an awesome site that was large , wooded , secluded , and quiet . The area was beautiful with the Needles and the wildlife drives that were spectacular with buffalo , pronghorn ,and deer in your face. Very close to major attentions such as Mt Rushmore , Crazy Horse Monument , Wind Caves National Park , and the Badlands . The lake is a jewel with a great hike and granite spires bordering the end of the lake - postcard perfect . I also hooked 5 wild rainbows !! We will return

  • TyAnn J.
    Aug. 7, 2017

    Fort Welikit Family Campground and RV Park

    Ranger Review: OOFOS OOlala Slide Sandal at For Welikit Family Campground and RV Park in The Black Hills National Forest Custer, SD

    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!! We started planning our family trip 6 months ago, and booked the Fort Welikit Family Campground and RV park based on reviews we read online. We wanted to be in between Custer State Park (Kids choice) and The Badlands (Dad and Moms choice)

    There are 100 sites nestled in gorgeous tall pine trees. The tent sites are located on the south two loops, and the Tipi and Cabins sites are mixed in with the RV sites. We stayed 9 days in site 20 that is a RV 50 Amp Pull through site. Check in time is 1:00pm, and check out time is 11:00am. **Very important to know: The trees are fighting the Pine Beetle, so they DO NOT allow you to hang anything like clothes line or hammocks on them. ALSO they DO NOT allow you to bring in out of the area firewood. They do sell approved firewood at the office for $4.50 for a small bundle. The family style bathrooms were located just behind our site, and were cleaned daily. (If we ever stayed there again we would ask for a space on a further loop, as this was a high traffic area!!) The offer a laundry room with washers and dryers as well, but bring our quarters as a wash cycle was $1.75 a load, and the dryer is .25 for a 6 minute cycle. The added kids old time fort play area and the dog park area were well kept and there was plenty of room to play ladder ball and washer toss. We would highly recommend this campground to anyone looking for a family/pet friendly area. If you are looking for solitude, this would not be the place for you.

    ...................................................

    Product Review:

    As a Ranger for The Dyrt, I get products to test from time to time. I tested the OOlala Slide Sandal from OOFOS Footwear https://www.oofos.com/ that I won in the West North Central Review Contest in June. Let me begin by saying I was a little nervous when I thought about what size to order (I am an 8 & 1/2 Wide ladies) I went to the website, and immediately drawn to the OOlala Slide Sandal. When I went into the description, under the "pick your size" button is a handy little "sizing" tab. When you click the tab it reads "If you normally wear a whole size: order the same whole size OOFOS. If you normally wear a half size: Order a half size UP for best fit. (MEN: Order a half size DOWN for best fit) Problem solved!! I ordered the sandals on July 1st and they were delivered on my doorstep on July 5th. Talk about FAST shipping for a holiday week to boot!!

    When I took the sandals out of the package I was very impressed with the shape and styling of the shoe. I put them on and know that this was no ordinary pair of slip on sandals!! The arch support immediately took pressure off the ball of my foot, and the cushion put a springy bounce in every single step I took. I couldn't wait to take them on our 10 day family vacation to see how they performed!!

    Day #1 we hiked the Black Elk Peak (formerly Harney Peak). It is the highest summit in the United States east of the Rocky Mountains. After our 7 mile hike, I couldn't wait to put my OOFOS sandals on and let the recovery begin!! I wore them while showering and walking back to the campsite. My feet did not slip or slide in them, and they were dry within minutes!! The next day we headed to The Bad Lands, and I wore them all day long. They kept my feet comfortable and energized while putting on another 7 miles of walking!! After returning home from our vacation I have worn my OOFOS gardening, fishing, and even washing my SUV. I am 100% hooked on OOFOS!!


Guide to Hot Springs

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

Equestrian campgrounds include amenities for both riders and horses

Equestrian campers like these nearby activities

  • At Custer-Mt. Rushmore KOA, you can enjoy easy access to local attractions like Mt. Rushmore and Crazy Horse Memorial, perfect for a day of exploration after a ride.
  • Blue Bell Campground — Custer State Park is close to scenic trails and wildlife viewing opportunities, ideal for those who want to combine horseback riding with nature observation.
  • Sheps Canyon Recreation Area features a beautiful setting for hiking and fishing, allowing equestrian campers to enjoy a variety of outdoor activities.

Tips for equestrian camping near Hot Springs, South Dakota

  • When staying at Opulent Acres, be sure to bring your own water for both you and your horse, as amenities are limited.
  • French Creek Camping Area offers a peaceful environment, but remember to pack in all supplies since there are no water sources available on-site.
  • For a more secluded experience, consider Camp Bob Marshall Dispersed, where you can find beautiful spots to set up camp, but be prepared for a rough road and limited facilities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Hot Springs, SD?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Hot Springs, 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 Hot Springs, SD?

TheDyrt.com has all 18 equestrian camping locations near Hot Springs, SD, with real photos and reviews from campers.