Best Dog-Friendly Camping near Hot Springs, SD

Hidden Lake Campground near Hot Springs features a dog-friendly lakefront with clear water where pets can swim alongside their owners. Dogs are permitted at all campsites including tent areas, RV hookup sites, and cabin accommodations. The campground maintains a designated off-leash area on the far side of the lake where dogs can run freely. Allen Ranch Campground also welcomes pets with riverside sites where dogs can splash in the warm waters of Fall River. The campground includes a great dog park with a doggie clean up station with plenty of sites and shade for comfortable camping. Both campgrounds enforce standard leash requirements in common areas while offering spaces for dogs to exercise.

Cottonwood Springs Campground provides pet-friendly tent and RV sites just 12 minutes from Hot Springs, making it convenient for accessing veterinary services if needed. Elk Mountain Campground in Wind Cave National Park allows pets in camping areas but maintains the standard National Park policy prohibiting dogs on most trails. Hot Springs KOA accommodates pets with designated pet exercise areas and provides waste stations for convenient cleanup. During summer months, the spring-fed creek at Allen Ranch offers a cool spot for dogs to wade while the shaded camping areas provide relief from heat. Most campgrounds in the area require pet owners to show proof of current vaccinations upon check-in, and excessive barking is discouraged during quiet hours, typically 10pm to 7am.

Best Dog-Friendly Sites Near Hot Springs, South Dakota (131)

    1. Elk Mountain Campground — Wind Cave National Park

    45 Reviews
    Pringle, SD
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 745-4600

    $12 - $45 / night

    "Passing through South Dakota rests a very unique park unlike any other you will find.    "

    "This campground is centrally locates to some great activities in South Dakota. We made day trips to visit the Badlands, Wall Drug Store, Wind Cave and Mount Rushmore."

    2. Hot Springs / Black Hills KOA

    15 Reviews
    Hot Springs, SD
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 745-6449

    "Close proximity to Hot Springs. There were other campers that were quite noisy at night well after quiet time."

    "Clean, quiet campground tucked away in the beautiful Black Hills"

    3. Angostura Recreation Area — Angostura Recreation Area

    13 Reviews
    Hot Springs, SD
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (800) 710-2267

    "Nice walk ways all around the lake. Clean, clear water that is good for riding on the boat, tubing, and kayaking."

    "Great access to the lake, beautiful views of the sunset. Clean showers and sights. There are a lot of bugs, so be prepared. Would definitely stay here again."

    4. Blue Bell Campground — Custer State Park

    36 Reviews
    Custer, SD
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 255-4515

    "Blue Bell Campground truly captures the essence of a classic camping experience, with its beautiful surroundings and well-maintained facilities."

    "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."

    5. Cold Brook Lake Campground

    8 Reviews
    Hot Springs, SD
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 745-5476

    $18 / night

    "Campground Review: This location is great if you are looking to be close to Hot Springs, Wind Cave, and Custer State park. It is located just north of town and just South of Wind Cave’s entrance."

    "Walked around lake and it was beautiful. So quiet and peaceful. Wish we stayed more nights! Dumpsters, restrooms, fire rings and nice grass. You gotta stay here!"

    6. Allen Ranch Campground

    8 Reviews
    Hot Springs, SD
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 745-1890

    $25 - $130 / night

    "The Fall River is fed by hot springs so the water stays nice and just slightly chilled."

    "Close to town and near a peaceful stream.. Owner is very nice."

    7. Hidden Lake Campground and Resort

    6 Reviews
    Hot Springs, SD
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (605) 745-4042

    $38 - $57 / night

    "Between the CG instructions and looking at Google Maps, we found an easy route around the construction and arrived with no issues. Check-in was quick and easy. There’s a$3.50 CG fee along with tax."

    "It’s close to town (we biked to explore the beautiful town, parks, mammoth exhibit, and farmers market) campground is gorgeous, with a sweet little private lake that’s great for a swim."

    8. Cottonwood Springs Campground

    6 Reviews
    Hot Springs, SD
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 745-5476

    $18 / night

    "Bathroom with flush toilet and sink and drinking water faucet outside. Dry camping only."

    "The bathhouse has an outside marked potable water spigot. The lake is below the campsite and not accessible without a steep hike down. The lake access is 5min drive down the main road."

    9. Cold Springs School Road by Beaver Creek

    6 Reviews
    Pringle, SD
    11 miles

    "Tucked back off a side road with a perfect couple spots to camp"

    "This is a dispersed site that is near the entrance to Wind Cave National Park. The road in is wide and smoothly graveled. This spot has room for a small camper - our bus backed in fine."

    10. Game Lodge Campground — Custer State Park

    27 Reviews
    Keystone, SD
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 255-4515

    $26 - $55 / night

    "This campground is open year round and is located in Custer State Park, in the Black Hills of South Dakota. Features cabin, camper, and tent sites."

    "Our dog grumbled at a few animals that might have gotten too close to the tent for her liking (we are pretty sure just deer)."

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Dog-Friendly Camping Reviews near Hot Springs, SD

1213 Reviews of 131 Hot Springs Campgrounds


  • Crystal C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 5, 2019

    Elk Mountain Campground — Wind Cave National Park

    Beauty Abounds At This Park

    Passing through South Dakota rests a very unique park unlike any other you will find.    The Wind Cave National Park in its own right is emoting of great majesty, a unique preserved ecosystem in the midst of a world which has moved in and managed to destroy so much of the grassy prairie lands through development.    Passing into the park is passing into a piece of history.   

    While the cave itself is something of a wonder, the park itself is a ground which should also be noted.     It is a place where wild bison roam free, elk pass through and can be found thriving, prairie dogs bark adamantly and so many more unique native animals and plants can be observed and appreciated.

    It is in this area that you will find Elk Mountain Campground.     

    When I drove through this area I wasn't sure what to expect.   The rolling prairie plains were beautiful however did not offer much in way of shade and that somewhat concerned me as I drove closer and closer to camp, however the world began to roll as hills turned and transitioned into a forest of wonder and lush green grasses.   

    The campground looked like a different world from the world which I had been driving in coming from Hot Springs.     Tall trees shaded sites and provided a soft bed for tent campers, large pull ins offered RVs options for a variety of sizes and styles of camping.    Each site was adorned with the standard fire rings and picnic tables and depending on your desire you could stay in a location which was completely shaded or had sun exposure.

    Bathrooms here are flush toilets with running water, including a wash basin room for dishes and though there were not showers it didn't seem to be an inconvenience with all the beauty around.

    Group sites offered large grassy knolls and in some cases pavilions for use and with winding paths around camp to differentiate the loops through sites were close together they seemed to have privacy.

    Although this campground does have an honor box there is also a campground host which does keep track of campers and park rangers patrol throughout the day and evening to ensure safety.     This makes for a very secure feeling camp in such a unique location.

    TIPS:

    • If visiting call ahead to see if the cave is open.   When I visited the elevators were not operating and this limited access to the cave itself.
    • Try hiking in the park, unlike many parks which only allow trail hiking this park encourages you to explore fully.
    • Keep your distance from wildlife.    Wildlife is wild here even if it looks tame they are not!!  Bison can run up to 35 miles per hour and most incidents with the wildlife occur from people trying to encroach upon the animals for photos.
  • Jackie F.
    Aug. 21, 2022

    Kemo Sabay Campground & Storage

    Sunrise Campground

    This camp is under new management and is now called Sunrise. It’s a GREAT spot for going to Hot Springs and Wind Cave National Park.

    There’s a great dog park on this campground with a doggie clean up station. Plenty of sites and shade. We stayed just one night but would be back for sure.

  • B
    Sep. 4, 2021

    Heartland RV Park And Cabins

    Tidy, Clean, Friendly, Attractions

    This is a great place to stay. Not far from Rapid City but close to all the attractions in South Dakota. 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. Also, both seemed overloaded with chemicals. I have owned lots of pools with blue colored bottoms, but these looked like there was “Ty-d-bowl” added. Brilliant, stark blue. I just don’t believe it can be just the basic treatment. See what you think. ???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. 😀 Our spot was a bit difficult for us to level our rig on because the rocks kept slipping. We had to go purchase extra Xchocks. There is a nice store for basic needs, and alcohol, and an event schedule for evening entertainment. The event center serves wings (no celery or carrot sticks), pizza, etc. There is a playground for kids and they said a dog park. —-I did find a big area there, but no fence around it. ???

  • Jan S.
    Aug. 22, 2021

    Fort Welikit Family Campground and RV Park

    Great location for Custer State Park and surrounding area

    Very friendly owners. Gravel pads, most have some grassy areas. Turkey and deer walk thru. Has small clean dogpark. Town of Custer has large clean dog park within 2 mile drive. Stayed in 53 FHU 3 nights then moved to 45 W/E as we made reservations late. Both faced away from the center of the campground which was nice. Nice laundry . Okay bath/ shower..didn't use but looked ok. Great campground for folks with dogs and for super easy access to town of Custer and the State Park.

  • 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!!

  • 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 ...

    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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    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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    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.

  • Jen S.
    Aug. 18, 2023

    Mount Rushmore KOA at Palmer Gulch

    Amenities!

    More expensive than we usually pay per night but a TON of amenities. Two pools and live entertainment. Restaurants/bars/coffee/ice cream shops. Downside is it’s a crowded and our site had the dog park behind it.

  • Heather M.
    Sep. 22, 2021

    Fort Welikit Family Campground and RV Park

    Camping with a view

    stunning tall pines with lots of deer and wild turkeys walking thru the campsites. full hookups, covered wagons for rent if you don’t have a camper or tent. large playground and a dog park. laundry facilities and very nice bathrooms.

  • R
    Jun. 4, 2023

    Heartland RV Park

    Large RV park with restaurant

    Large park with lots of sites. Level spots. Fenced in dog park. Restaurant and bar on site with live music. Friendly and helpful staff. Clean restrooms and laundry facilities.  Close to Custer State Park, Crazy Horse and Mt. Rushmore.


Guide to Hot Springs

Camping near Hot Springs, South Dakota centers around a region where the southern Black Hills transition into prairie lands at approximately 3,400 feet elevation. The area features thermal springs maintaining a constant 87°F temperature year-round, creating unique waterways where winter camping is more comfortable than in surrounding regions. Most campgrounds stay open from mid-April through mid-October, with limited year-round options available.

What to do

Wildlife viewing: sunrise to sunset: The Wildlife Loop at Elk Mountain Campground provides excellent opportunities to see native species. "We heard lots of animals through the night and loved it," notes Aaron C., while another camper mentions, "Bison can run up to 35 miles per hour and most incidents with the wildlife occur from people trying to encroach upon the animals for photos."

Fishing: catch and release: Hidden Lake Campground offers a small lake where you can purchase a campground fishing license. "Walk around the pond with water so clear you can see the bottom 12 ft down and watch the fish like you're at Bass Pro," reports Brian J. The water clarity makes this spot unique among area fishing locations.

Hiking: accessible trails: Dispersed camping areas provide more secluded hiking experiences. "There is a hiking path nearby that gets you up so you can view the amazing area surrounding you," mentions a camper at Elk Mountain. Unlike many national parks, Wind Cave "encourages you to explore fully" beyond designated trails in certain areas.

What campers like

Creek access: natural water play: Allen Ranch Campground features the warm Fall River. "The Fall River is fed by hot springs so the water stays nice and just slightly chilled. Almost feels like getting into a heated pool," writes Hayley K. Inner tubes are provided free for guests to float down the gentle river that runs through the entire campground.

Peace and quiet: away from crowds: Cottonwood Springs offers a more secluded experience. "The beginning of June and we were one of only two campers here. Extremely quiet," reports Harold. Another visitor notes, "Awesome little lake that not too many people use. Not many tourists know about it."

Accessible wildlife viewing: from your site: Many campsites offer wildlife viewing directly from camp. "We were at Game Lodge campground site 36, which was right next to a little creek. At night, we could hear the water running and it was so calming," shares Sara P., who adds, "Loved that the bison were just outside our campground on the way in."

What you should know

Seasonal bugs: preparation needed: Some campgrounds have significant insect activity. At Angostura Recreation Area, "The bugs here are horrible, they are attracted to light of any kind, so do yourself a favor and grab quite a few of those citronella candles," warns Kelly A. Multiple reviewers note that bug preparation is essential during summer months.

Limited cell service: plan accordingly: Many campsites have minimal connectivity. "No ATT service. Town of Hot Springs is only 12 minutes away," notes Travis A. at Cottonwood Springs. At Cold Springs School Road, service "fluctuates between SOS and just text," making offline planning important.

Roadside noise: some campgrounds affected: Some campgrounds experience road noise. At Allen Ranch, "It's close to the road and truckers use their Jake brakes all hours of the day and night, so don't expect to sleep in," warns Jesse R. Sites further from main roads offer better sound isolation.

Tips for camping with families

Free activities: kid-friendly options: Blue Bell Campground offers family programming. "Evening programs offered every night were educational and entertaining for the most part," mentions Kathy M. Allen Ranch provides a playground, tetherball, and volleyball net for children to enjoy.

Swimming spots: natural water play: Several campgrounds feature swimming areas. Hidden Lake Campground has "a sweet little private lake that's great for a swim," according to Chris B. Angostura Recreation Area offers "a spacious beach area, playground, free showers and room to play frisbee."

Junior Ranger programs: educational fun: National Park sites offer educational opportunities. "The jr. Ranger programs were great for our girls and we enjoyed the learning," shares Joe W. who visited Blue Bell Campground. These programs provide structured activities while teaching children about local ecology.

Tips from RVers

Site leveling: bring equipment: Many campgrounds have uneven sites. At Hot Springs KOA, Sam C. notes, "We where put into a tight and short pull-thru site that was fairly un-level. It took some work and a bunch of blocks to get things close to level." Bringing leveling blocks is recommended for most area campgrounds.

Electricity reliability: surge protection recommended: Some sites have electrical issues. "Our power pedestal had an electrical short and shorted out our Progressive 30-amp surge protector. Thankfully we had a surge protector and it took the electrical hit and not our trailer," warns Sam C. Surge protectors are strongly advised for all RV hookups in the area.

Dump stations: limited availability: Not all dog-friendly campgrounds near Hot Springs have dump stations. At Allen Ranch, "getting to it can be tricky as there are low hanging branches around it," notes Laura M. Hot Springs town offers "a free town dumping station and potable water station" that's often more accessible than campground facilities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Hot Springs, SD?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Hot Springs, SD is Elk Mountain Campground — Wind Cave National Park with a 4.3-star rating from 45 reviews.

What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Hot Springs, SD?

TheDyrt.com has all 131 dog-friendly camping locations near Hot Springs, SD, with real photos and reviews from campers.