Best Campgrounds near Interior, SD

The Badlands region near Interior, South Dakota provides a spectrum of campground options ranging from established sites with amenities to free dispersed camping areas. Badlands Hotel & Campground and Cedar Pass Campground inside Badlands National Park serve as primary developed camping locations, offering cabin accommodations alongside traditional tent and RV sites. Buffalo Gap National Grassland surrounds the area with multiple dispersed camping zones where visitors can camp without facilities. Several established campgrounds maintain shower facilities and hookups for RVs, while primitive camping opportunities exist within and adjacent to the national park boundaries.

Wind conditions and seasonal storms significantly affect camping experiences in the Badlands. Most developed campgrounds operate from May through September, closing during harsh winter months. Cedar Pass prohibits campfires due to high fire danger, while some surrounding campgrounds permit them when conditions allow. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F with minimal shade available at most campgrounds, and sudden thunderstorms with high winds can create challenging camping conditions. As one visitor noted, "Storms can come up quickly in this part of the country and blow through unexpectedly so make sure your tent/camper is well secured!"

Campers consistently mention the striking views of the Badlands formations as a primary highlight, particularly during sunrise and sunset. Sites at Badlands Hotel & Campground provide convenient access to park trails while offering more amenities than in-park options. The Badlands/White River KOA and Sleepy Hollow Campground provide additional options with full hookups for those seeking more comfort. Several visitors mentioned wildlife viewing opportunities in early mornings, particularly at campgrounds bordering the park. A recent review emphasized that "camping in badlands is like camping on mars. No trees, hard ground - plan accordingly." First-time visitors often report being surprised by the stark landscape and extreme weather conditions, making proper preparation essential for an enjoyable experience in this unique mixed-use camping destination.

Best Camping Sites Near Interior, South Dakota (32)

    1. Cedar Pass Campground — Badlands National Park

    115 Reviews
    Interior, SD
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 433-5460

    $37 - $47 / night

    "Stayed one night in a converted Sprinter while traveling through South Dakota, we needed a place with showers.  The showers and restrooms were pay to use, with a single curtain as privacy."

    "Good proximity to visitors center, a cafe, store, amphitheater and many drivable views. Also quick 2 miles out of the park to the small town of Interior for gas,  etc."

    2. Badlands Hotel & Campground

    62 Reviews
    Interior, SD
    0 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 433-5335

    $24 - $174 / night

    "We liked: tent sites on the outskirts, trail / dog-hiking area, proximity to Badlands. Showers and price were ok. To earn 5 stars it needs more seclusion and trees for tent sites."

    "We stayed at the Badlands Interior Campground and Motel for three nights while visiting Badlands National Park. "

    3. Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping

    138 Reviews
    Wall, SD
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 279-2125

    "I camped on the ridge in the South Dakota grasslands. I was able to look out my front door and see the badlands or or see the grasslands out my rear window."

    "Wish I had known about it before we made reservations to camp in interior. Definitely will be staying there next time we go through SD."

    4. Badlands / White River KOA

    59 Reviews
    Interior, SD
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 433-5337

    "We slept here for four nights when we were driving through the Badlands and travelling west to Crazy Horse. Weirdly enough, in the office we met someone from a town over from us in Pennsylvania."

    "Although the camp ground is outside the park, the views from the areas surrounding the campground are great."

    5. Sage Creek Campground

    118 Reviews
    Wall, SD
    24 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."

    "Sage Creek is a primitive campground located in the interior of The Badlands National Park. The campsites are first come first serve and are free to use."

    6. The Wall Boondocking Dispersed

    38 Reviews
    Wall, SD
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 279-2126

    "Arrived past dark, could determine where to go so parked along roadside. In AM found The Wall well populated with overnight campers. We can see why!"

    "The winds can get really high so don’t park too close to the edge. This was a great location for visiting Badlands National Park and going to Wall Drug."

    7. Baja Area Dispersed - Buffalo Gap National Grassland

    9 Reviews
    Interior, SD
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (308) 432-0300

    "Super close to the park and Interior, SD. We were able to find a secluded place near the entry to the front gate and we were not disturbed by OHVs entering the Baja area in the morning."

    "Large enough to find a spot away from anyone. There probably is ATV here sometimes, but none while we were here."

    8. Buffalo Gap National Grassland

    19 Reviews
    Wall, SD
    20 miles

    "Dry camped at Buffalo Gap National Grassland just south of Wall South Dakota off of 240. Plenty of space with flat ground for tent or RV. Spectacular view and right by I90 for easy access."

    "Driving in we didn't think we would get a spot because there were already so many campers, but there were still so many spots left. It is a huge campsite!"

    9. Sleepy Hollow Campground

    31 Reviews
    Wall, SD
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 279-2100

    "I was looking for a campground near the Badlands but it was a rainy summer and the roads to the rustic campsites were questionable for my small car."

    "Close to Badlands National Park. Just 8 miles to beautiful sunsets. Walking distance to town, Wall Drug, and restaurants. Campground is as others have stated; a bit tired. Pool is still closed."

    10. Minute Man RV Park & Lodging

    5 Reviews
    Interior, SD
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 433-5451

    $25 - $40 / night

    "Very close to the world's largest prairie dog!"

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 32 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win


Recent Reviews near Interior, SD

635 Reviews of 32 Interior Campgrounds


  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 11, 2025

    Badlands Boondocking Area

    Outstanding !

    Nice designated campsites. The view doesn’t disappoint. Convenient to I90.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 11, 2025

    The Wall Boondocking Dispersed

    Amazing sunrises

    By far the best boondocking spot we’ve been too. Plenty of room to spread out. Spots for every one from tents, car, RVs. Stayed 4 nights and could have stayed longer. The view is a 10/10. A must see experience

  • John D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 5, 2025

    Badlands Boondocking Dispersed Camping Area

    Nice place.

    I stay here a few times a year on the way to the Black Hills in my car camper rav4. Perfect if you're looking for a place to rest or park overnight in the middle of nowhere. Can fill up fast in the early evening. About the only negative I have is to many houses on wheels. Good base for the area.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 28, 2025

    Baja Area Dispersed - Buffalo Gap National Grassland

    Mosquitoes!! V2

    I can’t see my previous, but I said I would edit if we stayed (due to mosquitoes) but we did.

    The sky was amazing! And that’s with a hazy day. So if night skies are important to you, and you can tolerate some mosquitoes then try this place out.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 22, 2025

    Sage Creek Campground

    Beautiful views, Lots of Bison!

    We enjoyed our stay here. We stayed three days and road our electric bikes along the trails and near the Bison (not up to them). There were so many Bison! No privacy though. We went a very rocky way down the mountain when getting there but leaving was an easier way out.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 9, 2025

    Badlands Dispersed Camping

    Badlands Dispersed Camping

    The road is gravel with some hills and turns, but it was recently graded and we made it up to our site without any trouble. Views are outstanding, sunrise from the spot was amazing.

  • Kara S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 8, 2025

    Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping

    Crowded but big spots and a lovely view

    All the spots were filled but we ended up setting in another couples site. The sites were big, it’s quiet, and the view was amazing. Went on a full moon night and it was lovely. Windy but not too bad in our rooftop tent.


Guide to Interior

Dispersed camping opportunities dominate the landscape surrounding Interior, South Dakota, with Buffalo Gap National Grassland providing multiple free camping zones beyond the developed options within Badlands National Park. The area sits at approximately 2,500 feet elevation with summer high temperatures frequently exceeding 95°F and winter lows often dropping below freezing. Morning temperature swings of 30-40 degrees occur regularly during spring and fall camping seasons, requiring layered clothing and proper tent staking against persistent winds.

What to do

Morning wildlife viewing: At Sage Creek Campground, wildlife encounters happen frequently. "Buffalo, coyotes, badgers, and birds make it feel very natural," notes Will S. The primitive campground provides access to prairie dog colonies and regular bison sightings.

Stargazing and astronomy: The dark skies above Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping create excellent stargazing conditions. "The stars were gorgeous and the sunrise was unrivaled," reports Blake R. Many campers mention the astronomical viewing quality, particularly during new moon phases when light pollution is minimal.

Hiking along ridgelines: Multiple trails accessible from dispersed camping areas provide elevated views. "Take the time to walk in the hiking area. Hidden pond - no swimming," advises Ann W. about trails near Badlands Hotel & Campground. Sunrise and sunset hikes offer cooler temperatures and better lighting conditions for photography.

What campers like

Front-row Badlands views: Buffalo Gap National Grassland provides panoramic overlooks. "We were camping right on the rim of the badlands. Great spot. Saw some coyotes at dusk both nights," says Will E. The elevated position allows for expansive views of the unique landscape formations.

Early morning quiet: Tent campers report particularly peaceful mornings before 8AM. "Woke up early and drove in to see sunrise," explains Jonah S. from Badlands Hotel & Campground. The proximity to park entrances allows for quick access during optimal lighting conditions.

Wildlife encounters: Beyond the expected prairie dogs, many campers encounter larger mammals. "Plenty of Buffalo crossing the road, roaming about, hanging out in surrounding hillside trees. Saw a fox, heard the howling wolves at night," reports Alex P. Early mornings and dusk provide the most active wildlife viewing periods.

What you should know

Wind intensity and direction: Strong, persistent winds affect all camping areas but especially exposed ridge camping. "If you have never camped on top of a Mesa looking over stunning cliffs and rock formations I strongly recommend," says Allyse, but cautions about wind intensity at Baja Area Dispersed. Proper tent staking is essential.

Water availability limitations: Most dispersed sites lack water sources. "If you need water there is a spigot just past the park entrance," notes Francois T. Established campgrounds provide potable water, while dispersed campers should bring 1-2 gallons per person per day.

Road conditions vary seasonally: Access roads to prime dispersed camping spots can become impassable after rain. "Currently, as of June 10th 2025, the road is accessible by almost any vehicle except a lowrider or sports car. However the road is dirt with some gravel so I would suspect it could be slippery when wet," explains Mercuric M.

Tips for camping with families

Consider cabins during extreme weather: Cedar Pass Campground offers structured camping options during unpredictable weather periods. "Stayed in the cabin due to incremental weather. Good AC when temps outside were nearly 100F," reports Tomasz S., highlighting the value of solid structures during summer heat.

Early arrival timing: Family-friendly sites fill quickly during peak season. "We were here in April and they were in the middle of transiting from dry to wet, as far as running water. The sign said no water, but there was water!" notes Mel B. Arriving before noon increases site selection options.

Evening ranger programs: Educational opportunities exist throughout the summer. "Every evening there is program prepared by the rangers as well as a presentation of the stars," mentions Karsten. These structured activities provide learning opportunities for children while giving parents scheduled downtime.

Tips from RVers

Generator restrictions: Many areas prohibit generator use. "There is a trailer size limit of 21 Feet. No generators allowed," cautions Geeios1 about Sage Creek Campground regulations. Check specific area rules before arrival as enforcement varies by location.

Uneven parking surfaces: Even established RV sites may require leveling. "Although, camp sites lacked shade and were closer than we would have liked," explains Michelle F. Proper leveling equipment helps prevent appliance issues in the uneven terrain.

Full hookup alternatives: When temperatures spike, Sleepy Hollow Campground provides full-service options. "Great campground. Cost about $20 / night for tent site. Small store in the campground and a pool," notes Trevor S. Full hookups allow air conditioning operation during summer heat waves.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Interior, SD?

According to TheDyrt.com, Interior, SD offers a wide range of camping options, with 32 campgrounds and RV parks near Interior, SD and 15 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Interior, SD?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Interior, SD is Cedar Pass Campground — Badlands National Park with a 4.2-star rating from 115 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Interior, SD?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 15 free dispersed camping spots near Interior, SD.