Cabin camping near Interior, South Dakota provides convenient access to the otherworldly formations of Badlands National Park. The region experiences temperature extremes with summer highs reaching 100°F and winter lows dropping well below freezing. Many cabin rentals remain open from April through October, with limited winter availability due to harsh weather conditions.
What to do
Stargazing after dark: Cedar Pass Campground offers excellent night sky viewing opportunities. "Get up early for the sunrise!!! AND stay up late for stargazing!! Take a siesta to make up for that nature-focussed schedule," advises one visitor to Cedar Pass Campground.
Hiking the backcountry: The region offers numerous hiking opportunities beyond the main trails. "The park is AMAZING! Such a unique park of the country- breathtaking sunsets and unique hikes. I highly recommend finding a place each night to watch the sun go down!" notes a camper from Cedar Pass.
Nature trail exploration: Some campgrounds maintain their own walking paths. At Badlands Interior Campground, visitors can enjoy on-site nature experiences. "They have a cute little nature trail that they mow maintain. They do allow dogs and one was barking in the middle of the night," mentioned one reviewer.
Morning wildlife viewing: Early risers can hear coyotes and spot wildlife. "Slept with windows open and listened to coyote," noted a recent guest at Badlands Interior Campground, highlighting the authentic wilderness experience available even from established cabin sites.
What campers like
Private cabins with basic amenities: Most cabins provide simple accommodations with essential furnishings. At Sleepy Hollow Campground, "we stayed in a cabin, primitive, but super clean and comfy. nice beds, you provide linens."
On-site food options: Some locations offer convenient meal services. "They have a camp store where they have made to order breakfast," notes a visitor to Badlands Interior Campground, making it easier to prepare for a day of exploring.
Air conditioning in summer: The intense heat makes climate control valuable. One visitor to Badlands Hotel & Campground mentioned, "Stayed in the cabin due to incremental weather. Good AC when temps outside were nearly 100F."
Hot shower access: After dusty hikes, clean facilities matter. "Bath house is nice," remarked a Badlands Interior visitor, though they also noted "Picnic tables at the tent sites are old and falling apart."
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Most facilities close during winter months. The Badlands / White River KOA operates from "Apr 17 to Oct 4" according to their listing information.
Wind exposure: Strong winds can affect the camping experience. "We stayed two nights and the wind blew about 50mph both nights. It was about 103° during the day. Plan to hike in the mornings," advised a Cedar Pass visitor.
Mosquito preparation: Wet years bring insects. "Pack deet bug spray and long sleeves. This year was a wet one and everywhere in the Badlands is mosquito heaven," warned a White River KOA visitor.
Limited shade: The open landscape means little protection from the sun. "There are very few trees or shady areas. The tent sites seem to be shadier than the RV sites, who often have air conditioning," noted a reviewer at a nearby KOA.
Tips for camping with families
Pool availability: During hot summer months, swimming facilities provide relief. At Lisa May Wice KOA, "Kids liked the pool (thought it was a bit cold). Playground was right near our campsite."
Playground access: Many cabin sites include children's recreation areas. "There is a pool & other family activities," mentioned a KOA visitor, though another noted that playgrounds can be "busy with kids until 8 then it got quiet."
Mini golf options: Some campgrounds offer additional activities. "The playground and mini golf was very outdated," noted a visitor to White River KOA, suggesting families check current facility conditions before booking.
Bathroom proximity: For families with young children, cabin location matters. "The tent sites are also closer to the bathrooms," observed one reviewer, which applies to cabin selection as well when traveling with children.
Tips from RVers
Winter preparations: For cold-weather cabin visitors, preparation is essential. Grand River Casino and Resort Campground sits "right on the water which delivers nice views," but a visitor notes "All sites are electric only but there is a dump station where you can dump and fill."
Space between sites: Privacy varies between locations. At one KOA, they offer "nice pull through lots with more than enough space between each lot," making for a more comfortable stay even during busy periods.
Location for Badlands access: Some campgrounds provide better park access than others. "A fine place to pitch a tent for the night. Tent spots are small and tight. Has accommodations for RVs, tents, and cabins... Overall, the convenience of this campground can't be beat as it's literally minutes from the entrance to badlands," reports a visitor to Badlands Interior.
