Best Tent Camping near Interior, SD
Looking for the best options for tent camping near Interior? Find the best tent camping sites near Interior. Each tent campsite offers quick access to one or more of Interior's most popular destinations.
Best Tent Sites Near Interior, South Dakota (5)
1. Baja Area Dispersed - Buffalo Gap National Grassland
7 Reviews•25 Photos•179 SavesInterior, South DakotaThere is only one small developed recreation area on the Buffalo Gap National Grassland. The National Grassland Visitor Center is located in Wall, South Dakota. This site provides the history behind the system of the National Grasslands located across the West.
While there is only one developed campground, there are plenty of open spaces to camp. Bring your horse, your bicycle or your OHV and spend some quiet time in the wide open spaces of the Grassland.
Overnight camping in developed sites is on a first-come, first-served basis. Campfires are allowed unless restrictions are posted. Red Cloud Campground site features 13 sites with picnic tables and fire grates, and a vault toilet. From Chadron, NE travel eight miles south of on U.S. Highway 385 to the campground.
Backcountry, dispersed or primitive camping (no facilities) is allowed anywhere on the National Forest.
Practicing Leave No Trace principles ensures that the next person to visit will have the same sense of discovery as those who came before.
The seven principles are:
Plan ahead and prepare, Camp and travel on durable surfaces, Dispose of waste properly, Leave what you find, Minimize campfire impacts, Respect wildlife, Be considerate of other visitors.
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
2. Backcountry Camping — Badlands National Park
Be the first to review!•6 SavesBadlands National Park, South DakotaPermits are not currently required for overnight stays in the Badlands backcountry. Before setting out on an overnight trip contact a staff member at the Ben Reifel Visitor Center or Pinnacles Entrance Station for more information. Backcountry registers are located at the Medicine/Castle Trail Loop, Saddle Pass Trailhead, Conata Picnic Area, Sage Creek Basin Overlook, and the Sage Creek Campground.
Campfires are not allowed under any circumstances. Use a backpacking stove.
Pets are not permitted on trails, in backcountry, or wilderness areas.
The location of your campsite must be at least 0.5 miles from a road or trail and must not be visible from a roadway.
There is little to no water available in the backcountry. The small amounts of water found are not drinkable or filterable due to the high sediment content. Always carry at least one gallon of water per person per day.
All refuse must be carried out. Use the cat hole method to dispose of human waste. Dig a small hole 6 to 8 inches deep and a minimum of 200 feet from any water source. Since animals will often dig up cat holes and scatter the toilet paper, it is preferred that you pack out all toilet paper. If you must bury toilet paper, use a minimal amount and bury with at least 6 inches of soil.
Strain food particles from wastewater, pack out food scraps, and scatter remaining water more than 200 feet from any stream channel.
- Tents
- Dispersed
Recent Tent Reviews near Interior, South Dakota
545 Reviews of 5 Interior Campgrounds
- Sarah C.
Scout
Cedar Pass Campground — Badlands National Park
Go for the Views!
Tent camping in the Badlands is a one of a kind experience. The sites are basic, but the views are amazing. We stayed at tent site 81 and had unobstructed views. We read about the wind before going and those campers were not joking. A storm swept through with lightning like we’ve never seen before and the wind continued all night. Be prepared for the wind! Fires are not allowed due to the wind. Bathrooms were ok and they had a dishwashing station which was nice. Enjoy this unique campground!
- EEmily B.
Traveler
Sleepy Hollow Campground
Great place to stay
Very close to Wall Drug attraction, quiet camp ground accommodating RVs and tents. We camped in a tent, and although it rained enjoyed our stay. Staff is nice, facilities are clean. Would recommend!
Val Z.Traveler
Badlands Hotel & Campground
Tenting ok, dog walk is nice
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. Generally we camp dispersed or in forest campgrounds, avoiding RV parks, so 4 stars is actually pretty good from us for an RV park.
- GGene Z.Traveler
Badlands Hotel & Campground
Great location, but other things could be improved.
The location is right outside of the national park, and is a motel / campground. You could get a room, RV or tent site. We reserved a tent site and picked once we arrived. The staff was friendly and they do have a store with ice / wood / etc if needed. They also had a breakfast option.
The tent sites are just on a field of grass. They are right next to one another without any separation so proximity to neighbors is very close. However, the view was great as you could see the badlands.
The bathrooms and showers were rough, and we refrained from using them. Not very well maintained or cleaned often it seems. Also, bugs. Especially at night when the beatles come out.
For RV users, looks like they had full hookups but unsure of the amps. Probably the usual 50.
Overall we wouldn’t mind coming back!
Dexter I.
LegendCedar Pass Campground — Badlands National Park
Great view
You will have nice views of the Badlands from your campsite. A nice tent camping area for sure. You are in the open at this campground, not many trees grow here.
loren S.
GuideBadlands Hotel & Campground
Interior entrance, Bad Lands SD
Good wifi, little store. Tent site. Hot showers, restaurant serves breakfast. Fire rings. Beautiful place overlooking bad lands. Friendly staff, quiet, and comfortable.
- LLiz M.Traveler
Lisa May Wice
Nice campground, really good owners
They has some fancies when I was in a pinch to get a site for the next few nights. They were able to accommodate my needs. They have continued to be friendly & helpful throughout my stay.
There are very few trees or shady areas. The tent sites seem to be shadier than the RV sites, who often have air conditioning. The tent sites are also closer to the bathrooms.
There is a pool & other family activities.
This KOA is out among some very small towns. There are few amenities outside of the campground. But I enjoyed a day trip through the Badlands.
- TTrevor S.Guide
Badlands Hotel & Campground
Great campground near park
Nice campground near the park. Cost about $20 / night for tent site. Small store in the campground and a pool (not in service when we were there). Would definitely stay again!
- BBlake R.Traveler
Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping
Fantastic views
Rolled in here after a 12 hour drive at about 11:00 pm. There were still quite a few spots to set up. There were mostly campers and we were one of two groups tent camping but that wasn’t an issue. Make sure to use stakes for your tent though because the wind is wild. The stars were gorgeous and the sunrise was unrivaled
Tucker B.LegendBuffalo Gap Dispersed Camping
One of the Coolest Dispersed Areas I've Experienced!
Talk about wide open spaces!
I could see how tent camping could be rough here in heavy winds, but I got lucky during my stay.
Incredible spot on a plateau overlooking the Badlands.
Epic sunrises and sunsets, but no shade during the day!
Just outside of the park boundary, so great basecamp for Badlands exploration.
- JJodie E.Scout
Badlands / White River KOA
Nice , quiet , SHADED, not overcrowded
I am very pleased with this Campground . As I drove through the Badlands today and saw people setting up their tents in the totally exposed Park campgrounds I was sad for them . The KOA has great shade at every tent site . The sites are spacious and there were was no overcrowding . I opted to rent one of the small Rustic cabins with AC ( no bathroom or kitchen ) in order to give my elderly dog a respite from the scorching afternoon heat . The little camping cabin is clean and comfortable, there is a small front porch with a swing . Outside there is a picnic table and fire ring . We walked through the campground this evening and there was a cool gentle breeze . Most of the tent sites were unoccupied while I believe absolutely every RV site was occupied . Definitely worth checking out this campsite and hands down better choice than the exposed unshaded sites with in the Badlands .
- MMarissa H.Scout
Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping
Super windy, not good for tents
We have stayed here twice, it was easy to find and lots of available spots but it’s just on a cliff’s edge so there are TONS of strong gusts of winds, it caused our tent to cave in and I ended up sleeping in the car. There was a goat, that was cool, but otherwise I don’t recommend for tent camping (go to sage creek campground, also free)
- SScott N.Traveler
Cedar Pass Campground — Badlands National Park
Functional camp sites in badlands national park
Pros: you are camping in badlands national park. Night time star gazing program with the park during the summer.
Cons: sites are tightly packed together. No trees. No wind protection. Pay showers. Showers not super clean. Bathrooms and showers do not have counter space or other areas to place personal items.
During our stay sustained winds collapsed our tent during the day. If you are tent camping, using a tent designed to handle windy conditions would be recommended.
Justin S.GuideBadlands / White River KOA
Bugs!
Tent sIte. VIsIted in July. Extremely hot (>100) for 2 nights. mosquitos were insane! I usually expect them this time of year, but apparently they were especially awful this year per camp owners. bathrooms were sub par on the cleanliness side. dog area was nice. camp store very limited
Kristen M.GuideBadlands / White River KOA
The only option
This campground was alright. They had a snack bar and activities for the kids. The tent sites were big and the facilities were mostly clean. It’s the only campground near Badlands NP and is quite a drive to the middle of nowhere. WiFi coverage was poor and Sprint has no cell service here.
Kari T.LegendBadlands Hotel & Campground
Conveniently Located for More Fun
Badlands Interior Campground is located one mile south of Badlands National Park, and includes plenty of clean, level RV and tent sites, as well as teepees, camper cabins, and a motel. The owners were a delight to talk to, which we did every morning, and very knowledgeable about the area.
The RV sites include both electric and full hook-up, which is a step above the sites available inside the national park. There are community bathrooms that are small and feel a bit older, and only two showers are located in each. On a busy summer day, those could feel quite crowded. The playground is small and dated, but the unique merry-go-round (standing version) captivated our sons for a few hours.
The sites are not very shaded, especially the tent sites. This was not a concern for us since we visited in early spring, but a mid-summer day in the 100’s might be a bit unbearable. But in lieu of the trees, visitors get to see awesome views of the Badlands from almost every site! There are picnic tables at every campsite, some have sun overhangs, which would be outstanding to have in the summer. Each site also boasts an above-ground campfire ring, which is small, but a welcome feature as the campgrounds inside the park do not allow open fires (fire dangers here stay high most of the year).
The owners keep the facility in great shape, keeping the grass short to avoid encounters with rattle snakes, and the garbage disposal areas free from larger critters. When we arrived the day before their official 2017 opening, the grounds were in great shape and they appeared ready to roll and welcome travelers at any time.
Onyx C.Traveler
Sage Creek Campground
Buffalo friendly campsite
I’ve spent my fair share of nights tent camping in the western part of the states and I’d have to say that this campground is hands down my favorite. Not only is it free is it stunning!! Views of rolling hills and a river valley. Buffalo often wonder into the camp to scratch themselves in the wooden campsite markers! Dog friendly too!! There are technically 25 sites but I ave been here where 35 people crammed in off near the sides.
- SSara L.Guide
Cedar Pass Campground — Badlands National Park
stepping into another world
What a great park and a wonderful campground :) Tent camped here for 4 nights and was pleased with the campground location, restrooms, and site. Nothing special for the site- just a level, open area to put the tent, but there was a nice picnic area. Lots of little creatures scurrying around most of the time, so there's build in entertainment at the site! The park is beautiful- 5 days was not enough time to explore everything. I liked camping here since it was close to many trails and gave me a better sense of the park and its wildlife. I would definitely camp here again on a trip to the Badlands.
- LLo H.Guide
Sleepy Hollow Campground
Close to sight seeing
Friendly staff at check in. We were tent camping and were given a weird site at the back of the tent area when nobody was there. Sorta weird but we rolled with it. They have a camp store, pool, laundry, showers and clean restrooms. The pool was nice but got crowed because it was smaller.
The best draw to this campground is that it’s a 2 block walk to the famous wall drug store. So there is tons to do. The badlands national park is a must see and very close as well. I would recommend this campground again for its location and friendly staff. 
Carlyne F.LegendCedar Pass Campground — Badlands National Park
Cedar Pass Campground, SD
Located within Badlands National Park, this campground couldn’t be more conveniently located to nearby hiking trails and all the Badlands has to offer. There is a visitors center with a small store in walking distance. Our site was essentially along a road, so privacy is limited, but you get your own awning and picnic table. The bathrooms weren’t heated and it was about 5 degrees which made our showers uncomfortable. The showers require quarters, but there is a no change machine. Use the vending machine to make change instead.
Tent camping is allowed all year, but most guests were staying in RV’s.
Heather P.
RangerCedar Pass Campground — Badlands National Park
It's called the Badlands for a reason
I loved this campground. Now it could easily have been because it was our first official, set up our tent site after 23hrs of driving. But honestly the views were beautiful.
Sites were nice and level for setting up our tents, the sites had a great covered picnic area. And even though we saw quite a few others camping out, it was quiet. We visited in Oct.
The bath houses were clean and well maintained and showers were sure nice to have.
We rolled in around 7pm so was already dark but waking to the morning sunrise was amazing.
Nate R.GuideSage Creek Campground
Free camp in Badlands!
It is a area about the size of a city block that you camp in the middle of and park around. It is popular so try not to show up late. Plenty of tent camping inside the loop. Parking can be and issue. By 9.pm some small RVs came and couldn't find space left to park. Vault toilets, trails, some picnic tables, scenery. Woke up to a buffalo 30 yards from my tent. Other people said they walk right thru camp. Prairie dogs everywhere, so watch your step for holes. I got yelled at by a prairie dog on my hike up the hill lol. Our stay was short but enjoyable.
Sarah H.GuideCedar Pass Campground — Badlands National Park
Good Camping in The Badlands
Our family of four tent camped two nights in the Cedar Pass campground and the views are unbelievable! The sky is so open we watched a rainstorm pass by to the south of us, but never felt a drop. The campground can become crowded at times so try to choose a site on the outer edge of the grounds. Covered picnic tables were greatly appreciated since shade is sparse. Day hikes and evening ranger led programs are well worth your time. The kids also enjoyed making friends playing on the gigantic rocks outside of the amphitheater. Campground and bathrooms were well maintained. A cool experience all around.
Andy O.ScoutCedar Pass Campground — Badlands National Park
Clean, Friendly, Nice Facilities
Got in late around 9pm. They have my reservation that I made online. Clear directions to my campsite. Showers were functional and much appreciated. $.50 for four minutes and then $.25 for every two minutes after that. They have a change machine just outside the showers. Each campsite has a picnic table and awning. And my tent site was clear requiring no tidying up. One of the two toilets was out of order, creating a bottleneck, but the bathrooms were clean in general.  Amazing scenery, and lots of hiking right around you. Felt very safe. Would highly recommend!
Roni J.GuideSleepy Hollow Campground
Perfect location
On an “I’m gunna lose my mind if I don’t get outta here” whim, I picked this campground as it seemed to be right in the middle of everything. In one day we checked out Mt Rushmore, drove back to the camp site to have lunch then went to the badlands and before leaving the next morn, we tootled around wall drug. We lucked out getting a tent site with the shelter as I was unprepared for the rain and wind. We had a nice stay at a nice little clean campground and the dog enjoyed running around the fenced pet area after spending so much time in the car.
- RRichard &.Guide
Badlands Hotel & Campground
Much better than the nearby national park campground
We stayed at the Badlands Interior Campground and Motel for three nights while visiting Badlands National Park. We were supposed to stay in the national park campground, but they had overbooked and we were out of luck, as were most other campers with reservations that day. Fortunately, the Badlands Interior campground is just two miles down the road from the national park campground. They offer full hookups for the same price as a lessor site at the park campground.
We found the Badlands Interior Campground to be enjoyable and convenient. We were in our class C while slowly making our way across the country. The campground is reasonably large. We had no problems getting a spot here. Sites are gravel for the RV, very level, and reasonably well maintained. All RV sites are pull through. Hookups are in good condition. You may have to run your water hose under your RV. Each site has a grassy area with a table and fire pit. The grassy areas were a little narrow, causing your neighbor to be a little close. Staff was very friendly and helpful. There are tent sites available.
There was a pool that we observed being used daily. There is a meadow with hiking trails at the campground. There are showers, laundry and a campground store. Breakfast is also available.
The campground is conveniently located just two miles from the national park. It has great views of the national park. There is almost no noise other than your neighbors.
We had 4 bar LTE with Verizon. Our hotspot performed very well. The wifi offered at the campground is the best we have encountered. My wife was able to play her xbox games in the evening.
We found this to be a great place to stay. We will stay again when traveling this way.
- MMaggie C.Legend
Badlands / White River KOA
Nice KOA
This was our first time at a KOA. Stayed for 2 nights to explore the Badlands. The campground was large and very close/convenient to Badlands National Park . I appreciated that they had the option of purchasing dinner or breakfast at their cafe. Hosts and staff are very friendly. They had a huge dog park that our pups loved. Sites were close together and just ok from an aesthetic standpoint. Looked like a good campground if you have children - lots of activities and a pool. I am only giving 4 stars because one of our party is in a wheelchair and he had to go all the way to the back of the campground where the tent camping was to access an ADA bathroom/shower. And there were only 2 of those available - they are the regular showers for the tent campers. Otherwise, if you aren’t handicapped it is a good choice. Especially if you have dogs. Oh, and watch out for mosquitos. They do spray for them
Guide to Interior
Tent camping near Interior, South Dakota offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in stunning natural landscapes while enjoying the tranquility of the outdoors.
Tent campers appreciate these amenities
- The Baja Area Dispersed - Buffalo Gap National Grassland provides a wide-open space with no reservations required, allowing for a spontaneous camping experience.
- At Backcountry Camping — Badlands National Park, campers can enjoy a truly remote experience, perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and connect with nature.
- Brooks Memorial Park offers drinking water, making it a convenient stop for those needing to replenish supplies during their stay.
Tent campers like these nearby activities
- The Baja Area Dispersed - Buffalo Gap National Grassland is ideal for stargazing, with its expansive skies providing breathtaking views of the night stars.
- Hiking enthusiasts will find Backcountry Camping — Badlands National Park a perfect base for exploring rugged trails and scenic vistas.
- Wildlife watching is a highlight at Baja Area Dispersed - Buffalo Gap National Grassland, where you might spot various species in their natural habitat.
Tips for tent camping near Interior
- Be prepared for a lack of amenities at Backcountry Camping — Badlands National Park, as it requires you to bring all your supplies and gear for a self-sufficient experience.
- Mosquitoes can be a nuisance at Baja Area Dispersed - Buffalo Gap National Grassland, so pack insect repellent to ensure a comfortable stay.
- For a quieter experience, consider visiting Brooks Memorial Park during weekdays when there are fewer visitors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Interior, SD?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Interior, SD is Baja Area Dispersed - Buffalo Gap National Grassland with a 4.4-star rating from 7 reviews.
What is the best site to find tent camping near Interior, SD?
TheDyrt.com has all 5 tent camping locations near Interior, SD, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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