Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Lead, SD has a lot to offer. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Lead. Find the best campgrounds near Lead, SD. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.
"We picked a site near the back of the camp grounds located near the creek and close to a small parking lot (close by to the pet exercise area on the map - though it's labelled as an ice rink on grounds"
"Nice city campground along Spearfish Creek and super close to downtown and has easy access to Spearfish Canyon. We definitely took advantage of the creek and proximity to downtown during our stay."
$23 - $65 / night
"They are close to Spearfish Canyon which has wonderful hiking trails and trout fishing. The area is beautiful.There are also close to Deadwood and Lead, both of which are worth exploring!"
"The owners are very helpful and friendly, The campground is close to lots of great activities such as Spearfish Canyon, as well as Deadwood and Lead."
"The road is easy to drive if coming off the CanAm Hwy side of the mountain. Walking distance to the Roosevelt Friendship Tower hike which is highly recommended."
"This is not a thru road there is only one entrance off of the CanAm Highway. Roughly about 10 sites depending on set-up. Bathroom close by the entrance/trailhead to Roosevelt Friendship Tower."
$28 - $160 / night
"Our dogs loved the long walks around the campground, crossing over the creeks on the little bridges. There is an off leash dog park 10 minutes away in Lead, SD."
"Easy to find, very close to Deadwood, clean showers and bathrooms and it has a bar a grill! Bar and grill was so good and I’m still dreaming about that burger."
"We have stayed at this location twice (have gotten the same cabin actually) when Deadwood is having events."
"Our initially reserved campground nearby was sketchy, so we called KOA Deadwood at 4:30 hoping for a last minute reservation (even though the app said they were full)."
"Small, but has 3 shaded sites next to the creek (1,2,3). Nice 1.1 mile hike that starts next to Host site. If you just tent camp, there are about 5 sites off by themselves with a vault toilet."
"Great little spot nestled in the woods next to a small stream. Quiet road that is part dirt at times. Would highly recommend"
"Easy access off I-90 and super close to Spearfish, Deadwood, Lead and all this area of South Dakota has to offer."
"Campground is very clean and has quick and easy access to the highway. "
"Location is quiet. There is a place to walk dogs. Deadwood trolley comes right to the CG to transport you downtown."
"They are really close to town, so it’s really convenient. We have a larger side by side, so when I called they made sure that we would have a spot to fit that too."
$146 - $285 / night
"great quiet cabins great location to see all kinds of beautiful sights.. great rides to get to your destination. Great friendly staff . love the creek that flows thru the campgrounds"
"You've shared a very useful and entertaining blog post with the public mapquest driving directions"
$20 - $800 / night
"It has a beer garden, restroom facilities and it's right on the outskirts of town."
"Helpful convenient right next to freeway so noisy all else is great!"
ScoutIt was amazing and beautiful but no cell service Very close to everything, about a 30 minute drive from Mount Rushmore. Road is rocky but flat in some spots. Lots of trails so can be noisy of ATV. Otherwise beautiful South Dakota scenery! Go down the road for a few spots.
GuideA little crowded by the amount of RV’s BUT… such a great campground. Super organized , well kept and the beautiful creek runs along the camp. It was nice going to sleep and waking up with the sound of the water. Across the street is a fish pond hatchery (and aquarium like) and a big fun playground.
Lots of bike/ walking paths that go into the cute town
So beautiful here and fair prices on off season.
RangerOur spot had a great view, plenty of spots to pick from, it was super quiet this time of year, weather was perfect. Easy drive in on the road for the van and most spots were relatively flat.
TravelerThe lady charged $25 for 30 gallons of water. Ridiculous.
GuideSuch a beautiful campground on one of the most scenic routes … The colors of fall , the mountains and the little creek were perfect.
It is close to the road but it’s pretty quiet not many cars pass.
$15.00 to camp - only 5 sites and a tent area There is a mile hike up the mountain too
GuideLots of hiking, biking, picnicking area. Near Alkali Horse campgrounds. The price used to be $6.00 during the open season and free after October 1st. BLM just raised the price to $24, per day all year around and $30 per day at the Alkali Horse camp. The site dies not have a camp host all year around. There are picnic tables, 5 sites for RVs, fire rings, 12 tent camping sites. Some of the tent sites require a short hike. Pit toilet, bike rake station and a water fountain. Recommend using a water bandit with hose if filling up large containers. Just a few minutes outside Sturgis
GuideIt use to be free camping after October. They have raised the price to $30 a day, per site
TravelerThis place has everything, gas station, golf course, roaming security, paved roads, concrete pads, pet and non pet areas, 10mins to town if you need to, and more. Their rules say $50 fine for speeding which is ok cause there is alot of people walking. Met a nice couple who stays there often, if it was closer to home for me I would too. I should give it 5 stars but I grade tuff.
GuideThis is my second time here in the same spot. The bathrooms are clean and staff is friendly. The crowd is quiet and respectful. There is laundry on site, firewood for sale, and I believe they sell propane. The wildlife is everywhere. I have had deer, turkey, and rabbit within 50 feet. Awesome place!
Camping near Lead, South Dakota, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're into tent camping or RVing, there are plenty of options to explore.
Camping near Lead, South Dakota, has something for everyone, from families to seasoned RVers. Just be prepared for the crowds and enjoy the beautiful scenery!
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best season to camp in Lead, South Dakota?
The prime camping season in Lead runs from late May through early September when temperatures are mild and most facilities are fully operational. Pactola Reservoir Campground typically operates from May through mid-September, closing for the season around September 11th. Game Lodge Campground in nearby Custer State Park is one of the few year-round options in the region, though winter camping requires preparation for potentially harsh conditions. Summer offers ideal weather but comes with larger crowds, especially during the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in August. Spring and fall provide more solitude with pleasant daytime temperatures but cooler nights. Check campground schedules before planning as many close seasonally.
What amenities are available at Lead, SD camping facilities?
Camping facilities around Lead offer varied amenities to suit different needs. Fish'n Fry Campground and Cabins features a beautiful creek running through the property, friendly staff, and helpful local information. For those seeking luxury camping, Happy Holiday RV Resort provides full hookups at reasonable prices with accommodating owners. Most area campgrounds offer basic amenities like fire pits, picnic tables, and toilets. Higher-end facilities typically include shower facilities, laundry services, water hookups, and electricity. Some campgrounds like Whistler Gulch and Deadwood KOA offer Wi-Fi and camp stores. Nature-focused amenities include fishing access, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing opportunities. Amenities vary significantly between primitive forest service campgrounds and full-service private RV parks.
What are the best campgrounds near Lead, South Dakota?
The Lead area offers excellent camping options for exploring the Black Hills. Elkhorn Ridge RV Resort & Cabins provides easy access off I-90 with full hookups and is conveniently located for visiting Lead, Deadwood, and Spearfish. For a more rustic experience, Black Fox Campground features just 8-10 well-spaced sites, each with fire pits and picnic tables, making it perfect for those seeking a quieter Black Hills camping experience. Other notable options include Pactola Reservoir Campground for lakeside camping, Hanna Campground for its proximity to Lead, and Wild Bill's Campground near historic Deadwood. The area has campgrounds to suit every preference, from primitive forest camping to full-service RV resorts.
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