Best Equestrian Camping near Lead, SD

Days of 76 Campground in Deadwood offers several horse camping sites with stables for equestrians exploring the Black Hills region. The campground provides gravel sites with water and electric hookups, situated within walking distance of downtown Deadwood. Horse campers can safely stable their animals while enjoying the convenience of nearby attractions and amenities. The campground features clean, spacious shower facilities and restrooms for campers. Sites are primarily gravel with some muddy areas after rain, and the campground layout accommodates both RVs and tent campers traveling with horses.

Located just minutes from multiple trail access points, Days of 76 provides riders with excellent opportunities to explore the scenic Black Hills trail systems. The campground's proximity to downtown Deadwood (a short, safe walk) allows equestrians to enjoy local attractions after a day of riding. While the campground itself is relatively basic with gravel sites and minimal shade, its strategic location makes it an ideal base camp for horse owners. Visitors note the campground's convenient location makes it possible to ride directly from camp to various trail systems. The stable facilities accommodate different horse sizes, though riders should bring their own feed and water buckets. Advance reservations are recommended during peak season and special events.

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Best Equestrian Sites Near Lead, South Dakota (21)

    1. Whistler Gulch Campground & RV Park

    10 Reviews
    Deadwood, SD
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 578-2092

    "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."

    2. Iron Creek Lake Campground

    6 Reviews
    Lead, SD
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 642-5851

    $30 - $38 / night

    "We camped at Iron Creek Lake after the rally, at the end of August.  It was wonderful, not crowded.  The cafe/diner has things like burgers and ice cream, and the fishing in the lake is great.  "

    "Tucked away in the beautiful Black Hills, this is a favorite to many locals. Hiking, fishing, and great views."

    3. Days of 76 Campground

    3 Reviews
    Deadwood, SD
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 578-2872

    "They have several horse camping sites too and a few guests were using the stables."

    "Small campground close to the street. We had a dry campground ($28) close to the office, but Wifi was not working good. Clean and spacious showers and restrooms."

    4. Black Fox Campground

    4 Reviews
    Silver City, SD
    15 miles
    Website

    "Nestled up in the beautiful Black Hills of South Dakota, Black Fox is our 'go to' campground because of how small it is. 8-10 sites that are spread out so you're not right beside other campers."

    "The drive to Black Fox is along quite a few ranches and follows a river. The drive is enjoyable and not very difficult to handle. The campground is right along the river."

    5. Mount Rushmore KOA at Palmer Gulch

    55 Reviews
    Hill City, SD
    33 miles
    Website

    "Make the most of your South Dakota vacation by spending it camping. My group tented and had a great time."

    "It’s basically a small town with two pools, a village of shops and restaurants, tons of activities, and a large horse stable with trail rides."

    6. Sylvan Lake Campground — Custer State Park

    42 Reviews
    Custer, SD
    37 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 255-4515

    "This lake is beautiful, its one of my favorite places inside Custer state park. There are a ton of trails, all within easy walking distance. Make sure you pack plenty of water."

    "We had one of the spots that was more out in the open and close to our neighbors, but the sites on the outside of the middle loop were much more private."

    7. Rafter J Bar Ranch

    20 Reviews
    Hill City, SD
    33 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 574-2527

    "Rushmore, Crazy Horse, and Devil’s Tower. We had a beautiful campsite in the “Ranch” section that had lots of trees and was a fair distance away from our neighbors."

    "Centrally located! Just across the street from access to Mt. Rushmore and the Needles Highway and down the road from Crazy Horse. Beautiful view of the hills."

    8. Elk Creek RV Park Lodge & Resort

    3 Reviews
    Piedmont, SD
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 787-4884

    "Pleasant campground tucked away in the black hills of SD"

    9. Rapid City KOA

    25 Reviews
    Rapid City, SD
    36 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 348-2111

    "Close to Mount Rushmore and crazy horse! Pirates cove mini golf is a short drive away! Great facility with standard KOA amenities."

    "My parents were able to rent a deluxe cabin right next to our campsite. My parents don’t “camp,” so this was perfect for a family vacation."

    10. Hay Creek Ranch

    Be the first to review!
    Nemo, SD
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 578-1142
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Equestrian Camping Reviews near Lead, SD

267 Reviews of 21 Lead Campgrounds


  • Billy B.
    Aug. 30, 2016

    Sylvan Lake Campground — Custer State Park

    Best campground in Custer State park

    This lake is beautiful, its one of my favorite places inside Custer state park. There are a ton of trails, all within easy walking distance. Make sure you pack plenty of water. Some of the hikes are pretty steep and South Dakota in notorious for fast changing weather. The lake itself can be pretty busy, especially during the weekend. Lot of people swimming and kayaking. Needles highway is a must if your in the area

  • Leasa W.
    Jul. 30, 2016

    Mount Rushmore KOA at Palmer Gulch

    Excellent tenting option for vacationing near Mt. Rushmore

    So you're going to Mount Rushmore.... I discovered during my trip to the area June 2015 that hotel rates in the area are very high for what you get & hard to find availability. The solution is to camp! Make the most of your South Dakota vacation by spending it camping. My group tented and had a great time. Keep in mind though for those coming from other areas of the country, South Dakota does experience rain and thunderstorms. Pack and camp accordingly. This campground is nearby many SD attractions, within easy driving distance and minutes of Hill City, Custer, Keystone, Rapid City, Mount Rushmore. There are many options at the campground such as purchasing firewood to renting bikes. Check out KOA's campground map for campground layout. RV hookups, tent sites, heated pools, splash pad, and much more to keep everyone entertained. Remember that this area of South Dakota hosts high volumes of tourists each season, especially summer and during Sturgis Motorcyle Rally. I highly recommend making reservations far in advance!

  • Hope H.
    May. 30, 2018

    Black Fox Campground

    Quaint and Cozy Campground!

    Nestled up in the beautiful Black Hills of South Dakota, Black Fox is our 'go to' campground because of how small it is. 8-10 sites that are spread out so you're not right beside other campers. Black Fox has 1 vaulted toilet and every camp site has its own fire pit and picnic table. There is a small creek that runs right behind many of the camp sites so if you feel like doing a little rainbow trout fishing, you can. If your not into fishing, just hop on to your ATV and go explore the many trails that are situated right around the campground. Not only will you be able to enjoy nature, but you will see elk, deer, turkey and if your lucky, a mountain lion!

  • E
    Oct. 21, 2023

    Blue Bell Campground — Custer State Park

    Solo female kicked out in the middle of the night

    I am a solo, female, camping alone. The site-hosts came banging on my car & yelling, and kicked me out in the middle of the night, stating that I canceled my reservation. I did NOT cancel my reservation. I have a credit card receipt for payment of my reservation. The host refused to look at any of my proving evidence that I paid for a site. 15E. They just kept yelling for me to “Get out!” And kicked me out at 9:30 PM, and leaving me stranded/homeless in South Dakota. I do not live in the state and had no idea what to do. They have endangered my safety. Do not stay here! They can kick you out whenever they want.

  • Danielle R.
    Sep. 16, 2018

    Blue Bell Campground — Custer State Park

    Amazing View

    Exceptionally large park. 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. We had easy access to the West exit and had a great dining experience as well as quick access to all the local monuments. The campground was very peaceful. The showers and bathrooms were very clean. There is a centrally located atrium for events that we didn't see used. We ended up next to a group of young college age people who were spread out and noisier than most, but that was just our luck. We had a break in the tree line to see stars from our tent. There is a gas station and store right at the campground. We didn't plan enough time to give the hiking trails a chance. This campground does have horse trails.

  • 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 ...

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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

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    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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    Fort Welikit Family Campground | Custer SD

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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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    Fort Welikit Family Campground

    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.

  • Shana D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 28, 2021

    Sylvan Lake Campground — Custer State Park

    Walking distance to Sylvan Lake!

    This campground was really nice! We had one of the spots that was more out in the open and close to our neighbors, but the sites on the outside of the middle loop were much more private. The bathroom was super clean and the showers were individual rooms that could be locked. I really like those! 

    The walk in tent sites were some of the coolest I have ever seen! There is a vault toilet at the entrance for the tent walk in sites, but it appeared that everyone was coming to the much nicer flush toilets! 

    There is a trail that leads from the campground down to the lake. I highly recommend strolling along that trail early in the morning as it is so peaceful! 

    The campground is also only about a mile or so away from the popular needles tunnel. You can't go wrong with this campground. I am so glad that we lucked up on a couple of nights here!

  • Annie C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 11, 2016

    Sylvan Lake Campground — Custer State Park

    Sylvan Lake- Custer State Park

    Pricey (entrance fee plus campground fee) but worth it. Beautiful lake with great access to hiking trails, and just a short drive to Mt Rushmore and Crazy Horse. Nice campground, trailer lots seemed more level than tent sites. Some, not all, had tent pads. Nice clean shower house. Great starting point to hike Harney Peak and Cathedral Spires.

  • G
    May. 28, 2022

    Sylvan Lake Campground — Custer State Park

    A top 10 campground

    This campground is one of the best . We snagged an awesome site that was large , wooded , secluded , and quiet . The area was beautiful with the Needles and the wildlife drives that were spectacular with buffalo , pronghorn ,and deer in your face. Very close to major attentions such as Mt Rushmore , Crazy Horse Monument , Wind Caves National Park , and the Badlands . The lake is a jewel with a great hike and granite spires bordering the end of the lake - postcard perfect . I also hooked 5 wild rainbows !! We will return


Guide to Lead

Horse camping in South Dakota offers a unique blend of stunning landscapes and equestrian-friendly facilities, making it a perfect getaway for horse enthusiasts.

Campers appreciate these amenities for horses

  • Willow Creek Horse Camp provides a serene environment with drinking water and designated areas for horses, ensuring a comfortable stay.
  • High Country Guest Ranch features electric hookups and ample space for horse trailers, making it convenient for equestrian campers.
  • Whistler Gulch Campground & RV Park allows pets and has facilities that cater to horse camping, enhancing the overall experience for riders.

Equestrian campers like these nearby activities

  • At Iron Creek Lake Campground, visitors can enjoy scenic trails perfect for horseback riding, along with fishing and kayaking opportunities.
  • Mount Rushmore KOA at Palmer Gulch offers easy access to local attractions, making it a great base for exploring the Black Hills on horseback.
  • Days of 76 Campground is conveniently located near Deadwood, allowing campers to ride into town and enjoy the local history and culture.

Most campgrounds have horse-focused amenities like trails and facilities

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Lead, SD?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Lead, SD is Whistler Gulch Campground & RV Park with a 2.9-star rating from 10 reviews.

What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Lead, SD?

TheDyrt.com has all 21 equestrian camping locations near Lead, SD, with real photos and reviews from campers.