Spearfish, South Dakota sits at an elevation of 3,642 feet in the northern Black Hills region. Winter temperatures can drop below 0°F while summer temperatures typically reach the upper 80s. The area provides strategic access to both the national forest and prairie landscapes, creating a transition zone with distinct weather patterns and wildlife.
What to do
Hike to Roosevelt Tower: Visit Mount Roosevelt Road Dispersed Campsite for free camping with access to scenic hiking. "Had an amazing time at this prime free dispersed campsite! Had my tundra equipped with a 5x8 trailer and could easily get to any of the sites. Bathroom close by the entrance/trailhead to Roosevelt Friendship Tower," notes Bruce S.
Fish local waterways: Multiple campgrounds provide easy creek access. At Spearfish City Campground, the creek is a major feature. "Place was empty. Very well kept and enjoyable. Love the creek going through. It was full so lots of wonderful sound," reports Brad P.
Tour fish hatchery: Located across from Spearfish City Campground, the DC Booth Historic National Fish Hatchery offers free self-guided tours. "This is a well kept beautiful, historical city park. The hatchery and creek right along side. Great bike paths, disc golf, walk up Spearfish Canyon," explains Bonnie R.
Ride the Deadwood trolley: Access downtown Deadwood without parking hassles from several campgrounds. "You can trolley from the campground into town Deadwood it's $1.00 each way. Some trolley drivers are so funny they seem to have a good time," shares one camper about local transit options.
What campers like
Creek-side camping locations: The sound of flowing water enhances the camping experience. "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," writes Shirlee A. about her stay at Spearfish City Campground.
Dispersed camping privacy: Free camping options provide more seclusion. "Stayed here one night but definitely could have done more. Our spot was a pull out on the side of the road with an amazing view. There's a bathroom at the entrance. Only maybe 6 spots before the road gets bad," reports Olivia E. about Mount Roosevelt Road.
Resort-style amenities: Higher-end facilities appeal to those seeking more comfort. "This campground is absolutely glamping paradise! From the moment you drive in it is absolutely gorgeous, the landscaping is pristine. My kids loved the outdoor pool and hot tubs the playground was fantastic," says Amber W. about Elkhorn Ridge RV Resort.
Proximity to attractions: Many campgrounds offer strategic location between multiple destinations. "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!" notes Theresa H.
What you should know
Site spacing varies widely: Some campgrounds have very tight sites. "Campsites were pretty close together but it was not anywhere near full when we were there so we had plenty of space. Paved roads were great for kids to ride their bikes," says Megan R. about Spearfish City Campground.
Highway noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience traffic sound. At Spearfish KOA, "Very clean campground convenient to the interstate and sites in the northern Black Hills. There is a bit of traffic noise, but we didn't find it objectionable. The owners are planting a vegetation buffer to alleviate this issue," reports Joseph K.
Off-season availability: Many campgrounds operate seasonally. The operating season typically runs from April/May through September/October, with limited winter options. "We paid a $44 per night off season rate with Good Sam discount but that does not include the multiple taxes charged," notes one visitor about pricing structures.
Reservation requirements: Summer fills quickly, especially during events. "We stayed in site # 220 with Full hook up. We backed up to a mountain not a bad view. Would have liked to have been a little closer to the pool and where the trolley picks up it was a walk from our site," explains one camper about site selection importance.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with playground access: Kids need activity options. "A 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. Across the street is a fish pond hatchery (and aquarium like) and a big fun playground," shares Shirlee A.
Consider pools for summer trips: Swimming facilities provide relief from heat. "My kids loved the outdoor pool and hot tubs, the playground was fantastic. And there is even a bar by the pool if you want a cocktail," notes a visitor to Elkhorn Ridge RV Resort.
Reserve sites on bike-friendly loops: Paved areas create safe cycling zones. "Paved roads were great for kids to ride their bikes," mentions Megan R. about the family-friendly layout at Spearfish City Campground.
Check bathroom proximity: With children, closer facilities matter. About Chris' Campground, one camper notes: "Clean facilities along with helpful and friendly staff. Management took us to our site and gave assistance while I backed up in trailer spot. Although we did not make use of the pools, they were kept clean."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds have uneven terrain. "The park is hilly, so bring levelers! But the spots are gravelled, there's good drainage (storms), and beautiful conifers surrounding each site," advises Donna H. about Spearfish KOA.
Water pressure variations: Some campgrounds have high pressure requiring regulators. "Water pressure was very good in our area so we used a reducer," notes a visitor describing their experience at a local RV park.
Pull-through availability: Limited pull-through sites exist for larger rigs. "Sites 1 and 30 are pull throughs. 31-34 easily accommodate large RVs. If we are in the area and want FHU we would definitely stay again," shares Tom D. about specific site recommendations at Spearfish City Campground.
Seasonal site options: Winter camping is limited to select locations. Elkhorn Ridge remains open year-round while most other campgrounds close seasonally, making advance planning essential for off-season travel.
