Steve S.
Guide
GuideDays of 76 Campground
Dirt lot
Very close to Deadwood .Full hook up does not mean that you have sewer. Full hook up is electric and water.
Best Campgrounds in South Dakota
Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping and The Wall Boondocking Dispersed provide free camping options in South Dakota, with both located near Badlands National Park. South Dakota campgrounds range from primitive dispersed sites on public lands to fully developed private campgrounds with cabin rentals and RV hookups. Several established campgrounds in the Badlands region offer toilets and picnic tables at free or low-cost sites, while campgrounds near Mount Rushmore and Custer State Park provide more amenities including electric hookups and shower facilities.
The Black Hills region contains numerous campgrounds with varying amenities and reservation requirements. Cedar Pass Campground in Badlands National Park offers electric hookups and water but prohibits fires, while Sylvan Lake Campground in Custer State Park provides full amenities including showers and firewood. Dispersed camping areas typically have no facilities but allow pets and alcohol. Several campgrounds close seasonally, with most operating between May and October. A camper noted, "This is our third time here and this time there are markers for where to park to camp. The Forest service is managing the area so people cannot park right at the edge of the cliff like in times past."
National grasslands and forest service roads provide numerous opportunities for dispersed camping throughout South Dakota. Campers report particularly scenic experiences at overlooks within Buffalo Gap National Grassland. According to one review, "Beautiful overlook of the Cheyenne River on FS land. Gorgeous colorful landscape. Large turnaround with plenty of room." Established campgrounds in the Mount Rushmore area feature concrete pads, landscaped grounds, and resort amenities like pools and recreation facilities. Private campgrounds often include cabin rentals alongside traditional tent and RV camping options. Seasonal variations affect road conditions, especially for accessing dispersed camping areas, with some requiring high-clearance vehicles after rainfall. Many campgrounds implement fire restrictions during dry periods, particularly in the Badlands region.
Best Camping Sites in South Dakota (563)
1. Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping
136 ReviewsWall, SDWebsite+1 (605) 279-2125"I camped on the ridge in the South Dakota grasslands. I was able to look out my front door and see the badlands or or see the grasslands out my rear window."
"The site is about 6-8 miles from the town of Wall, so while you are in a remote area, you still have ready access to food, shopping, and gas if you need it."
2. Sage Creek Campground
123 ReviewsWall, SDWebsite+1 (605) 433-5361"Definitely pay your park entrance fee! BUT it’s true - this spot is completely free. Lots of people dig this spot. Doesn’t feel too crowded though."
"Great views, prairie dogs were so cool to see running around the camp site. Bison everywhere on the drive in and a few even walking around the camp site. Super close to badlands park entrance."
3. Cedar Pass Campground — Badlands National Park
122 ReviewsInterior, SDWebsite+1 (605) 433-5460$43 - $55 / night
"Stayed one night in a converted Sprinter while traveling through South Dakota, we needed a place with showers. The showers and restrooms were pay to use, with a single curtain as privacy."
"Relatively private site as most sites are behind you. Beautiful view of prairie ans badlands in the distance. Picnic table shelter is positioned so you have shade in the afternoon."
4. Badlands Hotel & Campground
63 ReviewsInterior, SDWebsite+1 (605) 433-5335$24 - $174 / night
"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."
"The campground was great and super close to the Badlands park entrance. The owners were very nice and helpful."
5. Badlands / White River KOA
60 ReviewsInterior, SDWebsite+1 (605) 433-5337"Although the camp ground is outside the park, the views from the areas surrounding the campground are great."
"v=hoIu_r-fQ5E) Product Review:
During our road trip around the US, I was able to try out the GO camper from SylvanSport."
6. Mount Rushmore KOA at Palmer Gulch
56 ReviewsHill City, SDWebsite"Make the most of your South Dakota vacation by spending it camping. My group tented and had a great time."
"The location is amazing and so beautiful. There are tons of amenities and fun activities. The staff are very nice and very helpful."
7. The Wall Boondocking Dispersed
46 ReviewsWall, SDWebsite+1 (605) 279-2126"I spent a couple of weeks in the Badlands area of South Dakota this past summer. I camped for 5 night along The Wall. "
"Arrived past dark, could determine where to go so parked along roadside. In AM found The Wall well populated with overnight campers. We can see why!"
8. Elk Mountain Campground — Wind Cave National Park
49 ReviewsPringle, SDWebsite+1 (605) 745-4600$24 - $45 / night
"Close to many South Dakota tourist sites."
"This campground is centrally locates to some great activities in South Dakota. We made day trips to visit the Badlands, Wall Drug Store, Wind Cave and Mount Rushmore."
9. Sylvan Lake Campground — Custer State Park
40 ReviewsCuster, SDWebsite+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."
10. Big Sioux Recreation Area — Big Sioux
41 ReviewsBrandon, SDWebsite+1 (605) 582-7243"South Dakota State Park, Brandon SD. Great stop. We spent 2 days. Very nice campground with lots to do and see. Big spacious sites ours backed up to the bike path and river."
"They have nice long paved trails for walking and biking. We got to walk our dogs on it to avoid tick contact from the grassy trails. There was a cool suspension bridge that was fun to walk on."
Recent Camping Photos in South Dakota
932 Photos of 563 South Dakota Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Stockade South Campground — Custer State Park
Three Forks Campground
Sawtooth RV Park and Cabins
Black Hills RV Park
Bear Butte State Park Campground
Mount Rushmore Under Canvas
Cloud Nine Camping
Wickiup Village Cabins
Custer Crazy Horse Campground & Cabin 13 Coffee Shoph
Chief White Crane Recreation AreaS
Wild Bill's Campground
Recent Reviews in South Dakota
3506 Reviews of 563 South Dakota Campgrounds
Jeff S.
ScoutHart Ranch RV Resort
Nice campground in Rapid City
They’ve got a store on site. A gas station with reasonable prices. Propane refill on site. You feel very safe while being here. The views around are amazing. They even have an 18 hole disc golf course which I played and enjoyed. They have a nine hole ball golf course. Both of these are free! When you are a member of RPI you get all this for $30 per night. Yay! Loved it!
The sites were a little close to each other but we came at a time of year (mid September) when it wasn’t that busy.
- BBrian B.
TravelerSplit Rock Park
Enjoyable 1 nighter
I spent one night at Split Rock on my trip back to Colorado from Minnesota. I had a spot right on the river. The views and scenery were amazing. This is an oasis on the plains. There is an active train track that runs behind the campground that did cause a few wake-ups during the night but overall I had a great stay.
Chris M.ScoutMount Roosevelt Road Dispersed Campsite
Mt Roosevelt Dispersed
Great little spot with amazing views. Short walk to Friendship Tower and watched sunset. Only saw 3 cars pass on rd. Got here on Sunday afternoon late and had no trouble locating spots. There are more down the road but this was perfect. There are 2 other spots within sight of here but no one there.
Rick C.ScoutEnd Of Shoreline Dispersed
Off the beaten path
Based on another review I found about this site, we stayed there in our Coachmen van on Sept 12, 2026. The land adjoins private land but there are signs stating the land is part of state hunting land. (Fortunately we saw no hunters!) Due to the low clearance of our van, we did not go down a low rise to the end of this dirt road, but stopped at the sharp bend. (See picture) There is pleasant view of the Missouri River there…and it was blissfully peaceful. No people, no boats, only a few cars on the distant highway on the other side of the river.
Teresa C.ScoutBeaver Lake Campground
Beaver Lake
No beavers, no lake. The Staff was extremely helpful, caring and courteous. The campground was meticulously maintained and the shower building was very clean. I bought a shirt and forgot it on a table and they called me before I’d gone too far to turn back. The covered picnic table was much appreciated.
Ken B.TravelerBadlands Boondocking Dispersed Camping Area
Very convenient
I’ve stayed here 4 times now as it’s convenient to I90 on my way to/from WY and MT. No bathrooms but you can find those in Wall if needed. Last trip I arrived late-7:30pmish and all the spots were taken. Luckily, some very nice campers allowed me to back my truck in on their site and stay the night. Best bet is to get there before 4pm to secure a site. Place is clean too so let’s keep it that way. Did see the sheriff go through on my last visit.
- Brent S.Traveler
Cedar Pass Campground — Badlands National Park
Decent Campground Option
Campground is in good location. Campsites are close to each other. Small campsites. Pay-for-showers with cash token machine on site. Very exposed campground, no coverage from storms or sun. Campfires not allowed. 4+ yr tent did not survive severe storms, along with other tents. Bring tent that can withstand strong winds and storms.
- JJohn L.Guide
Sleepy Hollow Campground
Easy clean and convenient
Easy to find and easy in and out. Staff very helpful and knowledgeable. Small store in office building. Great place to stay for access to Badlands NP area. Site was level with hook ups located properly to connect and dump. Gravel sites and roads. Some trees and grass between RV sites. Bathroom facilities very clean with plenty of hot water. No long term campers. Rather quiet. Silos provide an interesting back drop, and occasional train activity was cool to see. 5 minute walk to Wall Drug tourist area. Would stay again if in the area.
Guide to South Dakota
Camping in South Dakota offers a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. From serene lakes to sprawling grasslands, there’s something for everyone. Here’s what you need to know before you pack your bags.
What to do
- Fishing: Many campgrounds, like Richland Reservoir Dispersed Camping, are great for fishing. One camper mentioned, “Lake is full of small Crappie. Lots of wildlife. Deer, antelope, pheasants.”
- Hiking and Biking: Trails abound in places like Oahe Downstream Recreation Area. A visitor shared, “Good walking paths for humans and dogs and saw many folks cycling.”
- Wildlife Watching: Campers often spot bald eagles and other wildlife. One review noted, “There was a bald eagle hunting the reservoir.”
What campers like
- Peaceful Atmosphere: Many campers appreciate the tranquility. One reviewer said, “Great quiet camping spot. Only one other camper while here for 4 days.”
- Clean Facilities: Campgrounds like Farm Island State Recreation Area are well-maintained. A visitor remarked, “The bathrooms/showers are clean as is the campgrounds.”
- Affordable Rates: Campers enjoy the low costs. One camper mentioned, “$15 for water, electric and dump station.”
What you should know
- Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Fort Pierre National Grassland, have few facilities. A reviewer noted, “No fees No water No open fires.”
- Weather Considerations: Be prepared for wind and storms. One camper at Richland Reservoir said, “The wind howled all night!!!”
- Road Conditions: Some access roads can be tricky. A visitor shared, “The road is clay and when it gets wet it becomes very difficult to travel on.”
Tips for camping with families
- Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and water access. One review of Farm Island State Recreation Area mentioned, “Great for kids. Kayak rentals. Playground and beach area.”
- Safety First: Always keep an eye on kids near water. A camper advised, “Hubby could walk out of the camper and fish,” highlighting the need for supervision.
- Pack Snacks: Having food on hand can make family outings smoother. One camper noted, “They brought us ice,” showing that some campgrounds offer helpful services.
Tips from RVers
- Check Hookups: Make sure your site has the right hookups. A visitor at River View RV Park said, “Campsites are close together with full hookups.”
- Be Prepared for Cold: If camping in cooler months, be ready for freezing conditions. One camper mentioned, “Our water hookup was frozen so they moved us to a spot where they had a heated cover on water pipe.”
- Explore Nearby Towns: Don’t miss local attractions. A reviewer at Griffin City Park said, “There is a marina with a boat launch that is right next door.”
Camping in South Dakota is a fantastic way to connect with nature and enjoy the great outdoors. Whether you're fishing, hiking, or just relaxing, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best campgrounds in South Dakota for families?
What are the best campgrounds in South Dakota for families?
South Dakota offers excellent family camping destinations with activities for all ages. Newton Hills Campground — Newton Hills State Park provides spacious, clean facilities perfect for families with young children, offering a blend of adventure and relaxation away from city life. Another great option is Big Sioux Recreation Area — Big Sioux, which features large sites that back up to bike paths and the river. The area has a new bathhouse, very clean facilities, and plenty of recreational activities. It's only a half-hour drive to Sioux Falls, making it convenient for day trips. Both locations offer the natural beauty and outdoor experiences that make family camping in South Dakota memorable.
What are the top tent camping locations in South Dakota's national parks?
What are the top tent camping locations in South Dakota's national parks?
South Dakota's national parks offer exceptional tent camping experiences. Sylvan Lake Campground — Custer State Park is renowned for its beautiful lake setting and network of hiking trails within easy walking distance. The stunning scenery makes it one of the most popular spots in the Black Hills region, though hikers should be prepared for sometimes steep terrain and South Dakota's changeable weather. Cedar Pass Campground — Badlands National Park provides a more rugged experience with iconic badlands views. For a more primitive option, Sage Creek Campground in Badlands offers free camping with basic facilities. Elk Mountain Campground in Wind Cave National Park is another excellent choice for tent campers seeking access to underground and above-ground wonders.
Where can I find private campgrounds in South Dakota with full amenities?
Where can I find private campgrounds in South Dakota with full amenities?
South Dakota has several private campgrounds offering comprehensive amenities. Mount Rushmore KOA at Palmer Gulch provides an excellent alternative to expensive hotels near Mount Rushmore, with full facilities for both tent and RV camping. This is an ideal base for exploring the area's attractions. Kennebec KOA is another well-maintained private option with clean bathrooms and showers, some shaded sites, and friendly owners. It's conveniently located just a short drive from the highway, making it perfect for travelers passing through. While there's minimal road noise, the campground remains quiet and comfortable. Many private campgrounds in South Dakota offer hookups, Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, and camp stores for a comfortable outdoor experience.
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