Best Campgrounds near Philip, SD

Campgrounds in Philip, South Dakota and the surrounding Badlands region provide access to diverse landscapes with options for multiple camping styles. Cedar Pass Campground within Badlands National Park offers established sites for tents, RVs, and cabins with amenities including drinking water and reservable spaces. Nearby, Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping and The Wall Boondocking areas provide free primitive camping alternatives for self-sufficient travelers. The Minute Man RV Park & Lodging in Philip itself caters primarily to RVers but also accommodates tent camping with hookups and basic facilities.

Seasonal conditions significantly affect camping experiences in this region, with summer bringing high temperatures and occasional strong winds. Several campgrounds operate seasonally from May through September or early October, including Badlands Hotel & Campground and Sleepy Hollow Campground. Winter camping options are extremely limited. Road access throughout the area is generally good, with most campgrounds accessible via paved highways, though dispersed sites may require higher clearance vehicles. Cell service varies significantly throughout the region, with better coverage near established campgrounds and towns. "Very windy but if you're inside a hard vehicle it's not too bad. Flushing toilets and water available. Nice to walk around in and amazing views at sunset," noted one camper describing conditions at Cedar Pass.

The Badlands area delivers distinctive camping experiences with dramatic geological formations creating a unique backdrop. Visitors frequently highlight the outstanding stargazing opportunities and panoramic views available from most campgrounds. The lack of tree cover at sites like Cedar Pass provides unobstructed night sky viewing but minimal shade during hot summer days. Wildlife viewing possibilities include prairie dogs, bighorn sheep, and bison, particularly in the national park. According to reviews, campsite privacy varies considerably, with national park campgrounds typically offering less separation between sites than dispersed camping areas. A camper mentioned that Cedar Pass Campground offers "panoramic views in every direction of this campground but very little privacy exists," highlighting the trade-off between scenic vistas and site seclusion common throughout the region.

Best Camping Sites Near Philip, South Dakota (25)

    1. Cedar Pass Campground — Badlands National Park

    115 Reviews
    Interior, SD
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 433-5460

    $37 - $47 / 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."

    "Despite some not so positive reviews, we enjoyed our one-night stay at Cedar Pass. Yes, the campground layout is not well designed."

    2. Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping

    138 Reviews
    Wall, SD
    30 miles
    Website
    +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."

    3. Badlands Hotel & Campground

    62 Reviews
    Interior, SD
    27 miles
    Website
    +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."

    4. Badlands / White River KOA

    59 Reviews
    Interior, SD
    27 miles
    Website
    +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."

    5. Sage Creek Campground

    119 Reviews
    Wall, SD
    39 miles
    Website
    +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."

    6. The Wall Boondocking Dispersed

    38 Reviews
    Wall, SD
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 279-2126

    "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!"

    "The winds can get really high so don’t park too close to the edge. This was a great location for visiting Badlands National Park and going to Wall Drug."

    7. Sleepy Hollow Campground

    31 Reviews
    Wall, SD
    29 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 279-2100

    "I was looking for a campground near the Badlands but it was a rainy summer and the roads to the rustic campsites were questionable for my small car."

    "Close to Badlands National Park. Just 8 miles to beautiful sunsets. Walking distance to town, Wall Drug, and restaurants. Campground is as others have stated; a bit tired. Pool is still closed."

    8. Minute Man RV Park & Lodging

    5 Reviews
    Interior, SD
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 433-5451

    $25 - $40 / night

    "Very close to the world's largest prairie dog!"

    9. Buffalo Gap National Grassland

    19 Reviews
    Wall, SD
    31 miles

    "Dry camped at Buffalo Gap National Grassland just south of Wall South Dakota off of 240. Plenty of space with flat ground for tent or RV. Spectacular view and right by I90 for easy access."

    "Driving in we didn't think we would get a spot because there were already so many campers, but there were still so many spots left. It is a huge campsite!"

    10. Lisa May Wice

    8 Reviews
    Philip, SD
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 344-2247

    "We were put next to the playground which was busy with kids until 8 then it got quiet. Dog park was a great addition!"

    "Nice place close to the interstate, but quiet. Very clean and neat. The owners were waiting for us after hours and escorted us to the site."

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Recent Reviews near Philip, SD

638 Reviews of 25 Philip Campgrounds


  • Cable A.
    Oct. 20, 2025

    Sage Creek Campground

    Poor experience

    Just gross. If you have dogs that you like, this is not the place for you.

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 11, 2025

    Badlands Boondocking Area

    Outstanding !

    Nice designated campsites. The view doesn’t disappoint. Convenient to I90.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 11, 2025

    The Wall Boondocking Dispersed

    Amazing sunrises

    By far the best boondocking spot we’ve been too. Plenty of room to spread out. Spots for every one from tents, car, RVs. Stayed 4 nights and could have stayed longer. The view is a 10/10. A must see experience

  • John D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 5, 2025

    Badlands Boondocking Dispersed Camping Area

    Nice place.

    I stay here a few times a year on the way to the Black Hills in my car camper rav4. Perfect if you're looking for a place to rest or park overnight in the middle of nowhere. Can fill up fast in the early evening. About the only negative I have is to many houses on wheels. Good base for the area.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 28, 2025

    Baja Area Dispersed - Buffalo Gap National Grassland

    Mosquitoes!! V2

    I can’t see my previous, but I said I would edit if we stayed (due to mosquitoes) but we did.

    The sky was amazing! And that’s with a hazy day. So if night skies are important to you, and you can tolerate some mosquitoes then try this place out.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 22, 2025

    Sage Creek Campground

    Beautiful views, Lots of Bison!

    We enjoyed our stay here. We stayed three days and road our electric bikes along the trails and near the Bison (not up to them). There were so many Bison! No privacy though. We went a very rocky way down the mountain when getting there but leaving was an easier way out.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 9, 2025

    Badlands Dispersed Camping

    Badlands Dispersed Camping

    The road is gravel with some hills and turns, but it was recently graded and we made it up to our site without any trouble. Views are outstanding, sunrise from the spot was amazing.


Guide to Philip

Camping near Philip, South Dakota, offers a mix of stunning landscapes and unique experiences. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to unwind or an adventure-filled getaway, this area has something for everyone.

What to do

  • Explore Badlands National Park: Just a short drive from many campgrounds, the park features breathtaking views and hiking trails. One camper mentioned, "We had a great stay here while visiting the National Park - literally 2 minutes outside the entrance" at Badlands Hotel & Campground.
  • Visit Wall Drug: This quirky roadside attraction is a fun stop for families. One reviewer at Sleepy Hollow Campground said, "Dinner, ice cream and splash pad fun at Wall Drug is the perfect end to a day on the road for our family."
  • Stargazing: The clear skies in this region make for excellent stargazing opportunities. A camper at Buffalo Gap National Grassland noted, "Awesome night sky. Easily accessed with van."

What campers like

  • Scenic Views: Many campers rave about the beautiful landscapes. One camper at The Wall Boondocking Dispersed said, "Fabulous! Views and several spaces both on the edge of grassland dropping off into the badlands wall."
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Campers appreciate the peacefulness of the area. A review from Baja Area Dispersed - Buffalo Gap National Grassland mentioned, "Easily accessible and quiet. Large enough to find a spot away from anyone."
  • Friendly Campgrounds: Many campgrounds have welcoming staff. A visitor at Belvidere East-Exit 170 KOA said, "The owners were waiting for us after hours and escorted us to the site."

What you should know

  • Windy Conditions: Be prepared for strong winds, especially in open areas. A camper at Buffalo Gap National Grassland warned, "The wind was absolutely insane! Be prepared for that!"
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like The Wall Boondocking Dispersed, do not offer drinking water or restrooms, so plan accordingly.
  • Mosquitoes: Certain areas can have a lot of mosquitoes, especially during warmer months. A camper at Sleepy Hollow Campground mentioned, "The absolute infestation of mosquitos at our site was unbearable."

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Established Campgrounds: For families, campgrounds like Cedar Pass Campground offer amenities like flush toilets and showers, making it easier for kids.
  • Plan for Activities: Look for campgrounds near attractions. One family enjoyed their stay at Badlands / White River KOA because it was "conveniently located" and had a pool for the kids.
  • Pack Bug Spray: With the potential for mosquitoes, it's smart to bring bug spray. A camper at Sleepy Hollow Campground noted the need for it due to the mosquito problem.

Tips from RVers

  • Check Hookups: Some campgrounds have unique hookup situations. A visitor at Minute Man RV Park & Lodging mentioned, "Hookups were great in 107 heat!" but also noted that "the spots are close."
  • Be Ready for Dust: If you're camping in more remote areas, dust can be an issue. A camper at Buffalo Gap National Grassland advised, "Plenty of space to be spread out."
  • Use a Generator if Needed: If you're in a hot area, don't hesitate to use a generator for AC. A camper at Baja Area Dispersed - Buffalo Gap National Grassland mentioned, "If you do have to use a generator, don’t worry, many people were."

Camping near Philip, South Dakota, offers a unique blend of adventure and relaxation. With stunning views, friendly campgrounds, and plenty of activities, it's a great spot for your next outdoor getaway.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping options are available in Philip, South Dakota?

Philip, SD has limited camping options directly in town, but Minute Man RV Park & Lodging provides drive-in access with reservations available, water, toilets, and big-rig-friendly spaces. For those willing to venture a bit further, American Inn & RV Park offers affordable overnight or extended stays with proximity to restaurants and gas stations. Both provide convenient bases for exploring the surrounding area.

How long does it take to drive from Wall, SD to Philip, SD?

The drive from Wall, SD to Philip, SD takes approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour, covering about 42 miles via US-14 E. Wall serves as a convenient stopping point for travelers, with Wall Drug RV Parking offering spacious overnight parking for those breaking up their journey. The route passes through scenic South Dakota grasslands with relatively light traffic outside of tourist season.

What are popular attractions to visit near Philip, SD?

The Badlands National Park is the premier attraction near Philip, with its dramatic landscapes and wildlife viewing opportunities. Many visitors base their explorations from Cedar Pass Campground — Badlands National Park, which offers beautiful views of the prairie and badlands formations. Nearby Sage Creek Campground provides excellent wildlife viewing with prairie dogs and bison often visible from the campground. Other popular attractions include the Buffalo Gap National Grassland, Wall Drug (a famous tourist stop), and fossil hunting areas throughout the region.