Best Campgrounds near Philip, SD

Searching for the best camping near Philip, SD? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that South Dakota camping has to offer. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Philip and user-submitted reviews.

Best Camping Sites Near Philip, South Dakota (25)

    1. Cedar Pass Campground — Badlands National Park

    114 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

    117 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

    36 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

630 Reviews of 25 Philip Campgrounds


  • 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.

  • Kara S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 8, 2025

    Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping

    Crowded but big spots and a lovely view

    All the spots were filled but we ended up setting in another couples site. The sites were big, it’s quiet, and the view was amazing. Went on a full moon night and it was lovely. Windy but not too bad in our rooftop tent.

  • Greg J.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 6, 2025

    Sage Creek Basin Camp

    Second time here

    I was here in 2023. The weather a bit nicer at that time. High winds and dusty conditions plagued the second visit. Recommend the area based on amount of available sites, bison and prairie dog sightings….oh and some strange things appeared in the sky. UFO’s?

  • James W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 30, 2025

    The Wall Boondocking Dispersed

    Busy but nice

    This is a pretty amazing place for dispersed camping. There are many sites along road that are marked and the views are spectacular. The primary downside was it is very dusty, and only a few drivers slowed down to keep the dust to a minimum. Other campers were nice although many let their dogs run freely, which made it challenging for those of us with a puppy when the free-range dogs wandered into our site. It was quiet and we slept well! We’d likely stay there again.

  • James W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 30, 2025

    Sleepy Hollow Campground

    Solid

    Sleepy Hollow was a nice place to recharge. The staff were nice and they have a laundromat. We had full hookups and you can easily walk to town for dinner. The famous Wall Drug is nearby, too.

  • Stephen B.
    Aug. 29, 2025

    Badlands Pasture Dispursed

    Beautiful dispursed camping right on the edge of Badlands National Park

    Easy access and great views of the Badlands.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 29, 2025

    Sage Creek Campground

    Buffalo and Prairie Dogs

    Great site with good views. Vaulted toilet and plenty of wildlife

  • Paul L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 27, 2025

    Buffalo Gap National Grasslands

    Badlands view cliffside

    Stayed 2 nights. Cliffside line of RV’s with plenty of space. A mile or longer along the cliff. Further north was better view of Badlands on one side and cow ranch on the other.

  • HThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 26, 2025

    Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping

    Beautiful but crammed

    The campsites are massive. I was coming from Yellowstone so I got to the sites quite late. I parked in what looked like an open site but an older man came over and was quite rude about us taking up a few feet of his 50ft site with our tent and asked us to move. Pretty rude but oh well. We then drove another mile and found some smaller sites near the end of the road. The views from the tent weren’t amazing but once you approach the edge of the Canyon it was beautiful. The sites are backed up to a cattle grazing field so expect some noise at night and in the morning. The sites are very conveniently close to Badlands which is great. It is a bit windy as well which was nice due to the extreme heat in Badlands in the summer. Overall nice place to camp but if you want privacy I would look somewhere else


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.