Buffalo Gap National Grassland encompasses several dispersed camping areas within a 30-minute drive of Philip, South Dakota. The region sits at approximately 2,200 feet elevation with rolling prairie interrupted by dramatic badlands formations. Temperature fluctuations can be extreme, with summer highs reaching 100°F and nighttime lows dropping 30-40 degrees, requiring campers to prepare for both hot days and cool nights.
What to do
Stargazing after sunset: The minimal light pollution at Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping makes it ideal for astronomy enthusiasts. According to campers, "The night sky was full of stars" and "The stars were gorgeous and the sunrise was unrivaled."
Wildlife viewing at dawn: Morning hours offer the best chances to spot native wildlife. At Badlands Boondocking Area, one camper reported, "I saw a herd of bison coming in. Good Verizon cell phone signal." Another noted hearing "coyotes getting caught up in something in the middle of the night but the whole family loved it."
Day trips to Wall: Located just 7 miles north of many camping areas, the town offers supplies and attractions. As one visitor mentioned, "It is close to the tourist town of Wall, but also a nice stop to break up a drive. Wall is an interesting town, mostly a tourist trap."
What campers like
Spacious camping areas: Unlike crowded campgrounds, these areas offer plenty of room to spread out. At Badlands Dispersed Camping, campers report, "We had tons of space to spread out even though there were other campers nearby, it didn't feel crowded at all."
Accessibility for various vehicles: Most sites can be reached without specialized equipment. One camper at The Wall Boondocking Dispersed noted, "I've seen 40' fifth wheel trailers, large diesel pusher RV's, all the way down to a small hatchback car with a tent."
Designated camping sites: Recent management changes have improved organization. A camper observed, "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."
What you should know
Wind conditions: Strong winds are common and can affect camping equipment. One camper at Baja Area Dispersed - Buffalo Gap National Grassland explained, "Tent camping will keep you up at night, the storms bring heavy rain/wind that makes your vehicle feel as if it's going to tip over."
Arrival timing: Mid-morning to early afternoon offers the best selection of sites. According to reports, "Arriving on an early Monday afternoon there were several dozen campers spread out along the road. Plenty more spaces and if you don't see one you like, keep driving and check around the next bend."
Wildlife encounters: Cattle and wildlife share these lands. One camper noted, "You will have more neighbors in the cows than people. The west side is a wide open pasture with cows roaming."
Tips for camping with families
Bring proper tent stakes: The persistent wind requires secure anchoring. A family camper advised, "Make sure to use stakes for your tent though because the wind is wild."
Pack for temperature swings: Daytime heat and nighttime cooling require versatile clothing. One visitor shared, "We were here in early July, and the weather was warm and breezy."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children often enjoy spotting animals in their natural habitat. A camper at Pinnacles Camping Area mentioned, "We heard some coyotes getting caught up in something in the middle of the night but the whole family loved it."
Tips from RVers
Leveling equipment: The uneven terrain requires proper leveling tools. One RVer explained, "Spots are not flat to keep in mind" while another advised, "Some spots are level others less so, such is the life."
Road condition awareness: While accessible, the roads have rough sections. According to an RVer, "Currently, as of June 10th 2025, the road is accessible by almost any vehicle except a lowrider or sports car. However the road is dirt with some gravel so I would suspect it could be slippery when wet."
Distance considerations: Rustic camping near Philip, South Dakota places you close to amenities while providing seclusion. One RVer noted, "It was a great location for visiting Badlands National Park and going to Wall Drug."
