Tent and RV campers visiting Philip, South Dakota have access to multiple dispersed camping areas within Buffalo Gap National Grassland at elevations around 2,700 feet. Summer temperatures regularly reach 95-105°F during July and August, with frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Strong winds are common year-round, creating challenging conditions for tent camping without proper equipment and anchoring.
What to do
Morning wildlife viewing: Visit Badlands National Park before 9am when wildlife is most active. "We were here in April and they were in the middle of transiting from dry to wet, as far as running water. The sign said no water, but there was water! Flush toilets all clean," notes a visitor to Cedar Pass Campground.
Star photography: The Badlands area offers exceptional dark sky viewing with minimal light pollution. "Take a siesta to make up for that nature-focussed schedule," recommends one Cedar Pass camper who suggests adjusting your schedule to "get up early for the sunrise!!! AND stay up late for stargazing!!"
Cattle watching: Many dispersed camping areas share land with grazing cattle. At Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping, "You will feel how small you are looking over that edge" while watching "a herd of cattle. It's all part of the experience."
What campers like
Free camping with views: Buffalo Gap National Grassland offers no-cost camping options with dramatic overlooks. "We were tent camping - it was windy but with a good tent you should be fine. The views were awesome and the stars were great. We heard some coyotes getting caught up in something in the middle of the night but the whole family loved it," reports a camper at Buffalo Gap.
Storm watching: The elevated position of many campsites provides dramatic views of weather systems. At The Wall Boondocking Dispersed, one visitor noted: "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."
Affordable cabin options: When temperatures soar or storms threaten, cabins provide relief. At Badlands / White River KOA, "We stayed for 2 nights in the group loop. At first we were sure about the quality of the site - the group loop also serves as the entrance to the dump site - but we're convinced the site is great."
What you should know
Extreme weather preparation: Philip area camping requires planning for severe weather. According to a camper at Sleepy Hollow Campground: "We did not use the cable. A place to spend a night. Level & did not have to unhook. Full hookups & cable."
Dog restrictions in national park: While most campgrounds accept pets, Badlands National Park restricts dogs from most trails. At Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping, visitors noted some challenges: "A bit full at night, I suppose as summer and free. Spots are not flat to keep in mind."
Limited shade options: Most campgrounds have minimal tree cover. "Campground is not one of my favorites... I enjoy more seclusion, some tree cover, and less of an RV parking lot feel BUT it's totally worth it to deal with these tiny details in order to experience the badlands!"
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: For family camping during hot summer months, consider sites with swimming pools. "The pool was nice but got crowed because it was smaller," reports a visitor to Sleepy Hollow Campground, noting that "The best draw to this campground is that it's a 2 block walk to the famous wall drug store."
Educational ranger programs: Many children enjoy evening ranger presentations. "The campground is very clean and every evening there is program prepared by the rangers as well as a presentation of the stars," notes a camper at Cedar Pass Campground.
Wildlife safety: Teach children proper distance from wildlife. A visitor to Badlands Hotel & Campground shared: "Slept with windows open and listened to coyote," highlighting the proximity to wildlife that requires appropriate caution.
Tips from RVers
Level site selection: Many dispersed camping areas have uneven terrain. "Small campground. Close proximity. But beautiful views. Very nice owners. Everything you need. Primitive site. Water and electric only sites. Full hookup sites. Neat and clean," reports an RVer at Badlands Hotel & Campground.
Electrical needs: During summer heat, electrical hookups become essential. "Nice designated campsites. The view doesn't disappoint. Convenient to I90," notes a visitor to dog friendly campgrounds near Philip, emphasizing the importance of site selection for RVs.
Off-peak arrival: Avoid congestion by arriving mid-week. "Arrived Friday May 30, 2025 about 4:30pm a little less than a dozen designated sites remaining. A great view with clear skies and light wind," advises an RVer about timing arrival at busy dog-friendly camping areas around Philip.
