Best Campgrounds near Piedmont, SD

The Black Hills National Forest around Piedmont, South Dakota encompasses a range of camping options from developed facilities to remote dispersed sites. Pactola Reservoir Campground and Sheridan Lake South Shore Campground provide established sites with amenities such as toilets and trash service, while West Nemo offers free dispersed camping for those seeking a more primitive experience. Accommodations throughout the area support tent camping, RV parking with various hookup levels, and cabin rentals at locations like Rapid City KOA and Mount Rushmore KOA at Palmer Gulch. The region includes both Forest Service managed lands and privately operated campgrounds situated between Rapid City and Sturgis.

Camping season generally runs from mid-May through early September at most developed campgrounds in the Piedmont area, with some sites like Three Flags RV Park operating from April to October. Water availability varies significantly across locations, with several dispersed sites requiring campers to bring their own supply or filter from natural sources. Road conditions can be challenging for low-clearance vehicles, particularly at remote locations such as the West Nemo dispersed area. Cell service is limited throughout much of the region, especially in canyon areas and more remote camping sites. A visitor commented, "Beautiful spot in the middle of the black hills, not too many people but you can occasionally hear noise from the roads. Good water source nearby for filtering or boiling."

Campgrounds closer to Interstate 90 provide convenient access for travelers exploring the Black Hills attractions but may experience highway or train noise. Three Flags RV Park receives praise for its cleanliness and facilities despite proximity to transportation corridors. The more remote forest campgrounds offer greater solitude and natural surroundings, though with fewer amenities. Dalton Lake Campground provides direct access to hiking on the Centennial Trail and Little Elk Canyon Trail, making it popular with outdoor enthusiasts. Wildlife sightings are common throughout the area, with one camper noting, "The park is located in a rural setting with deer and bluebirds nearby your campsite." During the annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in early August, campgrounds throughout the region typically reach maximum capacity, with overflow spilling into dispersed camping areas.

Best Camping Sites Near Piedmont, South Dakota (250)

    1. Pactola Reservoir Campground

    31 Reviews
    Silver City, SD
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 673-9200

    $28 / night

    "A tent-only area, which I appreciate- those tend to be quieter than the RV spots, and the tent area was close to the reservoir. Standard campsite amenities- tables, fire pits, bathrooms."

    "A tent-only area, which I appreciate - those tend to be quieter than the RV spots, and the tent area was close to the reservoir. Standard campsite amenities - tables, fire pits, bathrooms."

    2. Sheridan Lake South Shore Campground

    31 Reviews
    Hill City, SD
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 673-9200

    $28 / night

    "This campground offers over 90 sites along the shores of a lovely reservoir in the vacation wonderland of the Black Hills of South Dakota."

    "So close to so many places to visit, which we never did (we loved every minute being disconnected). The weather was mostly perfect, besides some hail and rain a couple nights."

    3. Rapid City KOA

    25 Reviews
    Rapid City, SD
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 348-2111

    "My parents were able to rent a deluxe cabin right next to our campsite. My parents don’t “camp,” so this was perfect for a family vacation."

    "Close to Mount Rushmore and crazy horse! Pirates cove mini golf is a short drive away! Great facility with standard KOA amenities."

    4. Boxelder Forks Campground — Black Hills National Forest

    9 Reviews
    Nemo, SD
    8 miles

    $22 / night

    "There is also a store nearby if you forget anything. A beautiful creek flows next to the campground for wading. I would love to go back! My children still talk about it."

    "This is a nice little campground to get away from the hussle of the city. The tent sites are level and great for tent camping."

    5. Mount Rushmore KOA at Palmer Gulch

    55 Reviews
    Hill City, SD
    24 miles
    Website

    "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."

    6. Three Flags RV Park

    7 Reviews
    Blackhawk, SD
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 787-7898

    "Negs, close to highway, train. Short dirt road. Pos, nice folks, easy in/out, very clean."

    "As mentioned previously, the only downside to this park is its proximity to the Interstate and the train tracks.  If noise bothers you then bring a good set of ear plugs for the night. "

    7. West Nemo - Dispersed Camping

    7 Reviews
    Nemo, SD
    7 miles

    "It is a bit noisy because of the trails used by off-road vehicles."

    "Can hear a nearby highway, but was empty on a Monday night. Can't ask for much more."

    8. Rush No More Campground

    7 Reviews
    Sturgis, SD
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 347-2916

    $30 - $458 / night

    "The campground is situated in a central location in the Black Hill. Easy drives to Deadwood, Rapid City, Keystone and minutes from Stugis. Super clean bathrooms and laundry."

    "Easy entry and exit. Live band on Sunday. Outstanding"

    9. Days End Campground

    13 Reviews
    Sturgis, SD
    16 miles
    +1 (605) 347-2331

    $20 - $800 / night

    "It has a beer garden, restroom facilities and it's right on the outskirts of town."

    "Helpful convenient right next to freeway so noisy all else is great!"

    10. RD 356 Dispersed Site Black Hills National Forest

    33 Reviews
    Hill City, SD
    23 miles
    Website

    "My Son and I stayed here while visiting Mount Rushmore and the surrounding area's other attractions. There's a lot of dispersed spots here but most spots don't have a fire ring that I could see."

    "Camping area near Mount Rushmore. I was able to find a camping area without a problem. The road does have some bumps in it but overall you do not need a four-wheel drive."

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Recent Reviews near Piedmont, SD

1518 Reviews of 250 Piedmont Campgrounds


  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 25, 2025

    Legion Lake Campground — Custer State Park

    Beautiful Views, Great Location, Great Price

    We loved everything about this place. Price was best of our month long vacation. Sites nice and level. Beautiful lake and trail across the street. Other than electric your on your own so bring water containers and empty tanks. Camp host was super nice. Really great location to explore the entire area. Custer is as good as any national park.

  • Cable A.
    Oct. 20, 2025

    Ellsworth AFB FamCamp.

    Good resupply and laundry point

    Typical RV park. This is not camping. Spots are on top of each other and in a neighborhood. All amenities available including WiFi and laundry. Overpriced.

  • Cable A.
    Oct. 20, 2025

    Fort Meade Recreation Area

    Overpriced and full of rattlesnakes.

    Campground is subpar. Very close spots, has a water fountain but no spigot. There is trash and vault toilets. Full of prairie rattlesnakes. Lots of trails for walking. Sits between a creek, a dusty road and the interstate.

  • Meghan B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 20, 2025

    Blue Bell Campground — Custer State Park

    Blue Bell Campground - Custer State Park

    Well maintained by friendly staff and hosts. It's nearing the end of the season, so the store wasn't well-stocked. Campsites have electric, which is great for chilly October nights. Showers are push-button with pre-set temp (warm, but not hot). AT&T cell service is great. Lots to see and do in this park. Beware of deer while driving--we've seen LOTS along the road.

  • Jim A.
    Oct. 18, 2025

    Kemp's Kamp

    Perfect base for exploring local landmarks

    Kemp’s Kamp near Keystone, South Dakota, is one of those special places that perfectly blends comfort, nature, and convenience. Tucked away in the beautiful Black Hills, it’s the perfect base for exploring local landmarks like Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park, and the Crazy Horse Memorial, all just a short drive away. The campground offers something for everyone, from cozy, well-kept cabins to shaded tent sites and roomy RV spots with full hookups. Everything is clean and well-maintained, and the staff makes you feel genuinely welcome from the moment you arrive. The peaceful sound of Battle Creek running nearby adds to the charm and makes it feel like a quiet escape while still being close to the area’s main attractions. One of the highlights is the pool area, which is perfect for cooling off after a day of exploring. The bathrooms and showers are spotless, and the laundry facilities make longer stays easy and comfortable. Small touches like these show how much care the owners put into making the campground a relaxing and enjoyable place to stay. https://aethersx2bios.net/

  • Reds H.
    Oct. 17, 2025

    Big Pine Campground

    South Dakota’s best scenery

    Big Pine Campground in Custer, South Dakota, is one of those places that instantly makes you feel relaxed. Surrounded by tall pines and quiet trails, it’s perfect if you want to enjoy nature without giving up the little comforts. The campground is super clean, peaceful, and well-maintained, and the staff are genuinely kind and helpful. Whether you’re pitching a tent, parking an RV, or staying in one of their cabins or glamping spots, everything feels well thought out and easy. The bathrooms and showers are spotless, and the whole place has a cozy, welcoming vibe. It’s also really close to Custer State Park and Mount Rushmore, so there’s plenty to explore nearby. Overall, Big Pine Campground is the kind of spot you end up wanting to come back to. It’s quiet, comfortable, and surrounded by some of South Dakota’s best scenery. https://redzhubscriptdownload.com/

  • tThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 15, 2025

    Mt. Roosevelt Dispersed Camping

    Close to Deadwood

    This was a great site! Close to Deadwood. Very private. Lots of space. Outhouse at close trailhead.

  • hThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 14, 2025

    Calumet Rd Dispersed Camping

    Great location, easy access

    Plenty of spots off the service road. Spots have good distance from each other. Probably best for car/tent camping

  • dThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 13, 2025

    Mount Roosevelt Camp

    Vibrant Fall Aspen Trees

    Just a turn off the main road along a crest gave me a few days of great views. Not much traffic either.


Guide to Piedmont

The Black Hills region around Piedmont, South Dakota sits at elevations between 3,200 and 7,000 feet, creating diverse microclimates throughout the area's camping destinations. Summer temperatures typically range from 45°F overnight to 85°F during peak afternoon hours, with occasional thunderstorms developing quickly in the mountains. Several camping spots near Piedmont connect directly to the Centennial Trail, allowing hikers and mountain bikers to access over 100 miles of backcountry routes.

What to do

Fishing opportunities: At Pactola Reservoir Campground, visitors can cast for rainbow, brown, and lake trout in the 800-acre reservoir. "The camp hosts were very nice and accommodating! There was a store close to the camping area that had everything you could want including boats and paddle board rentals!" notes Brandi M. about the lake activities.

Trail access: Boxelder Forks Campground connects to multiple hiking paths through pine forests. "We absolutely loved it! A beautiful creek flows next to the campground for wading. I would love to go back! My children still talk about it," writes Tetia C. The campground provides direct access to creek-side trails suitable for all skill levels.

Wildlife viewing: RD 356 Dispersed Site provides excellent opportunities for wildlife observation due to its secluded location. "My Son and I stayed here while visiting Mount Rushmore and the surrounding area's other attractions. Weather was great, very mild. Air was fresh and crisp," reports Connor M. Deer and turkey sightings are common at dawn and dusk.

Horseback riding: Mount Rushmore KOA offers guided trail rides through the surrounding hills. "This campground is very clean, well kept, and VERY Large! There are UTVs that you can rent to go out on the trails... riding stables etc. It is also just 5 miles from Mount Rushmore and 15 minutes from Crazy Horse!" explains Lynn N.

What campers like

Spacious sites: Many campers praise the ample room at Sheridan Lake South Shore Campground. "Nice big spots. Had private lake access from our site. Well kept primitive camp ground," says Kara S. The campground features sites spaced well apart, with many offering direct shoreline access.

Clean facilities: At Rapid City KOA, visitors frequently mention the well-maintained amenities. "The laundry facilities were clean. Full hooks ups for just two people was $75.00. This campground is strict with all their rules and regulations," notes Diana V. The showers feature private changing areas and reliable hot water.

Water access: Pactola Reservoir Campground receives high marks for its lake views and water activities. "This campground is unbelievable beautiful. The whole camp is along the lake and offers amazing views of the Pactola Reservoir. Each campsite had a fire pit and a picnic table. There's enough room on one site to put 2 or 3 tents and feel completely comfortable," writes Evan W.

Quiet atmosphere: Boxelder Forks Campground provides a peaceful setting away from highways and town noise. "We loved this little campground. The hosts were so friendly. They kept the place neat and clean. The vault toilet was clean and spacious. It's quiet and private. You're surrounded by pine trees, and Box Elder Creek flows nearby," shares Donna E.

What you should know

Site variations: Reviews indicate significant differences between sites at Pactola Reservoir Campground. "Warning regarding sites 48 and above: these are a parking lot. They are not at all like the beautiful tree filled sites with views in the pictures. Basically, they pack campers in to a strip of parking and your fire ring and picnic table are over in the grass," cautions Rose.

Seasonal limitations: Most campgrounds in the Piedmont area close facilities between mid-September and mid-May. Water systems are typically winterized by early October, even at year-round locations.

Road conditions: West Nemo Dispersed Camping requires prepared vehicles. "This spot is at the end of a forest road that runs west of Nemo, SD. There are other dispersed camping sites along the way as well. No amenities at all here. A high clearance vehicle will most likely be needed to get back to this spot," advises Jim H.

Reservation needs: During peak summer months, established campgrounds fill quickly. The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally (early August) creates maximum demand throughout the region. "Solid Campground with nice gravel pull-ins that made the rooftop tent a breeze. Well kept with clean vault toilets. Nice camp host with plenty of firewood available. Lots of families and every spot was full. Get a reservation in advance," recommends Chris S. regarding Sheridan Lake.

Tips for camping with families

Swimming options: Sheridan Lake South Shore Campground offers a designated swimming beach with shallow entry points. "Camped in our 38' motorhome. Reserved our site well in advance. Beach for the kids, quiet and peaceful," shares Chris B. The swimming area includes a roped-off section for younger children.

Activity centers: Mount Rushmore KOA at Palmer Gulch provides extensive recreation facilities. "There are two pools, a village of shops and restaurants, tons of activities, and a large horse stable with trail rides. We had a nice back in site on the edge of a hill with plenty of privacy," explains Zach H., noting the range of options for families.

Budget considerations: For families watching expenses, Boxelder Forks Campground offers lower rates while maintaining quality facilities. "Beautiful little campground nestled along Box Elder Creek. The tent sites are level and great for tent camping," mentions Cindy N. Sites cost approximately half what resort-style campgrounds charge.

Accessibility concerns: Not all campgrounds accommodate mobility limitations. "All in all the campground is amazing if you're able bodied. That being said, there are certain MUSTS that any disabled person needs. The most important is an accessible bathroom and shower," advises Shannon E. about Mount Rushmore KOA, noting improvements needed.

Tips from RVers

Site selection: At Three Flags RV Park, RVers recommend reserving sites away from the highway. "Nice and friendly. Also skoolie friendly," mentions Joshua D. The park offers pull-through sites with reliable full hookups.

Utility reliability: Rapid City KOA provides stable electrical service during peak demand periods. "Overall this is a very nice RV park in Rapid City. Staff is nice, grounds are clean, bathrooms are well maintained however there is a distinct lack of shade trees," notes Douglas S.

Off-season advantages: Several campgrounds near Piedmont offer reduced rates during spring and fall. "Simple RV park with lots of FHU! The shower house and bathrooms are super clean and after a day of hiking we were pleasantly surprised! Friendly, clean and wide open. They also participate in passport America," reports Amy C. about Three Flags RV Park.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Piedmont, SD?

According to TheDyrt.com, Piedmont, SD offers a wide range of camping options, with 250 campgrounds and RV parks near Piedmont, SD and 38 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Piedmont, SD?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Piedmont, SD is Pactola Reservoir Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 31 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Piedmont, SD?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 38 free dispersed camping spots near Piedmont, SD.

What parks are near Piedmont, SD?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 8 parks near Piedmont, SD that allow camping, notably Black Hills National Forest and Wind Cave National Park.