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Dog-Friendly Camping near Piedmont, SD

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    West Nemo Dispersed Camping offers free, pet-friendly camping options in a spacious area of the Black Hills National Forest near Piedmont. Big-rig vehicles can access this drive-in camping area where pets are welcome. RD 356 Dispersed Site also permits pets in the Black Hills National Forest but requires a permit and is limited to tent camping. Both locations maintain a pet-friendly policy while providing a primitive camping experience without facilities such as toilets, showers, or drinking water. For those seeking established campgrounds with amenities, Three Flags RV Park accepts pets with full hookup sites, showers, toilets, and trash service. Boxelder Forks Campground in Black Hills National Forest allows pets with drinking water and toilet facilities available. Campers browse The Dyrt when exploring the best sites near Piedmont, South Dakota.

    Dispersed camping areas near Nemo provide peaceful spots with occasional wildlife sounds including crickets and coyotes. While mosquitoes are present, the open spaces accommodate multiple camping setups and feature a small pond for filtering water. The trails surrounding West Nemo dispersed sites are frequently used by off-road vehicles which can create noise, particularly during busy periods like the Sturgis motorcycle rally when the area becomes crowded. Dalton Lake Campground offers lakeside sites with access to the Centennial Trail and Little Elk Canyon Trail for pet-friendly hiking opportunities. Local campground hosts provide helpful information about pet-friendly activities and seasonal considerations for camping in the area.

    Best Dog-Friendly Campgrounds near Piedmont (192)

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      1. Pactola Reservoir Campground

      4.4(31)13mi from Piedmont79 sitesRVs, Tents, Glamping

      "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."

      from $30 / night

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      2. Rapid City KOA

      4.0(26)15mi from PiedmontRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "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 National Forests for hiking. - some highway noise but excessive"

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      3. Sheridan Lake South Shore Campground

      4.4(31)17mi from Piedmont111 sitesRVs, Tents

      "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."

      from $30 / night

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      4. Boxelder Forks Campground — Black Hills National Forest

      4.8(9)8mi from Piedmont14 sitesRVs, Tents

      "24  a night (half price with America the beautiful pass) + $2 for pets.  Hand cranked water well and two vault toilets.  Beautiful creek right next to the campground. "

      "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."

      from $24 / night

      5. Three Flags RV Park

      4.5(8)5mi from PiedmontRVs, Tents, Glamping

      "The location is super convenient, right off I-90 with easy access to Sturgis, Mount Rushmore, and Deadwood."

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

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      6. Mount Rushmore KOA at Palmer Gulch

      4.2(55)24mi from PiedmontRVs, Tents, Cabins

      "Downside is it’s a crowded and our site had the dog park behind it."

      "Make the most of your South Dakota vacation by spending it camping. My group tented and had a great time."

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      7. West Nemo - Dispersed Camping

      3.9(7)7mi from Piedmont

      "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

      3.9(7)9mi from Piedmont17 sitesRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "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"

      from $30 - $458 / night

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      9. Days End Campground

      4.1(13)16mi from Piedmont367 sitesRVs, Tents, Cabins

      "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!"

      from $0 - $800 / night

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      10. RD 356 Dispersed Site Black Hills National Forest

      4.8(32)23mi from PiedmontTents

      "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."

      Check Availability
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    1524 Reviews of 192 Piedmont Campgrounds

    • Wendy
      Aug. 31, 2020

      Chris' Campground

      quiet place, but a few fyi's

      They advertise that they have Wi-Fi but it's almost like they shut it off at 10 o'clock at night when quiet time starts which is a great time for looking up directions or places to see, we could never connect for long and streaming- which means no Netflix its against the rules(which we never saw only overheard). They allow fires but make sure you get a metal ring because it's illegal to have a fire in south Dakota if you don't have one they have them but they don't leave them at the sites or let you know they are available. Also no petting zoo we specifically came here thinking they had one because they advertised and after we arrived they informed us it was turned into a dog park i have no pictures but there's not much to see here

    • BThe Dyrt PRO User
      Jun. 20, 2025

      Elkhorn Ridge RV Resort & Cabins

      A True Resort

      We wanted to spend a couple of days in the Black Hills and also needed full hookups and laundry after about a week of boondocking - Elk Horn Ridge gave us that and more. Easy access off I-90 and super close to Spearfish, Deadwood, Lead and all this area of South Dakota has to offer. The campground is a true resort with concrete pad sites with modern full hookup connections, beautifully landscaped grounds overlooking the Frawley Ranch, and a wonderful pool, a pool-side bar, dog park, basketball and pickleball courts, coffee bar and laundry. Our rig was a dirty mess from the boondocking and Elk Horn Ridge even has local mobile companies that come to your site and clean your rig. Ours was cleaned while we hiked the Spearfish Canyon!Loved our time here and special kudos to Ellee and Jordan for their welcome at check in and drinks after dinner!

    • MickandKarla W.The Dyrt PRO User
      Oct. 28, 2022

      Spearfish KOA

      One of the Nicer KOAs

      The KOA was very easy to find right off I 90 and US 85. Check-in was quick and easy and we were guided to pull in site 65 with FHUs. The utilities are smartly placed in the middle of the pad. Our pad was plenty long enough for our 39 fifth wheel and F450 truck. The staff was super nice and helpful and the campground(CG) was well-maintained. We used their laundry room with 6 washers and 6 dryers for$2 a wash and$2 to dry. A bonus was that the dryers actually dried the clothes in 30 minutes. We were right across from their small fenced dog park. We were also close to the 7.5-mile nature trail entrance from the park to the river, which was great for walking our dogs. The CG has curbside trash pick-up plus firewood& ice for sale. The WiFi was above average for a park this size. We got two bars on Verizon. There are trees in the CG, but not enough to prevent you from getting a satellite shot into the sky. Guests with dogs here do not pick up after their dogs in the dog park and especially along the back side of the CG where we were staying. We saw dog poops all over the place and witnessed several times out our back window, and in the dog park, people not picking up after their dogs. The CG doesn't seem to enforce picking up after your pet. There is a lot to see and do in the area. As we were here in October, the leaves were changing in Spearfish Canyon and we enjoyed a really nice leaf peeper drive, and then visited Deadwood, which was having its Octoberfest.

    • B
      Sep. 4, 2021

      Heartland RV Park And Cabins

      Tidy, Clean, Friendly, Attractions

      This is a great place to stay. Not far from Rapid City but close to all the attractions in South Dakota. The heated pool was NOT heated and the hot tub was NOT hot. That is why I gave the CG four stars. I was really looking forward to using them. Also, both seemed overloaded with chemicals. I have owned lots of pools with blue colored bottoms, but these looked like there was “Ty-d-bowl” added. Brilliant, stark blue. I just don’t believe it can be just the basic treatment. See what you think. ???The laundry areas (3 of them) were clean and tidy, too. $2.00 for each, but 45 minutes on the dryer, so that’s fair. 😀 Our spot was a bit difficult for us to level our rig on because the rocks kept slipping. We had to go purchase extra Xchocks. There is a nice store for basic needs, and alcohol, and an event schedule for evening entertainment. The event center serves wings (no celery or carrot sticks), pizza, etc. There is a playground for kids and they said a dog park. —-I did find a big area there, but no fence around it. ???

    • Jan S.
      Aug. 22, 2021

      Fort Welikit Family Campground and RV Park

      Great location for Custer State Park and surrounding area

      Very friendly owners. Gravel pads, most have some grassy areas. Turkey and deer walk thru. Has small clean dogpark. Town of Custer has large clean dog park within 2 mile drive. Stayed in 53 FHU 3 nights then moved to 45 W/E as we made reservations late. Both faced away from the center of the campground which was nice. Nice laundry . Okay bath/ shower..didn't use but looked ok. Great campground for folks with dogs and for super easy access to town of Custer and the State Park.

    • Jon M.
      May. 20, 2020

      Spearfish KOA

      Very nice campground

      Nice people, very clean bathrooms, close to highway so there’s some road noise. Nature trail with off leash dog area, and a small dog park in the middle for off leash doggy play time.

    • TyAnn J.
      Aug. 7, 2017

      Fort Welikit Family Campground and RV Park

      Ranger Review: OOFOS OOlala Slide Sandal at For Welikit Family Campground and RV Park in The Black Hills National Forest Custer, SD

      Campground Review:

      If you are looking for a family and pet friendly place to camp while visiting the Black Hills South Dakota area, look no further!! We started planning our family trip 6 months ago, and booked the Fort Welikit Family Campground and RV park based on reviews we read online. We wanted to be in between Custer State Park (Kids choice) and The Badlands (Dad and Moms choice)

      There are 100 sites nestled in gorgeous tall pine trees. The tent sites are located on the south two loops, and the Tipi and Cabins sites are mixed in with the RV sites. We stayed 9 days in site 20 that is a RV 50 Amp Pull through site. Check in time is 1:00pm, and check out time is 11:00am. **Very important to know: The trees are fighting the Pine Beetle, so they DO NOT allow you to hang anything like clothes line or hammocks on them. ALSO they DO NOT allow you to bring in out of the area firewood. They do sell approved firewood at the office for $4.50 for a small bundle. The family style bathrooms were located just behind our site, and were cleaned daily. (If we ever stayed there again we would ask for a space on a further loop, as this was a high traffic area!!) The offer a laundry room with washers and dryers as well, but bring our quarters as a wash cycle was $1.75 a load, and the dryer is .25 for a 6 minute cycle. The added kids old time fort play area and the dog park area were well kept and there was plenty of room to play ladder ball and washer toss. We would highly recommend this campground to anyone looking for a family/pet friendly area. If you are looking for solitude, this would not be the place for you.

      ...................................................

      Product Review:

      As a Ranger for The Dyrt, I get products to test from time to time. I tested the OOlala Slide Sandal from OOFOS Footwear https://www.oofos.com/ that I won in the West North Central Review Contest in June. Let me begin by saying I was a little nervous when I thought about what size to order (I am an 8 & 1/2 Wide ladies) I went to the website, and immediately drawn to the OOlala Slide Sandal. When I went into the description, under the "pick your size" button is a handy little "sizing" tab. When you click the tab it reads "If you normally wear a whole size: order the same whole size OOFOS. If you normally wear a half size: Order a half size UP for best fit. (MEN: Order a half size DOWN for best fit) Problem solved!! I ordered the sandals on July 1st and they were delivered on my doorstep on July 5th. Talk about FAST shipping for a holiday week to boot!!

      When I took the sandals out of the package I was very impressed with the shape and styling of the shoe. I put them on and know that this was no ordinary pair of slip on sandals!! The arch support immediately took pressure off the ball of my foot, and the cushion put a springy bounce in every single step I took. I couldn't wait to take them on our 10 day family vacation to see how they performed!!

      Day #1 we hiked the Black Elk Peak (formerly Harney Peak). It is the highest summit in the United States east of the Rocky Mountains. After our 7 mile hike, I couldn't wait to put my OOFOS sandals on and let the recovery begin!! I wore them while showering and walking back to the campsite. My feet did not slip or slide in them, and they were dry within minutes!! The next day we headed to The Bad Lands, and I wore them all day long. They kept my feet comfortable and energized while putting on another 7 miles of walking!! After returning home from our vacation I have worn my OOFOS gardening, fishing, and even washing my SUV. I am 100% hooked on OOFOS!!

    • Tammy B.
      Oct. 6, 2023

      Fort Welikit Family Campground and RV Park

      Best campground in the Black Hills SD

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      Tammy B

      Local Guide·293 reviews·337 photos

      an hour ago

      NEW

      We were camphosts for the 2023 season.I can't say enough on how Kelly, Steve and his entire family makes sure your well taken care of..they added a second dog park for the little pups, renovated 5 site to give a better camping experience in … More

      Amy Kinzler Illg

      4 reviews

      a month ago

      Vacation | Family

      Stayed two nights here and overall a very good experience. Nicely equipped campground with a little shop for necessities. We stayed in a tent site with no electricity. Was a very pretty campground with deer, turkeys, a little play area for … More

      Travis Trussell

      Local Guide·74 reviews·256 photos

      a month ago

      Vacation | Family

      I can't say enough good things about this campground after staying for 6 nights. The spots are spacious and the hookups are located in a perfect spot to make things easy. Bathrooms and showers are very nice and clean. They have a nice dog … More

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      Houston & Carolynn

      Local Guide·168 reviews·289 photos

      a month ago

      A very quiet campground. The staff are friendly and I love the showers for they are private little rooms. They have a playground, laundry and these cute little kegs you can stay overnight in. I would recommend this place. The site are very nice. Houston enjoyed the shade and met another friend. … More

      

      

      

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      Fort Welikit Family Campground - Custer, South Dakota

      Ft. Welikit was lovely and well-maintained. The owners are onsite and very helpful. If you are traveling with small children, this is your place! They ...

      9/10(135) · $$$

      

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      Fort Welikit Family Campground Reviews updated 2023

      Oct 29, 2013 — This is a really cute family-owned campground. The staff is friendly and helpful. They shared a lot of good information about the area with us.

      4.0(11) · 50

      

      Fort Welikit Family Campground

      https://www.blackhillsrv.com

      Fort Welikit Family Campground: Black HIlls Campgrounds

      ​ · ​ · ​ · OPEN MAY 1st to OCTOBER 15th · ​ · Located on the scenic Norbeck Byway away from the aeras busy highways yet just one mile North · of the ...

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      Fort Welikit Family Campground - Custer, SD

      Aug 30, 2016 — It is a very nice place to spend your evenings. Deer and turkeys in the campground everyday. Has a fenced dog park and a small playground for ...

      

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      Fort Welikit Family Campground and RV Park Camping

      Absolutely loved our stay here!! Our check in was easy and the staff super pleasant. This is a family oriented campground with a great play area for the kiddos.

      

      4.4(20) · $

      

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      Fort Welikit Family Campground | Custer SD

      Fort Welikit Family Campground · Page · Campground · (605) 673-3600 · blackhillsrv.com · Rating · 4.4 (388 Reviews).

      

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      Fort Welikit Family Campground site? - Airstream Forums

      Feb 20, 2019 — We are planning a visit to Mt. Rushmore in May and are thinking of staying at Fort Welikit Family Campground. They have some good reviews but

      

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      Fort Welikit Family Campground

      It was very quiet and peaceful even though we were there during a peak summer period. The campground is well maintained, family owned and well run. The ...

      

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      Tammy B

      Local Guide·293 reviews·337 photos

      an hour ago

      NEW

      We were camphosts for the 2023 season.I can't say enough on how Kelly, Steve and his entire family makes sure your well taken care of..they added a second dog park for the little pups, renovated 5 site to give a better camping experience in those sites. If you need something they are on it..they have the best options for camping.. cabins, teepees, barrel kegs, tent, electric tent, w/e 30 amp, 30 amp full h/hu, 50 amp f/hu, and big rig sites..they have worked endlessly to supply you with the best experience. The campground is not your typical parking lot camping..each site is individually unique..it was made around hills, tons of shade trees,and rock formations. Each site is as level as possible. Restroom are individual with shower sink and toilet.. they are very clean. There is a fort playground for the kids that's fantastic. There is a pavilion that can be used for family gatherings. Several reunions are hosted every year..You will have local wildlife visit daily including deer and turkeys. In the spring the new fawns and chick turkeys are born and are adorable. They are centralized to all attractions..perfect location to everything. The several clients that have been repeat customers for years..staying for 6 to 8 weeks..that speaks for it self..everybody loves it. It's very quiet, the store has everything you need. Michelson trail is approximately 1 mile away which can be walked or ride bikes the 114 miles through the mountains. The hospital is 1 mile away. If your in the area, and you need an excellent place to stay..at the best price.. this is where you want to be.. It's very family friendly including your dogs and cats.

    • Jen S.
      Aug. 18, 2023

      Mount Rushmore KOA at Palmer Gulch

      Amenities!

      More expensive than we usually pay per night but a TON of amenities. Two pools and live entertainment. Restaurants/bars/coffee/ice cream shops. Downside is it’s a crowded and our site had the dog park behind it.

    Guide to Piedmont

    Dispersed camping near Piedmont offers access to the Black Hills National Forest at elevations between 4,500-5,000 feet. Summer temperatures range from 50-85°F, with afternoon thunderstorms common in July and August. The area serves as a central base for exploring attractions from Mount Rushmore to Deadwood, with multiple forest service roads providing access to free camping spots.

    What to do

    Horseback riding access: 5 miles from Palmer Gulch. Mount Rushmore KOA at Palmer Gulch features stables with guided trail rides through the Black Hills. "It also was is the best location to visit a variety of historical and nature sites like Mount Rushmore, Black Elk Peak Trail, the Needles drive in Custer SP along with various caverns, the 1886 train and nearby Wall Drug & Badlands NP," notes Terrie M.

    Lake activities: Fishing and swimming within 30 minutes. Sheridan Lake South Shore Campground provides access to both fishing and swimming beaches. "Had private lake access from our site. Well kept primitive camp ground," reports Kara S. The lake offers a cooler option during hot summer days.

    Hiking trails: Centennial Trail connections. Several campgrounds connect to the 111-mile Centennial Trail that runs through the Black Hills. "The tent sites are gorgeous! You may have to move some pinecones, needles, and large sticks, but the grass is quite soft," mentions Rockiel A. from Pactola Reservoir Campground, where several hiking trails originate.

    What campers like

    Privacy levels: Sites vary widely across the region. RD 356 Dispersed Site offers secluded options for tent campers seeking space from neighbors. "Several great campsites along a 2WD-friendly (albeit bumpy) road. Road noise is blocked pretty well by the topography, but not the views," shares Sam S.

    Wildlife viewing: Dawn and dusk opportunities. The Black Hills region supports diverse wildlife that often appears near campgrounds. "Woke up to deer munching on acorns right outside our rig," reports Karen V. at Days End Campground, highlighting the natural encounters possible.

    Creek access: Water features at smaller campgrounds. Boxelder Forks Campground features a creek running alongside campsites. "Beautiful little campground nestled along Box Elder Creek," describes Cindy N. These water features provide both scenic value and practical benefits during hot summer days.

    What you should know

    Off-season advantages: Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures. Visiting outside peak summer periods and motorcycle rally week significantly changes the camping experience. "We only got to stay for one night but we are going back this summer. The camp hosts were very nice and accommodating!" shares Brandi M. about Pactola Reservoir.

    Weather patterns: Afternoon storms common in summer. The Black Hills experience frequent afternoon thunderstorms during summer months. Prepare for rapid temperature changes and sudden precipitation. "Our visit was unseasonably cool," notes Audrey F. about Sheridan Lake, indicating the variable conditions campers might encounter.

    Road conditions: Access varies by vehicle type. Many dispersed sites require considering road quality and vehicle capabilities. "High clearance required after the first 3 sites," warns Dirty E. about RD 356 Dispersed Site, while another reviewer mentions "once we traversed that we were alone and secluded."

    Tips for camping with families

    Playground access: Kid-friendly facilities. Rapid City KOA offers playgrounds and organized activities for children. "Kids loved the playground & we had a nice time at the pancake breakfast. People working there are very kind & made us smile with the fun pancakes!" shares Ason S.

    Campsite selection: Look for flat, open areas. When camping with children, prioritize sites with space for play and level tent placement. "Site #86 is on a slope to the lake. No true flat ground and might not be so great if you're tent camping," advises Alexis R. about Sheridan Lake.

    Bathroom proximity: Critical for families with young children. Consider distance to facilities when choosing campsites. "The lady who received me was friendly, no complains there. She also made sure I'd get a spot where it'll be a bit more quiet and close enough to the restrooms," reports Sabrina V. about Days End Campground.

    Tips from RVers

    Generator policies: Vary by location. Three Flags RV Park near Piedmont enforces quiet hours for generators. "All RV sites are pull-thru and well-spaced. Cash only for Passport America, also accepts Good Sam and military veteran discounts," explains Michael B.

    Dog friendly considerations: Site spacing matters. For RVers traveling with pets, space between sites affects the camping experience. "The lots are so small you can't open your awning," cautions Wayne M. about one campground, while Three Flags offers "nice wide spots and drive through for easy setup," according to Johnothan R.

    Water access limitations: Plan accordingly. Many campgrounds in the region have limited water access. "Do NOT wash your rig - water is scarce in these parts," advises Michael B. about Three Flags RV Park, highlighting the need to arrive with filled tanks.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Piedmont, SD?

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

    What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Piedmont, SD?

    TheDyrt.com has all 192 dog-friendly camping locations near Piedmont, SD, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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