Near Piedmont, South Dakota, RV campers can find accommodations in the eastern foothills of the Black Hills at elevations ranging from 3,100 to 3,400 feet. The area serves as a convenient staging point for Black Hills exploration, sitting approximately 15 miles northeast of Rapid City with Interstate 90 providing easy access. Campgrounds in this region typically open from April through October, though seasonal variations affect both availability and pricing.
What to do
Cave exploration: 20 miles from Piedmont-area campgrounds, visitors can explore Wind Cave National Park and Jewel Cave National Monument. "We enjoyed this place. Nice wide spots and drive through for easy setup," noted a visitor at Rush No More Campground, which provides a strategic location for day trips.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campgrounds are positioned for easy access to Custer State Park's Wildlife Loop, where bison herds roam freely. "The campground is situated in a central location in the Black Hill. Easy drives to Deadwood, Rapid City, Keystone and minutes from Sturgis," according to one camper staying at Rush No More Campground.
Local attractions: Fort Hays, adjacent to Black Hills RV Park, offers affordable dining options. "Next to Fort Hays, home of $0.99 cowboy pancake breakfast and Dances with Wolves film set. Convenient as Mt Rushmore is only 20 miles & 36 miles to Crazy Horse Memorial," reports a recent visitor.
What campers like
Central location: Many campgrounds in the Piedmont area serve as convenient bases for regional exploration. "The location is perfect. It's out of the way, and situated so there's little highway noise. It provides easy access to all of the fun sights: downtown Keystone, SD, Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse (our personal fav) and surrounding areas," noted a visitor at Holy Smoke Resort.
Recreational amenities: Some parks offer on-site activities to supplement sightseeing. "There is a playground for the kids and a beer garden for the adults. Entertainment on certain nights, food and fun," mentioned a camper at Rush No More Campground about the amenities available.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and showers are consistently mentioned in positive reviews. "This Park is kept very clean. Laundry room and machines are organized and in great operating condition. Bathrooms and showers are cleaned very often," reported a guest at Three Flags RV Park.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most RV sites near Piedmont, South Dakota operate seasonally. "Winter camping options are limited as most parks close by mid-October. Three Flags RV Park offers both 50-amp and 30-amp full hookup pull-through sites from April to mid-October, with spaces set approximately 50 feet apart," according to visitor reports.
Fire restrictions: Several campgrounds prohibit open fires due to seasonal wildfire danger. "There are no fires allowed at Black Hawk Creek RV Park," notes a review, while other parks may implement temporary restrictions during high-risk periods.
Variable cell service: Connectivity varies significantly by location. "We had decent connectivity at our spot. The WIFI was decent," mentioned a camper at Three Flags RV Park, though experiences vary by carrier and specific location within each park.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Select campgrounds offer dedicated spaces for children. "Small pool and hot tub if you want to cool off. There is a playground for the kids and a beer garden for the adults," reported a visitor at Heartland RV Park And Cabins.
Entertainment options: Some campgrounds provide on-site activities. "This place is fun with unique flare. On site restaurant for breakfast, lunch and dinner with live music each night," noted a Heartland RV Park visitor, describing evening entertainment options that supplement daytime sightseeing.
Educational opportunities: The Black Hills offer numerous learning experiences within short driving distances. "Be sure to take the drive to see the Mammoth Site & Museum!" advised a Holy Smoke Resort camper, highlighting additional attractions beyond the major monuments.
Tips from RVers
Leveling considerations: Site conditions vary among RV parks in the Piedmont area. "Sites are all gravel with picnic tables, reasonably level, and very well maintained," according to camper reports, though some locations require additional equipment for perfect leveling.
Full-hookup availability: Most parks near Piedmont provide complete utility connections. "We came here to cleanup after 4 nights of Boondocking. Okay place to stay. Owner is really nice and accommodating," reported a visitor at Lazy JD RV Park, which provides 50-amp full hookup sites.
Reservation timing: Peak season demands early planning. "Advance reservations are strongly recommended during summer months and especially during the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in early August when virtually all Black Hills campgrounds reach capacity," note experienced RVers familiar with the region.
