Best Campgrounds near Pringle, SD

The Black Hills region surrounding Pringle, South Dakota features a variety of camping options spanning from developed facilities to primitive sites. Established campgrounds like Elk Mountain in Wind Cave National Park and Blue Bell in Custer State Park provide designated areas with amenities such as water hookups, picnic tables, and toilets. North Pole Road offers free dispersed camping opportunities for those seeking a more rustic experience. Most campgrounds accommodate tent and RV camping, while several sites like Sylvan Lake and Blue Bell also feature cabin options.

Seasonal considerations significantly impact camping availability in this area, with many campgrounds operating primarily from May through October. Custer State Park campgrounds like Blue Bell are open April through October, while Sylvan Lake operates from late May to September. Winter camping is limited, though some areas like Game Lodge Campground remain open year-round. Several campgrounds require reservations, particularly during summer months and holiday weekends. According to one visitor, "We didn't know what to expect because I couldn't find very many pictures of the actual campground or our site. I was so surprised with this hidden gem! It was probably my favorite campground on our whole South Dakota trip."

The area's proximity to major attractions makes it an ideal base for exploring South Dakota landmarks. Campgrounds serve as convenient staging points for visiting Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial, Wind Cave National Park, and Custer State Park. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, with bison and deer frequently spotted near camping areas. Many campers highlight the region's natural beauty and quiet atmosphere as key draws. A reviewer noted, "This lake is beautiful, it's one of my favorite places inside Custer state park. There are a ton of trails, all within easy walking distance." Campers seeking more amenities can find sites with electric hookups, showers, and dump stations, while those preferring solitude might opt for more remote forest service campgrounds or dispersed sites in the national forest.

Best Camping Sites Near Pringle, South Dakota (202)

    1. Elk Mountain Campground — Wind Cave National Park

    45 Reviews
    Pringle, SD
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 745-4600

    $12 - $45 / night

    "This campground is centrally locates to some great activities in South Dakota. We made day trips to visit the Badlands, Wall Drug Store, Wind Cave and Mount Rushmore."

    "Passing through South Dakota rests a very unique park unlike any other you will find.    "

    2. Blue Bell Campground — Custer State Park

    36 Reviews
    Custer, SD
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 255-4515

    "Blue Bell Campground truly captures the essence of a classic camping experience, with its beautiful surroundings and well-maintained facilities."

    "This is closest to the southern entrance. We had bison herds South of us and North. We never managed to make it East where the long trail is, which seems to be known for wildlife."

    3. North Pole Rd Dispersed Camping

    34 Reviews
    Custer, SD
    13 miles
    Website

    "This was a great spot despite the thunderstorm I got caught in and nearly destroyed my tent."

    "Chances are you’ll be a ways away from other campers. Great spots to get away from the crowded campgrounds."

    4. Stockade North Campground — Custer State Park

    28 Reviews
    Custer, SD
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 255-4515

    $30 / night

    "Campground Review: The Stockade Lake North Campground is located just inside the west entrance to Custer State Park in Custer, South Dakota."

    "There is a nice walking path that drops down to the lake from the south part of the campground. I literally walked across the road from SN33E and stepped on the trail to walk my dogs."

    5. Sylvan Lake Campground — Custer State Park

    42 Reviews
    Custer, SD
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 255-4515

    "This lake is beautiful, its one of my favorite places inside Custer state park. There are a ton of trails, all within easy walking distance. Make sure you pack plenty of water."

    "We had one of the spots that was more out in the open and close to our neighbors, but the sites on the outside of the middle loop were much more private."

    6. Fort Welikit Family Campground and RV Park

    26 Reviews
    Custer, SD
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 673-3600

    "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!!"

    "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."

    7. Custer-Mt. Rushmore KOA

    19 Reviews
    Custer, SD
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 673-4304

    $60 - $100 / night

    "KOA doesn’t disappoint, they could widen their left clearance when first coming into the parking lot from the highway."

    "This KOA is set in beautiful surroundings. Sites are amongst trees, easy in/out. I arrived in the middle of a downpour, but that did not deter the hosts from showing me the site."

    8. Game Lodge Campground — Custer State Park

    27 Reviews
    Keystone, SD
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 255-4515

    $26 - $55 / night

    "This campground is open year round and is located in Custer State Park, in the Black Hills of South Dakota. Features cabin, camper, and tent sites."

    "The second morning we woke up to bison all along the fence next to the campground!"

    9. Custer Crazy Horse Campground & Cabin 13 Coffee Shop

    20 Reviews
    Custer, SD
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 517-9016

    $25 - $55 / night

    "The Custer Crazy Horse Campground is a gem for anyone looking to enjoy the natural beauty of South Dakota."

    "This campground is right next to the road and is only 3 miles from Crazy Horse and a few miles from the town of Custer."

    10. Mount Rushmore KOA at Palmer Gulch

    55 Reviews
    Hill City, SD
    20 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."

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Recent Reviews near Pringle, SD

1306 Reviews of 202 Pringle Campgrounds


  • Ben E.
    Oct. 28, 2025

    Sunrise Ridge Campground

    Friendly and welcoming

    Very friendly, and cozy atmosphere. Nestled right next to town, yet secluded enough to feel in the hills with nice views. Service is excellent on Verizon network and WiFi is provided. Correct placement on sewer hookup and spigot make dumps and water management super easy. Highly recommend, and reasonably priced!

  • 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.

  • 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/

  • 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

  • S
    Oct. 12, 2025

    Hart Ranch RV Resort

    Hart ranch is okay

    There are a lot of changes going on here. Good and bad.not perfect but okay for a stay.

  • Donna H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 11, 2025

    Custer-Mt. Rushmore KOA

    Wonderful campground right off the main highway, but quiet.

    After spending two nights at the Spearfish KOA, I decided to take two more nights in Custer. This campground is clean and comfortable, and the perfect jumping-off point for Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse, Custer State Park, Wind Cave State Park, and touring the Black Hills.  All of which I did and had a wonderful time.

    The facilities were clean, shaded with conifers, and the bathrooms were the cleanest I've seen on this trip. The staff were wonderful. The terrain is hilly, so remember your levellers. I would stay here again in a heartbeat.


Guide to Pringle

Dispersed camping sites around Pringle, South Dakota offer a range of options at elevations between 4,000-5,000 feet in the southern Black Hills. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing at night even in spring and fall, with summer highs averaging in the 80s. Most dispersed sites have no amenities, requiring campers to pack in water and pack out waste.

What to do

Hiking to Black Elk Peak: Access South Dakota's highest point (7,242 feet) from Sylvan Lake Campground where multiple trails offer routes of varying difficulty. "The lake is absolutely beautiful, the trails are well-maintained, and the fun feels endless," notes one visitor who wished they "could have stayed a few more nights."

Wildlife photography: Scout for bison herds throughout the area, particularly near Elk Mountain Campground in Wind Cave National Park. "You can see the bison as you come into camp if you're lucky. There was also a wild turkey that was wandering around the whole time we were there," shares a camper who rated their experience highly.

Nighttime stargazing: The dark skies around North Pole Road dispersed camping area provide excellent star viewing with minimal light pollution. Bring red-light headlamps to protect night vision. One camper described their experience: "The place was very calm just some cars went on the road behind us. You can go to this place if you search a very calm place."

Fly fishing: Stockade Lake offers trout fishing opportunities accessible from nearby campgrounds. A visitor noted, "Passing through South Dakota rests a very unique park unlike any other you will find. From trout fishing to hiking to watching the herd of bison as well as nearby attractions of Sturgis, Deadwood, and Mount Rushmore, there's always something great to do."

What campers like

Secluded walk-in sites: Stockade South Campground offers more private spots away from highway noise. "Quieter sites than Stockade N, because you are away from the highway (a plus during Bike Week). Grounds are clean," explains a tent camper who appreciated the quiet setting.

Natural soundscapes: Many campers value the natural sounds at Game Lodge Campground sites adjacent to the creek. "We were at Game Lodge campground site 36, which was right next to a little creek. At night, we could hear the water running and it was so calming," reports a family with young children.

Affordable pricing options: Free dispersed camping at North Pole Road provides cost-effective alternatives to developed sites. "During our stay, we toured Custer State Park, Jewel and Wind Cave, as well as Mt. Rushmore. We found the location to be very central. The views are breathtaking and remarkably peaceful," explains a camper who used the area as a base camp.

Wildlife encounters: Multiple campgrounds offer regular wildlife sightings. "We heard lots of animals through the night and loved it," shares a visitor to Elk Mountain. Another camper at Game Lodge noted, "There was a male bison that was roaming near the other side of the fence which was neat."

What you should know

Reservation requirements: Most established campgrounds in Custer State Park require advance booking, especially during summer. Stockade North campsites are "reservation-only, even on same-day arrival. In order to secure a campground, campers need to call the reservation number."

Winter camping limitations: While Game Lodge Campground remains open year-round, facilities may be limited. "Didn't see any notice that the bathroom we picked a spot near was closed for the season... that meant a really long cold walk to the pit toilet," cautions a November visitor who encountered unexpected challenges.

Site selection for tents: Many sites have sloped terrain that can be challenging for tent setups. At Stockade South, a camper noted "it was difficult to find a level spot for our tent - we slid downhill in our tent through the night."

Water availability seasonality: Most campgrounds shut off water during winter months. An October visitor to Elk Mountain observed: "Potable water available: yes, but currently turned off."

Tips for camping with families

Kid-friendly water activities: Fort Welikit Family Campground offers dedicated play areas for children. "The playground and dog park was available and was very cute. Bathhouse was clean and also nice," reports a family who stayed three nights while visiting Mount Rushmore.

Evening ranger programs: Elk Mountain hosts educational sessions ideal for children. "They also have a small ampitheater where rangers give talks every night during the summer at 9pm," shares a visitor who appreciated the educational opportunities.

Central locations for day trips: Many campgrounds provide strategic locations for exploring multiple attractions. "We stayed at Game Lodge campground... Loved that the bison were just outside our campground on the way in and the visitor center just across the road was beautiful!" notes a family with young children who used the campground as their base.

Consider noise levels: Some campgrounds experience more through-traffic than others. A family at Elk Mountain advises: "Our only complaint was that the lights from the very simple bathrooms were so bright at night they ruined our night vision. Do not choose a site near the bathrooms."

Tips from RVers

Site leveling challenges: Many campsites require leveling equipment. An RVer at Stockade North warned: "Our site was a bit unlevel, but very scenic and shady." Similarly, at Stockade South, a visitor advised coming "prepared with leveling blocks."

Hookup limitations: Mount Rushmore KOA offers various hookup configurations, but campers should verify what's available at their specific site. "There are lots of different site designations—some have water/electric but no waste," explains a visitor who stayed there.

Limited dump station availability: An RVer at Stockade South noted: "Only drawback is no dump station - there is only 1 in all of Custer." Plan accordingly if staying multiple nights.

Site selection for privacy: Choose carefully when booking RV sites. "We had a nice back in site on the edge of a hill with plenty of privacy. However most the full hookup sites were really tight and had no shade," advises a visitor to Mount Rushmore KOA.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping options are available near Pringle, SD?

The Pringle area offers diverse camping experiences in the Black Hills. Custer State Park provides several campgrounds with excellent facilities, including Game Lodge which features cabin, camper, and tent sites with shower facilities and is open year-round. For RV travelers, Happy Holiday RV Resort offers full hookups at reasonable prices in a central location for exploring the region. Other options include Fort Welikit Family Campground and North Pole Road dispersed camping for those seeking free camping opportunities. Most campgrounds in the area provide fire pits and picnic tables, with varying levels of amenities from primitive to full-service.

What is the best time of year to camp in Pringle, SD?

Late spring through early fall (May-September) offers the best camping conditions near Pringle. Pactola Reservoir Campground typically operates from May through mid-September, reflecting the prime camping season for the area. Summer provides warm days ideal for water activities and hiking, while Sylvan Lake Campground offers beautiful trails and lakeside recreation during this time. Be prepared for rapid weather changes in South Dakota regardless of season. For those seeking fewer crowds, consider visiting in May or September when temperatures remain pleasant but tourist traffic decreases. Some campgrounds like Game Lodge remain open year-round, though winter camping requires proper cold-weather gear.

What attractions can I visit while camping near Pringle, South Dakota?

The Pringle area serves as an excellent base for exploring Black Hills attractions. Mount Rushmore is a must-visit landmark, and Mount Rushmore KOA at Palmer Gulch makes an ideal camping location for this excursion. From Sheridan Lake South Shore Campground, you're within an hour's drive of numerous attractions including Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial, Jewel Cave National Monument, and Custer State Park. For rock climbing enthusiasts, Wrinkled Rock campground provides walking distance access to climbing routes. The Black Hills region also offers abundant hiking trails, wildlife viewing opportunities in Custer State Park, and scenic drives like the Needles Highway.