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Best Dispersed Camping near Pringle, SD

125 Reviews

The Black Hills National Forest surrounding Pringle, South Dakota features predominantly dispersed camping options along forest service roads and backcountry areas. Sites like North Pole Road Dispersed Camping and RD 356 Dispersed Site offer free, primitive camping experiences within 20-30 minutes of Mount Rushmore and other major attractions. Cold Springs School Road by Beaver Creek and Spring Creek Road provide additional options for both tent and small RV camping. These areas typically lack amenities but compensate with scenic views, privacy, and proximity to the region's natural and cultural landmarks.

Road conditions vary significantly across dispersed camping areas, with many requiring high-clearance vehicles for full access. As one camper noted, "The road to get in was very rocky and steep! We decided to go out a different way and it was even worse than the way in." Fire restrictions are common throughout the region, with many areas posting no-campfire rules regardless of season. Cell service ranges from adequate to non-existent depending on elevation and location. Most sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis with 14-day stay limits, though enforcement varies. Weather can change rapidly, with summer thunderstorms and cold nights even during warmer months.

Proximity to major attractions represents a significant advantage for campers in the Pringle area. "Perfect location for exploring the Black Hills, Custer State Park, Wind Cave NP, Mt. Rushmore, and Jewel Cave NM," reported one visitor to RD 356. Wildlife sightings are common, with campers mentioning deer, coyotes, and cattle sharing the landscape. The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally significantly impacts camping availability throughout the region, with locals advising against attempting to find dispersed sites during this period. Most camping areas feature small, individual sites rather than group camping opportunities, making them better suited for solo travelers or small parties seeking quiet overnight stays rather than extended vacations.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Pringle, South Dakota (31)

    1. North Pole Rd Dispersed Camping

    31 Reviews
    Custer, SD
    13 miles
    Website

    "Black Hills can be hard to find cheap or free camping during busy season. Great free camp down a gravel/dirt road with cows on both sides and one in the road (it moved eventually)."

    "We've been fulltiming since January and this was the first place we actually stayed the whole 14 day limit."

    2. RD 356 Dispersed Site Black Hills National Forest

    32 Reviews
    Hill City, SD
    20 miles
    Website

    "A perfect location. Plenty of spots on the bumpy main road, use 4wd/high clearance vehicles to go off some of the side routes for more privacy. Nice tree covered spots and very quiet."

    "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."

    3. Cold Springs School Road by Beaver Creek

    5 Reviews
    Pringle, SD
    4 miles

    "Easy to access, could probably get away with a low clearance since the roads are good. No campfires are allowed in the area it seems. Would stay here anytime!"

    "This is a dispersed site that is near the entrance to Wind Cave National Park. The road in is wide and smoothly graveled. This spot has room for a small camper - our bus backed in fine."

    4. Black Hills Dispersed Site - Hwy 89

    4 Reviews
    Pringle, SD
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 673-9200

    "Google maps tells you to turn where there isn’t a turn but it’s not too hard to find. We slept in our truck but there is bumpy ground, not ideal for tenting. Thunderstorm prone."

    "Gps route was a little off. Just an hour from Rushmore."

    5. Cold Springs School Road - Forest Road Pull Out

    3 Reviews
    Pringle, SD
    4 miles
    Website

    6. Spring Creek Road

    11 Reviews
    Hill City, SD
    18 miles

    "Was easy to drive in. The road wasn’t too rough. Got there in the dark was able to find a spot, can be hard to see the turn off to the sites at night."

    "The turn off from the highway is easy to find. Smaller trailers or overlanding setups are best here. It may not be so kind for getting trailers turned around."

    7. Cicero Peak Road Dispersed Campsite

    1 Review
    Pringle, SD
    5 miles

    "The drive up the road is extremely rocky and we needed 4x4 over some of the rocks. Slow careful driving and you can make it in most SUVs but I wouldn’t recommend a van."

    8. Glen Erin Roadside Camp

    2 Reviews
    Custer, SD
    9 miles

    "The pull off is at the exact coordinates given and it’s on the left."

    "Large dry tree trunk piles next to site and across road. Plenty of sky. No shade on vehicle but trees to put a chair under for shade. Quiet."

    9. Camp Bob Marshall Dispersed

    3 Reviews
    Custer, SD
    13 miles

    "We went a bit more off the path by turning right, going up past a water treatment plant and parking near the end of the road. It was secluded and pretty. Lots of coyotes in the area."

    "Dispersed Camping off the main road thru Custer State Park that is National Forest. Turn on the road that marks the Bob Marshall Camp. You pass a water treatment area and go thru the gate."

    10. Black Hills NF FR307 Dispersed Camping

    2 Reviews
    Custer, SD
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 673-9200

    "This is dispersed camping so there are no services. Bring your own water and take with you all of your garbage. The road in is gravel but really wide."

    "No water nearby. No ATT cell service."

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Pringle, SD

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Pringle, SD

125 Reviews of 31 Pringle Campgrounds

Guide to Pringle

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Pringle, South Dakota, where you can immerse yourself in nature without the crowds. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, you'll find the perfect spot to unwind and explore.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Pringle, South Dakota

  • Many sites, like North Pole Rd Dispersed Camping, provide a secluded atmosphere, allowing you to enjoy peace and quiet away from busy campgrounds.
  • Be prepared for limited amenities; for instance, RD 356 Dispersed Site Black Hills National Forest has no water hookups or sanitary dumps, so bring everything you need.
  • Always check road conditions before heading out, as some areas may require a vehicle with higher clearance, especially sites like Spring Creek Road that can be tricky to navigate.

Scenic views and outdoor activities while free camping near Pringle

  • Enjoy breathtaking vistas at Calumet Rd Dispersed Camping, where you can set up camp surrounded by stunning landscapes and wildlife.
  • Hiking enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity of Needles Highway Dispersed Site, which offers easy access to trails leading to Black Elk Peak and other scenic spots.
  • Fishing and exploring nearby streams are popular activities at Spring Creek Rd Mine Site Dispersed, making it an ideal location for those looking to enjoy the outdoors.

Dispersed campers should check out the serene spots along the Black Hills

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Pringle, SD?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Pringle, SD is North Pole Rd Dispersed Camping with a 4.5-star rating from 31 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Pringle, SD?

TheDyrt.com has all 31 dispersed camping locations near Pringle, SD, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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