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Dog-Friendly Camping near Pringle, SD

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    Dispersed camping near Pringle provides several pet-friendly options in the Black Hills National Forest. North Pole Rd Dispersed Camping allows pets without restrictions and offers free camping with both tent and RV accommodations. The area rarely fills up, even during peak tourism seasons, providing solitude for campers with dogs. Cold Springs School Road by Beaver Creek offers multiple dispersed sites that accommodate pets, with camping spots situated among pine trees providing both sun and shade options for dogs. The sites remain relatively bug-free according to multiple visitors, with one camper noting they found only one tick during their stay.

    Wind Cave National Park's Elk Mountain Campground accepts pets on leashes throughout the campground area. Located less than a mile from the visitor's center, this campground provides access to hiking trails where dogs are permitted on leash. Bison and other large wildlife are kept out of the campground with fencing for pet safety, though mountain lions have been spotted in the surrounding area. For campers seeking more amenities, Custer State Park campgrounds like Blue Bell, Game Lodge, and Stockade North all welcome pets with designated pet-friendly cabins available at Blue Bell and Game Lodge. These established campgrounds provide drinking water, picnic tables, and trash facilities—essential amenities when camping with dogs in remote areas.

    Best Dog-Friendly Campgrounds near Pringle (160)

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      1. Elk Mountain Campground — Wind Cave National Park

      4.3(45)6mi from Pringle67 sitesRVs, Tents, Cabins

      "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."

      "This campground is located in Wind Cave National Park and hardly ever fills to capacity."

      from $24 - $45 / night

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      2. Blue Bell Campground — Custer State Park

      4.5(36)9mi from PringleRVs, Tents, Cabins

      "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."

      "Campsites are $21 (plus the entrance fee) for a standard tent site without hookups. Sites with electricity are $25, and camping cabins are $50 per night. "

      Check Availability

      3. North Pole Rd Dispersed Camping

      4.5(34)13mi from PringleTents

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

      "They’re scattered all along the drive of the mountain. The roads are all dirt going back to the sites."

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      4. Stockade North Campground — Custer State Park

      4.8(28)12mi from PringleRVs, Tents

      "There are a lot of animals and you can pet them."

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

      from $30 / night

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      5. Sylvan Lake Campground — Custer State Park

      4.7(40)16mi from PringleRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "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."

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      6. Fort Welikit Family Campground and RV Park

      4.5(26)12mi from PringleRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "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."

      "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!!"

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      7. Custer-Mt. Rushmore KOA

      4.6(19)10mi from PringleRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "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."

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

      from $60 - $100 / night

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      8. Game Lodge Campground — Custer State Park

      4.6(27)14mi from PringleRVs, Tents, Cabins

      "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."

      "Our dog grumbled at a few animals that might have gotten too close to the tent for her liking (we are pretty sure just deer)."

      from $26 - $55 / night

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      9. Mount Rushmore KOA at Palmer Gulch

      4.2(55)20mi from PringleRVs, 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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      10. Stockade South Campground — Custer State Park

      4.7(18)11mi from PringleRVs, Tents, Cabins

      "It was probably my favorite campground on our whole South Dakota trip. The bathroom was really nice and clean, the sites were spacious and the campground had lots of mature trees."

      "This is the quietest campground in the entire Black Hills-- away from the highway, yet asphalt road leads to entrance. Near Stockade Lake- beach, fishing pier, boat launch."

      from $15 - $35 / night

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    Recent Dog-Friendly Camping Photos near Pringle, SD

    107 Photos of 160 Pringle Campgrounds

    Dog-Friendly Camping Reviews near Pringle, SD

    1304 Reviews of 160 Pringle Campgrounds

    • 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.

    • 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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      4.6

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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

      1

      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

      

      

      

      RV LIFE Campground Reviews

      https://campgrounds.rvlife.com › fo...

      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) · $$$

      

      Campendium

      https://www.campendium.com › for...

      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).

      

      4.4(133)

      

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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

      

      Good Sam

      https://www.goodsam.com › details

      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.

    • Heather M.
      Sep. 22, 2021

      Fort Welikit Family Campground and RV Park

      Camping with a view

      stunning tall pines with lots of deer and wild turkeys walking thru the campsites. full hookups, covered wagons for rent if you don’t have a camper or tent. large playground and a dog park. laundry facilities and very nice bathrooms.

    • Brandi M.
      Oct. 22, 2020

      Beaver Lake Campground

      Beautiful campground and friendly staff

      Wish we could have stayed here longer but South Dakota weather was saying otherwise. We will definitely come back again! Many things for kids of all ages to do and we loved the campground dog, Shimmer!!!

    • R
      Jun. 4, 2023

      Heartland RV Park

      Large RV park with restaurant

      Large park with lots of sites. Level spots. Fenced in dog park. Restaurant and bar on site with live music. Friendly and helpful staff. Clean restrooms and laundry facilities.  Close to Custer State Park, Crazy Horse and Mt. Rushmore.

    • Nichole B.
      Jul. 16, 2018

      Elk Mountain Campground — Wind Cave National Park

      Pretty views, close to Wind Cave, The Badlands and Mount Rushmore

      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. The Rangers had a presentation at the campground at night. There are bathrooms but no showers or electric. There are water pumps available for water. Dogs have to be on a 6 foot leash.

    Guide to Pringle

    Black Hills camping near Pringle offers a unique blend of pine forests and prairie lands at elevations ranging from 3,600 to 7,200 feet. Summer temperatures average 75-80°F during the day, dropping to 50-55°F at night, creating comfortable camping conditions even during peak season. Winter campers should prepare for temperatures that can drop well below freezing, with snowfall common from November through March.

    What to do

    Hike Black Elk Peak: Just 20 minutes from Pringle in Custer State Park, this trail offers panoramic views. "We hiked with the kids and saw a ton of wildlife. We plan on going back soon and just continue to Custer State Park. The jr. Ranger programs were great for our girls and we enjoyed the learning," shares a visitor at Blue Bell Campground.

    Explore Wind Cave: Wind Cave National Park provides unique boxwork cave formations. "The Rangers had a presentation at the campground at night. There are bathrooms but no showers or electric. There are water pumps available for water," notes a camper at Elk Mountain Campground.

    Stargazing: Clear nights in the Black Hills offer exceptional night sky viewing. "We heard lots of animals through the night and loved it. 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," advises a camper at Elk Mountain Campground.

    What campers like

    Natural sounds: The pine forest creates a peaceful soundscape. "The sound of the wind in the trees truly put you to sleep. Fort Welikit allows Amazon deliveries. A nice touch," mentions a visitor at Fort Welikit Family Campground.

    Wildlife viewing opportunities: Animals frequently visit campgrounds. "The campground is secluded and quiet. 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," reports a camper from Elk Mountain Campground.

    Mountain views: Many sites provide scenic vistas. "The views are breathtaking and remarkably peaceful," says a visitor at North Pole Rd Dispersed Camping. Another notes, "I enjoyed a few days up here. Really pretty mountain views, easy roads and the trees are spread out enough for solar/starlink."

    What you should know

    Seasonal preparations: Winter camping requires extra planning. "Be prepared for some snow, even in late May. I didn't see any obvious campsites, but lots of level areas to choose from," advises a North Pole Rd camper.

    Wildlife safety: Large animals frequent the area. "We saw more bison at Wind Cave than Yellowstone, Tetons, and Glacier combined," notes a visitor at Elk Mountain Campground.

    Road conditions: Some dispersed sites have difficult access. "Getting to the end of the road is steep and difficult; not recommended for low-clearance vehicles," warns a North Pole Rd camper.

    Water availability: Confirm water sources before arrival. "There are water pumps available for water," mentions an Elk Mountain visitor, but many dispersed sites lack any water sources.

    Tips for camping with families

    Look for educational programs: Park rangers often host events. "The jr. Ranger programs were great for our girls and we enjoyed the learning," shares a family at Blue Bell Campground.

    Choose sites with play areas: Some campgrounds offer dedicated spaces for children. "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," notes a family at Fort Welikit Family Campground.

    Consider cabin options for mixed weather: When conditions change, cabins provide comfort. "We LOVED Blue Bell and Custer State Park! The campgrounds were very clean and quiet. Camp hosts were very knowledgeable and available if needed. Evening programs offered every night were educational and entertaining for the most part," reports a family staying at Stockade North Campground.

    Tips from RVers

    Site selection matters: Research campground layouts before booking. "Sites for Custer start booking a year in advance, so snag one early to experience all this wonderful park has to offer," advises an RVer at Stockade North Campground.

    Leveling challenges: Many Black Hills sites require equipment for leveling. "The sites were mowed, which was nice given the notice about the presence of prairie rattlers in the area. Our site was also small, and not particularly level (although better than some of the sites near us)," notes a visitor with a van at Elk Mountain Campground.

    Dog-friendly campground spacing: For those seeking pet-friendly sites with more space, "The campgrounds were very clean and quiet. We stayed in a tent site which had a wonderful tent box that accommodated our 17'x8' tent rather well. Metal picnic table and fire pit were well maintained with ample room on this large site," shares a visitor with dogs at Blue Bell Campground.

    Frequently Asked Questions

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

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Pringle, SD is Elk Mountain Campground — Wind Cave National Park with a 4.3-star rating from 45 reviews.

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

    TheDyrt.com has all 160 dog-friendly camping locations near Pringle, SD, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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