Dispersed camping in the Black Hills National Forest near Pringle, South Dakota sits at elevations between 4,500-6,000 feet, offering tent campers cooler temperatures than surrounding plains. Summer daytime highs typically range from 75-85°F with nighttime temperatures dropping into the 50s. This region experiences frequent afternoon thunderstorms during summer months with precipitation averaging 17 inches annually.
What to do
Hiking Black Hills trails: Multiple hiking trails connect to North Pole Rd Dispersed Camping, providing access to scenic overlooks. One visitor noted, "We toured Custer State Park, Jewel and Wind Cave, as well as Mt. Rushmore. We found the location to be very central."
Wildlife viewing: Dawn and dusk offer prime opportunities for wildlife observation. At Rifle Pit, one camper reported, "We only stayed one night but it was quiet from other people but did hear elk rutting at night! Super cool."
Star photography: The minimal light pollution makes this area ideal for astrophotography. Campers at North Pole Rd frequently set up tripods after sunset, with clear nights offering visibility of the Milky Way from many sites. A visitor mentioned the area offers "pitch black nights and tree covered spots and very quiet."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At RD 356 Dispersed Site Black Hills National Forest, campers enjoy well-spaced sites. One reviewer noted, "Spacious sites. High clearance required after the first 3 sites," while another mentioned, "Several great campsites along a 2WD-friendly (albeit bumpy) road."
Central location: The proximity to major attractions makes these sites popular basecamps. A visitor at RD 356 stated, "Perfect location for exploring the Black Hills, Custer State Park, Wind Cave NP, Mt. Rushmore, and Jewel Cave NM."
Cell service availability: Cell coverage varies significantly between tent camping areas near Pringle. A North Pole Rd camper reported, "Cell coverage is poor but still present. You can go to this place if you search a very calm place."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many roads leading to tent sites require high clearance vehicles. At Spring Creek Road Spur, one camper advised, "You go up a steep little Hill and it's pretty much just a one car parking spot."
Fire restrictions: Fire regulations change seasonally and by location. A camper at Camp Bob Marshall Dispersed noted, "No camp fires when we were there due to dry conditions."
Water sources: No reliable drinking water exists at dispersed sites. Plan to bring 1-2 gallons per person per day. A Camp Bob Marshall visitor confirmed, "No water sources spotted so bring enough in with you (didn't even see any water for filtering)."
GPS reliability: Navigation apps may provide incorrect directions to some sites. At Spring Creek Road Spur, a camper suggested, "Don't camp at the first sites you see driving further. There's better ones I assure you."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection for tents: Choose level areas away from potential runoff channels. A visitor at Black Hills Dispersed Site - Hwy 89 advised, "We slept in our truck but there is bumpy ground, not ideal for tenting. Thunderstorm prone. Camp near tree line if you're worried."
Weather preparedness: Summer storms develop quickly in the Black Hills. At Highway 89, campers noted, "Thunderstorm prone. Camp near tree line if you're worried. Open field and deeper forest options."
Alternative accommodations: For families wanting amenities, Bear Den Cabins and Camp offers tent sites with facilities. A visitor highlighted, "Fresh water, clean showers, LAUNDRY, coffee. Just a great place."
Tips from RVers
Site access limitations: Many dispersed areas near Pringle have restricted access for larger vehicles. At Camp Bob Marshall, a camper warned, "The road after the turn off was in rough shape. I wouldn't take a trailer up it, but we were in a large SUV and it was just fine."
Parking considerations: Most tent camping areas have limited parking spots. At RD 356, a reviewer noted, "Most spots don't have a fire ring that I could see. There's only a few spots that a high clearance vehicle might be required but most of the road can be explored without one."
Level site availability: Finding level spots for RVs requires advanced scouting. A North Pole Rd visitor mentioned, "I enjoyed a few days up here. Really pretty mountain views, easy roads and the trees are spread out enough for solar/starlink. Be prepared for some snow, even in late May. I didn't see any obvious campsites, but lots of level areas to choose from."
