4 campgrounds with availability next weekend
Several cabin campgrounds near Rapid City provide rustic accommodations for visitors exploring the Black Hills region. Rapid City KOA offers cabins with electrical outlets, beds, and basic furniture, while Mount Rushmore KOA at Palmer Gulch features similar cabin setups with the addition of picnic tables outside each unit. "Our site was a bit difficult for us to level our rig on because the rocks kept slipping. We had to go purchase extra Xchocks," notes one visitor about the challenges of the terrain, though many appreciate the solid shelter cabins provide during unpredictable Black Hills weather. Most cabins include heating options, particularly valuable during spring and fall when temperatures can drop significantly overnight.
Rustic and deluxe cabins are both available, depending on the location. HTR Black Hills (formerly American Buffalo Resort) provides cabin rentals with varying comfort levels, from basic one-room structures to more elaborate multi-room options. Buffalo Ridge Camp Resort offers log cabins that sleep 4-5 people comfortably, with some featuring porches and outdoor seating areas. According to a camper, "The cabin we stayed in did not have A/C, but they do provide a space heater, but they are situated near the top of the ridge so get a nice breeze." Pet policies vary by location, with most properties allowing pets for an additional fee. Sylvan Lake Campground in Custer State Park also offers cabin rentals, though these typically book months in advance during peak summer season.
Most cabins include beds but require visitors to bring their own linens, towels, and toiletries. Kitchen facilities range from none to basic microwave and refrigerator setups. Hart Ranch RV Resort provides more fully equipped cabin accommodations with additional amenities like on-site dining options. Spokane Creek Cabins & Campground offers units with fire rings and picnic tables for outdoor cooking. On-site camp stores at several locations stock essential supplies, though selection is limited. Rapid City grocery stores are located within 15-30 minutes of most cabin campgrounds, making it practical to stock up before arrival. A visitor to Kemp's Kamp mentioned, "The log cabin we stayed in had two sets of beds inside, one twin bunk and one full-twin bunk. Five could easily sleep there."
"My parents were able to rent a deluxe cabin right next to our campsite. My parents don’t “camp,” so this was perfect for a family vacation."
"Overall this is a very nice campground in Rapid City. Staff is nice, grounds are clean, bathrooms are well maintained however there is a distinct lack of shade trees."
"Make the most of your South Dakota vacation by spending it camping. My group tented and had a great time."
"This is a huge campground with tons of options which is nice, it also is in a great Central location for Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse, Custer State Park, Needles Highway, Windcave National Park and Mammouth"
"The bath/shower houses were some of the nicest I've ever encountered at a campground, and they even had laundry facilities which were a real bonus after being on the road almost 2 weeks."
"The site we were in was far enough from the Highway that we couldn’t hear traffic and it’s right on the outskirts of Rapids City. It’s very close to Bear Country and The Reptile Gardens."
"The staff was very kind and found us a fire pit when we asked! It’s off a highway but the site is around woods so it’s peaceful."
"Though some may not see it as a perk, being right off the highway allowed us quick access to everywhere we needed to go every morning and was a reason we chose it."
from $65 - $100 / night
"Onsite restaurant and convenience store with gas station. Large pool with hot tubs. Tennis, basketball, pickleball, and shuffleboard courts."
"No campfires but we bring our propane fire pit and enjoy the evenings. Concrete pads. Glamping at its finest."
"RV sites are terraced so plenty of space between them. We were disappointed there wasn’t a fire pit with our site but used a common area one. Showers and restrooms were large."
"This was an adorable little campground located on Iron Mountain Road in the Black Hills of South Dakota. We arrived after hours and headed to our designated site # left on office."
"The showers need to be torn down and started over. The laundry was nice size but only half the machines worked. The lots were pull through and really nice with shade trees."
"Stayed for 3 days while visiting Black Hills National Park, Crazy Horse, Mt Rushmore and museums. Price is reasonable has shade and tables under canopy full hookups and pool."
"Our family stayed in a walk-in primitive tent site located on a woodsy hill at the top of Custer. Campsites have a decent amount of privacy, but you are still aware of your neighbors."
"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."
"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."
"Rushmore and 1hr to Wind Cave National park. Has a restaurant and bar and many RV sites as well as small cabins."
"The electric tent sites are perfect. Has space for car and tent with a shelter for the picnic tables. Clean toilets and showers very close by. Staff and very nice and accommodating."
"This park is easy to find and to get to; placed on a valley road between mountains and near the 1880's train line. Great electrical, water, and sewer, for RVs."
TravelerNice, safe spot to camp. Stayed in October, so no running water or bathrooms, just the vault toilets. Quiet, clean, peaceful. No service with verizon, but they do have wifi. 30 mins out from Hot Springs. Lots of Buffalo and Prarie Dogs to watch. Pet friendly, but be careful, mountain lions and other animals in the area.
ScoutBeautiful area great staff
ScoutGreat location to visit Lead, Deadwood and spearfish. Campground is loaded with amenities and economical. Not far off I90. Easy to maneuver. Very clean and quiet. My site is level. Has a nice fenced in dog park, pool, hot tub, basketball and tennis courts, playground. Very little shade., cable tv,
ScoutGreat showers! Has a place to do laundry 2.50$ dry is free I think. Clean place. A lot of amenities.
ScoutGreat Staff & Very Clean as Always at A KOA
GuideWowwww! This place has everything you need or want during your traveling time. Golf tennis dog park and Bison tours! Laundry facilities and showers too!
TravelerCute campground, very nice host. Our site was a little small and close to everyone else. Full hookups, pay laundry, bathhouse. Close to everything.
ScoutThis is a great place to stay. We give it a 9
GuideVery clean bathrooms with showers. Decent space between sites with trees. Views of Crazy Horse. Reasonable fee.
Cabin camping options near Rapid City, South Dakota provide convenient bases for exploring the Black Hills region. Most cabins in the area are situated between 3,200-4,000 feet elevation, where summer temperatures typically range from 75-85°F during day and cool to 50-60°F at night. Winter cabin rentals are limited, with temperatures often dropping below freezing between November and March.
Horseback riding access: At Mount Rushmore KOA at Palmer Gulch, guests can enjoy on-site trail rides. "There are UTVs that you can rent to go out on the trails... There are over 500 sites at this campground plus cabins, a restaurant, a hotel, riding stables etc," notes one visitor about the varied recreation options.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Cabins at HTR Black Hills (formerly American Buffalo Resort) put visitors adjacent to Bear Country USA. As one guest mentions, "Additionally, bear country USA the drive through wildlife park is right next door which makes it fun for the whole family to drive through."
Swimming and water activities: When staying in a cabin at Sylvan Lake Campground, visitors can access the picturesque lake. "Between the kayaking at Sylvan Lake, the resort amenities, hiking in Black Elk Wilderness, Black Elk Peak, this area is great," reports one camper. Water activities typically run from late May through early September.
Morning food options: Several cabin accommodations offer breakfast amenities. At Spokane Creek Cabins & Campground, visitors appreciate the on-site dining. "This campground has lots of amenities: a pool, mini golf, a creek to play in, cabins, tent sites, full hook-up RV sites and a cafe with the biggest homemade cinnamon rolls you have ever seen. (pre-order the night before)."
Cabin construction: Log cabin construction is common at many locations. At Kemp's Kamp, visitors note the solid structures, with one camper sharing, "The campground is beautiful and the new owners are very nice and professional. Facilities are clean and the location could not be better for accessing the Black Hills!"
Evening entertainment: Organized activities are available at several cabin campgrounds. "They have a rodeo one night a week for several weeks each summer. There is a convenience store and gas station on property," comments a visitor about Hart Ranch RV Resort, highlighting the entertainment options beyond basic accommodations.
Cabin capacity limits: Most cabins sleep 4-6 people. Larger groups need to book multiple units or select specific larger cabins. "Very nice campground with a lot of activities for kids. Hosts were very nice. Campsites can be a bit tight, but location is amazing," notes a visitor to HTR Black Hills.
Temperature regulation: Many basic cabins lack air conditioning but provide other comfort measures. "The cabin we stayed in did not have A/C, but they do provide a space heater," explains a camper at Spokane Creek Cabins & Campground, important for visitors during late spring or early fall when temperatures fluctuate.
Accessibility considerations: Not all cabin sites accommodate mobility concerns. When staying at Mount Rushmore KOA, a visitor cautioned, "All in all the campground is amazing if you're able bodied... It's 2018 and I feel like a company as large and as 'accommodating' as KOA should have amazing accessibility and I did not see that here."
Swimming pool access: Children appreciate on-site swimming facilities during summer. At Rapid City RV Park & Campground, "A pool and playground for the kids to relax when the vacationing takes a toll and you need a day off," which provides needed downtime between sightseeing.
Game room availability: Several cabin locations offer indoor recreation. At Hart Ranch RV Resort, families find "tennis, basketball, pickleball, and shuffleboard courts. Mini golf and an activity center that will loan you a variety of sports gear and well as rent bikes and golf carts."
Nature exploration: Children can enjoy wildlife viewing from cabin locations. At Kemp's Kamp, "One of the best parts was our campsite had hiking opportunities all around us from beginner to expert." This provides free entertainment close to your accommodation.
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have terrain challenges. At Rapid City RV Park & Campground, a visitor notes "Sites are graded but location is on a hill making getting around a pain." RVers should bring extra leveling blocks.
Propane considerations: Refill options are limited at many cabin campgrounds. A camper at HTR Black Hills shared, "Wish they would have propane as there were no close places to fill," highlighting the need to arrive with full tanks.
Hookup placements: Several campgrounds have unusual utility configurations. "Sewer hook up was on the left side but water and elec hookups were on the right so depending on how you set up you had to walk over hookups," cautions a visitor at HTR Black Hills, something to consider when positioning an RV.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do cabin rentals cost in Rapid City?
Cabin rental prices in the Rapid City area typically range from $75 to $200 per night depending on size, amenities, and season. Mystic Hills Hideaway offers cabins at competitive rates, with their main log cabin area featuring a small bar and kitchen. Black Elk Resort provides several small cabins at varying price points. Expect to pay higher rates during peak summer months (June-August) and around major holidays or events. Most campgrounds require a minimum stay of 2-3 nights during the high season and may offer weekly discounts for longer stays.
What is the best time of year to rent a cabin in Rapid City?
The optimal time to rent a cabin in Rapid City is late spring through early fall (May to September), with June through August offering the warmest temperatures for enjoying outdoor activities. Rapid City KOA and other area campgrounds are busiest during this peak summer season when attractions like Mount Rushmore see the most visitors. For a quieter experience with pleasant weather and fewer crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of May or September. Happy Holiday RV Resort and other year-round facilities offer cabin rentals outside the main tourist season, though some amenities may be limited. Winter cabin stays are available at select locations but expect potential weather challenges and reduced services.
What amenities are included in Rapid City cabin rentals?
Cabin amenities vary widely across Rapid City campgrounds. Broken Arrow Horse and RV Campground features extremely clean facilities including laundry, bathrooms, and showers to complement their cabin rentals. Most basic cabins include beds, electricity, and sometimes air conditioning, while upgraded units may offer private bathrooms, kitchenettes, and outdoor living spaces. Creekside Mountain Resort provides well-maintained sites with new amenities being added regularly. Common shared amenities at these campgrounds include clean bathhouses, laundry facilities, community fire pits, and recreation areas. Many cabins have porches or decks, and some include outdoor grills or fire rings.
What campgrounds in Rapid City have cabin accommodations?
Several campgrounds near Rapid City offer cabin rentals. Buffalo Ridge Camp Resort provides a variety of options including small cabins, treehouses, and glamping tent/cabins. Heartland RV Park And Cabins offers cabin rentals in addition to their RV sites, with a convenient location close to area attractions. Other options include Broken Arrow Horse and RV Campground, Black Elk Resort, and Mystic Hills Hideaway, all of which feature cabin accommodations alongside their traditional camping options.
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