RV parks and campgrounds near Rapid City, South Dakota serve as convenient basecamps for exploring the Black Hills region. Located between 3,200 and 4,000 feet in elevation, the area experiences dramatic temperature variations with summer highs reaching 90°F and evenings cooling to 50°F. Most campgrounds in the region have gravel sites with limited natural shade, making afternoon heat management important during peak summer months.
What to do
Visit Custer State Park wildlife loop: Horse Thief Campground is positioned just a few miles from the park entrance. "We spent 6 nights and had awesome day trips with wildlife experience the entire stay," notes Barbara F., making it an ideal base for wildlife viewing.
Explore historic attractions: Several RV parks near Keystone offer quick access to Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse Memorial. Holy Smoke Resort provides a central location for visiting multiple landmarks. "Holy Smokes does offer some cabins that have fantastic views," reports Matt D., who found the campground's location ideal for exploring the region.
Attend evening events: Many campgrounds host nightly activities during summer months. At Heartland RV Park, "There is a nice gathering place that put on some wine tastings and live music," according to Tina M. The park's Event Center features local entertainment most evenings with a restaurant and bar on-site.
Hiking in Black Hills: Campgrounds on the western side of Rapid City provide direct access to hiking trails. "We were able to visit Wind Caves NP and Custer State Park (A Must), and Rushmore with Heartland as the basecamp," shared Duncan G., who found the location perfect for day trips.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness ranks high in camper priorities across the region. At Horse Thief Campground, "The bathroom was great for me, grab bars in the ADA restroom plus a great easy access shower. Bathroom was very clean," reports Kathie O., highlighting accessible amenities.
Central locations: Parks within 30 minutes of Rapid City balance urban conveniences with natural attractions. One camper at Lazy JD RV Park mentioned, "The park is located in a rural setting with deer and bluebirds nearby your campsite. Across the road is a small herd of long horned cattle," providing both wildlife viewing and convenient access to town.
Family amenities: Parks with recreational facilities keep children entertained. "The heated pool was NOT heated and the hot tub was NOT hot. That is why I gave the CG four stars," notes Brenda A. about Heartland RV Park, showing that even with this drawback, the other amenities were strong enough to earn a positive rating.
Evening entertainment: Several parks feature nightly activities during peak season. One guest at Heartland RV Park reported, "This place is fun with unique flare. On site restaurant for breakfast, lunch and dinner with live music each night. Had a relaxing quiet time," according to Bonnie F.
What you should know
Highway noise impacts: Several campgrounds near major roads experience traffic noise. At Three Flags RV Park, "The only downside to this park is its proximity to the Interstate and the train tracks. If noise bothers you then bring a good set of ear plugs for the night," advises Theresa.
Seasonal closures: Most campgrounds operate between April and October with limited availability during shoulder seasons. A review of Rapid City RV Park noted, "We enjoyed this place. Sites are graded but location is on a hill making getting around a pain. The weather was very, very hot when we were there and there wasn't any shade at our spot."
Site proximity: Many parks position RV sites close together, especially during peak season. "Sites are a bit close to each other but there weren't many other RVs when we stayed so we had lots of space," one camper shared.
Limited laundry facilities: Several campgrounds offer minimal laundry amenities. "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," mentions one camper about their experience at a local RV park.
Tips for camping with families
Look for playgrounds: Several parks offer dedicated children's play areas. Black Hawk Creek RV Park features "a kids park with some climbing structures a swing and grassy area," according to Piper E.
Cabin alternatives: For families without camping gear, Rapid City RV Park & Campground offers cabin accommodations. "This RV park is tight spaces and located on the side of a hill. Each site is fairly level but real close together," notes Charley K., suggesting cabin options might be more comfortable for families.
Check pet policies: Most parks allow pets but have specific restrictions. At Black Hawk Creek, "There is a fenced in dog run that is great for big dogs. The holes are a little large for my 10lbs pup," shared John F., indicating some facilities may not work for smaller animals.
Plan for weather swings: Summer days can be hot while evenings cool significantly. "During a hot week mid June, we were grateful for full hookups, clean shower facilities, and a (small) pool to keep cool BUT the little trees beside each site provide no shade for the rigs," observed Derek & Kristen A.
Tips from RVers
Level site selection: Many parks in the region are built on hills requiring leveling equipment. At Holy Smoke Resort, "The RV sites are gravel and the grass is not well established so when it rains it get kinda muddy," explains Daryl L.
Full hookup availability: Not all sites offer complete services. "We got in very late at night but, luckily we had a pull through site. The staff were so helpful and understanding but, pretty basic campground," reports Kim, highlighting the importance of confirming site details when booking.
Check cell coverage: Service varies significantly between parks. "Good cell reception. Standard campground wifi, but good reception," notes Paul about his extended stay at an RV park near Rapid City.
Off-season discounts: Several parks participate in discount programs. "A bonus for us was it's a Passport America park. Bring cash if you want the PA rate," shares Theresa about Three Flags RV Park, where off-season rates can be significantly lower.
