Best Dispersed Camping near Silver City, SD

Dispersed camping opportunities abound in the Black Hills National Forest near Silver City, South Dakota. Several free primitive sites can be found along forest service roads, including RD 356 Dispersed Site, West Nemo Dispersed Camping, and Calumet Road sites. These areas feature varying terrain and accessibility, with elevations around 5,500 feet providing cooler temperatures and scenic forest settings. According to reviews, RD 356 offers "dozens of good dispersed camp sites along this rough road" and is particularly valued for its proximity to Mount Rushmore, just a 10-minute drive away.

These primitive sites operate on a pack-in, pack-out basis with no facilities available. No running water, toilets, or trash service exists at any of the dispersed sites. High-clearance vehicles are recommended for many locations, particularly beyond the first few sites on RD 356 and portions of North Pole Road. Fire restrictions are common throughout the region, with many areas posting clear "no campfire" signage. Cell service varies significantly by location and carrier, with some sites offering adequate coverage while others have none.

The dispersed camping areas follow standard National Forest regulations with a 14-day stay limit, though enforcement may vary. Spring Creek Road provides multiple pull-offs suitable for smaller rigs and tent camping, with a stream running alongside many sites. Campers report wildlife sightings including deer and coyotes, with cattle occasionally present on some roads. During peak tourist season and especially during the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, these free sites fill quickly. One visitor noted that West Nemo becomes particularly crowded during rally time, with locals advising against attempting to camp there during this period.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Silver City, South Dakota (38)

    1. RD 356 Dispersed Site Black Hills National Forest

    29 Reviews
    Hill City, SD
    13 miles
    Website

    "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."

    "The road to get in was very rocky and steep! We decided to go out a different way and it was even worse then the way in. Luckily our promaster van was able to get us out safely."

    2. West Nemo - Dispersed Camping

    7 Reviews
    Nemo, SD
    9 miles

    "There are other dispersed camping sites along the way as well. This spot butts up right next to a cliff with the Boxelder Creek running below and gives good views of the Black Hills to the south."

    "I spent my 14 days here. It is a bit noisy because of the trails used by off-road vehicles."

    3. Calumet Rd Dispersed Camping

    7 Reviews
    Keystone, SD
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 673-9200

    "There were spots that were pretty rutted and rough, it was dry and we made it in easily but if it has recently rained I can see it being pretty difficult."

    "pretty nice for being dispersed other than the couple skeletons arround us!"

    4. Dispersed Camping near Calumet Road

    5 Reviews
    Keystone, SD
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 673-9200

    "We were in a camper van and the road wasn’t bad, we didn’t need 4WD. There were a few other cars that went by that were camping too, but it was very quiet and peaceful other than that."

    "Very close to Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse, Rapid City and Hill City. Lake Sheridan was a great place to go cool off. Very dispersed camping. Pack in Pack out. No cell service."

    5. Spring Creek Road

    9 Reviews
    Hill City, SD
    16 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."

    6. North Pole Rd Dispersed Camping

    26 Reviews
    Custer, SD
    24 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."

    7. Balsar Gulch Dispersed Camping

    3 Reviews
    Keystone, SD
    10 miles

    "We camped at this site based on location and wanting a dispersed site. Easy access and other sites available. We were the only ones there and it was so relaxing."

    "This site is big and relatively flat. There are three other dispersed campers here while I write this. There’s enough space where our spot still feels private."

    9. Needles Highway Dispersed Site

    5 Reviews
    Hill City, SD
    16 miles
    Website

    "The location by the road has a pull-through and could fit a decent size camper. Get there early as it's taken most nights ."

    "Nothing special, but the location is good ! Stayed at the first spot when you pull in because I didn’t want to take my sedan up either bumpy hills. Would recommend 4wd for any site other than 1"

    10. Blackhills NF Dispersed Site

    2 Reviews
    Nemo, SD
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 343-1567
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Showing results 1-10 of 38 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Silver City, SD

147 Reviews of 38 Silver City Campgrounds



Guide to Silver City

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Silver City, South Dakota, where you can immerse yourself in nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. With stunning landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities, this area is perfect for those seeking adventure and tranquility.

Mount Rushmore for dispersed campers

  • The RD 356 Dispersed Site Black Hills National Forest is conveniently located just a short drive from Mount Rushmore, making it an ideal spot for those wanting to explore this iconic landmark.
  • Campers can enjoy nearby trails, although campfires are not permitted, ensuring a peaceful environment for all visitors.
  • The area offers a mix of open spaces and secluded spots, providing options for both social and solitary camping experiences.

Scenic Views while free camping near Silver City

  • The North Pole Rd Dispersed Camping features several flat sites with great views, perfect for setting up a tent or RV while soaking in the natural beauty of the Black Hills.
  • Located about two miles from the main road, this area is known for its sparse traffic, allowing campers to enjoy a quiet and serene atmosphere.
  • With plenty of space between sites, visitors can relish in a sense of privacy while still being close to nature.

Hiking Opportunities for dispersed campers

  • The Mount Roosevelt Road Dispersed Campsite is a fantastic base for hiking enthusiasts, with easy access to the Roosevelt Friendship Tower trail.
  • Campers can expect a variety of pull-off spots along the road, making it easy to find a suitable place to set up camp after a day of exploring.
  • The area is known for its wildlife, providing opportunities for nature observation and photography while enjoying the tranquility of the forest.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Silver City, SD?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Silver City, SD is RD 356 Dispersed Site Black Hills National Forest with a 4.9-star rating from 29 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 38 dispersed camping locations near Silver City, SD, with real photos and reviews from campers.