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Best Campgrounds near Spearfish, SD

1,175 Reviews

Spearfish, South Dakota serves as a gateway to diverse camping experiences in the Black Hills region. The area features established campgrounds like Spearfish City Campground along Spearfish Creek and Elkhorn Ridge RV Resort & Cabins, which offers year-round accommodations. Camping options range from basic tent sites to full-service RV hookups, with several properties offering cabin rentals for those seeking more comfort. Mount Roosevelt Road provides dispersed camping opportunities for self-sufficient campers seeking a more primitive experience. The proximity to Black Hills National Forest and nearby recreation areas makes Spearfish a strategic base for exploring the region's natural attractions.

Most campgrounds in the Spearfish area operate seasonally from April through October, though a few like Elkhorn Ridge remain open year-round. "We enjoyed our stay at this very busy and crowded campground. The area is beautiful and there is a creek that runs around edges and the fish hatchery to tour across the street," noted one visitor about Spearfish City Campground. Reservation systems vary by property, with many requiring advance bookings during summer months and around the annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in August. Cell service is generally reliable near town but becomes spotty in more remote areas. Water access points are common features at established sites, though dispersed camping typically lacks amenities and may require visitors to pack out all waste.

The Black Hills setting provides distinctive camping experiences with access to outdoor recreation. Campers frequently mention the convenience of Spearfish's in-town campgrounds for their proximity to services while still offering natural surroundings. According to one visitor, "Spearfish Canyon is clean and quiet. Access to the reservoir was very easy. There is a small sandy beach available for swimming." Sites along creeks and near water features typically receive higher ratings, though they often book quickly during peak season. Mixed-use campgrounds accommodating both tent and RV campers predominate in the area, with varying levels of site separation. Many campgrounds offer easy access to hiking and biking trails, fishing opportunities, and scenic drives through nearby Spearfish Canyon, making them popular bases for exploring the northern Black Hills.

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Best Camping Sites Near Spearfish, South Dakota (213)

    1. Spearfish City Campground

    40 Reviews
    Spearfish, SD
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 642-1340

    "Nice city campground along Spearfish Creek and super close to downtown and has easy access to Spearfish Canyon. We definitely took advantage of the creek and proximity to downtown during our stay."

    "right along spearfish creek, this campground was really nice and kept up well. Clean, good upkeep on the bathrooms and walking distance from grocery stores and laundry, etc."

    2. Chris' Campground

    17 Reviews
    Spearfish, SD
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 642-2239

    $23 - $65 / night

    "They are close to Spearfish Canyon which has wonderful hiking trails and trout fishing. The area is beautiful.There are also close to Deadwood and Lead, both of which are worth exploring!"

    "The owners are very helpful and friendly, The campground is close to lots of great activities such as Spearfish Canyon, as well as Deadwood and Lead."

    3. Elkhorn Ridge RV Resort & Cabins

    10 Reviews
    Spearfish, SD
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 722-1800

    "Easy access off I-90 and super close to Spearfish, Deadwood, Lead and all this area of South Dakota has to offer."

    "Campground is very clean and has quick and easy access to the highway. "

    4. Spearfish KOA

    10 Reviews
    Spearfish, SD
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 642-4633

    "we spent a couple of nights in this KOA to explore around spearfish. Sites were wide and spacious. Grass in between so we had a nice pot for our dogs. It was easy to walk them around the park."

    "We were also close to the 7.5-mile nature trail entrance from the park to the river, which was great for walking our dogs. The CG has curbside trash pick-up plus firewood& ice for sale."

    5. Mount Roosevelt Road Dispersed Campsite

    11 Reviews
    Deadwood, SD
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 673-9200

    "The road is easy to drive if coming off the CanAm Hwy side of the mountain. Walking distance to the Roosevelt Friendship Tower hike which is highly recommended."

    "This is not a thru road there is only one entrance off of the CanAm Highway. Roughly about 10 sites depending on set-up. Bathroom close by the entrance/trailhead to Roosevelt Friendship Tower."

    6. Wyatt's Hideaway Campground

    12 Reviews
    Belle Fourche, SD
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 892-0600

    $29 / night

    "The tent sites are right on the river and it makes for a peaceful sleep

    The highway is very close but the road noise is pretty low considering the proximity."

    "Tent site was near the river, and the sound of the river helped drowned out the nearby highway noise."

    7. Deadwood KOA

    9 Reviews
    Lead, SD
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 578-3830

    "We have stayed at this location twice (have gotten the same cabin actually) when Deadwood is having events."

    "Our initially reserved campground nearby was sketchy, so we called KOA Deadwood at 4:30 hoping for a last minute reservation (even though the app said they were full)."

    8. Whistler Gulch Campground & RV Park

    10 Reviews
    Deadwood, SD
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 578-2092

    "Location is quiet. There is a place to walk dogs. Deadwood trolley comes right to the CG to transport you downtown."

    "They are really close to town, so it’s really convenient. We have a larger side by side, so when I called they made sure that we would have a spot to fit that too."

    9. Rocky Point Recreation Area

    12 Reviews
    Belle Fourche, SD
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 641-0023

    $30 / night

    "I stepped off our space at close to 70+ feet wide. Almost all sites will accommodate a 45’ class A but some sites may be tough for a Class A to level."

    "Camped at site 27E, which was close to showers/bathrooms and playground. Site was on water’s edge. Campground is large and was nearly full on a Friday night so it was somewhat loud."

    10. Spearfish Quarry

    4 Reviews
    Spearfish, SD
    6 miles

    "It's close to town, Spearfish is an awesome place, easy drive to much of the northern Nlack Hills area."

    "There is an OHV trail just outside the quarry border, but wasn't used very much.   Had just a few people come and stayed the night.  Would definitely stay here again. "

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Recent Camping Photos near Spearfish, SD

435 Photos of 213 Spearfish Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Spearfish, SD

1175 Reviews of 213 Spearfish Campgrounds

  • Trey C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 15, 2025

    Storm Hill BLM Land Dispersed Site

    Fantastic views

    Unreal views. Gorgeous sunrise and set views. Only negative was a lot of ground bees but they didnt sting just more of an annoyance. Road in is fine dirt and pretty rutted. Def can see it would be hard to drive when wet.

  • Kara S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 12, 2025

    Dispersed Camping near Calumet Road

    Serene and peaceful

    Calm ur road itself is gravel but then you can diverge on one of the forest service roads. We went down a few of them until we found our spot. It had a fire ring and was fairly open for starlink access. Very quiet and peaceful. Found a few spots with no one near it for a bit.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 12, 2025

    Rod & Gun Campground

    Nice quiet little campground

    Nice quiet little campground. There is a small creek running next to some campsites. The campground is very open with very little privacy between campsites.

  • Joseph H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 2, 2025

    Rafter J Bar Ranch

    Peaceful Campground

    I really liked this campground. It was very clean and well maintained. I especially liked that they had a security vehicle that roved the area to ensure everyone was following the rules. Nothing ruins a good camping trip faster than rowdy loud neighbors. We had good overhead tree cover at our spot, a fire pit, and full service hookups.

  • Tom D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 2, 2025

    Rocky Point Recreation Area

    Checks all of Our Boxes for a State Campground

    This campground is all back in sites with 50/30 and 20 amp service. The space between sites is admirable. I stepped off our space at close to 70+ feet wide. Almost all sites will accommodate a 45’ class A but some sites may be tough for a Class A to level. With the exception of the two loops all the sites have a view of the lake, mostly facing west with a great sunset view. We were here for the Labor Day weekend and the campground was completely full but it did not feel crowded. One day after the weekend, we count 2 RV’s including ours in view. As noted in another review, there are many boondocking sites to choose from on the far west side of the lake accessible via a gravel road. Rocky Point is 24 miles from Spearfish City Campground. This is definitely a campground we would visit again when in the area.

  • Susan D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 2, 2025

    Whispering Pines Campground & Cabins

    Great for what we needed

    We just stayed at this campground for a couple of nights, but we hadn't had full hook ups for over a month. Kind of packed in here, but we needed a place to scout from, so this was perfect. Site are big enough to accommodate most Amy size rig. And they take packages here!

  • A
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Holy Smoke Resort

    Great option!

    We are loving it! There’s a little town right next to the campground, A LOT of helicopters flying overhead during the day. Mount Rushmore is very close. Full hookups, excellent wifi signal!

    The spaces are a little cramp for my liking but there are some more farther spots that you could choose.

    There’s no laundry mat in the camp but there’s one at the little town.

    We came for a few days only and we end up staying longer because there’s so much to do around here! And the weather is amazing!

  • Miranda R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 30, 2025

    Devils Tower View Campground

    Small Campground w/ great view

    Electric hookup only but there is showers and bathrooms on site. The cafe has good food. The view of Devils Tower is Amazing!!

Guide to Spearfish

Camping near Spearfish, South Dakota, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and a variety of campgrounds to suit different needs. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a quiet place to unwind, there's something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Explore the outdoors: The area is surrounded by stunning landscapes, perfect for hiking and biking. Many campers enjoy the trails around the Pactola Reservoir Campground, where one reviewer mentioned, "The surrounding woods, the well-maintained sites and facilities make this my most favorite by far."
  • Visit local attractions: Check out the historic downtown Spearfish, which is just a short drive from the Spearfish City Campground. One camper noted, "Very close to historic downtown Spearfish! The staff was super helpful and sweet."
  • Fishing and boating: The Rocky Point Recreation Area is a great spot for fishing. A visitor shared, "The campground was large, so it was easy to roll in and find a site without a reservation."

What campers like:

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-kept restrooms and showers. One review for Chris' Campground stated, "The showers are clean, the laundry is convenient, everything you could want."
  • Spacious sites: Many campgrounds offer roomy spots. A camper at Pactola Reservoir Campground mentioned, "There are a lot of sites spaced out nicely in a wooded area."
  • Friendly staff: Campers often highlight the helpfulness of campground hosts. One visitor at Wyatt's Hideaway Campground said, "The hosts are very nice and helpful, very accommodating."

What you should know:

  • Site proximity: Some campgrounds have sites that are closer together than others. A review for Spearfish City Campground noted, "Sites are closer than the worst KOA."
  • Limited amenities: Not all campgrounds have full hookups or amenities. A camper at Wyatt's Hideaway Campground mentioned, "The wifi was spotty at best, even with few sites occupied."
  • Seasonal availability: Some campgrounds are only open during certain months. For example, Pactola Reservoir Campground operates from May 18 to September 8.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Playgrounds: Look for campgrounds with kid-friendly amenities. One reviewer at Spearfish City Campground mentioned, "Big playground at the entrance."
  • Safety: Choose campgrounds in safe areas. A camper at Chris' Campground felt "completely comfortable on my morning runs."
  • Activities for kids: Find spots near fun activities. A parent at Pactola Reservoir Campground noted, "The reservoir is huge, and many consider it to be one of the best fishing 'holes' in the state."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site size: Make sure the campground can accommodate your rig. A visitor at Reuter Campground said, "The sites are spacious and shaded."
  • Hookup availability: Look for campgrounds with the necessary hookups. A camper at Days End Campground appreciated the "warm showers and friendly staff."
  • Plan for noise: Some campgrounds can be noisy due to nearby roads or trains. A reviewer at Wyatt's Hideaway Campground mentioned, "The train is a little loud but decent price."

Camping near Spearfish, South Dakota, has its perks and quirks. With a little planning, you can find the perfect spot for your next outdoor adventure!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a KOA campground in Spearfish, SD?

Yes, there is a Spearfish KOA (Spearfish Black Hills KOA) located in the area. This KOA offers typical amenities including reservable sites, water, toilets, and is big-rig friendly with drive-in access. While not directly in downtown Spearfish, it provides convenient access to local attractions. For those willing to venture slightly further, the Deadwood KOA is another nearby option offering similar amenities in the neighboring historic town. KOA campgrounds in the Black Hills region generally provide reliable facilities and services for families and RVers exploring South Dakota's attractions.

What camping options are available in Spearfish, South Dakota?

Spearfish offers diverse camping options for all preferences. Elkhorn Ridge RV Resort & Cabins provides full hookups and laundry facilities with easy access from I-90, making it perfect for RVers wanting amenities while exploring the Black Hills. For a more natural setting, Beaver Creek Campground offers a peaceful experience near the Wyoming border with basic facilities including water spigots, though you'll need to pack out trash. Additional options include Spearfish City Campground along Spearfish Creek, and various public campgrounds in the surrounding Black Hills National Forest. The area serves as an excellent base for exploring nearby attractions in Deadwood, Lead, and the greater Black Hills region.

What is the Spearfish City Campground like?

Spearfish City Campground offers a convenient camping experience situated along the scenic Spearfish Creek. This public campground features standard amenities in a pleasant natural setting, with the creek providing a peaceful soundtrack for your stay. The location is particularly advantageous, putting campers within easy reach of downtown Spearfish's restaurants and shops while still feeling connected to nature. For those seeking alternatives with more amenities, Happy Holiday RV Resort provides full hookups at reasonable prices with friendly owners and excellent access to Black Hills attractions. The city campground serves as an ideal base for exploring Spearfish Canyon and the surrounding Black Hills region.

Where are the best campgrounds in Spearfish Canyon?

Spearfish Canyon offers spectacular camping surrounded by limestone cliffs and pristine forest. Spearfish City Campground sits at the mouth of the canyon along Spearfish Creek, providing a convenient base with proximity to the canyon's attractions. For a more secluded experience within the canyon itself, Black Fox Campground is a hidden gem with only 8-10 well-spaced sites, each featuring a fire pit and picnic table. The small size creates an intimate atmosphere away from crowds. Basic facilities include vault toilets. These campgrounds offer excellent access to the canyon's hiking trails, waterfalls, and fishing spots, making them perfect for nature enthusiasts looking to explore this scenic Black Hills treasure.

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