Spearfish, South Dakota sits at 3,642 feet elevation where the northern Black Hills meet the Great Plains. The area experiences warm summers with daytime temperatures averaging in the 80s and cool nights in the 50s. Many campgrounds around Spearfish feature mature trees providing natural shade, while dispersed camping options offer more primitive experiences with views of the surrounding limestone formations.
What to do
Hike Spearfish Canyon: The canyon offers numerous hiking trails of varying difficulty. From Spearfish City Campground, "Great bike paths, disc golf, walk up Spearfish Canyon or hop your bike and go down the canyon and have brunch at Latchstring Restaurant," notes Bonnie R.
Fish for trout: Multiple creeks and streams around Spearfish hold native trout. "The camp sites are very close together (no privacy) but people were quiet and respectful. There is a lovely creek you can sit by and enjoy," mentions Aida K. about Spearfish City Campground.
Visit the fish hatchery: Located adjacent to Spearfish City Campground, the DC Booth Historic National Fish Hatchery offers a free educational experience. "It is however very quiet at night. We stayed in a pull through with full services for 3 nights in August to escape the worst of the heat," notes Tom D.
Explore Roosevelt Friendship Tower: Just a short hike from the Mount Roosevelt Road Dispersed Campsite, this historic landmark offers panoramic views. "Had an amazing time at this prime free dispersed campsite! Overall, great spot, make sure to hit the hike to the tower and overlook!" advises Bruce S.
What campers like
Pool access on hot days: Several campgrounds feature pools to cool off during summer heat. At Elkhorn Ridge RV Resort & Cabins, "My kids loved the outdoor pool and hot tubs, the playground was fantastic, and there is even a bar by the pool if you want a cocktail," shares Amber W.
Trolley transportation: Avoid parking hassles in downtown Deadwood by using local transportation. At Deadwood KOA, "The trolley to town runs on the hour, it costs $1. Best deal in town," according to Brian W.
Nature trails: Dedicated hiking paths connect many campgrounds to natural features. "They offer bundles of firewood for sale on site which is great because all sites have a fire ring. The tent sites are right on the river and it makes for a peaceful sleep," says Nicole C. about Wyatt's Hideaway Campground.
Waterfront camping: Lakeside sites provide both recreation and scenery. At Rocky Point Recreation Area, "Most sites are on the water, with sweeping views of the sunset. Our site (and many others) had a little path so you could put your feet in the lake and watch fish and birds enjoy the water," notes Ben E.
What you should know
Site spacing varies significantly: Some campgrounds feature tight quarters while others offer more separation. "The sites were large and spaced out well. Everything was clean and well taken care of. The location of the park is awesome - 2 minutes from town, 20 minutes to Deadwood," explains Christopher M. about Chris' Campground.
Limited tent options: Not all campgrounds provide quality tent sites. At Deadwood KOA, one camper noted: "there are very tiny spots cut out for all but one tent site (50.) we had to park in front of the area to set up our tiny two person tent."
Seasonal bathroom closures: Some facilities close during shoulder seasons. "I showed up mid October and the bathhouse is closed for the season. The campground is conveniently located between a highway and a railway, both are highly active," warns Miguel E. about Wyatt's Hideaway Campground.
WiFi limitations: Internet access can be unreliable. "We did not upgrade from their free WiFi (about average but the park was not very full) and got 3 bars on Verizon," mentions MickandKarla W. about their stay at Elkhorn Ridge.
Tips for camping with families
Dedicated play areas: Look for campgrounds with playground equipment. "The grounds are well maintained with great amenities. All sites have concrete pads with hookups," notes John about Elkhorn Ridge RV Resort & Cabins.
Educational opportunities: Include the fish hatchery in your itinerary. "We spent a lot of time exploring Spearfish Canyon/Roughlock Falls/Lead/etc but spent one day just to relax at the campground/hatchery/Park. Paved roads were great for kids to ride their bikes," recommends Megan R. about Spearfish City Campground.
Evening entertainment options: Some campgrounds coordinate regular activities. "We stayed in July and the city of Spearfish had activities in the park (about 1/4 mile away) every evening (magician, concerts, etc)," shares Megan R.
Pet-friendly opportunities: Many campgrounds accommodate four-legged family members. "We had a site right across from their small fenced dog 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," notes MickandKarla W. about Spearfish KOA.
Tips from RVers
Arrival timing matters: Weekends fill quickly at popular campgrounds. "Weekends are much busier than the week. Fish hatchery within walking distance, bike path goes through," advises Jaimi V. about Spearfish City Campground.
Leveling challenges: Some sites require additional equipment. At Rocky Point Recreation Area, "Almost all sites will accommodate a 45' class A but some sites may be tough for a Class A to level," cautions Tom D.
Off-season availability: Many campgrounds remain open with reduced services. "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 RVs including ours in view," reports Tom D. about Rocky Point Recreation Area.
Utilities placement: Note where hookups are located before selecting sites. "The utilities are smartly placed in the middle of the pad. Our pad was plenty long enough for our 39' fifth wheel and F450 truck," notes MickandKarla W. about their stay at Spearfish KOA.
