Best Campgrounds near Sturgis, SD

Campgrounds near Sturgis, South Dakota provide a range of accommodation options from established RV parks to primitive tent sites. The area features several developed facilities including Days End Campground and Sturgis RV Park, both offering full hookups, cabin rentals and tent camping within city limits. Mount Roosevelt Road provides dispersed camping opportunities for those seeking a more primitive experience. Most campgrounds in the region maintain proximity to the Black Hills, offering strategic positioning for visitors exploring Deadwood, Spearfish, and surrounding attractions.

Road access varies throughout the region, with most established campgrounds featuring well-maintained entrance roads suitable for larger vehicles and RVs. Many sites require reservations, particularly during the annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally when campgrounds reach maximum capacity. According to one visitor, "Days End Campground is perfectly located with clean bathrooms and sites for everything from tent camping to full hookups and cabins." Summer temperatures typically range from 70-90°F during the day with cooler evenings. Most campgrounds operate seasonally from May through September, though some facilities like Elkhorn Ridge RV Resort remain open year-round with winterized amenities.

Campers consistently mention the strategic location of Sturgis-area campgrounds for accessing regional attractions. Most established campgrounds provide shower facilities, electrical hookups, and basic amenities, with several offering cabin rentals for those without camping equipment. A review noted that "Hidden Valley was one of my favorite campgrounds on our trip. When I pictured camping as a kid, this is exactly what I imagined." Sites with natural features such as creeks or mountain views tend to receive higher ratings. Proximity to downtown Sturgis represents a significant advantage for many campgrounds, particularly during motorcycle events when walking distance to festivities becomes valuable. Tent-only areas typically offer more space and natural settings than the more densely arranged RV sections. Cell service remains reliable at most established campgrounds, though coverage may decrease at primitive sites farther from town.

Best Camping Sites Near Sturgis, South Dakota (242)

    1. Spearfish City Campground

    41 Reviews
    Spearfish, SD
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 642-1340

    "We ended up going during sturgis bike week (unplanned). The campers around us were very nice and everyone was helpful getting us setup."

    "We did not have many sites to chose from when making our reservations and had the site next to us had an RV and vehicle parked we would not have been able to keep to get in."

    2. Days End Campground

    13 Reviews
    Sturgis, SD
    1 mile
    +1 (605) 347-2331

    $20 - $800 / night

    "Right in Sturgis, close to everything 18 bucks a head, we had a pavilion that we shared with one other person. Water was close no power. Warm showers and friendly staff."

    "It has a beer garden, restroom facilities and it's right on the outskirts of town."

    3. Bear Butte State Park Campground

    8 Reviews
    Sturgis, SD
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 347-5240

    $17 - $23 / night

    "Just outside of Sturgis at the base of Bear Butte lies this small lake. Great for fishing, paddle boarding, kite surfing, access to the Centennial Trail, and minutes from the Black Hills."

    "The only other folks we saw were there to enjoy the beautiful peaceful lake fishing. Very quiet. Bathrooms were very clean though door locks didn't seem to work. We camped at main site."

    4. Mount Roosevelt Road Dispersed Campsite

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

    "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."

    "Our spot was nice and a short walk to a vault toilet and trailhead. The trail led to a cool tower that we climbed to watch the sunset."

    5. Wild Bill's Campground

    10 Reviews
    Lead, SD
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 578-2800

    $28 - $160 / night

    "Easy to find, very close to Deadwood, clean showers and bathrooms and it has a bar a grill! Bar and grill was so good and I’m still dreaming about that burger."

    "Our dogs loved the long walks around the campground, crossing over the creeks on the little bridges. There is an off leash dog park 10 minutes away in Lead, SD."

    6. Elkhorn Ridge RV Resort & Cabins

    10 Reviews
    Spearfish, SD
    11 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. "

    7. Chris' Campground

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

    $23 - $65 / night

    "Close to freeways and many day drive towns and memorial sites. Arrived weekend after Sturgis Rally… Pretty quite 😀🐐🦬🌄"

    "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!"

    8. Rush No More Campground

    7 Reviews
    Sturgis, SD
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 347-2916

    $30 - $458 / night

    "Campground is beautiful setting about 20 minutes outside of Sturgis."

    "The campground is situated in a central location in the Black Hill. Easy drives to Deadwood, Rapid City, Keystone and minutes from Stugis. Super clean bathrooms and laundry."

    9. Hidden Valley Campground

    5 Reviews
    Sturgis, SD
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 578-1342

    $24 - $60 / night

    "We stayed at Hidden Valley while passing through on our drive to Yellowstone. The grounds are well maintained and the facilities are very clean."

    "There's a small lake up in the back that was pretty and peaceful. While we were there, there had been an event for ATV type vehicles earlier in the day, and several were at the camp."

    10. Deadwood KOA

    9 Reviews
    Lead, SD
    12 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)."

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Recent Reviews near Sturgis, SD

1482 Reviews of 242 Sturgis Campgrounds


  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 25, 2025

    Legion Lake Campground — Custer State Park

    Beautiful Views, Great Location, Great Price

    We loved everything about this place. Price was best of our month long vacation. Sites nice and level. Beautiful lake and trail across the street. Other than electric your on your own so bring water containers and empty tanks. Camp host was super nice. Really great location to explore the entire area. Custer is as good as any national park.

  • Cable A.
    Oct. 20, 2025

    Ellsworth AFB FamCamp.

    Good resupply and laundry point

    Typical RV park. This is not camping. Spots are on top of each other and in a neighborhood. All amenities available including WiFi and laundry. Overpriced.

  • Cable A.
    Oct. 20, 2025

    Fort Meade Recreation Area

    Overpriced and full of rattlesnakes.

    Campground is subpar. Very close spots, has a water fountain but no spigot. There is trash and vault toilets. Full of prairie rattlesnakes. Lots of trails for walking. Sits between a creek, a dusty road and the interstate.

  • Meghan B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 20, 2025

    Blue Bell Campground — Custer State Park

    Blue Bell Campground - Custer State Park

    Well maintained by friendly staff and hosts. It's nearing the end of the season, so the store wasn't well-stocked. Campsites have electric, which is great for chilly October nights. Showers are push-button with pre-set temp (warm, but not hot). AT&T cell service is great. Lots to see and do in this park. Beware of deer while driving--we've seen LOTS along the road.

  • Jim A.
    Oct. 18, 2025

    Kemp's Kamp

    Perfect base for exploring local landmarks

    Kemp’s Kamp near Keystone, South Dakota, is one of those special places that perfectly blends comfort, nature, and convenience. Tucked away in the beautiful Black Hills, it’s the perfect base for exploring local landmarks like Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park, and the Crazy Horse Memorial, all just a short drive away. The campground offers something for everyone, from cozy, well-kept cabins to shaded tent sites and roomy RV spots with full hookups. Everything is clean and well-maintained, and the staff makes you feel genuinely welcome from the moment you arrive. The peaceful sound of Battle Creek running nearby adds to the charm and makes it feel like a quiet escape while still being close to the area’s main attractions. One of the highlights is the pool area, which is perfect for cooling off after a day of exploring. The bathrooms and showers are spotless, and the laundry facilities make longer stays easy and comfortable. Small touches like these show how much care the owners put into making the campground a relaxing and enjoyable place to stay. https://aethersx2bios.net/

  • Reds H.
    Oct. 17, 2025

    Big Pine Campground

    South Dakota’s best scenery

    Big Pine Campground in Custer, South Dakota, is one of those places that instantly makes you feel relaxed. Surrounded by tall pines and quiet trails, it’s perfect if you want to enjoy nature without giving up the little comforts. The campground is super clean, peaceful, and well-maintained, and the staff are genuinely kind and helpful. Whether you’re pitching a tent, parking an RV, or staying in one of their cabins or glamping spots, everything feels well thought out and easy. The bathrooms and showers are spotless, and the whole place has a cozy, welcoming vibe. It’s also really close to Custer State Park and Mount Rushmore, so there’s plenty to explore nearby. Overall, Big Pine Campground is the kind of spot you end up wanting to come back to. It’s quiet, comfortable, and surrounded by some of South Dakota’s best scenery. https://redzhubscriptdownload.com/

  • tThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 15, 2025

    Mt. Roosevelt Dispersed Camping

    Close to Deadwood

    This was a great site! Close to Deadwood. Very private. Lots of space. Outhouse at close trailhead.

  • hThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 14, 2025

    Calumet Rd Dispersed Camping

    Great location, easy access

    Plenty of spots off the service road. Spots have good distance from each other. Probably best for car/tent camping

  • dThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 13, 2025

    Mount Roosevelt Camp

    Vibrant Fall Aspen Trees

    Just a turn off the main road along a crest gave me a few days of great views. Not much traffic either.


Guide to Sturgis

Camping in the Black Hills near Sturgis provides options for travelers seeking both seclusion and convenience. The region sits at elevations ranging from 3,500 to 7,000 feet, creating varied microclimates throughout the camping season. Many campgrounds remain open from May through September, with nightly temperatures typically dropping 30-40 degrees from daytime highs even during summer months.

What to do

Explore Spearfish Canyon: The hiking trails and waterfalls in Spearfish Canyon are accessible from Spearfish City Campground. "Spend a day driving Spearfish canyon and hiking to waterfalls," suggests Glenda, who appreciates the campground's location and amenities.

Visit historic sites: Deadwood KOA offers a convenient trolley service to downtown Deadwood for $1 each way. "The trolley to town runs on the hour, it cost $1. Best deal in town," notes Brian W., making this an economical option for exploring the historic mining town without moving your vehicle.

ATV adventures: The region offers extensive trail systems for ATV enthusiasts. Hidden Valley Campground frequently hosts ATV events. One camper mentioned, "While we were there, there had been an event for ATV type vehicles earlier in the day, and several were at the camp. It was so much fun seeing all the different types!"

What campers like

Creek-side camping: Many visitors specifically request sites along water features. At Wild Bill's Campground, one camper shared, "Our pull thru site was right by a babbling brook. Great hosts. Very friendly." The sound of flowing water adds natural white noise to camping experiences.

Convenient town access: Sturgis RV Park positions visitors within walking distance of downtown Sturgis. "Great campground, clean, safe and just a few blocks from downtown Sturgis," notes Rob P., highlighting the practical advantage of being able to walk to town during busy periods.

Dispersed camping options: For those seeking free camping with minimal facilities, Mount Roosevelt Road Dispersed Campsite offers quieter alternatives. "Our spot was a pull out on the side of the road with an amazing view. There's a bathroom at the entrance. Only maybe 6 spots before the road gets bad," explains Olivia E., providing practical information about this no-cost option.

What you should know

Campground politics: Some campgrounds display political messaging that may impact guest comfort. One camper at Days End Campground observed, "Pictures online seemed good but once I stepped into the office, I quickly realized this camp ground is primarily used by more conservative/Trump supporters. The office inside is decorated with pro Trump everything."

Space constraints: Many RV sites throughout the region have limited space between units. At Sturgis RV Park, one visitor noted, "Sites too small not even enough room to put out awnings. Have to pay for showers."

Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds close by early October. Elkhorn Ridge RV Resort & Cabins remains open year-round with winterized facilities. "This large CG with separate cabin and tent areas was well maintained and clean. There was also laundry available in the shower houses," reports one winter visitor.

Tips for camping with families

Pool access: Several campgrounds feature swimming pools for families. Chris' Campground offers three heated pools, while one visitor to Elkhorn Ridge notes, "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."

Game rooms: Laundry facilities often include entertainment options. A camper at Hidden Valley Campground mentioned, "Laundry room was in the game room so laundry was fun. They have a change machine," making chore time more enjoyable for families.

Evening activities: City-sponsored summer events enhance camping experiences. A visitor to Spearfish City Campground shared, "The city of Spearfish had activities in the park (about 1/4 mile away) every evening (magician, concerts, etc). The hatchery was great as well."

Tips from RVers

Cell service considerations: Connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds. At Mount Roosevelt dispersed camping, one RVer reported, "We had good service for Verizon and okay for T-Mobile. Spots are spread out so you have privacy."

Concrete pads: Premium RV sites with solid foundations are available at several locations. "The park was easy to get to though our RV GPS wanted to take us up to I-90 and back around versus just taking a left across US-85 into the campground," notes one visitor to Elkhorn Ridge, adding "All sites have concrete pads with hookups."

Large rig accessibility: Some area campgrounds have limitations for longer vehicles. At Spearfish City Campground, Tom D. advises, "The campground itself is wonderful. It is however not really set up for a 45' Class A, but it is navigable. Sites 1 and 30 are pull throughs. 31-34 easily accommodate large RVs."

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best campgrounds in Sturgis, SD for the motorcycle rally?

For the Sturgis motorcycle rally, Beaver Lake Campground offers an excellent balance - far enough from town to avoid overwhelming motorcycle noise but close enough to access Black Hills attractions like Mt. Rushmore and Crazy Horse. For a free option, Camp 5 Motorized Trailhead provides dispersed camping between Sturgis and Deadwood. Other popular rally options include Days End Campground and Rush No More Campground, both offering dedicated motorcycle rally amenities. Book well in advance (6-12 months) as campgrounds fill quickly during the rally period.

What RV camping facilities are available in Sturgis, SD?

Happy Holiday RV Resort offers full hookups with working utilities at reasonable prices, plus friendly management in a convenient location for exploring South Dakota attractions. Days End Campground provides reservable sites with water, toilets, and big-rig-friendly access. Rush No More Campground near Sturgis also accommodates RVs with full services. For budget-conscious travelers, there are dispersed camping options on public lands, though these typically lack hookups. Most RV parks in the area feature basic amenities like showers, dump stations, and some offer Wi-Fi and laundry facilities.

Which Sturgis campgrounds are known for the wildest rally experience?

For the authentic wild Sturgis rally experience, Buffalo Chip Campground is legendary for its concerts, events, and party atmosphere during rally week. This 600-acre venue transforms into a motorcycle city with famous musical acts and round-the-clock entertainment. Wild Bill's Campground near Deadwood also offers a lively rally scene with fewer restrictions than standard campgrounds. The more remote campgrounds generally feature more spontaneous gatherings and less oversight. Expect loud bikes, late nights, and minimal sleep at these party-focused venues during rally week. Prices typically increase substantially during the event.