Best Dispersed Camping near Sturgis, SD
Looking for the best dispersed camping near Sturgis? Dispersed camping is the perfect way to get off the grid. Find dispersed campsites you've visited before, or discover new spots from other campers.
Best Dispersed Sites Near Sturgis, South Dakota (30)
1. Mount Roosevelt Road Dispersed Campsite
9 Reviews•25 Photos•126 SavesDeadwood, South Dakota- Pets
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Group
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
2. RD 356 Dispersed Site Black Hills National Forest
24 Reviews•71 Photos•427 SavesHill City, South Dakota- Pets
- Phone Service
- ADA Access
- Tents
- Group
- Dispersed
3. West Nemo - Dispersed Camping
7 Reviews•13 Photos•161 SavesNemo, South Dakota- Pets
- Phone Service
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
4. Mt. Roosevelt Dispersed Camping
2 Reviews•16 Photos•104 SavesDeadwood, South DakotaSetting up your own campsite away from developed fee sites, also known as dispersed camping, is allowed on most of the Forest for a maximum of 14 days in any 60-day period. However, around developed reservoirs and campgrounds, camping is allowed only in designated areas. Check with the closest Forest Service office for specific information.
General rules:
Camp 100 feet away from any creek or stream and 1/2 mile away from developed recreation sites, including campgrounds and picnic areas. Motorized vehicles allowed 300 feet off of roads as shown on the Motor Vehicle Use Map (dots) for dispersed camping on the Black Hills National Forest. Around developed reservoirs and campgrounds, camping is allowed only in designated campsites. Can camp for a maximum of 14 days in any 60-day period. No open campfires in South Dakota portions of the national forest. Open campfires are permitted in Wyoming portions of the national forest, unless a special order prohibiting such is in effect.
- Pets
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
5. North Pole Rd Dispersed Camping
24 Reviews•50 Photos•363 SavesCuster, South Dakota- Pets
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
6. Mount Roosevelt Camp
1 Review•2 Photos•20 SavesDeadwood, South Dakota- Pets
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Group
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
7. Along Mt Roosevelt Rd Dispersed Camp
1 Review•3 Photos•1 SaveDeadwood, South Dakota- Pets
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
9. Belle Fourche Dispersed Site
3 Reviews•10 Photos•13 SavesBelle Fourche, South DakotaManaged by the South Dakota Department of Game, Fish and Parks, 3305 W. South St., Rapid City, SD 57702; (605) 394-2391. Eight miles east of Belle Fourche. Public-use area, swimming, boating, and fishing. Available fish species include walleye, catfish, and white bass. Open year-round.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
10. Dispersed Camping near Calumet Road
5 Reviews•11 Photos•103 SavesKeystone, South DakotaSetting up your own campsite away from developed fee sites, also known as dispersed camping, is allowed on most of the Forest for a maximum of 14 days in any 60-day period. However, around developed reservoirs and campgrounds, camping is allowed only in designated areas. Check with the closest Forest Service office for specific information.
General rules: Camp 100 feet away from any creek or stream and 1/2 mile away from developed recreation sites, including campgrounds and picnic areas. Motorized vehicles allowed 300 feet off of roads as shown on the Motor Vehicle Use Map (dots) for dispersed camping on the Black Hills National Forest. Around developed reservoirs and campgrounds, camping is allowed only in designated campsites. Can camp for a maximum of 14 days in any 60-day period. No open campfires in South Dakota portions of the national forest. Open campfires are permitted in Wyoming portions of the national forest, unless a special order prohibiting such is in effect. Check with the closest Forest Service office for more specific information about dispersed camping.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
Recent Dispersed Reviews near Sturgis, South Dakota
110 Reviews of 30 Sturgis Campgrounds
Heather S.
Traveler
Camp Bob Marshall Dispersed
Dispersed Camping in Custer SP Area
Dispersed Camping off the main road thru Custer State Park that is National Forest. Turn on the road that marks the Bob Marshall Camp. You pass a water treatment area and go thru the gate. It is open to vehicles in the summer and equestrian and hike in during the winter. Road is rough but was passable in our truck. We towed in a small teardrop but I wouldn't recommend a large rig. There are several areas to set up camp but pack in and pack out! No water sources spotted so bring enough in with you (didn't even see any water for filtering). Saw a preexisting stone fire pit from past campers too. Super quiet and near all the great things of Custer. We did experience biting flies. Coordinates: 43.7851324, -103.5041771
Veronica S.
Legend
Mt. Roosevelt Dispersed Camping
Beautiful and serene
There are a few dispersed camping spots along this road which also holds the trailhead for Mt. Roosevelt Friendship Tower. There was one pull through site that has no campfire signs and then two or three other spots. We seemed to be lucky and got the last open spot. We got here around 4 pm. The site we got was beautiful and had a lot of room for us to pitch a tent. Plenty of trees to go pee in but also an open spot where we could stargaze through the tent. There was some traffic on the road, more than you would think for such a windy gravel road. The first part of the road up until the trailhead had quite a bit of washboard which was a little scary on the sharp curves with steep drop offs. Enough Verizon cell service to text and make calls. Enough AT&T service to get WiFi on our SubaruLink. No water that we saw that we could use or filter. Had some people pull into our spot at different times not knowing it was taken. 9:30 pm was the last one.
Keith L.
Guide
RD 356 Dispersed Site Black Hills National Forest
Fantastic dispersed camping.
Literally dozens of good dispersed camp sites along this rough road. Amazing find so close to Mt Rushmore. Elevation is about 5500 feet. I camped in November and the water bottle in my tent froze. In the morning it was only a 10 minute drive to the memorial. With the sun in my eyes it was too late when I saw the deer. (:-(
Marco E.
ScoutRD 356 Dispersed Site Black Hills National Forest
Excellent spot
Close enough to civilization to be able to get stuff. Removed enough from civilization to feel free from the city. Camping spots are secluded and private. There are no facilities so pack water and toilet paper.
Nate R.Guide
North Pole Rd Dispersed Camping
Free camp 30 min from Crazy horse and Mt Rushmore
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). Go a good ways down the road and up a hill which did have a couple of spots that I would be Leary of if you have a low to ground vehicle. We stayed in the first spot once clear of the trees, and while on a slope, it was a fantastic view. Our neighbors had made it towing a full size 5th wheel travel trailer, so it can be done, but I wouldn't try on a muddy road day with a huge trailer. Too risky. Still we camped on top of one of the highest mountains in the Black Hills, for free. It was fantastic until about midnight when the rainstorms came and our old tent had a catastrophic failure. We nearly froze from being fully soaked. So no second night for us, we had to push on, wash and dry everything, and buy a new tent to continue our travels. It was a great camp tho. But I recommend a bug canopy for just chilling in, and go ahead and invest in a good ground tarp and throw one over your tent as well to keep rain from soaking thru. You will thank me, and be a little warmer. Happy camping.
Pallah B.Guide
Belle Fourche Dispersed Site
Rough Road
We drove out without the RV to scope out the area and are glad we did. The road was a washboard for a long way, and we decided that the potential damage it might cause our rig was not worth the savings from dispersed camping. We headed back to our previous site in a developed campground. Pretty though! Lots of wildlife and beautiful open surroundings. Very few trees of any kind.
Jim H.
Ranger
West Nemo - Dispersed Camping
Nice place to camp for the night
This spot is at the end of a forest road that runs west of Nemo, SD. 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. No amenities at all here. A high clearance vehicle will most likely be needed to get back to this spot.
- Heather S.Traveler
Mount Roosevelt Road Dispersed Campsite
Dispersed Camping Close to the Action
There were multiple pull off dispersed camping areas all along the Mt. Roosevelt road. 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. Tons of bees in the wildflowers but they never bothered us. Pack in and pack out! Some traffic driving along the road but never overwhelming and quiet at night. Great base to visit Deadwood, Lead, Spearfish Canyon, and Devils Tower
Hailey N.GuideNorth Pole Rd Dispersed Camping
Beautiful sites
My Fiancé and I loved these dispersed camping sites! They’re scattered all along the drive of the mountain. The roads are all dirt going back to the sites. They’re plenty big for a 20ft camper, we have a 16ft pull behind and our truck and we still had plenty of room on our site and it wasn’t even a group site. There are a few extra big spots for groups. No fires, but your dogs will love this area.
- AAnastasia W.Scout
Camp Bob Marshall Dispersed
Beautiful and remote
Several spots along the Bob Marshall camp road to pull off and camp. We went a bit more off the path by turning right, going up past a water treatment plant and parking near the end of the road. It was secluded and pretty. Lots of coyotes in the area. No camp fires when we were there due to dry conditions. The road after the turn off was in rough shape. I wouldn’t take a trailer up it, but we were in a large SUV and it was just fine. A great place to disperse camp in the state park. We stayed two nights.
- Angie A.Ranger
Dispersed Camping near Calumet Road
Great find
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. At first we didn’t think there was a spot to pull off and then found a perfect circular area for us in our travel trailer and our friends car camping. No fires allowed when we were there. We stayed 2 nights and planned to sight see so left our stuff and was never bothered.
Brenda M.Guide
Roadside Rodeo Dispersed
Roadside Rodeo
Decent spot veside the road. There are several boondocking spots between here and Cook Lake Outhouse is nearby this site on main road Cows are all over this site
- SSavannahGuide
North Pole Rd Dispersed Camping
Great spot - quiet/beautiful views
Entered North Rd off of 16 coming from Custer. No problems driving up to camping area with our 39ft fifth wheel. At the top there are some great and large spots for bigger rigs. We found a spot on the right side of the road in a little meadow, across from the hill on the left. Like others mentioned, cell service is best near the “front” so when you get to the top pull out your phone to check service! We drove a few miles further down the road and the road was great the entire way. Zero issues! Highly recommend! Also, please don’t park right next to someone... it’s dispersed camping for a reason! Spread out, enjoy the mountain :)
Art S.Legend
Spring Creek Road
Dispersed camping beauty
This is dispersed camping so there are no services. Bring your own water and take with you all of your garbage. The spots within the first mile are no camping allowed. Just keep going and you’ll be happy. The road winds along the creek between rocky formations and trees. There are plenty of spots to pull into to camp. We saw larger sites and narrow ones you could back into. There was one other van camping down this way when we showed up. Cell service diminished as we drove in. The other folks walked back along the road to get a signal. Choose your site carefully because we also saw cows eating their way along the road. This is a beautiful spot right in an incredible area of the Black Hills.
- KKirstin G.Traveler
North Pole Rd Dispersed Camping
Beautiful views
Love this dispersed campsite, beautiful views of the sunrise, secluded but off a main road.
- Art S.Legend
Black Hills NF FR307 Dispersed Camping
Big field for dispersed camping
This is dispersed camping so there are no services. Bring your own water and take with you all of your garbage. The road in is gravel but really wide. There’s a number of businesses so they road gets used. It’s a logging area but clearing to camp in was fine. The turn off onto the road to this spot was narrow. It’s just wide enough for a vehicle. Luckily we didn’t encounter people coming the other way or one of us would have had to back up. This is a big open field surrounded by trees. Plenty of space for all campers. You can head over to the tree line to get some shade or stay near the middle. We stayed near the road in because we were unsure about the rain. We didn’t want to get stuck. There are homes along the main road but it was quiet here. Jewel Cave and Hell Canyon trail are nearby. Custer is a short drive the other way. This is a nice spot to return to.
MegScoutRD 356 Dispersed Site Black Hills National Forest
Secluded Area near Mt Rushmore
Thanks to the first reviewer, I was able to find this campsite after showing up to the Black Hills and all campsites were booked.
A great retreat from the tourism, but still close enough to run to store and all attractions. No phone service out here so mark the location. A few campsites along the gravel road, all dispersed.
No fires (reason for the 4 star rating since it got cold at night) but was so secluded we were able to leave our things while we went and climbed and fished.
- JJennie B.Traveler
RD 356 Dispersed Site Black Hills National Forest
Secluded, beautiful
I absolutely loved camping here. I was in the second site in, and the road was totally fine getting there. All of the big dips and whatnot could be driven around, but I'm not sure about going further in than that.
The views were incredible, and it was secluded from other sites but not so much so that you're completely isolated if something bad were to happen. I felt very safe here as a female solo camper. I barely had some Verizon service - I could get the occasional text to send through but not much more than that. Also it wasn't buggy at all which was a huge plus!
Ben H.GuideRD 356 Dispersed Site Black Hills National Forest
Nice
Camping area near Mount Rushmore. I was able to find a camping area without a problem. The road does have some bumps in it but overall you do not need a four-wheel drive. The spot I camped at I was able to have decent Verizon signal however the area is a bit spotty for Verizon. The area seems to not allow for campfires. Trails nearby. One Trail is gated off and seems to mainly be a horse trail. Some of the camping spots seem to support larger vehicles. Also had a good view.
- Clint M.Traveler
Spring Creek Road
Quiet spot on the creek
The campsite I stayed at was right on the creek. Great, secluded spot. Didn't see many cars at all. No bugs though I imagine they would be brutal in the summer.
- GGregoryGuide
RD 356 Dispersed Site Black Hills National Forest
Little piece of heaven
Of course timing is everything, however in early May, no bugs, No traffic, isolated yet near Mt Rushmore, and the Crazy Horse exhibit.
Patrick N.GuideWest Nemo - Dispersed Camping
Lots of room
I spent my 14 days here. It is a bit noisy because of the trails used by off-road vehicles. The biggest grass field is sometimes used by multiple RVs and locals said don't even think of coming here during Sturgis' motorcycle rally. Right over the hill is the little town of Nemo which has a camping resort. All that folks spill out into this dispersed space with their ATVs and such. Mostly didn't bother me and I was here with two locals who leave their trailers here for lengthy amounts of time. Rangers apparently don't enforce the 14 days unless you cause a problem.
- HHunter F.Scout
RD 356 Dispersed Site Black Hills National Forest
Great stay
We stayed in the first lot as you drove in, backed all the way up into a nice secluded spot. No bathrooms, but Wrinkled Rock parking lot had a bathroom just down the road. Amazing free spot so close to the monument.
- NNitaScout
Belle Fourche Dispersed Site
Free and lovely
I just needed a place to stop and car camp. I was going to stay at a campground I. Belle Fourch but after a little exploring I found a great private spot in Free Dispersed area but the site were furnished with a fire ring and table and a great view of a beautiful lake. Slept like a baby!
Wayne L.TravelerRD 356 Dispersed Site Black Hills National Forest
Amazing!
Super secluded and serene. 4x4 definitely a plus but ground clearance is key
Corey H.TravelerNorth Pole Rd Dispersed Camping
Great place to spend the night
Gorgeous views and peaceful. There were people camping all along this road at other dispersed sites. No cell service though.
- Peter S.Traveler
West Nemo - Dispersed Camping
Nice secluded spot
It was a nice secluded spot that definitely requires a 4x4 or at least some decent clearance There were also a ton of hornets there, must have been a nest nearby
Guide to Sturgis
Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Sturgis, South Dakota, where nature meets adventure. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, outdoor enthusiasts can find the perfect spot to unwind and explore.
Dispersed campers should check out Belle Fourche Reservoir Dispersed Camping
- This area provides spacious spots with options for both tent and RV camping, making it a versatile choice for all types of campers. Check it out here.
- Enjoy the freedom of no permits required, allowing for a more spontaneous camping experience. The lack of reservations means you can arrive and find your ideal spot without hassle.
- While the lake may be low and muddy at the shore, the stunning views and breezy atmosphere make it a great place to relax and enjoy nature.
Scenic views await at Mount Roosevelt Road Dispersed Campsite
- Nestled in the Black Hills National Forest, this site offers easy access to hiking trails, including the popular Roosevelt Friendship Tower hike. Explore the area by visiting Mount Roosevelt Road Dispersed Campsite.
- Campers can expect a peaceful environment with plenty of space between sites, ensuring privacy while enjoying the serene surroundings.
- The road leading to the campsite is manageable for various vehicles, making it accessible for those traveling with larger rigs.
Top activities while free camping near Sturgis at West Nemo - Dispersed Camping
- This location is perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat, with the sounds of nature like crickets and coyotes enhancing the camping experience. Discover more about it here.
- While it can get noisy due to nearby off-road vehicle trails, the spacious fields provide ample room for relaxation and exploration.
- The proximity to the town of Nemo offers additional amenities, making it a convenient spot for those looking to balance wilderness with accessibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Sturgis, SD?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Sturgis, SD is Mount Roosevelt Road Dispersed Campsite with a 4.8-star rating from 9 reviews.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Sturgis, SD?
TheDyrt.com has all 30 dispersed camping locations near Sturgis, SD, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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