Lisha P.
Traveler
TravelerMount Roosevelt Road
Great area
Well maintained gravel road. Lots of dispersed sites, some sites are quite large. Fairly level areas. Gorgeous view from our site.
Best Campgrounds in South Dakota
SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping and The Wall Boondocking Dispersed provide free camping options in South Dakota, with both located near Badlands National Park. South Dakota campgrounds range from primitive dispersed sites on public lands to fully developed private campgrounds with cabin rentals and RV hookups. Several established campgrounds in the Badlands region offer toilets and picnic tables at free or low-cost sites, while campgrounds near Mount Rushmore and Custer State Park provide more amenities including electric hookups and shower facilities.
The Black Hills region contains numerous campgrounds with varying amenities and reservation requirements. Cedar Pass Campground in Badlands National Park offers electric hookups and water but prohibits fires, while Sylvan Lake Campground in Custer State Park provides full amenities including showers and firewood. Dispersed camping areas typically have no facilities but allow pets and alcohol. Several campgrounds close seasonally, with most operating between May and October. A camper noted, "This is our third time here and this time there are markers for where to park to camp. The Forest service is managing the area so people cannot park right at the edge of the cliff like in times past."
National grasslands and forest service roads provide numerous opportunities for dispersed camping throughout South Dakota. Campers report particularly scenic experiences at overlooks within Buffalo Gap National Grassland. According to one review, "Beautiful overlook of the Cheyenne River on FS land. Gorgeous colorful landscape. Large turnaround with plenty of room." Established campgrounds in the Mount Rushmore area feature concrete pads, landscaped grounds, and resort amenities like pools and recreation facilities. Private campgrounds often include cabin rentals alongside traditional tent and RV camping options. Seasonal variations affect road conditions, especially for accessing dispersed camping areas, with some requiring high-clearance vehicles after rainfall. Many campgrounds implement fire restrictions during dry periods, particularly in the Badlands region.
Best Camping Sites in South Dakota (562)
1. Buffalo Gap Dispersed Camping
136 ReviewsWall, SDWebsite+1 (605) 279-2125"I camped on the ridge in the South Dakota grasslands. I was able to look out my front door and see the badlands or or see the grasslands out my rear window."
"The site is about 6-8 miles from the town of Wall, so while you are in a remote area, you still have ready access to food, shopping, and gas if you need it."
2. Sage Creek Campground
122 ReviewsWall, SDWebsite+1 (605) 433-5361"Definitely pay your park entrance fee! BUT it’s true - this spot is completely free. Lots of people dig this spot. Doesn’t feel too crowded though."
"Great views, prairie dogs were so cool to see running around the camp site. Bison everywhere on the drive in and a few even walking around the camp site. Super close to badlands park entrance."
3. Cedar Pass Campground — Badlands National Park
121 ReviewsInterior, SDWebsite+1 (605) 433-5460$37 - $47 / night
"Stayed one night in a converted Sprinter while traveling through South Dakota, we needed a place with showers. The showers and restrooms were pay to use, with a single curtain as privacy."
"Relatively private site as most sites are behind you. Beautiful view of prairie ans badlands in the distance. Picnic table shelter is positioned so you have shade in the afternoon."
4. Badlands Hotel & Campground
63 ReviewsInterior, SDWebsite+1 (605) 433-5335$24 - $174 / night
"We liked: tent sites on the outskirts, trail / dog-hiking area, proximity to Badlands. Showers and price were ok. To earn 5 stars it needs more seclusion and trees for tent sites."
"The campground was great and super close to the Badlands park entrance. The owners were very nice and helpful."
5. Badlands / White River KOA
60 ReviewsInterior, SDWebsite+1 (605) 433-5337"Although the camp ground is outside the park, the views from the areas surrounding the campground are great."
"v=hoIu_r-fQ5E) Product Review:
During our road trip around the US, I was able to try out the GO camper from SylvanSport."
6. Mount Rushmore KOA at Palmer Gulch
56 ReviewsHill City, SDWebsite"Make the most of your South Dakota vacation by spending it camping. My group tented and had a great time."
"The location is amazing and so beautiful. There are tons of amenities and fun activities. The staff are very nice and very helpful."
7. Elk Mountain Campground — Wind Cave National Park
48 ReviewsPringle, SDWebsite+1 (605) 745-4600$24 - $45 / night
"Close to many South Dakota tourist sites."
"This campground is centrally locates to some great activities in South Dakota. We made day trips to visit the Badlands, Wall Drug Store, Wind Cave and Mount Rushmore."
8. The Wall Boondocking Dispersed
44 ReviewsWall, SDWebsite+1 (605) 279-2126"I spent a couple of weeks in the Badlands area of South Dakota this past summer. I camped for 5 night along The Wall. "
"Arrived past dark, could determine where to go so parked along roadside. In AM found The Wall well populated with overnight campers. We can see why!"
9. Sylvan Lake Campground — Custer State Park
40 ReviewsCuster, SDWebsite+1 (605) 255-4515"This lake is beautiful, its one of my favorite places inside Custer state park. There are a ton of trails, all within easy walking distance. Make sure you pack plenty of water."
"We had one of the spots that was more out in the open and close to our neighbors, but the sites on the outside of the middle loop were much more private."
10. Big Sioux Recreation Area — Big Sioux
41 ReviewsBrandon, SDWebsite+1 (605) 582-7243"South Dakota State Park, Brandon SD. Great stop. We spent 2 days. Very nice campground with lots to do and see. Big spacious sites ours backed up to the bike path and river."
"They have nice long paved trails for walking and biking. We got to walk our dogs on it to avoid tick contact from the grassy trails. There was a cool suspension bridge that was fun to walk on."
Recent Camping Photos in South Dakota
929 Photos of 562 South Dakota Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
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Wild Bill's Campground
Recent Reviews in South Dakota
3457 Reviews of 562 South Dakota Campgrounds
- KKevin N.Traveler
Badlands Wall BLM
Great views, beautiful sunsets
Plenty of space but filling up towards dark, great views any direction, some level spots, some not so, easy road getting in. Spaces are further apart on the north end toward the highway, but you can’t hear it. Only reason I give it four has nothing to do with the space itself but the generator noise I have the bad luck to be next to
Katharine H.
GuideBadlands Boondocks
Overall good spot but not ideal for tents
There are a lot of sites spread out along a road that overlooks a ledge (the "Wall"). It's not a bad spot if you don't mind being out in the open (it was very windy when we arrived early evening but quieted down as it got later, this is normal in the Plains). My one beef was that many of the sites (there are dozens) are fairly slanted so they're not the best for tent camping.
- KKarissa U.Guide
Rod & Gun Campground
Black hills Forrest
The drive up to the campsite was beautiful, we were able to make it up with our class C RV. There is no electric hook ups only a pit toilet and dumpster. There is a well but it is not pressurized enough to fill our tanks. However it is potable so you can fill up jugs of drinking water. $24 a night in a cool spot, we were able to visit 2 waterfalls on the way down. (First 3 media at campsite, rest are hikes on the way back down the hills)
- SSherri B.Guide
Lake Vermillion Recreation Area
Peaceful and pretty
Paved roads and campsites. Clean bathhouse. Host on premises. Peaceful setting. Quiet during weekdays in late August. Self check in at the entry gate.
Meghan R.
ScoutBlack Hills Schmitz B2A Dispersed Camping
Quiet, secluded camping
We had a great visit! It can be difficult to find the road in, so put the coordinates into Apple Maps, not Google Maps and it’ll get you there. The sites are secluded, quiet and nicely maintained.
sarah L.TravelerUncle B's Farm
So great stayed twice
Last year in August myself and my sister went on a road trip through s..d. on the way in and back home we stayed and it was amazing so calm and relaxing. Home away from home thanks again uncle b
- MMARK E.Traveler
Spearfish City Campground
Peaceful
Great location Creek runs through the campground $52 for full hookups and 42 for primitive. Did both and was very happy. Easy drive to deadwood Sturgis, nice bike trails and walking paths that lead outside the campground to the recreation area. Fish hatchery and park just outside the campground. 1 hour from devils tower.
- WWendelynn N.Scout
Bismarck Lake Campground
Wonderful camp site
Great place to camp. No hookups but very nice sites and quiet. The campground hosts are helpful and kind. I never used a pit toilet that smelled so nice! Beautiful setting near the lake.
Guide to South Dakota
Camping in South Dakota offers a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. From serene lakes to sprawling grasslands, there’s something for everyone. Here’s what you need to know before you pack your bags.
What to do
- Fishing: Many campgrounds, like Richland Reservoir Dispersed Camping, are great for fishing. One camper mentioned, “Lake is full of small Crappie. Lots of wildlife. Deer, antelope, pheasants.”
- Hiking and Biking: Trails abound in places like Oahe Downstream Recreation Area. A visitor shared, “Good walking paths for humans and dogs and saw many folks cycling.”
- Wildlife Watching: Campers often spot bald eagles and other wildlife. One review noted, “There was a bald eagle hunting the reservoir.”
What campers like
- Peaceful Atmosphere: Many campers appreciate the tranquility. One reviewer said, “Great quiet camping spot. Only one other camper while here for 4 days.”
- Clean Facilities: Campgrounds like Farm Island State Recreation Area are well-maintained. A visitor remarked, “The bathrooms/showers are clean as is the campgrounds.”
- Affordable Rates: Campers enjoy the low costs. One camper mentioned, “$15 for water, electric and dump station.”
What you should know
- Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Fort Pierre National Grassland, have few facilities. A reviewer noted, “No fees No water No open fires.”
- Weather Considerations: Be prepared for wind and storms. One camper at Richland Reservoir said, “The wind howled all night!!!”
- Road Conditions: Some access roads can be tricky. A visitor shared, “The road is clay and when it gets wet it becomes very difficult to travel on.”
Tips for camping with families
- Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and water access. One review of Farm Island State Recreation Area mentioned, “Great for kids. Kayak rentals. Playground and beach area.”
- Safety First: Always keep an eye on kids near water. A camper advised, “Hubby could walk out of the camper and fish,” highlighting the need for supervision.
- Pack Snacks: Having food on hand can make family outings smoother. One camper noted, “They brought us ice,” showing that some campgrounds offer helpful services.
Tips from RVers
- Check Hookups: Make sure your site has the right hookups. A visitor at River View RV Park said, “Campsites are close together with full hookups.”
- Be Prepared for Cold: If camping in cooler months, be ready for freezing conditions. One camper mentioned, “Our water hookup was frozen so they moved us to a spot where they had a heated cover on water pipe.”
- Explore Nearby Towns: Don’t miss local attractions. A reviewer at Griffin City Park said, “There is a marina with a boat launch that is right next door.”
Camping in South Dakota is a fantastic way to connect with nature and enjoy the great outdoors. Whether you're fishing, hiking, or just relaxing, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best campgrounds in South Dakota for families?
What are the best campgrounds in South Dakota for families?
South Dakota offers excellent family camping destinations with activities for all ages. Newton Hills Campground — Newton Hills State Park provides spacious, clean facilities perfect for families with young children, offering a blend of adventure and relaxation away from city life. Another great option is Big Sioux Recreation Area — Big Sioux, which features large sites that back up to bike paths and the river. The area has a new bathhouse, very clean facilities, and plenty of recreational activities. It's only a half-hour drive to Sioux Falls, making it convenient for day trips. Both locations offer the natural beauty and outdoor experiences that make family camping in South Dakota memorable.
What are the top tent camping locations in South Dakota's national parks?
What are the top tent camping locations in South Dakota's national parks?
South Dakota's national parks offer exceptional tent camping experiences. Sylvan Lake Campground — Custer State Park is renowned for its beautiful lake setting and network of hiking trails within easy walking distance. The stunning scenery makes it one of the most popular spots in the Black Hills region, though hikers should be prepared for sometimes steep terrain and South Dakota's changeable weather. Cedar Pass Campground — Badlands National Park provides a more rugged experience with iconic badlands views. For a more primitive option, Sage Creek Campground in Badlands offers free camping with basic facilities. Elk Mountain Campground in Wind Cave National Park is another excellent choice for tent campers seeking access to underground and above-ground wonders.
Where can I find private campgrounds in South Dakota with full amenities?
Where can I find private campgrounds in South Dakota with full amenities?
South Dakota has several private campgrounds offering comprehensive amenities. Mount Rushmore KOA at Palmer Gulch provides an excellent alternative to expensive hotels near Mount Rushmore, with full facilities for both tent and RV camping. This is an ideal base for exploring the area's attractions. Kennebec KOA is another well-maintained private option with clean bathrooms and showers, some shaded sites, and friendly owners. It's conveniently located just a short drive from the highway, making it perfect for travelers passing through. While there's minimal road noise, the campground remains quiet and comfortable. Many private campgrounds in South Dakota offer hookups, Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, and camp stores for a comfortable outdoor experience.
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