Best Campgrounds near Whitewood, SD

Camping options around Whitewood, South Dakota range from developed RV resorts to primitive dispersed sites in the Black Hills. Located between Spearfish and Deadwood, the area features established facilities like Elkhorn Ridge RV Resort & Cabins and Days End Campground, which provide full hookups, concrete pads, and amenities such as showers and laundry. These mixed-use campgrounds accommodate various camping styles with tent and RV sites alongside cabin rentals. For those seeking free camping, Mount Roosevelt Road Dispersed Campsite and Camp 5 Dispersed offer more primitive experiences within a short drive of town.

Road conditions vary significantly throughout the region, with some dispersed areas requiring high-clearance vehicles. Most established campgrounds operate seasonally, typically from April or May through September or October, though Elkhorn Ridge remains open year-round. "The road in is very rough and steep. High clearance and four wheel drive recommended but I have seen compact cars make it in and out," noted one camper about Camp 5. Cell service is generally good near major campgrounds, with visitors reporting three bars of Verizon coverage even at dispersed sites. The 14-day stay limit applies to public land camping areas, while private campgrounds often require reservations during peak summer months and especially during the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.

Campers report the Black Hills location provides convenient access to regional attractions. Sites near highways offer quick access to Deadwood's historic district and Spearfish Canyon but may experience some traffic noise. More remote camping areas provide greater solitude but fewer amenities. As one visitor mentioned about a local campground, "Located above Sturgis and only about a mile and a half from Main Street. Just far enough to escape the chaos but close enough to take in as much as you want." The diverse terrain supports various camping experiences, from premium resort-style accommodations to no-frills forest camping. OHV enthusiasts particularly appreciate the Camp 5 area for its trail access, though the associated noise during daytime hours may impact those seeking quieter experiences.

Best Camping Sites Near Whitewood, South Dakota (232)

    1. Spearfish City Campground

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

    "We picked a site near the back of the camp grounds located near the creek and close to a small parking lot (close by to the pet exercise area on the map - though it's labelled as an ice rink on grounds"

    "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."

    2. Chris' Campground

    17 Reviews
    Spearfish, SD
    9 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!"

    3. Days End Campground

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

    $20 - $800 / night

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

    "Helpful convenient right next to freeway so noisy all else is great!"

    4. 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. "

    5. Mount Roosevelt Road Dispersed Campsite

    11 Reviews
    Deadwood, SD
    7 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."

    6. Deadwood KOA

    9 Reviews
    Lead, SD
    8 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)."

    7. Wild Bill's Campground

    10 Reviews
    Lead, SD
    11 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."

    8. Whistler Gulch Campground & RV Park

    10 Reviews
    Deadwood, SD
    8 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. Spearfish KOA

    11 Reviews
    Spearfish, SD
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (605) 642-4633

    "Nice people, very clean bathrooms, close to highway so there’s some road noise. Nature trail with off leash dog area, and a small dog park in the middle for off leash doggy play time."

    "Located within 8 miles of services and shopping, the hosts were very friendly and helpful. Sites are a little close together, but well kept."

    10. Bear Butte State Park Campground

    8 Reviews
    Sturgis, SD
    9 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."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 232 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win


Recent Reviews near Whitewood, SD

1411 Reviews of 232 Whitewood Campgrounds


  • 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.

  • S
    Oct. 12, 2025

    Hart Ranch RV Resort

    Hart ranch is okay

    There are a lot of changes going on here. Good and bad.not perfect but okay for a stay.

  • Donna H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 11, 2025

    Custer-Mt. Rushmore KOA

    Wonderful campground right off the main highway, but quiet.

    After spending two nights at the Spearfish KOA, I decided to take two more nights in Custer. This campground is clean and comfortable, and the perfect jumping-off point for Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse, Custer State Park, Wind Cave State Park, and touring the Black Hills.  All of which I did and had a wonderful time.

    The facilities were clean, shaded with conifers, and the bathrooms were the cleanest I've seen on this trip. The staff were wonderful. The terrain is hilly, so remember your levellers. I would stay here again in a heartbeat.

  • Donna H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 11, 2025

    Spearfish KOA

    Beautiful, clean campground close to Devil's Tower.

    After a long day's drive, pulling into Spearfish was a breath of fresh air. The area is beautiful, and this KOA was a welcome break for two days before I continued on my journey to the Black Hills. 

    The park is hilly, so bring levelers! But the spots are gravelled, there's good drainage (storms), and beautiful conifers surrounding each site. The park smells like a Christmas candle. 

    Excellent facilities--very clean, and the store is appointed nicely. The staff were wonderful. I would definitely stay here again.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 10, 2025

    Spearfish Quarry

    Quiet stay

    It is an open area. There is a sharp right turn coming in and a steep drop. There is a 25’ trailer here now but I would not risk anything longer. A van, B+, or small type C will be fine. The bottom is pretty rocky. If you have cheap Chinese tires or may-pops, I would be very careful. Verizon has good cell service here.


Guide to Whitewood

Camping near Whitewood, South Dakota offers options ranging from National Forest dispersed sites to full-service RV resorts within a 20-mile radius. At an elevation around 3,600 feet, the Black Hills camping season typically runs from late April through October, though winter camping is available at select locations. Visitors report mild summer temperatures typically ranging from 50-85°F with occasional afternoon thunderstorms during July and August.

What to do

Hike Spearfish Canyon trails: The scenic byway offers multiple trail options within 15 minutes of Whitewood camping areas. "Spend a day driving Spearfish canyon and hiking to waterfalls," notes a visitor at Spearfish City Campground, which provides access to "beautiful, peaceful trails everywhere" and allows campers to "hop your bike and go down the canyon and have brunch at Latchstring Restaurant."

Visit Roosevelt Friendship Tower: This short hike near dispersed camping areas provides panoramic views. A camper at Mount Roosevelt Road Dispersed Campsite reports: "Walking distance to the Roosevelt Friendship Tower hike which is highly recommended. Tons of bees in the wildflowers but they never bothered us."

Fish at Bear Butte Lake: Located about 30 minutes east of Whitewood. "Beautiful lake you can walk completely around. Seems like a good spot to go fishing/kayaking/SUP/boating," comments a visitor to Bear Butte State Park Campground. The lake is accessible for small watercraft with tent sites near the shore.

Explore historic Deadwood: Gaming and historic attractions are minutes away from several campgrounds. Some camps offer direct shuttles—"The trolley to town runs on the hour, it cost $1. Best deal in town," notes a camper at Deadwood KOA.

What campers like

Direct access to OHV trails: Some campgrounds provide immediate access to forest service trails. "We have a larger side by side, so when I called they made sure that we would have a spot to fit that too," explained a guest at Whistler Gulch Campground & RV Park.

Swimming pools during hot days: Several campgrounds maintain pools for summer relief. According to a camper at Chris' Campground: "They have 3 heated pools, a basketball court, recreation room, playground, & petting zoo for the kids, as well as a camp store, laundry facility, free WiFi and fire pits."

Free dispersed camping options: Forest Service roads offer no-cost alternatives. "Nice and quiet spot!" reports a camper about Mount Roosevelt Road Dispersed Campsite, which features multiple pull-off areas along the road leading to the monument.

Private bathroom facilities: Many campers appreciate upgraded shower areas. A visitor to Spearfish KOA mentioned: "Very clean bathrooms and showers. Nice pool area. Convenient off the interstate." Some resorts feature private shower/bathroom combinations rather than communal facilities.

What you should know

Rough roads at dispersed sites: High-clearance vehicles may be necessary for some free camping areas. A visitor to Mount Roosevelt Road noted: "Road was in good shape. Lots of deer and wild life so watch out. Nice views but not that many spots before the super bumpy road about a mile in so we didn't go further."

Reservation requirements: Most established campgrounds require advance booking during peak season. "We tent camped here once, which has a lot of space for it, and have also stayed with our camper trailer. This is a busy campground so reserving is the best way to get a spot especially if you want to bring an RV," advises a camper at Days End Campground.

Seasonal amenities: Pool facilities typically operate Memorial Day through Labor Day. A camper at Chris' Campground noted: "2 separate pools depending on if you want to listen to a bunch of screaming kids or not." Many campgrounds close entirely from October to April.

Cell service variability: Coverage differs significantly between campgrounds. "We got T mobile and we got 2 bars," reported a camper at Mount Roosevelt Road, while others note stronger Verizon coverage throughout the region.

Tips for camping with families

Choose campgrounds with playground access: Several locations offer dedicated children's areas. A visitor to Spearfish City Campground shared: "Across the street is a fish pond hatchery (and aquarium like) and a big fun playground. Lots of bike/walking paths that go into the cute town."

Consider evening entertainment options: Some campgrounds organize activities. "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," notes another Spearfish City Campground visitor.

Look for creek-side sites: Water features keep kids entertained. "There is a lovely creek you can sit by and enjoy. Facilities clean. Management is friendly and laid back," explained a Spearfish City Campground visitor, while another mentioned "it was nice going to sleep and waking up with the sound of the water."

Select campgrounds with wildlife viewing: Many kids enjoy animal sightings. "Woke up to deer munching on acorns right outside our rig," reported a visitor at Wild Bill's Campground, which features a creek running through the property.

Tips from RVers

Reserve pull-through sites when available: Backing into tight spots creates challenges. "The campground itself is wonderful. It is however not really set up for a 45' Class A, but it is navigable," noted a visitor to Elkhorn Ridge RV Resort & Cabins. The reviewer advised: "Sites 1 and 30 are pull throughs. 31-34 easily accommodate large RVs."

Consider campground layout: Amenity proximity matters for large rigs. "Bathrooms and showers were nice but they need a path so you don't have to walk all the way around the campsite loop at night and in the rain," commented a Spearfish City Campground visitor.

Check site levelness: Many Black Hills campgrounds have uneven terrain. "Sites are very close and there were lots of unattended barking dogs in the morning and evenings we stayed as a rally going on," reported a Spearfish City Campground visitor who otherwise enjoyed the facilities.

Utility placement matters: Review site layouts before booking. "The utilities are smartly placed in the middle of the pad," mentioned a Spearfish KOA visitor, highlighting why some campgrounds work better for certain RV configurations than others.

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities and facilities are available at Whitewood Campground?

Whitewood Campground offers standard camping amenities similar to other Black Hills facilities. Like Game Lodge Campground — Custer State Park, it provides clean bathroom facilities with showers. The campground features both tent and RV sites, each equipped with fire pits and picnic tables. Water access is available throughout the grounds. While not as secluded as Black Fox Campground, Whitewood maintains a comfortable balance between convenience and natural setting. Many sites offer shade, and the campground's layout accommodates various camping preferences. Additional amenities may include trash disposal stations, communal gathering areas, and access to nearby recreational opportunities.

Where is Whitewood Campground located and how do I access it?

Whitewood Campground is located in the Black Hills region of South Dakota, making it an excellent base for exploring the area's attractions. Similar to Spearfish City Campground, Whitewood offers convenient drive-in access. The campground sits within an hour's drive of major Black Hills destinations including Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial, and Custer State Park. Most visitors access the campground via main highways in the region, with well-marked signs directing travelers to the entrance. For specific directions, it's recommended to check with the campground directly before your trip as seasonal road conditions in South Dakota can vary.

Are reservations required for Whitewood Campground and what are the fees?

Reservations are highly recommended for Whitewood Campground, especially during peak summer season (May-September) when South Dakota tourism is at its highest. Similar to Happy Holiday RV Resort, Whitewood offers competitive pricing for the Black Hills region, with fees typically ranging from $20-35 per night depending on the site type and amenities required. While some sites may be available on a first-come, first-served basis, securing a reservation ensures you won't be disappointed upon arrival. Pactola Reservoir Campground follows a similar seasonal operation schedule, generally open from May through September. Contact the campground directly or check their reservation system for current fees and availability.