Campgrounds near Whitewood, South Dakota range across diverse terrains from pine forests to lakeside settings, with elevations between 3,500-4,500 feet. The Black Hills region experiences wide temperature swings even in summer, with cool morning temperatures often rising 30-40 degrees by afternoon. Most campgrounds in the area open seasonally from April or May through October, with limited winter availability.
What to do
Fishing at Belle Fourche Reservoir: Located at Rocky Point Recreation Area, this large lake offers calm water perfect for fishing, especially during mornings and evenings. "The reservoir is pretty (was really low when we went) and close to all of the sites. Water is usually calm in the morning and evening. It is a great fishing lake too," notes Billy B.
Explore Spearfish Canyon: Just a short drive from Spearfish City Campground, this scenic canyon features multiple hiking trails and waterfalls. "Spend a day driving Spearfish canyon and hiking to waterfalls," recommends Glenda, while Bonnie R. adds, "Great bike paths, walk up Spearfish Canyon or hop your bike and go down the canyon and have brunch at Latchstring Restaurant."
Visit the Fish Hatchery: Located directly across from Spearfish City Campground, the hatchery offers educational exhibits and aquarium-like displays. "The fish hatchery and creek right along side. Great bike paths, disc golf, walk up Spearfish Canyon," notes Bonnie R. Shirlee A. mentions it's "a fish pond hatchery (and aquarium like) and a big fun playground" making it perfect for families.
What campers like
Spacious waterfront campsites: Rocky Point Recreation Area features wide sites with lake views. "The space between sites is admirable. I stepped off our space at close to 70+ feet wide," reports Tom D. Ben E. adds, "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."
Family-friendly amenities: Chris' Campground offers multiple recreation options for all ages. "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," explains Theresa H. Steve D. notes, "2 separate pools depending on if you want to listen to a bunch of screaming kids or not."
Peaceful outdoor spaces: Campers appreciate quiet settings away from crowds. At Bulldog Creek Campground, one visitor observed "a heard of at least 2 dozen deer grazing through the campground. Several of them came within a few feet of my door as I talked to them!" Ronald C. describes it as "scenic, relatively quiet, peaceful and entertaining" while noting it "borders the Black Hills National Forest."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds in the Whitewood area have limited operating seasons. Spearfish City Campground operates from "May 1 to October 1," while Chris' Campground runs from "April 15 to October 15." During off-season, some facilities close even when campgrounds remain open, as one camper noted: "We showed up mid October and the bathhouse is closed for the season."
Highway and railroad noise: Several campgrounds sit near transportation corridors. At Wyatt's Hideaway Campground, Beverly A. notes, "The campground is near the highway so spots near the highway are noisy throughout the night. But the sound of the river helped cut that noise." Similarly, at Bulldog Creek, a reviewer mentions: "There is an active rail line along the highway, but so far, I've not seen more than two trains in a day, and none at night."
Variable pricing structures: Costs vary significantly by season and amenities. Ronald C. reports that Bulldog Creek charges "$40-50 per night with full, 50a hookups, $30 for 30a full hookup, $10 for tent camping" for short stays, but offers monthly rates of "$550 per month plus electric" for longer visits. Meanwhile, KOA campgrounds typically charge premium rates but offer reliable amenities.
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with dedicated kid spaces: Some campgrounds offer multiple recreation options designed specifically for children. Shirlee A. recommends Spearfish City Campground because "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."
Look for evening activities: Some campgrounds organize regular social events. At Rush No More Campground, Monique C. notes, "There is a playground for the kids and a beer garden for the adults. Entertainment on certain nights, food and fun." Similarly, Megan R. found that "the city of Spearfish had activities in the park (about 1/4 mile away) every evening (magician, concerts, etc)."
Consider campground crowding: Family-friendly campgrounds can get busy, especially on weekends. At Spearfish City Campground, Russ N. cautions, "If your the kind of 'Camper', who doesn't mind another camper 10' from you, (in alot of sites, not all)... Lots of noise. Not much 'privacy'." Another camper observed, "Weekends are much busier than the week."
Tips from RVers
Big rig accessibility varies: Not all campgrounds easily accommodate large motorhomes. At Spearfish City Campground, Tom D. advises, "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." Similarly, at Rocky Point, another reviewer cautions, "Most lots are not level so pick accordingly if unable to self level."
Monthly rates offer significant savings: For extended stays in the Black Hills, inquire about monthly rates. At Bulldog Creek Campground, Ronald C. explains, "If you want a base camp for a month or more and enjoy exploring the Black Hills, Sturgis and Rapid City, you can get 50a full hookup, pull-through site for just $550 per month plus electric! That's a bargain in this area."
Water hookup positioning: Some campgrounds have unusual utility layouts. At Wyatt's Hideaway Campground, one camper noted, "The water spigots stick up 2' above the ground and you're told if you don't want it to freeze you'll need to heat trace and insulate it at your own expense."
