SUMMER SALE 50% off The Dyrt PRO — just $2.49/moGet now
SALE: PRO just $2.49/mo

Black Hills National Forest Dutchman Campground

The sound of wind through pine trees and the lapping of Deerfield Lake water creates a backdrop that draws campers back season after season. This US Forest Service campground sits tucked in the woods just steps from the lake shore, where visitors can fish, kayak, or hike the perimeter trail. The facility operates from mid-May through early September, accommodating RVs up to 99 feet alongside tent campers.

Sites spread across forested terrain with enough separation that neighbors remain at a comfortable distance. "Campground is tucked in the woods but in walking distance of the beautiful Deerfield Lake," notes Nate S.. Several reviewers mention deer wandering through camp, particularly at dawn and dusk. The vault toilets earn consistent praise for cleanliness, though campers should know there are no hookups—water comes from spigots for personal use only, not for filling RV tanks.

Reservations run $26-52 per night and are strongly recommended, as this spot fills quickly during peak summer months. The campground stays open later in September for hunters, operating with reduced sites. A camp host provides firewood and assistance when present. For those exploring the broader Black Hills region, this location offers camping areas around Black Hills National Forest with the nearby Deerfield campground providing additional options just down the road.

Check AvailabilitySuggest an Edit

Warning 1 Alert is In Effect

There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!

Please Note: One RV with tow vehicle per single site or one vehicle per tent site. Most sites can accommodate 1 extra vehicle that is not included with the reservation fee. Extra vehicles will be charged a per night fee that is collected at the campground.

Map & DirectionsBlack Hills National Forest Dutchman Campground is located in South Dakota near Silver City

Detail location of campground
Public Campground

Directions

Take Forest Highway 17 (Deerfield Road) for 16 miles northwest of Hill City, South Dakota.

Coordinates

44.0244444 N
103.7822222 W

Open in Google Maps

Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-MobileLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 10 users
    Last on 6/24/26
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 6/24/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 6/24/26

Is Black Hills National Forest Dutchman Campground sold out?

Quickly grab cancellations!

Learn More
Presented byHershey's

Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-MobileLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 10 users
    Last on 6/24/26
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 6/24/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 6/24/26

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites

Features

For Campers

  • Reservable
  • Pets
  • Fires

Drive Time


2026 Explorer Giveaway

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win

Reviews10 Camper Reviews - Black Hills National Forest Dutchman Campground

Add Review

5 Stars

4 Stars

3 Stars

2 Stars

1 Star

50%
50%
0%
0%
0%

4.5

out of 5

10 Reviews

Visitors often highlighted peaceful, well-maintained sites with exceptionally clean facilities and helpful hosts. The lakeside location offers excellent privacy, though RV campers noted challenges with water access and pricing for primitive sites.

Reviewed Jun. 19, 2026

Lovely forested spot with lake views

Dutchman's a great spot to be close (but not too close) to the lake. 

I went in early may, towards the end of the off season. It was free, first come first, although most spots were full. The loop that's open during the off-season is pretty far from the lake, though it's visible in spots. Even in the closer loop, don't expect to be able to fish out of your tent. 

Pit toilets and garbage are close by. There's a fishing dock & boat ramp maybe a three minute drive away. 

It's very peaceful and secluded. Since Deerfield is a no-wake lake you won't be listening to jet skis, motor boats, etc. The pine stands are lovely and the air just smells like mountains.

Site1
Month of VisitMay
  • Review photo of Black Hills National Forest Dutchman Campground by Athan D., June 19, 2026
  • Review photo of Black Hills National Forest Dutchman Campground by Athan D., June 19, 2026
  • Review photo of Black Hills National Forest Dutchman Campground by Athan D., June 19, 2026
Reviewed Jul. 31, 2022

Nice and quiet

Great place to camp. Our spot wasn’t very level tho, and it was on the side of a hill so that was difficult for our two younger children. Wish they would also add a water hook up for RVs. Trying to get water was a pain.

Site26
Month of VisitJuly
Reviewed Aug. 11, 2021

Cool weather camping!

I didn't have reservations, but I drove up to the camp host. The host was very helpful and was able to get me a site late night.

The scene is very gorgeous, especially at night when the sun goes down. You see deers wondering around.

Toilets are very clean.

Campsites are very well kept, there's camping table big enough for a family.

Site40
Month of VisitAugust
  • Campfire at sunset
    Play button icon
Reviewed Jun. 12, 2021

Loved it!

Our spot was one of the doubles and overlooked Deerfield Lake. The host was friendly and the toilet was the cleanest I’ve seen at a campsite. It was our first time staying at Dutchman, and we’ll definitely be back! It’s about a 40 minute drive from Hill City and secluded from any road traffic and the sites are nicely spaced.

Site37
Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Black Hills National Forest Dutchman Campground by Ashley R., June 12, 2021
  • Review photo of Black Hills National Forest Dutchman Campground by Ashley R., June 12, 2021
  • Review photo of Black Hills National Forest Dutchman Campground by Ashley R., June 12, 2021
Reviewed Aug. 31, 2020

Best of Black Hills

This campground had super nice and friendly hosts. Definitely want to make sure you have a reservation well ahead of time. It is nestled just above a lake in the Black hills. The area is beautiful, and just around the corner of Mt. Rushmore. This is a definite stop if you want to stay near the National Monument of our founding fathers! Highly recommend this campground!

  • Review photo of Black Hills National Forest Dutchman Campground by Timothy , August 31, 2020
  • Review photo of Black Hills National Forest Dutchman Campground by Timothy , August 31, 2020
  • Review photo of Black Hills National Forest Dutchman Campground by Timothy , August 31, 2020
  • (8) View All
Reviewed Sep. 19, 2019

Nice campground without hookups

We stayed September 5-9 . It was peaceful & enjoyed our stay. This campground has no hook ups. Most of the campground was closed except for about 10 sites. They stay open for hunters & fall campers. It was 20 a night which is spendy for no hook ups or comfort stations.The have vaulted toilet & water for personal use not for camper.We hiked around the lake & kayaking and fishing.

  • Review photo of Black Hills National Forest Dutchman Campground by Peggy S., September 19, 2019
  • Review photo of Black Hills National Forest Dutchman Campground by Peggy S., September 19, 2019
Reviewed Jun. 4, 2018

Nice campground

We camped here Memorial Day weekend. It’s a nice campground. The host was not there so it was a little difficult to get firewood. The bathroom was really far from our campsite, but other than that, it was a very peaceful weekend.

Month of VisitMay
  • Review photo of Black Hills National Forest Dutchman Campground by Laura H., June 4, 2018
Reviewed Mar. 28, 2017

End of Summer

This is a delayed review. Went there last August with some friends. They stayed in a tent, I slept in my hammock. Campground is tucked in the woods but in walking distance of the beautiful Deerfield Lake. Camp sites are well maintained, large, and separated enough to not bother your neighbors.

  • Review photo of Black Hills National Forest Dutchman Campground by Nate S., March 28, 2017
Reviewed Jul. 1, 2016

Remote car camping site

The Black Hills area is beautiful. This campsite is in the pines and near a serene lake. Good wildlife here and nearby. Tons of stuff to do in this area, though I just hiked and wished I had a kayak. Campground has nice and basic amenities, clean, well cared for, about typical privacy. Wasn't crowded when we were there in September, though you might want to make a reservation. This was my favorite frontcountry site in this part of the state, highly recommended.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a map available for Dutchman Campground in the Black Hills?

Maps for Dutchman Campground are typically available through the Black Hills National Forest official website and at ranger stations in the area. You can also find campground layout information when making reservations through recreation.gov. For orientation purposes, the campground features approximately 10 sites during the off-season (fall through spring), with more sites available during peak summer months. Contact the Forest Service office for the most current maps and site information before your trip.

Where is Dutchman Campground located in the Black Hills of South Dakota?

Dutchman Campground is nestled in the pine forests of the Black Hills National Forest in South Dakota. This serene campground is situated near Deerfield Lake, away from major road traffic, offering a peaceful retreat in nature. It's approximately 40 minutes from Hill City and positioned conveniently for those wanting to explore Mount Rushmore and other National Park attractions in the region. The campground's secluded forest setting provides an authentic Black Hills experience with opportunities to observe local wildlife.

Are there any photos of Dutchman Campground to view before visiting?

Photos of Dutchman Campground can be found on the recreation.gov reservation website, the official Black Hills National Forest website, and various camping platforms including The Dyrt. These images typically showcase the pine forest setting, campsites (some of which offer views of Deerfield Lake), and the natural surroundings. Visual highlights include the forested campsites, vault toilets, and glimpses of the nearby lake. For the most current and comprehensive collection of photos, check the official Forest Service platforms.

How close is Dutchman Campground to Deerfield Lake in South Dakota?

Dutchman Campground is located within walking distance of Deerfield Lake. Some campsites actually overlook the lake, offering beautiful views of the water. The campground is tucked into the woods just above the lake, making it extremely convenient for fishing, kayaking, and other water activities. This close proximity to Deerfield Lake is one of the campground's most appealing features, allowing visitors to easily enjoy the serene lake setting without needing to drive to water access points.