Established Camping
Black Hills National Forest Dutchman Campground
Black Hills National Forest Dutchman Campground, near Hill City, South Dakota, is a peaceful spot that invites you to unwind in nature. With its scenic views and proximity to Deerfield Lake, it’s a fantastic place for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.
This campground offers a rustic experience with no electric hookups, making it perfect for tent campers and RV enthusiasts who appreciate a more back-to-basics vibe. Visitors have praised the cleanliness of the facilities, especially the restrooms, and the well-kept campsites that provide enough space for privacy. One camper noted, “The toilet was the cleanest I’ve seen at a campsite,” which speaks volumes about the upkeep here.
Outdoor activities abound, with hiking trails nearby and opportunities for kayaking and fishing at the lake. The area is also known for its wildlife, so keep your eyes peeled for deer wandering around as you enjoy the stunning sunsets. As one reviewer put it, “The scene is very gorgeous, especially at night.”
While amenities are limited, the friendly camp hosts and the serene environment make it a great choice for those looking to connect with nature. Just remember to plan ahead, as reservations are recommended, especially during peak times. Whether you're here for a weekend or a longer stay, Dutchman Campground offers a refreshing retreat into the heart of the Black Hills.
Description
Overview
Dutchman Campground, located in a shady Ponderosa pine forested area on the northeast edge of Deerfield Reservoir at 5,000 feet. This camp is an ideal setting for guests seeking recreation and relaxation in Black Hills National Forest. Sites in the campground are widely spaced, and a few offer wide views of the lake. Of the 3 campgrounds in the Deerfield Recreation Area, this one is the most RV-friendly.
Recreation
Black Hills National Forest offers recreational opportunities for all ages. Guests can take advantage of opportunities for hiking, fishing, horseback riding, mountain biking, and riding off-highway vehicles (OHVs) on moderate terrain. Open to hikers, bikers, and horseback riders, the 10-mile Deerfield Lake Loop Trail encircles Deerfield Lake, traversing the forested shoreline. It offers fantastic views and opportunities for birding and picnicking. Across the lake, Deerfield Trail connects Deerfield Lake with Rapid Creek and Pactola Reservoir. Sites including a log flume, cabins, mines, tunnels and railroad grades provide visitors with a glimpse into the area's history. Deerfield Reservoir is an ideal spot for fishing and boating. The lake supports populations of stocked rainbow and native brown trout.
Facilities
Dutchman Campground has sites able to accommodate tents, trailers, and RVs. The campground has picnic tables, campfire rings, vault toilets, and drinking water; however, electrical hook-ups are not available. Lake access is within walking distance. Deerfield Lake is a no wake lake.
Natural Features
Located in western South Dakota and northeastern Wyoming, Black Hills National Forest encompasses nearly 1.25 million acres of rugged rock formations, canyons and gulches, open grassland parks, tumbling streams, deep blue lakes, and unique caves. Derived from the Lakota language, the words "Paha Sapa," meaning "hills that are black," honor the dark, pine-covered hills rising several thousand feet above the surrounding prairie. Wildlife in the area abounds. Bighorn sheep navigate mountainous terrain, while elk, deer and pronghorn gather in forests and prairies. Bald eagles, hawks, osprey, peregrine falcon, and hundreds of other bird species can be found in the forest, especially along streams, lakes and rivers.
Contact Info
For facility specific information, please call (605) 574-4402.
Nearby Attractions
Possible day trips include Custer State Park with its many buffalo and other wildlife, Crazy Horse Monument and Wind Cave National Park as well as Jewel Cave which is the second longest cave in the world at 159.29 miles. It features sparkling calcite crystals and other rare formations, as well as some of the largest concentrations of passageways in the world
Charges & Cancellations
No refunds will be given for weather or related events.
Location
Black Hills National Forest Dutchman Campground is located in South Dakota
Directions
Take Forest Highway 17 (Deerfield Road) for 16 miles northwest of Hill City, South Dakota.
Coordinates
44.0244444 N
103.7822222 W
Connectivity
T-MobileLTESome Coverage
VerizonNo Coverage- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Drive Time
- 1 hr 1 min from Rapid City
- 3 hrs 48 min from Casper
- 4 hrs 34 min from Cheyenne
- 5 hrs 41 min from Bismarck
Connectivity
- T-MobileLTESome Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
Features
For Campers
- Reservable
- Pets
- Fires
