Sand Creek Public Access West Oxbow offers primitive camping in the hilly terrain near Beulah, Wyoming at an elevation of approximately 3,500 feet. Multiple pull-out areas along Sand Creek provide space for vehicles, though finding level spots can be challenging. The area follows a 5-night maximum stay limit with basic pit toilets at each site. During summer months, the creek becomes popular with tube rafters while maintaining good fishing conditions.
What to do
Hiking trails at Devils Tower: From camping areas near Beulah, Devils Tower National Monument offers accessible trails. "We did get up early and drove 1 hour and 45 minutes to the Badlands for sunrise. Spectacular! We did Mt Rushmore and Crazy Horse monument another day and a third day hiking and checking out the local waterfalls," notes a camper at Spearfish City Campground.
Mountain biking: The Black Hills offer extensive trail networks. "Great bike paths, disc golf, walk up Spearfish Canyon or hop your bike and go down the canyon and have brunch at Latchstring Restaurant," recommends a visitor staying at Spearfish City Campground.
Trout fishing: The mountain streams around Beulah provide good fishing spots. "The camp sites are very close together (no privacy) but people were quiet and respectful. There is a lovely creek you can sit by and enjoy," reports a camper. Local creeks contain catchable fish, particularly trout in the cooler mountain waters.
What campers like
Creek access for cooling off: The cold mountain water provides relief on hot summer days. At Sand Creek Public Access West Oxbow Dispersed Camping, "There are three pull outs along the road where you can camp. There is a pit toilet at each and several places where others have made fire rings out of rocks. The sand creek has plenty of fish to try your luck at."
Wildlife viewing: The area supports diverse wildlife. At Reuter Campground, "We were noticing all the campgrounds around seemed to NOT have trees. We are tent camping, so shade is of utmost importance. Reuter did not let us down! Surrounded by big pines and aspen trees, it was a diamond in the rough for sure."
Proximity to attractions: Pet friendly camping near Beulah provides convenient access to regional highlights. At Spearfish KOA, one camper noted, "The area is beautiful and there is a creek that runs around edges and the fish hatchery to tour across the street. Sites are very close and there were lots of unattended barking dogs in the morning and evenings."
What you should know
Limited level sites: The terrain around Beulah can make level parking difficult. At Chris' Campground, "They assisted in parking the camper which was helpful since the quarters are quite close in this campground. The owners are very helpful and friendly."
Weather variability: Mountain weather can change rapidly. "We originally were going to stay in the Badlands national park but the weather turned cold so we decided to switch since fires are not allowed in the National park," explained a visitor to Spearfish City Campground.
Summer crowds: Peak season brings increased traffic. One camper at Chris' Campground shares, "Just wrapped up our 3rd stay in 4 years here. Love it!! Plenty of shade in most of the sites. They do an excellent job of maintaining the facilities and provide everything needed for an excellent stay."
Tips for camping with families
Creek exploration for children: Kids enjoy wading and exploring the water edges. At Timon Campground, "I got a site right on the creek (#7) which the dog adored. Only a few other campers. Very peaceful."
Fire safety planning: Fire restrictions can vary seasonally. "They allow fires but make sure you get a metal ring because it's illegal to have a fire in south Dakota if you don't have one they have them but they don't leave them at the sites or let you know they are available," warns a visitor to Chris' Campground.
Pet supervision requirements: Dogs need proper supervision in campgrounds. "The camp sites are very close together but it was not anywhere near full when we were there so we had plenty of space. Paved roads were great for kids to ride their bikes," notes a camper at Spearfish City Campground, which also welcomes pets.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookups at dispersed sites: Come prepared for self-contained camping at dispersed locations. At Hartman Rock Dispersed Site, "Single lane forest road with a pull-off camp. Will fit maybe, 2 medium rigs."
Road condition alerts: Some forest roads require careful navigation. "Great wild camping spot that's big enough for 30ft Travel trailer. Site is fairly level and has a nice fire ring. Road is good coming to the spot," notes a visitor to Hartman Rock Dispersed Site.
Dump station locations: Plan waste management accordingly. "We didn't even use the dumpstation as the way it is positioned I couldn't get the tanks dumped, so that was a bummer. We went into Spearfish campground owned by the city and dumped there," advises an RVer from Iron Creek Lake Campground.
