Camping options near Devils Tower National Monument range from 2,200 to 4,500 feet in elevation with temperatures fluctuating 30-40 degrees between day and night. The area experiences frequent afternoon thunderstorms during summer months, particularly July and August. Most campgrounds within a 30-mile radius remain open from mid-April through mid-October with limited winter accessibility.
What to do
Attend evening entertainment: At Spearfish City Campground, campers can find activities beyond the monument itself. "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 Megan R., who recommends spending time at the fish hatchery located across from the campground.
Explore scenic drives: The Spearfish Canyon area offers memorable day trips from your campsite. "Spend a day driving Spearfish canyon and hiking to waterfalls," suggests Glenda from Spearfish City Campground. Most visitors allow 3-4 hours for the full canyon drive including stops.
Hike nearby trails: Timon Campground provides access to trails just beyond the campground. "There is a breathtaking trail not too far past the site," writes Ryan, while Scott D. notes, "We stayed for three nights to do some climbing in the area and this was a great spot to come back to each night."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Observe local wildlife near Iron Creek Lake Campground. "Wildlife all around. Great Trout, and even some Bass fishing," says Russ N., highlighting the natural attractions beyond Devils Tower itself. Fishing licenses can be purchased at most local convenience stores or online.
What campers like
Natural water features: Many campers appreciate creekside camping options. At Wyatt's Hideaway Campground, "The tent sites are right on the river and it makes for a peaceful sleep," according to Nicole C. Another camper, Beverly A., mentioned, "Tent site was near the river, and the sound of the river helped drowned out the nearby highway noise."
Shaded sites: Reuter Campground offers forested sites that provide relief from summer heat. "Surrounded by big pines and aspen trees, it was a diamond in the rough for sure. Big pines all over," writes Nickolas A., who appreciates the natural shade. He adds, "It was DEAD quiet at night. We got an amazing night sleep."
Convenience to attractions: Devils Tower KOA serves as a strategic base for regional exploration. Douglas S. notes it "has a lot to offer" including "a pool, miniature golf, dog runs, laundry, an honest to goodness General Store and a cafe." The campground sits approximately 0.25 miles from the monument entrance.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the area maintain high cleanliness standards. At Chris' Campground, Christopher M. found "The sites were large and spaced out well. Everything was clean and well taken care of." Many campers mention the well-maintained bathroom facilities throughout the region's campgrounds.
What you should know
Elevation considerations: The Black Hills region experiences significant temperature drops at night. "Weather was perfect for hammock camping which all the trees made easily possible," mentions Trevor H. about Reuter Campground, but nighttime temperatures can drop below 50°F even in summer.
Seasonal closures: Many facilities shut down during off-season months. Leslie B. notes at Iron Creek Lake Campground: "I stayed for 2 nights in the off season. When I called ahead the hosts said it was on them due to the off season and said to enjoy the space."
Campsite privacy varies: Site spacing differs considerably between campgrounds. At Devils Tower KOA, Kevin A. mentions, "Lots of sites all with pretty great views of the monument itself," but some campers note proximity to neighbors. Bridget K. observed, "There was hardly anyone there when I camped with my family."
Road noise considerations: Some campgrounds sit near highways. At Wyatt's Hideaway Campground, Beverly A. mentions, "The highway is very close but the road noise is pretty low considering the proximity." Natural features like flowing water can help mask traffic sounds.
Tips for camping with families
Look for recreation amenities: Elkhorn Ridge RV Resort & Cabins offers family-friendly facilities. "My kids loved the outdoor pool and hot tubs, the playground was fantastic," reports Amber W., adding "there is even a bar by the pool if you want a cocktail." The resort features basketball and pickleball courts for active families.
Consider easy-access fishing: Youth fishing opportunities abound at several locations. At Iron Creek Lake Campground, "The trail around the lake is easy to walk and there is some beach area for frog catching and splashing around with little kids," shares Aaron S. No fishing license required for children under 16 in South Dakota.
Find playgrounds nearby: Campgrounds with dedicated play areas keep children entertained. Shirlee A. appreciates Spearfish City Campground because "Across the street is a fish pond hatchery (and aquarium like) and a big fun playground." Most local playgrounds are designed for ages 2-12.
Check for educational programs: Some campgrounds offer learning opportunities. At Devils Tower KOA, Mary J. notes, "The trade off is the wide open skies and STARS," providing night sky viewing experiences for children. Regional visitor centers typically offer junior ranger programs during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds feature uneven terrain. At Iron Creek Lake Campground, Hannah P. shares, "I have a 25' camper and the site they put me in was pretty tight and on a hill as most are here. Took all my blocks and a couple big stumps but we got it figured out."
Dump station positioning: Consider dump station access. Aaron S. cautions about Iron Creek Lake: "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."
Big rig access considerations: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger rigs. At Spearfish KOA, Tom D. advises, "The campground itself is wonderful. It is however not really set up for a 45' Class A, but it is navigable. We did not have many sites to chose from when making our reservations."
Seasonal utility concerns: Cold weather camping presents challenges. At Reuter Campground, Miguel E. notes, "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."
