Primitive camping opportunities abound near Devils Tower National Monument with dispersed sites throughout the adjacent Black Hills National Forest. Area campgrounds range from basic forest service facilities to luxury camping sites with modern amenities. Summer temperatures typically reach 85°F during day and drop to 50°F at night, with afternoon thunderstorms common from July through August.
What to do
Fishing access: Rocky Point Recreation Area provides lakeside camping with excellent fishing opportunities. "The lake is pretty (was really low when we went) and close to all of the sites. There is a playground and a dog park," notes Kylee M.
Hiking trails: Reuter Campground offers access to forest trails while staying near Devils Tower. "Reuter did not let us down! Surrounded by big pines and aspen trees, it was a diamond in the rough for sure. Big pines all over. Our campsite had a good level spot for the tent," shares Nickolas A. from Reuter Campground.
Scenic drives: Take a short drive to Spearfish Canyon from area campsites. "Spend a day driving Spearfish canyon and hiking to waterfalls," recommends a Spearfish City Campground visitor, highlighting activities beyond Devils Tower itself.
What campers like
Quiet locations: Timon Campground offers a secluded forest experience away from crowds. "After a 4 mile drive down a dirt road, we came upon this campsite and were delighted. We stayed for three nights to do some climbing in the area and this was a great spot to come back to each night," reports Scott D.
Spacious sites: Rocky Point Recreation Area campers appreciate the generous spacing. "The space between sites is admirable. I stepped off our space at close to 70+ feet wide. Almost all sites will accommodate a 45' class A but some sites may be tough for a Class A to level," explains Tom D.
Water features: Many campgrounds feature creeks or lakes. "We stayed here one night & it was just what we were looking for. Nice campground with vault toilet, water pump, picnic table & fire ring. Our site was on the creek," reports Molly about Timon Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Many campgrounds have limited operating seasons. "Stayed 2 nights, very quiet, had water, trash and pit toilets, site 13 is first come first serve PULL THRU big enough for 5th wheel... 30 minutes from devils tower and 5 minutes from Sundance, which Sundance rest area has free water and dump station," advises Bill S. from Reuter Campground.
Noise factors: Some campgrounds experience road or rail noise. "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," reports Beverly A. about Wyatt's Hideaway Campground.
Varying amenities: Facilities range from basic to full-service. "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," shares Megan R. about Spearfish City Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Several area campgrounds offer special amenities for children. "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 Bonnie R. about Spearfish City Campground.
Playground access: Look for campgrounds with dedicated play areas. "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," writes Shirlee A.
Pool facilities: For glamping near Devils Tower, Wyoming with added swimming options, Elkhorn Ridge RV Resort & Cabins provides premium amenities. "My kids loved the outdoor pool and hot tubs the playground was fantastic And there is even a bar by the pool if you want a cocktail," shares Amber W.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Be prepared for uneven terrain at certain sites. "Most rv sites have a lake view. 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," warns Hannah P. about Iron Creek Lake Campground.
Dump station locations: Not all campgrounds have convenient dump facilities. "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 Aaron S.
Site selection tips: At luxury glamping options near Devils Tower, Wyoming, concrete pads make setup easier. "Sites 1 and 30 are pull throughs. 31-34 easily accommodate large RVs," notes Tom D. about campground layout at Spearfish KOA.