Equestrian camping near Newcastle, Wyoming sits along the western edge of the Black Hills, which rise from the plains to elevations between 4,000 and 7,000 feet. The pine-forested Black Hills region receives an annual average of 18 inches of precipitation, creating lush grazing lands and reliable water sources for horses. Many of the horse-friendly campgrounds stay open from May through October, with summer temperatures typically ranging from 75°F to 85°F during the day.
What to do
Trail riding near Custer State Park: Blue Bell Campground provides direct trail access from their horse-friendly campgrounds to the 71,000-acre park. "Horse stables and trail rides are on-site, with easy access to wildlife viewing areas where riders might encounter bison, deer, and pronghorn," shares Diane D., who calls Blue Bell "[her] favorite campground for the last 13 years."
Horseback riding at Rafter J Bar Ranch: This historic stagecoach stop offers multiple camping "villages" with different amenities. "Great place to stay with a little something for everyone. Tough to get reservations and a little spendy, but the staff was great, lots of space and tree cover, great activities, and amenities," notes Cody.
Explore Sylvan Lake: Located approximately 60 miles from Newcastle, Sylvan Lake Campground offers both lake activities and trail access. "Between the kayaking at Sylvan Lake, the resort amenities, hiking in Black Elk Wilderness, Black Elk Peak, this area is great. Needles Eye, Rushmore, nearby," writes James M. Horse trails connect throughout the region.
What campers like
Clean horse facilities: Broken Arrow Horse Campground maintains immaculate equestrian amenities. "Even the horse stalls are immaculate. The entire property is pristine," notes Susan & Kevin W. Another visitor, Julia Y., describes it as feeling "like home" and mentions that "the bathrooms are clean and beautiful and the sites are very well maintained and level."
Wildlife encounters: Equestrians appreciate the abundance of wildlife visible from horseback. At Fort Welikit Campground, Trevor A. reports: "The wildlife is everywhere. I have had deer, turkey, and rabbit within 50 feet." Similar wildlife sightings occur at most horse camps throughout the region.
Access to multiple recreation options: Mount Rushmore KOA offers diverse activities beyond horseback riding. "One of the largest KOAs in the US. It's basically a small town with two pools, a village of shops and restaurants, tons of activities, and a large horse stable with trail rides," shares Zach H.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most horse campgrounds in the area require advance booking, especially during peak season. "Tough to get reservations," mentions one visitor at Rafter J Bar Ranch, which echoes the experience at most equestrian facilities from May through September.
Site limitations: At Fort Welikit Family Campground, which offers horse-friendly accommodations, camper Bret D. notes, "Our site was very small and dirt only but we did have a covered shelter and electricity. I would have given those up for one of the grassy sites down the hill with no electricity."
Water access considerations: Many horse campgrounds provide water hookups, but some basic facilities require alternative solutions. At dispersed camping locations near Newcastle, visitors should bring their own water supply for both human and equine needs.
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly activities: Custer-Mt. Rushmore KOA provides family entertainment beyond horseback riding. "So much fun in one place! We loved the pools!" remarks Therese K. This makes it an excellent option for families with both riders and non-riders.
Educational opportunities: Near Iron Creek Lake Campground, families can combine horse camping with learning experiences. "Lots of little trails, all within easy walking distance. Make sure you pack plenty of water. Some of the hikes are pretty steep and South Dakota is notorious for fast changing weather," advises Billy B. from nearby Sylvan Lake.
Quiet camping options: For families seeking peaceful horse camping away from crowds, Lisa R. recommends Iron Creek Lake Campground as "an accidental find and we were so glad we did! Super friendly and affordable, and views that were amazing!"
Tips from RVers
Site selection for horse trailers: RVers with horse trailers need to consider space requirements. "Our specific campsite is one of the best. There are LIMITED services here tho. No dump site and the potable water fill station requires you block the road. Electric only at our site, very unlevel, hard to get into. Recommend a smaller rig than us, we were at 25 ft with two slides," advises Jennifer O. about Sylvan Lake.
Level parking considerations: At Dispersed Camping near Calumet Road, Wayne L. notes, "The undulating terrain makes for great day hikes and exploration," but also warns, "After the entrance road ends, the ruts are a bit steep. May be able to maneuver around them in a car, however there are plenty of places to set up before that."
Horse trailer parking: When bringing horses to camp, evaluate trailer parking options carefully. Some campgrounds have designated pull-through sites for rigs with trailers, while others may require unhitching and parking separately.
