The Black Hills region around Newcastle, Wyoming sits at elevations between 3,500 and 7,000 feet, creating distinct temperature variations between seasons. Summer daytime temperatures typically range from 75-85°F with cool evenings dropping to 50-55°F. Most campgrounds in the area operate seasonally from May through October due to harsh winter conditions, with gravel site pads being the standard surface at most locations.
What to do
Visit Devil's Tower: Located about 30 miles northeast of Newcastle, this iconic landmark is accessible from Mountain View RV Park & Campground in Sundance. "Devil's Tower just 28 miles away," notes one camper, who added that the location provides an "excellent base for exploring the surrounding mountains."
Explore Custer State Park: The western entrance to this wildlife-rich park lies just minutes from Gold Valley Camp. "Only a couple miles to the west entrance of Custer SP. 3.5 miles from Custer. Owner and staff all extremely nice and helpful," shares a visitor who spotted a hot air balloon landing in an adjacent field during their stay.
Hike Black Elk Peak: The highest point east of the Rocky Mountains offers spectacular views of the region. "After our 7 mile hike, I couldn't wait to put my OOFOS sandals on and let the recovery begin," reports a camper at Fort Welikit Family Campground, who appreciated returning to comfortable amenities after a day of hiking.
What campers like
Central location: Horse Thief Campground and RV Resort provides easy access to multiple attractions. "Located centrally (north end of needles hwy) so we were close to all the things we wanted to do; Mount Rushmore, Custer State park, Needles Hwy, Jewel Cave, Crazy Horse, & Praire Berry Winery," explains one visitor who found the strategic position ideal for regional exploration.
Clean facilities: Modern, well-maintained bathrooms and showers rank high among camper priorities. "Bathhouse was clean and also nice. We used the laundry facilities and were very satisfied. They had both large and smaller washers," comments a Fort Welikit Family Campground visitor who stayed three nights while visiting Mount Rushmore and Wind Cave National Park.
Proximity to towns: French Creek RV Camp offers the convenience of being within walking distance to Custer's downtown area. "Fantastic little place with sites that but up to a beautiful creek," notes one camper who appreciated the small but conveniently positioned campground, while another mentioned "Loved being able to walk to shops, breweries, and restaurants in downtown Custer from here."
What you should know
Water access varies: Some campgrounds provide full hookups while others have limited water service. At Custers Last Chance RV Park and Campground, "There is no power, water, or sewer. The hosts are very friendly especially Duke the camp dog," reports a visitor, adding that "Manager will bring you water to top off your container."
Seasonal operation: Most facilities in the area close by mid-October. Mountain View RV Park operates from "April 1 to October 31," while Fort Welikit runs from "May 1 - Oct 15," according to their listings.
Site conditions: Many campgrounds feature gravel pads that may require leveling. "Spots are mostly gravel and somewhat level. Picnic tables and fire rings are at each site," reports a Fort Welikit camper, while another notes that sites at Custers Gulch RV Park feature "gravel, level pads and plenty of yard or forest behind each RV."
Tips for camping with families
Look for recreation amenities: Custers Gulch RV Park provides additional activities beyond just camping. "There's a club house with games for kids. We had terrific neighbors," mentions a satisfied visitor who appreciated the clean bathrooms and great showers.
Consider proximity to wildlife viewing: Some campgrounds offer opportunities to see animals right from your site. "The wildlife is everywhere. I have had deer, turkey, and rabbit within 50 feet," shares a camper at Fort Welikit, who described the location as a "Quiet paradise in the pines."
Choose campgrounds with playgrounds: Children need space to play after long drives. "The kids love playing in the kids play area and the dogs enjoy the dog run!" notes a repeat visitor to Fort Welikit who called it "our favorite place to stay in the black hills."
Tips from RVers
Manage expectations for site spacing: Rushmore View RV has limited space between sites. "Sites are on the smaller side," notes a camper who otherwise found the reservation agent "super friendly and helpful." Another visitor cautioned about navigation challenges: "The driveway into the new area is so tight on corners with low laying rocks making it hard to navigate the turns esp in a 40' tank."
Consider site privacy levels: Different campgrounds offer varying degrees of separation between RVs. At Custers Gulch RV Park, campers appreciate that "each site is spaced out where you don't feel like you are hanging out in your neighbor's campground!" according to a five-star review from a visitor who praised the full hookups and well-maintained laundry services.
Check water quality beforehand: Some locations have issues with well water. "The water quality is awful! We went to the next site possible and flushed all water systems due to the bad quality," reports a Rushmore View RV camper who recommended bringing additional water supplies.
