Camping near Sundance, Wyoming takes place primarily in the high pine forests of the Black Hills National Forest at elevations ranging from 3,800-6,000 feet. Summer daytime temperatures typically reach 75-85°F but drop significantly at night, often into the 40s. Many area campgrounds offer limited or no cell service due to the mountainous terrain, with visitors noting that sites within valleys often have better reception than those on ridges.
What to do
Hiking the Bearlodge Mountains: Reuter Campground provides access to multiple trail networks in the Bearlodge range. "A nice hiking trail has a couple options. There is a parking area at the trailhead or just leave from camp. I love that they have a trail map at the check in sign," notes one visitor to Reuter Campground.
Fishing at Iron Creek Lake: The lake maintains a healthy trout population and has designated fishing areas with bank access. A camper at Iron Creek Lake Campground shares, "The cafe/diner has things like burgers and ice cream, and the fishing in the lake is great. The trail around the lake is easy to walk and there is some beach area for frog catching and splashing around with little kids."
Explore Spearfish Canyon: Located within 20 minutes of several campgrounds, the canyon offers hiking trails and scenic waterfalls. "Spend a day driving Spearfish canyon and hiking to waterfalls," recommends a visitor who stayed at Spearfish City Campground, noting the canyon's accessibility from camping areas.
What campers like
Private creekside sites: Campers particularly enjoy waterfront sites for the natural sound barrier they provide. At Timon Campground, one reviewer mentions, "I got a site right on the creek (#7) which the dog adored. Only a few other campers. Very peaceful."
Proximity to Devils Tower: The national monument is visible from some glamping locations near Sundance. A camper at Devils Tower KOA recalls, "Rolled in late at night, had a perfect spot that we noticed that light which perfectly is set just outside base of devils tower nothing better than waking up to that morning and had breakfast with a gorgeous view of devils tower."
Off-season tranquility: Several campgrounds near Sundance offer dramatically different experiences based on timing. "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. Very very lovey people," reports a visitor to Iron Creek Lake Campground.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Mountain weather changes rapidly, especially in spring and fall. "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," explains a camper who stayed at Spearfish City Campground.
Reservation windows: Most popular sites book up 3-6 months in advance, especially for summer weekends. Sites can be "booked up to six months in advance, or sometimes grabbed at the last minute if lucky," according to visitors at Pactola Reservoir Campground.
Water access limitations: Some campgrounds have primitive water systems with varying pressure. A reviewer at Wyatt's Hideaway Campground noted, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility: Some glamping facilities near Sundance include family amenities within walking distance. A visitor to Chris' Campground mentioned, "They have 3 heated pools, a basketball court, recreation room, playground, & petting zoo for the kids, as well as a camp store, laundry facility, free WiFi and fire pits."
Educational opportunities: The fish hatchery near Spearfish provides a free learning experience. "Fish hatchery within walking distance, bike path goes through," notes a camper at Spearfish City Campground, highlighting attractions beyond just camping.
Noise considerations: Family-friendly locations vary by noise level and atmosphere. One reviewer at Iron Creek Lake Campground cautions, "We happened to be here Father's Day weekend and let me say it was way over packed and a bit annoying. Reminded me of a summer camp which is cool if you're a kid...Come Monday however it was very peaceful again."
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Many glamping sites near Sundance are situated on hillsides requiring equipment. "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 an RVer at Iron Creek Lake Campground.
Dump station angles: Several campgrounds have dump stations positioned on slopes, making complete tank emptying difficult. "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," reports an RVer who stayed at Iron Creek.
Site spacing variation: Campground density differs significantly between locations near Sundance. At Elkhorn Ridge RV Resort & Cabins, visitors appreciate that "The spots are great, the service is perfect, and the grounds are well maintained. Prices are reasonable, considering the quality of the resort."
