Days of 76 Campground in Deadwood offers more than just horse facilities. Located at 4,500 feet elevation in the northern Black Hills, this gravel campground serves as a practical base for equestrians looking to explore the region's extensive trail systems. Several sites accommodate both horse trailers and camping vehicles simultaneously.
What to do
Trout fishing access: Multiple campgrounds feature creek or lake access for fishing. Iron Creek Lake Campground offers prime trout fishing opportunities. "Great Trout, and even some Bass fishing," notes Russ N., who describes it as a "Beautiful Mountain Lake. Wildlife all around."
ATV and trail riding: Many horse campgrounds near Sundance, Wyoming connect directly to trail systems. According to a visitor at Whistler Gulch Campground, "We have a larger side by side, so when I called they made sure that we would have a spot to fit that too."
Historic site exploration: Fort Meade Horse Camp provides a base for exploring regional history. Travis A. notes recent changes: "It use to be free camping after October. They have raised the price to $30 a day, per site." The camp offers direct access to historic military grounds.
What campers like
Creek-side camping: Equestrian campers appreciate water features at many sites. Black Fox Campground stands out with its creek access. Jacob T. shares: "Lovely streams flow around the camp. 9 spots that are a little small and a little unlevel... Lots of OHVs driving around. Despite all that I really enjoyed our stay there."
Downtown accessibility: For riders wanting town amenities after trail time, Whistler Gulch offers transportation options. B M. explains: "You can trolley from the campground into town Deadwood it's $1.00 each way. Some trolley drivers are so funny they seem to have a good time."
Natural solitude: Several equestrian camps offer isolation despite their proximity to towns. Hope H. says of Black Fox Campground: "Nestled up in the beautiful Black Hills of South Dakota, Black Fox is our 'go to' campground because of how small it is. 8-10 sites that are spread out so you're not right beside other campers."
What you should know
Water limitations: Many horse campgrounds have restricted water access. At High Country Guest Ranch, riders need to plan water usage carefully. Black Fox Campground has even fewer amenities: "No water, no trash, no cell service. Please pack out your trash," warns Leslie B.
Seasonal changes: Weather and conditions vary dramatically by season. Iron Creek Lake Campground visitor Abigail C. notes: "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."
Terrain challenges: Uneven ground affects many horse camping areas. Aaron S. advises about Iron Creek Lake: "There are many sites here on a hill, so depending on what you get, you may be in for a tricky parking situation with a longer trailer."
Tips for camping with families
Lake activities: Besler's Cadillac Ranch offers water activities for kids when not trail riding. At nearby Iron Creek Lake, Aaron S. reports: "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."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Plan morning wildlife spotting with children. Hope H. shares that around Black Fox Campground, "Not only will you be able to enjoy nature, but you will see elk, deer, turkey and if your lucky, a mountain lion!"
Pool access for hot days: After dusty trail rides, some campgrounds offer cooling options. Danae P. describes Whistler Gulch: "We had a great site close to the pool. The pool was clean and not busy. Our kids wanted to spend all day everyday there."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling preparation: RVers with horse trailers should bring leveling equipment. Hannah P. warns about Iron Creek Lake: "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: Plan tank management carefully. Aaron S. notes at Hay Creek Ranch: "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."
Avoiding weekend crowds: Horse campers should time visits carefully. Hannah P. advises: "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."
