From cool, rocky creeks perfect for splashing and fishing, to epic dispersed camping in the Badlands, don’t sleep on the Great Plains as a go-to camping destination. Explore a maze of unique caves in Iowa, whether you’re a first-time hiker or a seasoned spelunker. See the brilliance of the stars like never before with a guided night sky viewing at Sage Creek Campground in South Dakota. And definitely don’t miss the opportunity to pitch a tent or park your rig where the bison roam — literally! It doesn’t matter if you’re just passing through or making a beeline for this awesome area, the Great Plains offers some unique camping experiences you won’t find anywhere else. This list of The Dyrt campers’ favorites is a good place to start.
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1. “The Wall” in Buffalo Gap National Grasslands — South Dakota
Image from The Dyrt camper Caleb C.
You will find “The Wall” scribbled atop the bucket lists of many seasoned boondockers and dispersed campers. Located right outside Badlands National Park in the Buffalo Gap National Grasslands, “The Wall” is No. 1 on our list for a reason. From a slice of land that feels like it’s all yours, enjoy dramatic sunsets from your ridgeline view looking down at the rock spires and layered formations that are iconic to Badlands. Watch the native big-horn sheep graze on the edge of the ridge as you make breakfast, and then head into Badlands National Park for a day of hiking. This is the perfect campground for the camper that prefers the wild side of things. The best part? This campground is completely free and has room for everyone while still feeling peaceful and spacious.
Fifteen minutes from “The Wall” is the historic Wall Drug known for, well, their free ice water. Besides their iconic ice water, you can stop at Wall Drug for a handmade donut, a walk around their western art gallery or a hearty meal!
Campground Details:
- Price: Free
- Number of sites: Dispersed
- RV sites: yes
- Fires allowed: yes
- Pets allowed: yes
2. Blue Bell Campground — South Dakota
Image from The Dyrt camper Shari G.
Pitch your tents under the aromatic ponderosa pines of Blue Bell Campground. Located in South Dakota’s Custer State Park, this campground sports 31 modern campsites and 23 cabins. A charming western-style lodge is also located here. The campground is known for its outstanding amenities, which include hayrides and chuckwagon cookouts, a full-service restaurant, fishing licenses, a laundry facility and a convenience store. Get the peace and quiet of nature without sacrificing the comforts! Activities near camp include horseback riding and hiking along the granite peak-filled landscape or trout fishing in the crystal clear waters.
Don’t leave your cowboy hat at home! The Blue Bell Lodge has horses on-site and offers riding and all-day horseback trips led by real-life cowboys.
Campground Details:
- Price: $15-55
- Number of sites: 54
- RV sites: yes
- Fires allowed: yes
- Pets allowed: yes
3. Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park — Missouri
Image from The Dyrt camper Erica B.
Splash around in the pristine blue waters of the East Fork Black River or hike around some of Missouri’s most stunning rocky creeks and wide-open valleys. Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park is “unmatchable,” according to camper Amanda H., offering “Gorgeous views [and] a clear and well cared for river.” Camping at the park provides quick access to water activities and trails, while still offering the convenience of a campground store for supplies.
The campground’s “water park” is created by a series of shut-ins, areas where the river is narrowed by hard, erosion-resistant rock that creates little pools and canyon-like gorges.
Campground Details:
- Price: $11-32
- Number of sites: 80
- RV sites: yes
- Fires allowed: no
- Pets allowed: yes
4. Cottonwood Campground — North Dakota
Image from The Dyrt camper Diane N.
Spend the night in the rugged landscape of Theodore Roosevelt National Park at Cottonwood Campground. Filled with its namesake cottonwood trees that turn a stunning golden color in the fall, Cottonwood is a portal to the park’s 70 miles of hiking trails and famed wildlife viewing opportunities. More than 180 types of birds and many large mammals, like bison and feral horses, can be spotted near camp grazing or taking a sip from the scenic Little Missouri River. The summers can get quite hot in the park, making the river a great place to cool off from a day of hiking and exploring.
Hoping to see a bison up close and personal? Camper Keith M. has some advice: “By far the best part of our site (17) was that we had bison walk behind our site once in the morning and then again at dinner time. They were no bother to us one bit, but it was such a cool experience to watch them walk right on by our tent. I highly recommend a campsite on the outer edge of the grounds for this reason.”
Campground Details:
- Price: $7-30
- Number of sites: 75
- RV sites: yes
- Fires allowed: no
- Pets allowed: yes
5. Sage Creek Campground — South Dakota
Image from The Dyrt camper Tara S.
One of two established campgrounds in Badlands National Park, Sage Creek Campground is the perfect base camp for enjoying all the park has to offer. This free, first-come, first-served campground provides unbeatable stargazing and sunrise/sunset views over the unique, rocky landscape of Badlands. Guided night sky viewings are offered right at the park! Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just getting started, Badlands National Park’s wide selection of trails are sure to scratch your hiking itch. Hike to the iconic ladder on the Notch Trail for epic views of the White River Valley Overlook or opt for the Fossil Exhibit Trail to learn about extinct prehistoric creatures that once inhabited the area.
We have great news for those interested in viewing wildlife — prairie dogs abound around the camp and can provide great entertainment right from your tent! Bison also frequent the area and can be viewed near (or in) the campground.
Campground Details:
- Price: Free
- Number of sites: 22
- RV sites: yes
- Fires allowed: no
- Pets allowed: yes
6. Smith Falls State Park — Nebraska
Image from The Dyrt camper Jordan H.
Whether you plan to float the river or check out Nebraska’s tallest waterfall, camping at Smith Falls State Park won’t disappoint. A popular take-out spot for canoers and kayakers after a long trip, campsites can be found right on the water. Let the sound of the flowing water lull you to sleep under the stars. A day on the Niobrara National Scenic River offers spectacular views of the area’s lush landscape. Watercraft can be rented at outfitters near the park.
More adventurous horseback riders and mountain bikers can enjoy the 195 miles of the Cowboy Recreation and Nature Trail, which has its start near Smith Falls. The section of the trail that follows along the Niobrara offers especially great views!
Campground Details:
- Price: $15
- Number of sites: 70
- RV sites: yes
- Fires allowed: yes
- Pets allowed: yes
7. Elk Mountain Campground — South Dakota
Image from The Dyrt camper Kim N.
Located in Wind Cave National Park, Elk Mountain Campground offers a choice of first-come, first-served sites either in the open prairie or surrounded by ponderosa pine forest. Catch a glimpse of Rocky Mountain elk, which roam the Black Hills surrounding the campground. Compared to the reservable campgrounds nearby, Elk Mountain can provide some peace and quiet with quick access to Wind Cave. Take it from camper Lori T., “It was one of the quietest campgrounds we’ve stayed at and is in a great location to explore the area.”
The Elk Mountain Campground amphitheater offers a variety of ranger programs that are great for all ages. From educational tours to see the Rocky Mountain elk to junior ranger lessons, the park’s programs are worth checking out!
Campground Details:
- Price: $18-24
- Number of sites: 61
- RV sites: yes
- Fires allowed: yes
- Pets allowed: yes
8. Maquoketa Caves State Park — Iowa
Image from The Dyrt camper Nancy B.
A sought-after destination for spelunkers and hikers alike, Maquoketa Caves State Park offers a truly unique camping experience! Usually busy with outdoor enthusiasts flocking to the park’s 13 caves during the day, camping at Maquoketa Caves gives you the feeling of having the park to yourself. The campground is small and located within walking distance of some of the park’s best caves. With 370 acres of park to explore, it can be hard to decide how to spend your day. Take it from camper Brett F., “You really can’t go wrong with any trail or cave. The kids enjoyed hiking between Lower- and Upper-Dancehall Caves. The trail goes underground and through some water. Window Cave was also a hit. You can climb up about 5-7 feet and out the ‘window.’ The kids felt like real spelunkers!”
Be sure to check out the six-mile trail system which stops by many rock formations, caves and scenic overlooks, offering spectacular views across the park!
Campground Details:
- Price: $25
- Number of sites: 30
- RV sites: yes
- Fires allowed: yes
- Pets allowed: yes
9. Pulltite Campground — Missouri
Image from The Dyrt camper Bryan F.
With over 130 miles of waterways surrounding Pulltite Campground, it’d be hard to find a better summer camping destination. Tubing, canoeing, swimming and fishing are all popular activities to enjoy in the pristine rivers that flow through camp. Once you’ve had your fill of water activities, you can explore one of the area’s 300 caves or go for a hike along one of the many nearby trails. The campground is managed by the National Park Service, so you can rest easy (literally) knowing quiet hours are enforced.
Canoes are available from Current River Canoe Rental located in the campground. Be sure to reserve your rentals ahead of your trip to ensure availability.
Campground Details:
- Price: $20 – $140
- Number of sites: 54
- RV sites: yes
- Fires allowed: yes
- Pets allowed: yes
10. Cuivre River State Park — Missouri
Image from The Dyrt camper Maria E.
In stark contrast to the rolling farmland that you see across much of Missouri, Cuivre River State Park features rugged limestone bluffs and dense forest. Despite being a short drive from St. Louis, nature lovers have plenty of reasons to extend their visit overnight at the park’s campground. In the summers go for a swim in Lake Lincoln, or visit in the spring to see the magnificent dogwood blooms. With the choice between primitive, electric and platform campsites, you can camp at your desired level of comfort!
Booking is now available at Cuivre River State Park up to 12 months out, perfect for those that like to plan ahead!
Campground Details:
- Price: $12 – $38
- Number of sites: 50
- RV sites: yes
- Fires allowed: yes
- Pets allowed: yes
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