The Dakotas are home to some of the most sought-after camping destinations in the world. Awesome expanses and rugged wilderness set the scene in the middle of the country for some of the most epic camping adventures there are to be had. Even though you won’t find too many mountain ranges, lighthouses or seascapes, the essence and purity of classic camping is still alive and well.
“The Wall” in South Dakota is undeniable, as it continues its streak of being ranked No. 1 or No. 2 every year The Dyrt has recognized the Best Places to Camp. It remains on top of the 2025 Best Places to Camp in the Central Region list. The Top 5 campgrounds this year are all in the Dakotas, but Texas checks in twice with Stella Mare RV Resort in Galveston and Neches Bluff Overlook Campground in the Davy Crockett National Forest.
Check out these and the rest of this year’s Best Places to Camp Regional Award winners in the Central Region, which are based on reviews and ratings from The Dyrt’s vast community of campers.
1. The Wall — South Dakota
Location: Wall, SD
What makes it great: Camping at “The Wall” is a singular and breathtaking experience for any camper. Located just south of the town of Wall, this free, dispersed camping area provides stunning views of Badlands National Park.
The sites are accessible via a dirt road and there is ample space for various types of camping setups, including RVs, vans and tents. While there are no amenities, campers are rewarded with unparalleled vistas and the opportunity to immerse themselves in the rugged landscape.
Wildlife sightings are common, with bighorn sheep, pronghorn and prairie dogs frequently observed in the area. The night skies are exceptionally dark, making it an ideal location for stargazing. However, it’s only safe to warn visitors to be prepared for very strong winds.
What The Dyrt’s community of campers has to say: “Not just another brick in the wall. Fabulous! Views and several spaces both on the edge of grassland dropping off into the badlands wall and farther back. It was breathtaking.” — Kelly V
“Great views here!! Any car and any size can make it ! Tons of spots and amazing proximity to the park. 100% would recommend. I have stayed here multiple times.” — samuel C
Campground details
Price: Free
Number of sites: Dispersed
RV sites: Yes
Fires allowed: No
Pets allowed: Yes
2. Scoria Pit — North Dakota
Location: Medora, ND
What makes it great: Scoria Pit is another picturesque dispersed camping experience in the Little Missouri National Grassland. This free, first-come, first-served area is another bucket-list item for hardcore campers.
Scoria Pit is known for its stunning views, especially from elevated spots that offer panoramic vistas. Campers can enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings, with the occasional presence of wildlife such as bison and prairie dogs. The site is easily accessible via a gravel road, though some areas may be challenging for larger vehicles due to uneven terrain.
The site’s natural beauty and solitude make you forget about amenities and it’s a no-brainer favorite among boondockers.
What The Dyrt’s community of campers has to say: “Stunning views in every direction and plenty of spots to choose from once you turn onto the gravel/dirt road.” — Ellery K
“So Many Great Spots. Easy access on a gravel road all the way to the top of the bluff. We opted to park at one of the first few pull out spots but saw several campers all along the road up to and on the bluff itself.” — Darlene
Campground details
Price: Free
Number of sites: Dispersed
RV sites: Yes
Fires allowed: No
Pets allowed: Yes
3. Buffalo Gap — South Dakota
Location: Hot Springs, SD
What makes it great: Continuing with the theme of the Central Region is this dispersed camping area in Buffalo Gap National Grassland. What awaits campers is a serene, off-grid experience amidst the rugged beauty of South Dakota.
This expansive 600,000-acre area of free, dispersed camping is ideal for self-sufficient campers seeking solitude. The terrain features rolling prairies, dramatic buttes and panoramic vistas, perfect for stargazing and wildlife viewing. Visitors often spot bison, pronghorn and coyotes, with the occasional black-footed ferret in prairie dog towns. The area is also known for its rich history and proximity to the Badlands National Park.
While the roads can be challenging — dirt, gravel and sometimes muddy — those who venture in are rewarded with an unparalleled experience. It’s a haven for photographers, hikers and any camper looking to disconnect and immerse themselves in the vast landscape.
What The Dyrt’s community of campers has to say: “Best dispersed camping spot ever!!
Plenty of sites available! Not too far from the national park or from a town. No matter what site you’re at it is breathtaking!!” — Chloe P
“This was our first time dispersed camping so we weren’t sure exactly what to expect. There were lots of campers (probably 20 other cars), but the views are unmatched. Waking up at dawn and watching the sunrise over the Badlands is breathtaking!” — Anastasia W
Campground details
Price: Free
Number of sites: Dispersed
RV sites: Yes
Fires allowed: Yes
Pets allowed: Yes
4. Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park Campground — North Dakota
Location: Mandan, ND
What makes it great: Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park Campground offers a rich blend of history, natural beauty and modern amenities, making it a top destination for campers in the middle of the country.
Situated along the Missouri and Heart rivers, the campground has nearly 100 sites equipped with water and electric hookups, picnic tables, fire rings and, for the first time on this list, access to restrooms and showers. For those interested in equestrian camping, the park offers four primitive sites with horse corrals. Additionally, two seasonal cabins are available, each featuring beds, electricity, heat, air conditioning and a small refrigerator.
The park’s extensive trail system, spanning 19 miles, caters to hikers, bikers and horseback riders, offering scenic views of the surrounding woodlands and prairies. Visitors can explore historical sites such as the On-A-Slant Indian Village and the reconstructed Custer House.
What The Dyrt’s community of campers has to say: “Stayed at Fort Abraham Lincoln 3 nights last June. Beautiful park on the Missouri River. Campground was clean and quiet. Nice shower house. Large, level sites. Fort Abraham Lincoln was General Custer’s headquarters before he left for the Little Big Horn. Lots of hiking and history and wildlife.” — Joel R
“Planning a hike to Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park in North Dakota motivated me to learn more about the diverse landscapes and natural wonders of the U.S. national parks. It is remarkable to see the diversity of environments protected in these parks, from rugged mountains to vast deserts and dense forests.” — Stephen C
Campground details
Price: $15-$85
Number of sites: 95
RV sites: Yes
Fires allowed: Yes
Pets allowed: Yes
5. Big Pine Campground — South Dakota
Location: Custer, SD
What makes it great: Big Pine Campground is set among towering ponderosa pines in the southwest corner of the state, just minutes from the Black Hills’ top attractions. It offers spacious, shaded sites and caters to primitive tent campers and RVers, with a few cabins thrown in for good measure.
Amenities include clean restrooms, showers, laundry facilities, Wi-Fi, playgrounds and a game room. Guests have reported well-maintained grounds and the reviews indicate a friendly, helpful staff who go the extra mile to ensure a pleasant stay.
The location offers easy access to nearby attractions like Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial and Custer State Park, making it an ideal base camp for exploration. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Big Pine is a great alternative to the many of the better-known dispersed options in the Dakotas.
What The Dyrt’s community of campers has to say: “Friendly staff, spacious sites in the forest. We had site 59, which was one of the best sites for RVs. It backed up to national forest land, where we saw deer. No road noise at back of campground, very peaceful.” — Marci S
“A great place to spend a week. We had a great time at this campsite. It is well kept. Full hook-ups and clean. There is so much around there to do. The hosts are very friendly and caring.” — Judy J
Campground details
Price: $27
Number of sites: 24
RV sites: Yes
Fires allowed: Yes
Pets allowed: Yes
6. Stella Mare RV Resort — Texas
Location: Galveston, TX
What makes it great: Stella Mare RV Resort offers a premier beachfront camping experience on the southeast coast of the Lone Star State. Situated just steps from the Gulf, the resort features spacious, full-hookup RV sites with 70-90 ft concrete pads, 30/50-amp service, and high-speed Wi-Fi.
Amenities include a heated outdoor pool, the island city’s largest splash pad, a hot tub, and a 3,000-square-foot observation deck with panoramic views of the ocean and the bay. Guests can enjoy the Tiki Hut, community fire rings, BBQ grills, and two dog parks.
The resort hosts weekly events like crafts, bingo and holiday parades, ensuring fun for all ages. With easy beach access and everything Galveston has to offer nearby, Stella Mare is perfect for families, snowbirds and beach lovers seeking a blend of comfort and adventure.
What The Dyrt’s community of campers has to say: “This place did not disappoint. Amazing all around! A lot of activities for the little ones and the pool was really nice and heated! There was even a couple residents that got out some kites and bubbles for the kids!” — John P
“We stayed at Stella Mare for 2 months while working a project. Could not be happier. The lots are reasonably spacious and everything is clean, clean, clean!” — Michelle G
Campground details
Price: $39-$595
Number of sites: 195
RV sites: Yes
Fires allowed: Yes
Pets allowed: Yes
7. Hackberry Hollow Campground — Indian Cave State Park — Nebraska
Location: Shubert, NE
What makes it great: Hackberry Hollow Campground is an immersive camping experience within Indian Cave State Park in southeastern Nebraska. The campground amidst the Missouri River bluffs features 47 campsites, including 32 Electric Plus and 15 Electric pad sites.
Hikers and bikers will appreciate the park’s 22 miles of scenic trails, which wind through majestic hardwood forests and offer breathtaking views of the river. The historic Indian Cave, adorned with prehistoric petroglyphs, is a notable attraction, accessible via a newly constructed ADA-compliant boardwalk.
What The Dyrt’s community of campers has to say: “Nice quiet park with lots of family activities. The camping spots were mostly wide with 30/50 power hookups. Paved parking pads made leveling the camper easy. All the park staff we interacted with were very friendly. We hiked, biked, played disc golf, and practiced our archery.” — Edward K
“I saw that their hiking trails were challenging. I got two dogs and love a challenge. The views, the scenery made you feel like you got away from civilization.” — Kalab R
Campground details
Price: $25-$30
Number of sites: 47
RV sites: Yes
Fires allowed: Yes
Pets allowed: Yes
8. Neches Bluff Overlook Campground — Davy Crockett National Forest — Texas
Location: Weches, TX
What makes it great: Neches Bluff Overlook Campground is a free, dispersed campground in the Davy Crockett National Forest. This first-come, first-served spot is a peaceful retreat with minimal amenities, making it ideal for campers seeking simple solitude and beauty.
The area is known for its tranquil atmosphere, with campers often praising the quiet surroundings and the stunning trees that provide a lovely backdrop. Pitch your tent or park your RV wherever you find a suitable spot and create your own adventure.
When you need a break from the laid-back serenity of Neches Bluff, the campground serves as a gateway to the 4-C Trail, perfect for immersing oneself in the local flora and fauna. Whether you’re a solo adventurer or camping with friends, this campground is a great choice for a peaceful getaway in the heart of Texas.
What The Dyrt’s community of campers has to say: “There was a creek nearby that we hiked up and down, even found what appeared to be a natural spring feeding the creek. We used the creek as our water supply, and the water was delicious. Lots of cool rocks, and even found a couple snail shells. 10/10 would definitely go again and explore more. The overlook is so pretty, and honestly, this place gave us the perfect camping experience.” — Rachel H
“Love this location everything was so simple nothing extra just simple relaxing camping and beautiful scenery.” — Austin B
Campground details
Price: Free
Number of sites: Dispersed
RV sites: Yes
Fires allowed: Yes
Pets allowed: Yes
9. Territory Route 66 RV Park & Campgrounds — Oklahoma
Location: Hinton, OK
What makes it great: The biggest selling point for Territory Route 66 RV Park & Campgrounds is its location. It’s a charming and convenient stop for travelers exploring the historic Route 66, quite possibly America’s most famous road.
Situated just off I-40, the park provides easy access while maintaining a peaceful atmosphere. The campground features 18 well-maintained pristine RV sites, including pull-through options, all equipped with full hookups, picnic tables and fire rings.
Reviews mention the friendly and accommodating hosts, Danny and Carol, who are often on-site to greet visitors and share local insights. The park’s location offers beautiful vistas and a chance to experience a bit of Americana.
What The Dyrt’s community of campers has to say: “Lots of grassy areas to walk the dogs. This campground is on farm land and in beautiful countryside. It’s very peaceful and relatively quiet considering it’s right on the old Route 66. Just a little traffic noise every now and then. Would definitely stay here again if in the area.” — Debbie J
“Small campground. Easy to find and park. Host is extremely helpful for directions and park amenities. Level gravel sites. A+” — Gary S
Campground details
Price: $15-$39
Number of sites: 18
RV sites: Yes
Fires allowed: Yes
Pets allowed: Yes
10. Wilson State Park Campground — Kansas
Location: Sylvan Grove, KS
What makes it great: Wilson State Park is a standout camping destination in the Sunflower State. Situated along the rugged shoreline of Wilson Reservoir, the park provides campers with picturesque lake views and a variety of recreational activities.
The campground features a range of accommodations, including full-hookup RV sites, tent sites and rustic cabins. Simple amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings and access to well-maintained facilities make this a leveled-up state park experience.
Outdoor activities abound, with opportunities for fishing, boating, hiking and mountain biking. The 25.5-mile Switchgrass Trail is a highlight for mountain bikers, offering challenging terrain and stunning views. Anglers can enjoy fishing for a variety of species in the reservoir.
What The Dyrt’s community of campers has to say: “Like an Oasis. BEAUTIFUL views!!! Very windy but worth it for water front. We stayed in a loop alone that could have had 3 other sites, next to beach access.” — Betsy T
“Fantastic site for the active camper! Stayed two nights at Wilson State Park on our way from Georgia to Alaska. We were so pleasantly surprised! Several campsites to choose from, each offering different (but equally beautiful) views & amenities. Tons of hiking and biking trails.” — Brian T
Campground details
Price: $10-$140
Number of sites: 208
RV sites: Yes
Fires allowed: Yes
Pets allowed: Yes