20 Best Places to go Camping in South Dakota

Discover the untamed wilderness of South Dakota’s camping havens. From picturesque landscapes to secluded getaways, we’ve curated the ultimate list of the 20 best places to go camping in South Dakota. Get ready to embark on an adventure like no other, where nature’s embrace and thrilling experiences await.

Overall Top 4 Camping Locations

Custer State Park – Sylvan Lake

Located in the scenic Black Hills of South Dakota, Custer State Park offers nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers an unforgettable camping experience at Sylvan Lake Campground. Nestled amidst towering pine trees and rugged granite peaks, this campground provides a serene and picturesque setting. The highlight of Sylvan Lake Campground is its proximity to the stunning Sylvan Lake, where campers can enjoy various water activities such as swimming, kayaking, and fishing.

The campground offers a range of campsites, including tent sites, RV sites, and cabins, ensuring there is an accommodation option to suit every camper’s preference. With well-maintained trails weaving through the park, visitors can explore the surrounding natural beauty by hiking or biking. Wildlife enthusiasts will be delighted to encounter abundant wildlife, including bison, deer, and bighorn sheep, adding to the allure of this exceptional camping destination.

Amenities Available:

Fire pits and picnic tables at each campsite
Drinking water and accessible restrooms
Electrical hookups for RVs
Showers and laundry facilities
Playground for children
Camp store for supplies and souvenirs
Interpretive programs and guided hikes
Access to the stunning Sylvan Lake for swimming and fishing

Badlands National Park – Cedar Pass

Nestled within the rugged terrain of Badlands National Park in South Dakota, Cedar Pass Campground provides a unique and awe-inspiring camping experience. Surrounded by the otherworldly rock formations and mesmerizing geological features of the Badlands, campers can immerse themselves in the park’s unparalleled beauty. The campground offers a range of campsites, including tent sites and RV sites, allowing visitors to choose their preferred camping style.

As the sun sets, the dramatic landscape transforms into a magical sight, making it a perfect spot for stargazing and astrophotography. During the day, hikers can explore the park’s numerous trails, which lead to stunning vistas and opportunities to observe the park’s diverse wildlife, including bison, prairie dogs, and bighorn sheep. With its unique geological formations, rich fossil beds, and a visitor center providing educational resources, Cedar Pass Campground offers a captivating camping adventure for nature lovers and geology enthusiasts alike.

Amenities Available:

Scenic campsites with picnic tables and fire rings
Accessible restrooms and potable water
Dump station for RVs
Tent pads and shade shelters
Ranger-led interpretive programs and guided walks
Access to hiking trails with stunning views
Camp store for basic supplies and souvenirs
Amphitheater for evening programs and stargazing sessions

Black Hills National Forest – Horsethief Lake

Nestled within the majestic Black Hills National Forest of South Dakota, Horsethief Lake Campground offers campers a serene and nature-filled camping experience. Surrounded by towering Ponderosa pine trees and nestled along the shores of Horsethief Lake, this campground provides a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

The campground offers a variety of camping options, including tent sites, RV sites, and group camping areas. Outdoor enthusiasts can indulge in a range of recreational activities, such as hiking, fishing, and boating on the lake. With its scenic beauty and abundant wildlife, including deer, elk, and wild turkeys, Horsethief Lake Campground is a haven for nature lovers seeking a tranquil camping getaway.

Amenities Available:

Campsites with fire rings and picnic tables
Accessible vault toilets and drinking water
Boat ramp and fishing pier on Horsethief Lake
Hiking and biking trails through the forest
Group picnic shelters and group camping areas
Wildlife viewing opportunities
Interpretive programs and nature talks
Dump station for RVs

Spearfish Canyon – Spearfish Canyon

Nestled in the picturesque Black Hills of South Dakota, Spearfish Canyon Campground offers campers a tranquil and scenic camping experience. Surrounded by the lush beauty of Spearfish Canyon, this campground provides a perfect escape for those seeking solace in nature. Campers can choose from a variety of campsites, including tent sites and RV sites, with options for both primitive and electric hookups.

The campground is situated near the Spearfish Creek, offering opportunities for fishing and relaxation by the water’s edge. Hiking enthusiasts can explore the nearby trails, which wind through the canyon’s stunning cliffs, waterfalls, and dense forest. With its enchanting beauty, abundant wildlife, and access to outdoor recreation, Spearfish Canyon Campground is an idyllic destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Amenities Available:

Scenic campsites with picnic tables and fire rings
Drinking water and vault toilets
Electric hookups for RVs
Hiking trails with breathtaking views
Fishing opportunities in Spearfish Creek
Campfire programs and storytelling sessions
Access to swimming areas in the creek
Wildlife watching opportunities

4 Best Campgrounds

Legion Lake Campground – Custer State Park

Legion Lake Campground is a picturesque camping destination nestled within the enchanting Custer State Park. Surrounded by towering pine trees and serene waters, this campground offers a truly immersive outdoor experience. With its convenient location near Legion Lake, campers can indulge in a variety of water-based activities, such as fishing, kayaking, and swimming.

The campground provides spacious and well-maintained campsites, allowing visitors to set up tents or park their RVs with ease. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the abundance of wildlife in the area, including deer, elk, and bison, offering an opportunity for memorable wildlife sightings. Legion Lake Campground also features modern amenities such as clean restroom facilities, picnic areas, and fire pits, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable camping adventure.

Amenities Available:

Campfire rings for cozy evenings
Picnic tables for outdoor dining
Drinking water spigots throughout the campground
Restroom facilities with flush toilets and showers
RV dump station for convenient waste disposal
Access to Legion Lake for swimming and water activities
Hiking trails to explore the surrounding natural beauty
Nearby fishing spots for angling enthusiasts

Roubaix Lake Campground – Black Hills National Forest

Situated in the heart of the scenic Black Hills National Forest, Roubaix Lake Campground offers a tranquil camping experience surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. Campers seeking a peaceful retreat will find solace in the campground’s serene atmosphere and picturesque setting.

The campground boasts well-spaced campsites, providing campers with privacy and seclusion. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife photography, as the area is home to diverse flora and fauna. Roubaix Lake Campground features basic amenities like vault toilets and picnic tables, ensuring a comfortable stay amidst nature’s embrace.

Amenities Available:

Scenic hiking trails with panoramic views
Picnic tables for outdoor dining and relaxation
Vault toilets for basic restroom needs
Access to Roubaix Lake for fishing and boating
Fire rings for campfires and s’mores
Ample parking spaces for vehicles and RVs
Wildlife viewing opportunities
Peaceful and secluded camping sites for privacy

Horsethief Lake Campground – Black Hills National Forest

Nestled within the captivating Black Hills National Forest, Horsethief Lake Campground is a hidden gem for camping enthusiasts. Surrounded by towering pines and rugged rock formations, this campground offers a unique and awe-inspiring setting.

Campers can embark on scenic hikes and explore the trails that wind through the forest, offering glimpses of wildlife and breathtaking vistas. Horsethief Lake, located nearby, provides opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and swimming, perfect for those seeking aquatic adventures. The campground itself offers well-maintained campsites with picnic tables and fire pits, allowing visitors to relax and unwind in the peaceful ambiance of nature.

Amenities Available:

Campfire rings with cooking grates for outdoor cooking
Picnic tables for enjoying meals in nature
Clean restroom facilities with flush toilets
Drinking water spigots conveniently located throughout the campground
Access to Horsethief Lake for swimming and water activities
Hiking trails with scenic views and wildlife spotting
Convenient parking spaces for vehicles and RVs
Interpretive programs and educational activities for campers

Iron Creek Campground – Black Hills National Forest

Tucked away in the majestic Black Hills National Forest, Iron Creek Campground beckons nature enthusiasts and campers alike. With its peaceful atmosphere and idyllic surroundings, this campground offers an ideal retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The campground features well-shaded and spacious campsites, allowing visitors to set up tents or park their RVs comfortably.

Hiking trails meander through the forest, providing opportunities for explorations and encounters with local wildlife. Fishing enthusiasts will find solace in the nearby Iron Creek, where they can cast their lines in search of trout. Iron Creek Campground also offers basic amenities like vault toilets and picnic tables, ensuring a pleasant and hassle-free camping experience.

Amenities Available:

Vault toilets for basic restroom needs
Picnic tables for outdoor dining and relaxation
Fire rings for cozy campfires
Easy access to Iron Creek for fishing
Scenic hiking trails for nature walks
Ample space for tents and RVs
Drinking water available at designated areas
Tranquil and serene camping atmosphere

4 Free Camping Locations

Buffalo Gap National Grassland – Sage Creek

Nestled within the expansive Buffalo Gap National Grassland, Sage Creek Campground offers a tranquil and rustic camping experience amidst the captivating beauty of the South Dakota prairie. This primitive campground is known for its serene atmosphere and picturesque surroundings. As you venture into the grassland, you’ll be greeted by breathtaking views of rolling hills, vast grassy plains, and the rugged Badlands formations in the distance.

Sage Creek Campground provides a unique opportunity to disconnect from the modern world and immerse yourself in the untamed wilderness. It is an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts, photographers, and those seeking solitude and serenity. Be prepared for a true primitive camping experience, as there are no designated campsites or amenities provided, allowing you to choose your own spot and fully embrace the freedom of the great outdoors.

Amenities Available:

Pit toilets
Picnic tables
Fire rings (bring your own firewood)
Accessible hiking trails
Wildlife viewing opportunities
Stargazing
Fishing in nearby streams and lakes
Off-road vehicle trails

Angostura Recreation Area – Horsehead Bay

Situated on the shores of the beautiful Angostura Reservoir in southwestern South Dakota, Horsehead Bay Campground is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and water lovers. This well-maintained campground offers a mix of primitive and modern campsites, allowing campers to choose the level of comfort that suits them best.

With its sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and scenic surroundings, the Angostura Recreation Area is a haven for boating, fishing, swimming, and other water activities. The campground provides a range of amenities to ensure a pleasant and enjoyable stay for campers of all ages, making it an excellent choice for families and groups looking for a fun-filled outdoor adventure.

Amenities Available:

Electrical and non-electrical campsites
Modern restrooms and showers
Dump station
Playground for children
Beach access for swimming and sunbathing
Boat ramps and marina for watercraft launching
Fishing piers and cleaning stations
Hiking and biking trails

Pactola Reservoir – Pactola

Nestled amidst the scenic Black Hills of South Dakota, Pactola Campground offers a peaceful and picturesque camping experience near the breathtaking Pactola Reservoir. Surrounded by towering pine trees and stunning granite cliffs, this campground is an idyllic retreat for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

The crystal-clear waters of the reservoir beckon visitors to partake in a variety of recreational activities, including boating, fishing, kayaking, and swimming. With its serene ambiance and proximity to nature, Pactola Campground is the perfect destination for those seeking a balance between tranquility and adventure.

Amenities Available:

Spacious campsites with picnic tables and fire rings
Drinking water
Restrooms with flush toilets
Showers
Dump station
Boat ramps for easy access to the reservoir
Fishing opportunities for trout, salmon, and other species
Hiking trails that offer stunning vistas of the surrounding landscape
Wildlife watching, including opportunities to spot deer, elk, and various bird species

Bear Butte State Park

Tucked away in the rolling prairie of western South Dakota, Bear Butte State Park is a unique camping destination centered around the majestic Bear Butte, a sacred landmark for Native American tribes. The campground offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural significance, and outdoor recreation.

As you explore the park, you’ll be captivated by the towering butte, covered in lush vegetation, and providing panoramic views of the surrounding plains. The campground provides a range of amenities, making it an excellent choice for both nature enthusiasts and history buffs, who can learn about the cultural and spiritual significance of Bear Butte while immersing themselves in its serene atmosphere.

Amenities Available:

Shaded campsites with picnic tables and fire rings
Restrooms with flush toilets
Potable water
Interpretive trails that showcase the cultural and natural history of Bear Butte
Picnic areas for enjoying meals surrounded by scenic beauty
Wildlife watching opportunities, including sightings of deer, eagles, and other native species
Access to the visitor center, offering exhibits and information about the park
Educational programs and guided hikes led by park rangers
Quiet and peaceful ambiance for meditation and reflection.

4 Best RV Parks

Hart Ranch Camping Resort – Rapid City

Hart Ranch Camping Resort is a premier camping destination located in Rapid City, South Dakota. Nestled in the picturesque Black Hills, this resort offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and modern amenities. The campground provides a variety of camping options, including spacious RV sites, cozy cabins, and tent sites for those who prefer a more rustic experience.

Surrounded by stunning landscapes, campers can enjoy breathtaking views and explore the nearby hiking trails, wildlife, and natural wonders. The resort offers a range of recreational activities such as swimming pools, tennis courts, and a golf course, ensuring that visitors of all ages have a memorable stay. With its convenient location near Rapid City, campers can also explore the vibrant city and visit popular attractions like Mount Rushmore and Badlands National Park.

Amenities Available:

Full hook-up RV sites
Tent sites with fire rings and picnic tables
Cozy cabins with modern facilities
Wi-Fi access throughout the campground
Swimming pools and hot tubs for relaxation
Tennis courts and a basketball court for sports enthusiasts
Playground and game room for children
On-site convenience store for essential supplies

Rafter J Bar Ranch – Hill City

Rafter J Bar Ranch, situated in the charming town of Hill City, South Dakota, offers a serene camping experience in the heart of the Black Hills. This family-owned campground provides a tranquil and picturesque setting surrounded by tall pine trees and rolling meadows. Campers can choose from a variety of camping options, including spacious RV sites with full hook-ups, cozy cabins, and tent sites.

Nature lovers will appreciate the abundance of wildlife, scenic hiking trails, and nearby attractions such as Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse Memorial. The campground itself offers plenty of amenities to ensure a comfortable stay, including clean restroom facilities, a camp store, and a friendly staff ready to assist with any needs.

Amenities Available:

RV sites with full hook-ups and picnic tables
Shaded tent sites with access to fire rings and picnic tables
Cozy cabins with modern amenities
Clean and well-maintained restrooms and shower facilities
Camp store offering groceries, camping supplies, and firewood
Pet-friendly environment with a designated dog park
Hiking and biking trails within the campground
Playground for children to enjoy

Big Pine Campground – Custer

Nestled in the beautiful Black Hills of South Dakota, Big Pine Campground is a serene and scenic camping destination located near the town of Custer. This campground offers a peaceful retreat for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike. With its towering pine trees, tranquil atmosphere, and breathtaking views, Big Pine Campground provides a true escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

The campground offers a variety of camping options, including spacious RV sites, tent sites, and cozy cabins, ensuring there’s something for every type of camper. Visitors can indulge in activities like hiking, fishing, and wildlife spotting in the surrounding area, or simply relax and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the campfire under a starlit sky.

Amenities Available:

Spacious RV sites with electric and water hook-ups
Tent sites with picnic tables and fire rings
Cozy cabins with comfortable amenities
Clean restrooms and hot showers
Camp store offering essential supplies and groceries
Picnic areas and barbecue grills for outdoor meals
Hiking trails and nature walks within the campground
Campfire rings for cozy evenings and s’mores

Custer’s Gulch RV Park & Campground – Custer

Custer’s Gulch RV Park & Campground is a popular camping destination nestled in the historic town of Custer, South Dakota. Surrounded by stunning natural beauty and located just minutes away from famous attractions such as Custer State Park and Crazy Horse Memorial, this campground offers an ideal base for exploring the wonders of the Black Hills.

The park provides a range of camping options, including spacious RV sites with full hook-ups, tent sites, and cozy cabins. With its friendly and accommodating staff, Custer’s Gulch RV Park & Campground ensures a comfortable and enjoyable experience for campers of all ages. Whether it’s fishing in nearby lakes, hiking through scenic trails, or simply relaxing by the campfire, visitors will find plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure and relaxation.

Amenities Available:

Full hook-up RV sites with electric, water, and sewer connections
Shaded tent sites with access to picnic tables and fire rings
Cozy cabins with modern amenities
Clean restrooms, showers, and laundry facilities
Camp store offering groceries, camping supplies, and souvenirs
Outdoor recreational area with volleyball and horseshoe pits
Pet-friendly environment with a designated dog park
Campfire rings for cozy evenings and storytelling

4 Best Dispersed Camping Locations

Black Hills National Forest – Nemo Road

Located within the beautiful Black Hills National Forest, Nemo Road Dispersed Camping offers a secluded and serene camping experience for nature enthusiasts. Nestled amidst towering pine trees and rolling hills, this camping area provides a true escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

The camping spots are scattered along Nemo Road, offering ample privacy and a sense of solitude. Campers can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness and immerse themselves in the peaceful sounds of nature. With its proximity to various hiking trails and recreational opportunities, Nemo Road Dispersed Camping is an ideal destination for outdoor adventurers looking to connect with nature.

Amenities Available:

Picnic tables for outdoor dining
Fire rings for cozy campfires
Access to potable water from designated water sources
Vault toilets for convenience
Ample space for tents and small to medium-sized RVs
Nearby hiking trails for exploration
Wildlife viewing opportunities
Peaceful and quiet atmosphere for relaxation

Badlands National Park – Sage Creek

Immerse yourself in the stunning and otherworldly landscapes of Badlands National Park at the Sage Creek Campground. Situated amidst the rugged beauty of the Badlands, this campground offers a unique camping experience in a breathtaking setting. With its primitive and rustic atmosphere, campers can truly connect with the untamed nature surrounding them.

Sage Creek Campground provides a sense of solitude and tranquility, allowing visitors to witness stunning sunsets and star-filled night skies. It’s also home to diverse wildlife, including bison and bighorn sheep, providing campers with remarkable opportunities for wildlife observation.

Amenities Available:

Spacious campsites for tents and small to medium-sized RVs
Fire rings for campfires under the stars
Pit toilets for basic restroom needs
Scenic views of the Badlands landscape
Hiking trails for exploration and photography
Wildlife viewing opportunities, including bison and bighorn sheep
Dark skies for stargazing
Primitive camping experience in a unique setting

Norbeck Wildlife Preserve – Norbeck Overlook

Nestled within the Norbeck Wildlife Preserve, Norbeck Overlook Dispersed Camping provides a secluded and picturesque camping experience for nature lovers. This camping area offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes, including lush forests, rolling meadows, and serene lakes.

Campers can relish the peaceful atmosphere while enjoying the abundance of wildlife that calls the preserve home. Norbeck Overlook Dispersed Camping is an ideal destination for those seeking tranquility and a chance to connect with nature in a pristine and undisturbed setting.

Amenities Available:

Scenic campsites with picturesque views
Fire rings for campfires and cooking
Access to potable water from designated sources
Pit toilets for basic restroom needs
Abundant wildlife viewing opportunities
Hiking trails for exploration and photography
Fishing and boating opportunities in nearby lakes
Serene and peaceful atmosphere for relaxation

Wind Cave National Park – Elk Mountain

Nestled within the scenic landscapes of Wind Cave National Park, Elk Mountain Campground offers a serene and nature-filled camping experience. Surrounded by the park’s unique prairies and Ponderosa pine forests, campers can enjoy the tranquility and natural beauty of the area.

The campground provides easy access to the park’s renowned cave system, offering visitors the chance to explore fascinating underground wonders. With its peaceful atmosphere and proximity to various recreational activities, Elk Mountain Campground is an excellent choice for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

Amenities Available:

Well-maintained campsites for tents and RVs
Fire rings for campfires and cooking
Access to potable water from designated sources
Restrooms with flush toilets and sinks
Picnic tables for outdoor dining
Interpretive programs and ranger-led activities
Hiking trails for exploration and wildlife spotting
Proximity to the Wind Cave National Park visitor center and cave tours
Scenic drives for breathtaking views
Abundant opportunities for birdwatching and photography

In conclusion, South Dakota offers a breathtaking array of natural wonders and outdoor adventures that make it one of the best places to go camping. With its diverse landscapes, from rugged mountains to serene lakes and expansive prairies, the state promises unforgettable camping experiences for outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds.

Whether you seek solitude in the wilderness or prefer family-friendly campgrounds with ample amenities, South Dakota has something to offer. From star-filled nights around crackling campfires to thrilling hikes through picturesque trails, the state’s camping destinations will undoubtedly leave you in awe of its beauty. So pack your camping gear, embrace the spirit of adventure, and embark on a journey to explore the best places to go camping in South Dakota, where unforgettable memories await amidst the great outdoors.