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The best camping in South Dakota

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South Dakota's headline acts need little introduction. This sparsely populated state is home to the most visited national park in the Midwest—Badlands National Park—and one of the most iconic landmarks in the United States—Mount Rushmore. From the craggy peaks of the Black Hills to the vast backcountry of the Great Plains and the banks of the mighty Missouri River, outdoor adventures are easy to find in South Dakota. The main camping season runs from May through October, with midsummer temperatures peaking in the mid-80s, while winters are snowy, especially in the north.

95% (4.5K) 7,573 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in South Dakota

Badlands Hotel & Campground

1. Badlands Hotel & Campground

90%
(165)
Interior, SD · 69 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
A Better Badlands Base Camp Just a mile from the iconic Badlands National Park, our hotel and full-service campground offers a great base camp to explore South Dakota’s Badlands, Black Hills, and the historic small town of Interior. With a variety of rooms, RV sites, and tent sites, we are ideal for couples getaways, family vacations, or traveling groups. We also offer an on-site restaurant, fire pits, and complimentary WiFi. Your Badlands getaway awaits. What are you waiting for?244000
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Uncle B's Produce Farm

2. Uncle B's Produce Farm

100%
(1362)
Monroe, SD · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Awarded South Dakota's best Hip Camp 4 times. Uncle B's farm is a small 11 acre hobby farm with a large vegetable garden, chickens, peafowl, guinea fowl, turkeys, dogs, and cats. There is an old quarried stone railroad bridge and a few short walking trails around the pond. The pond is at the back of the property where I have 6 dry camp sites listed as Uncle B's farm for tents or self contained RV's. All sites have partial to full shade and most have mature trees that will work for a hammock or tensile tent. All of the campsites have a firepit, some with cooking grates and all sites have a picnic table. The "shower shack" is shared by all guests and has 2 separate 3/4 baths with all modern plumbing. There is also a basic outdoor kitchen with a few portable grills as well as a sink with modern plumbing. Available at Uncle B's RV Camper site I have 3 RV sites with water and 30 Amp electrical hookups. My "Ready Set Camp" listing is a dome tent set up and furnished with 4 cots, table, and lamp as well as a match ready fire. The Barn loft apartment is a studio apartment with a small galley kitchen and private bath. The Hippie Bus is new for the 2025 season and offers a trip back in time. Uncle B's farm has been voted Best Hip Camp to see in South Dakota for the 4th time and placed 2nd in the nation in 2022. Come see why...
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Big Pine Campground

3. Big Pine Campground

98%
(417)
Custer, SD · 19 sites · Tents, RVs
These tent sites are located in a campground, bordered by the Black Hills National Forest. While staying here you have access to free hot showers, flush toilets, a dish washing station, a charging stations for electronics, a game room and a laundry room.
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Electrical hookup
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Black Hills National Forest

4. Black Hills National Forest

98%
(51)
National forest in South Dakota · 337 sites
Beyond Mount Rushmore, explore 1.2 million acres of forested mountains.
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Wind Cave National Park

5. Wind Cave National Park

100%
(14)
National park in South Dakota · 77 sites
Explore landscapes above–and below–-ground while camping at Wind Cave National Park.
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Fort Welikit Campground

6. Fort Welikit Campground

97%
(64)
Custer, SD · 30 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Discover the unique charm of our campground, nestled along the picturesque Norbeck Scenic Byway in the heart of the Black Hills. This prime location offers unparalleled access to some of the region's most breathtaking natural wonders, making it an ideal base for your outdoor adventures. Just minutes from our gates, you'll find the serene beauty of Sylvan Lake, the iconic Needles Highway, and the expansive Custer State Park. Our campground serves as a gateway to exhilarating scenic drives that lead you to stunning vistas, including the majestic Mt. Rushmore and the historic town of Deadwood. Explore the awe-inspiring Iron Mountain Road, where every turn reveals new landscapes, or venture to the countless lakes and caves that invite exploration. With a variety of outdoor activities, nearby restaurants, and charming shops, our campground is the perfect destination for those seeking both adventure and relaxation in the captivating Black Hills.
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Horse Creek Resort

7. Horse Creek Resort

97%
(194)
Rapid City, SD · 27 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
theHCresort.com Centrally-located on 18 acres between two of the Hills’ largest and most beautiful lakes, and less than 15 miles from Rapid City and Mount Rushmore, Horse Creek Resort is the perfect creekside oasis for your next adventure. We have our new Roadhouse Restaurant onsite. Walk up for breakfast, lunch, or a great steak dinner, or even a mixed adult beverage. We have it all! The resort is located off Highway 385, the main thoroughfare through the Black Hills National Forest, yet is peacefully nestled in a quiet valley, completely surrounded by national forestland with a tranquil year-round creek meandering throughout the property. Rock outcroppings, hiking trails and offroad trails are within footsteps of every cabin. The serene space is an outdoor sanctuary centrally-located within 20 miles of Custer State Park, Crazy Horse Memorial, Needles Eye Tunnel / Highway, and Black Elk Peak. Your adventure will also take you near Hill City, Keystone, Custer, and Historic Deadwood. Drive a little further, and end up in Badlands National Park, Wind Cave National Park, Jewel Cave National Monument, Sturgis, or Devils Tower National Monument.
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Horse Creek Resort RV Sites

8. Horse Creek Resort RV Sites

97%
(247)
Rapid City, SD · 16 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
theHCresort.com Centrally-located on 18 acres between two of the Hills’ largest and most beautiful lakes, and less than 15 miles from Rapid City and Mount Rushmore, Horse Creek Resort is the perfect creekside oasis for your next adventure. We have our new Roadhouse Restaurant onsite. Walk up for breakfast, lunch, or a great steak dinner, or even a mixed adult beverage. We have it all! The resort is located off Highway 385, the main thoroughfare through the Black Hills National Forest, yet is peacefully nestled in a quiet valley, completely surrounded by national forestland with a tranquil year-round creek meandering throughout the property. Rock outcroppings, hiking trails and offroad trails are within footsteps of every cabin. The serene space is an outdoor sanctuary centrally-located within 20 miles of Custer State Park, Crazy Horse Memorial, Needles Eye Tunnel / Highway, and Black Elk Peak. Your adventure will also take you near Hill City, Keystone, Custer, and Historic Deadwood. Drive a little further, and end up in Badlands National Park, Wind Cave National Park, Jewel Cave National Monument, Sturgis, or Devils Tower National Monument. There are 8 open creek side RV sites (Sites 1 -8). You will receive site assignment the day prior to your stay.
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Black Hills & Badlands Sunrise &Set

9. Black Hills & Badlands Sunrise &Set

100%
(50)
Hermosa , SD · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
🌾 Dancing Phoenix Farm | Peaceful Prairie Camping Near the Black Hills and Badlands Only 2 accommodations on 40 peaceful acres of South Dakota prairie. Welcome to Dancing Phoenix Farm—a small prairie retreat offering a quieter, more personal alternative to busy campgrounds and RV parks. Located near Badlands National Park, the Black Hills, Mount Rushmore and Custer State Park, our working farm is a peaceful home base for exploring western South Dakota. Enjoy breathtaking sunrises, unforgettable sunsets, abundant wildlife, and some of the area's darkest skies for incredible stargazing. 🌾 Choose your stay: ARTAX Campsite — Tent, camper, and RV-friendly camping with wide-open prairie views and unforgettable night skies. BADLANDS BUNKHOUSE — Comfortable lodging with modern conveniences, surrounded by the beauty and peacefulness of the South Dakota prairie. 🌾 Traveling together? The BUNKHOUSE and ARTAX are located near one another, making them ideal for families or friends who want different lodging styles, while staying close. Reserve both for your own prairie getaway. When booked separately, guests may occasionally see or hear one another, but we intentionally limit our stays to maintain a peaceful atmosphere. 🌅 Perfect for guests who enjoy: Peaceful prairie views and open spaces. Sunrises, sunsets and dark skies. Stargazing, wildlife and nature photography. A quiet retreat near the Black Hills and Badlands. As a working farm, wildlife is part of the experience. Please respect the land, wildlife, fences and neighboring properties. For everyone's safety, each adult guest must provide a valid government-issued ID and vehicle information when requesting a reservation. If you're seeking a peaceful South Dakota prairie retreat near the Black Hills and Badlands, we'd love to welcome you. 🌾 Two accommodations. Forty acres…Where the prairie meets the sky.
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Custer State Park

10. Custer State Park

89%
(28)
State park in South Dakota · 328 sites
Granite peaks, rolling prairie, and herds of wildlife roam free at this massive South Dakota park.
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Palisades State Park

11. Palisades State Park

100%
(4)
State park in South Dakota · 43 sites
An almost shocking landscape of grandeur and drama awaits you. Kayak, fish, rock-climb, and relax.
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Campfires
Badlands National Park

12. Badlands National Park

98%
(166)
National park in South Dakota · 200 sites
Camp in an otherworldly landscape with unique rock formations.
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Electrical hookup
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Big Sioux Recreation Area

13. Big Sioux Recreation Area

100%
(2)
State park in South Dakota · 52 sites
Discover the natural charm of Big Sioux Recreation Area.
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Campfires
The Specialty Crop

14. The Specialty Crop

100%
(87)
Hudson, SD · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
The Specialty Crop sits on 5 rural acres in the southeastern corner of South Dakota. We are a farmstead committed to sowing a meaningful life for special people, of all abilities. We cultivate community through farm experiences and special food. Our small-scale, working farm is surrounded by rolling hills and farm fields. Enjoy the farmstead strolling paths, gardens, and our friendly chickens, cats and dog. Experience the curated natural surroundings including bird watching, bugs and prairie habitat. Watch the sun rise from your camp site and stargaze our dark skies. Keep coming back to watch the evolution of our farm dreams as we build the mission of The Specialty Crop~ ask us more!
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HTR Black Hills

15. HTR Black Hills

95%
(37)
Rapid City, SD · 80 sites · RVs, Lodging
Explore the beauty of HTR Black Hills (formerly American Buffalo Campground). This unique destination is home to Mount Rushmore as well as numerous national and state parks, local attractions, and iconic events like the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. So, stay awhile when you tour all the mountains, canyons, caves, and rock formations with the spectacular backdrop of South Dakota. Nestled under tall pine trees, in the heart of the wonderful Black Hills, our on-site recreational facilities include a heated swimming pool & hot tub (open Memorial Day to Labor Day, weather permitting), mini golf, a playground area for children, basketball court, horseshoe pits, and wooded walking trails offer something for everyone!
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Full hookups
Home Ranch/Cheyenne River Bottom

16. Home Ranch/Cheyenne River Bottom

94%
(67)
Wall, SD · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
This ranch is the home of children's book author Cowgirl Annie. This property is a working Ranch. Some of the campsites are in an abandoned gravel pit so you will be parking on a sandy gravel base. I like to let my guests decide where they want to park. I may have to move guests to a different site than the one they booked depending on what is happening on the ranch or the weather. There are cottonwood stands close by that you can hike through to the river. A wide variety of wildlife live in this area, so no telling what you may see or hear. You will have a big area to yourselves. I have tried to plan areas so you won't be disturbed by other campers. I do not groom hiking trails. You will be at one with nature. You may want to bring bug spray, sometimes the mosquitos and horseflies are bad. Wall Drug and the Badlands National Park are about a twenty-minute drive. Mount Rushmore is about an hour and 15 minutes.
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The Wilderness

17. The Wilderness

99%
(133)
West Pennington, SD · 1 site · Tent, RV
Learn more about this land:Tired of the city? Want to get away from people? This 80 acre site is perfect for getting away from civilization and experiencing nature as it was meant to be. Hike in the beautiful Black Hills or make the short trip to Lake Pactola for boating or fishing. If relaxing isn't your speed, take a bike ride on the Michelson Trail or travel one of the many off road trails nearby.
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Beaver Lake Campground

18. Beaver Lake Campground

95%
(11)
Custer, SD · 90 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
WELCOME TO BEAVER LAKE CAMPGROUND IN CUSTER, SD Come join us in our beautiful 19-acre pine-filled, rolling terrain campground in Custer, South Dakota. Enjoy the sounds of the breeze through the pines, birds singing, and calm surroundings in a safe, small-town atmosphere. Stay in our spacious RV sites, your tent, or simple to deluxe cabins. Have fun in our heated pool. We are conveniently located just 3.5 miles from the town of Custer, South Dakota. We are 30 minutes from Custer State Park, 22 minutes from Mt. Rushmore, 10 minutes from Crazy Horse Monument, and 9 minutes from Jewel Cave National Monument. The beauty of Custer State Park and the infamous Needles Highway can be very busy for campers, which is why many of our guests choose to stay with us at Beaver Lake Campground. Our central location and peaceful setting will put you very close to all of the amazing things to see and do in the Black Hills (Paha Sapa in the Lakota language) of South Dakota. We are open from April 1 to November 1. Pool is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day. The water slide closed. Wonderful News! As of 6/4/22, we have a brand new park-wide Wi-Fi system. Guests dependent on WI-Fi for work will need their own system. Our rural infrastructure isn’t equivalent to big-city Wi-Fi. A WARM WELCOME, FROM THE OWNERS As the owners of Beaver Lake Campground for the past several seasons Julian and Kachina Starr are amazed at how fortunate they are to have purchased this very special campground. The Black Hills area is spectacular with so many things to do and see. You could spend a month here and still not see it all. The summer weather is perfect with warm but not hot days and cool summer nights due to the 5,300-foot elevation. Perfect for evening campfires. Living and working in the Black Hills National Forest is incredible. They feel very happy to be in such calm, peaceful surroundings. Julian and Kachina have accomplished many updates, and improvements in the time they have been here. Everything from not-so-exciting infrastructure, well pumps, electrical upgrades, painting, swimming pool pump, etc., and have attempted to give this beautiful campground a more inviting atmosphere, comfortable seating on the office patio, beautiful flowers, unique pinecone art, upgrades to the cabins, mini-fridges in all cabins, new mattresses, electrical improvements and more. The Starr’s 25-year experience in the RV business in Gold Beach, Oregon, and Durango Colorado has given them lots of warm memories and some funny stories too. They look forward to many more great guest experiences greeting and serving old and new friends. AVAILABLE UNITS •RV Sites •Cabins •Tents ENJOY OUR AMENITIES •1 Large Heated Pool •Store •2 Laundry Facilities •RV Sites Small to Huge •Tent Sites •9 Cabins •Dog Park •Basket Ball, Tether Ball, Volley Ball Net & Horseshoes •3 Bathhouses •1 Accessible Family Bath •Log & Timber Rec Room For Groups •Fire Wood, 10 lb Bag Ice, and Propane Sales •Free Wifi •Playground •Dump Station Free to Guests •Honey Wagon $ •RV Tech On Site •Car Rental LOCAL AREA ATTRACTIONS •Mount Rushmore •Custer State Park •Rocky Knolls Golf Course •Crazy Horse Monument •Jewel Cave National Monument •The 1880 Train •Wind Cave National Park •Custer •Rapid City •Deadwood •Lead •Spearfish •Sturgis •Hot Springs
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Days End Campground

19. Days End Campground

98%
(28)
Sturgis, SD · 125 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
The Best Camping in Sturgis, SD Days End Campground and RV Park – Your Ideal Sturgis Camping Destination Located just off Interstate I-90 at exit 30, Days End Campground and RV Park is the perfect base for your adventures in Sturgis, South Dakota. Experience the beauty and excitement of the Black Hills while enjoying comfortable and affordable accommodations. Fulfill your "Bucket List" by booking your inexpensive vacation getaway with us today! Explore Nearby Attractions in the Black Hills
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Full hookups
Diamond A Cattle Ranch

20. Diamond A Cattle Ranch

98%
(133)
Pukwana, SD · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
On our ranch is the original 1906 Ashley Homestead Shanty. We have a 1905 rural schoolhouse that is fully furnished for our guests to explore. A 1940s tourist cabin with two bedrooms (full-sized bed and twin-sized bed) is available for rent. We also have for rent, a new tiny house with a queen bed and a pull-out sofa. A new two-bathroom shower house is now available for our guests' use. There are seven electric only pedestals for your RV or camper. A camp store has Bad River Jerky and Pemmican that our daughter produces. There is also local honey and homemade jellies (chokecherry, mulberry, strawberry, wild grape). Our cowgirl and cowboy grandkids have their homemade beaded necklaces for sale.
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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

South Dakota camping guide

Where to go

Badlands and the Black Hills

Swathes of forested mountains blanket the southwestern corner of South Dakota, where a road trip to Mount Rushmore and the Crazy Horse Memorial is likely top of your to-do list. Just west of the four presidents, the Black Hills National Forest has 450 miles of hiking, biking, OHV, and horseback riding trails, plus 30 campgrounds, some with full hookups. To the east, hike beneath layer-cake cliffs and towering canyons in Badlands National Park, then camp out beneath the stars—backcountry camping is permitted throughout the park.

Great Lakes

The Missouri River flows through the heart of South Dakota, where you'll find the four man-made "great lakes"—Lake Oahe, Lake Sharpe, Lake Francis Case, and Lewis and Clark Lake. Campgrounds and RV parks pepper the shores, and all four lakes are popular spots for walleye and smallmouth bass fishing. Bring your own boat, paddle the lakes on a kayak, or rent a jet ski.

Glacial Lakes

The sweeping prairies and glacial lakes of northeastern South Dakota are little-explored, but you’re never far from a lakeside campground. With its chain of eight glacial lakes, Oakwood Lakes State Park affords plenty of opportunities for swimming, paddling, and ice fishing, depending on the time of year. Further south, Lake Poinsett has a sandy beach, two camping areas, and lakefront cabins.

Southeast South Dakota

The state's southeast corner is a patchwork of lakes, rivers, and vineyards, interspersed with country towns. Set up camp at Lake Vermillion and hit the water to swim, canoe, or paddleboard; enjoy hiking or rock climbing around the unique pink quartzite cliffs of Palisades State Park; or go wine tasting in South Dakota wine country. A photo stop at Sioux Falls is a must for visitors to the namesake city, but for camping, head to the nearby Big Sioux Recreation Area, a scenic stopover along the Jay Heath Canoe & Kayak Trail.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can camp for free in South Dakota. Dispersed camping is allowed in the national forests and grasslands in the state. The two primary areas for free camping are the Black Hills National Forest and the Buffalo Gap National Grassland. Keep in mind that these campsites are primitive and typically have no facilities, so be prepared to practice Leave No Trace principles and pack out all your trash.

Camping fees in South Dakota state parks vary depending on the type of campsite and amenities offered. On average, you can expect to pay the following for campsites:

  • Primitive or non-electric campsites: $15 to $18 per night
  • Electric campsites: $21 to $26 per night
  • Electric and water campsites: $25 to $30 per night
  • Electric, water, and sewer campsites: $29 to $34 per night
  • Cabins: $45 to $150 per night, depending on the type of cabin and amenities

Keep in mind that these prices are approximate and may vary by specific park or campsite. Some parks may also charge additional fees, such as entrance fees or vehicle permits. You can explore more about South Dakota state parks and their camping options on Hipcamp.

While you cannot camp just anywhere in South Dakota, there are numerous designated campgrounds and camping areas throughout the state where camping is allowed. These include state parks, national forests, and private campgrounds. Dispersed camping is allowed in some areas within national forests, such as the Black Hills National Forest, but you must follow specific rules and regulations. Always check with the managing agency or landowner for the area you plan to camp in to ensure you are following all guidelines and restrictions.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Top state and regional parks in South Dakota