The best forest camping near Box Elder

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Looking to go camping near Box Elder, South Dakota? Hipcamp has over 160 options for you to choose from! With accommodations ranging from RV parks to campgrounds, you'll find the perfect spot to suit your preferences. The average price per night in this area is $38, with options as low as $20. Check out some of the top campsites with rave reviews: Custer's Last Chance Rv Park (108 reviews), Redwater Revival Campground (79 reviews), and Crow Peak’s Last Best Place (70 reviews). Whether you enjoy activities like biking, paddling, or exploring historic sites, you'll find plenty to do in the area. And with popular amenities like campfires, trash disposal, and showers, your camping experience will be comfortable and hassle-free.

97% (1.7K) 225 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Box Elder

2. Plenty Star Ranch Retreat

93%
(281)
42mi from Box Elder · 35 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Property description Our property is nestled between Hwy 385, the Mickelson Trail, and the National Forest. We are located between Custer State Park and Wind Cave National Park along Hwy 385 and the Mickelson Trail; about 30 minutes from Mt. Rushmore and Crazy Horse Mountain. The nearest towns with restaurants are Pringle, (2 miles S); Hot Springs, (24 miles S), Custer, (9.5 miles N).; Hill City, (24 miles N), and Rapid City, (50 miles N). The blacktop driveway grants easy access for every type of vehicle. A couple of ponds, creeks, and dispersed willow, pine, and aspen trees enhance the diversity and beauty of the landscape. It is peaceful here and we enjoy sharing it with our guests during the spring, summer, and fall seasons. Plenty Star Ranch Retreat has our home, a big pole barn (RV storage), a garage/wood workshop with an attached restroom for all guests, a regular hot water shower cabin, 2 small home-built camping log cabins, 7 RV sites, 9 clearly marked tent and car-camping sites, and several water hydrants fed by our well, providing great quality drinking water. 2 pets maximum per campsite, no pets allowed when booking a cabin. Check-In is 2 pm to 9 pm; Check-Out is 10 am for the cabins and 11 am for all other sites.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$50
 / night

5. Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands

92%
(6)
72 sites · Chadron, Nebraska
Ahhh, the heartland. Wide open spaces of undeveloped land in which to spread your wings and find some breathing room. Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands is one of these places, comprised of two forests of ponderosa pine and three grassland areas. Come here to set up your temporary little house on the prairie and be a pioneer camper for a while! Wandering and exploring is unrestricted for non-motorized travel here, meaning freedom is yours for the taking! If you don’t want to just head into the abyss, try visiting the nation's oldest federal tree nursery (awww, baby trees!), or the largest extinct bison boneland in the world at the Hudson-Meng Bison Research Center. Or, head to Soldier Creek Wilderness Area for a little rewilding and backcountry exploration. Keep your eyes peeled for prairie dogs and wildflowers popping their cute little heads up, rock formations dotting the landscape, and magic around every turn. There’s a lot going on in that grass!
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires

6. Refuge Hill Campsite

48mi from Box Elder · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
So, you're planning a trip to the Black Hills? You're welcome to take refuge here at our peaceful homestead. This area is perfect for those wanting a quiet and peaceful experience that is still close to several attractions such as Crazy Horse Monument, Mount Rushmore Monument, Custer State park and Wind Cave. September has been a treat. Elk bugling all day this week during the rut. The blood moon lunar eclipse was on full display, lighting up the whole property. We can share even more activities in Custer or Hot Springs, a 25 min drive to either from our location. There are 3 RV/Van sites with power (2 include septic), and 2 more sites without power/septic (good for solar ready vehicles). Many spacious areas to set up tents for dispersed camping. There is a large gravity fed water tank for non-potable water use. You may see a few of our chickens walking around or an occasional kitten or pup. Several deer, elk, and turkey spotted on the property. On site Activities: + Half mile walking loop - featuring wild flowers, interesting rocks, and a pasture home to large elk herd. + Archery - bring your gear and prepare for your next hunt, borrow a target or BYO + Mickelson Trail - 1 mile away from the Mickelson Trail entrance! 109 mi touring trail From Deadwood to Edgemont +Frisbee Golf practice baskets - Move them to create the shots you'd like to practice. + Corn hole available + Kids Play Area - Easily viewable from camp sites (swings, jungle gym, sand area, tree house) +Star Gazing - No light pollution! Every clear night is incredible. Full moon nights are a treat. + Shooting Range - 22 Caliber or smaller at designated times/areas + EV Charging - Charge electric cars (20-50A charging) +Traveling workers - Starlink available if needed for laptop work. Notify host before check-in if you need Starlink access (minimum 4 night stay). + Dog friendly - Our 3yr old Aussie is always ready for another friend (fenced area available if needed) + Set up Hammocks +Tents, RVs, Vans If you need anything or have questions just let us know, we want this experience to be great. The number one comment we get is "I love the relaxing and peaceful vibes here".
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$45
 / night

7. Stagecoach Stays

100%
(65)
48mi from Box Elder · 5 sites · RVs
We were fulltime RV'ers for 5 years; we traveled all across the United States before we settled in the beautiful Black Hills of South Dakota. We decided to build the vacation site that we always wanted, but could never find. We have 50/30/15 amp FHU's (despite what HipCamp says). We have two large, level RV spots with 50 feet between the two sites. We have created an environment for our guests to enjoy peaceful relaxation while staying with us. We offer amazing sunsets, sunrises, wild turkey, song birds, deer and amazing Black Hills landscapes to help you enjoy your stay in this beautiful area. We have 4 beautiful horses that adorn our landscape. We hope you enjoy watching them, but please don't feed them. We also have hiking trails and a community bonfire available for our guests to use. Well-behaved pets are welcome! We offer weekly and monthly rates.
Pets
Full hookups
from 
$59
 / night

12. Horse Creek Resort

97%
(166)
22mi from Box Elder · 29 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. 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.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$50
 / night

13. Horse Creek Resort RV Sites

97%
(229)
22mi from Box Elder · 18 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. 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.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$50
 / night

18. Luxury RV Canyon Retreat

95%
(55)
41mi from Box Elder · 1 site · RV
The property is one of the few rentals allowed in Spearfish Canyon. A NEW Post and Beam Pavilion for parking and picnics! An outdoor table and chairs under pavilion available for usage. Also NEW--horseshoe pits in meadow for your enjoyment. It sits besides an historic 95-year old log cabin. A guest house, Couples Canyon Retreat, sleeps 3, is also available for rent. Contact owner. Learn more about this land: All paved road to your private luxury concrete RV pad sitting at the entrance of beautiful Spearfish Canyon. Convenient location to all sites in SD Black Hills including Deadwood, Lead, Spearfish and one hour drive to Custer State Park and Mount Rushmore. Walking distance to a trout pond for fishing and Cheyenne Crossing for a delicious meal. Hiking and off-roading trails galore. Go to sleep hearing Upper Spearfish Creek across the road, with mountain views, deer and smell of fresh pine trees. Lead Country Club Golf course close by. New Post and Beam Pavilion available for parking and picnics.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from 
$45
 / night

19. The Pond in Custer, SD

100%
(5)
35mi from Box Elder · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
🌲 Secluded Black Hills Escape: Now Expanding! Immerse yourself in 10+ acres of stunning wilderness bordering the National Forest and Mickelson Trail, just minutes from downtown Custer. The Highlights Ultimate Location: Direct Mickelson trail access for hiking/biking and a short 1-mile trip to Custer’s best restaurants. The Vibe: Secluded, quiet, and primitive. Perfect for tents, hammocks, or small vans. Navigation: Access requires driving up/down a fairly steep unpaved road. SUV, truck, or high-clearance vehicles are recommended, though cars have driven the road and been fine. 🏗️ 2026 Season Updates We are excited to be opening additional campsites this year! We are also in the process of constructing a building on the property. Please note: * Construction: Ongoing building projects may be visible. * Tranquility: We remain committed to your peace and will be highly sensitive to noise and disruption during your stay. Quick Facts * Primitive: No power/water; shared bucket toilet available. Please bring drinking water. * Quiet Policy: No generators, parties, or loud music to protect the natural serenity. Some photos courtesy of Western Skies Realty.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$8
 / night

Looking to go camping near Box Elder, South Dakota? Hipcamp has over 160 options for you to choose from! With accommodations ranging from RV parks to campgrounds, you'll find the perfect spot to suit your preferences. The average price per night in this area is $38, with options as low as $20. Check out some of the top campsites with rave reviews: Custer's Last Chance Rv Park (108 reviews), Redwater Revival Campground (79 reviews), and Crow Peak’s Last Best Place (70 reviews). Whether you enjoy activities like biking, paddling, or exploring historic sites, you'll find plenty to do in the area. And with popular amenities like campfires, trash disposal, and showers, your camping experience will be comfortable and hassle-free.

97% (1.7K) 225 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Box Elder

2. Plenty Star Ranch Retreat

93%
(281)
42mi from Box Elder · 35 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Property description Our property is nestled between Hwy 385, the Mickelson Trail, and the National Forest. We are located between Custer State Park and Wind Cave National Park along Hwy 385 and the Mickelson Trail; about 30 minutes from Mt. Rushmore and Crazy Horse Mountain. The nearest towns with restaurants are Pringle, (2 miles S); Hot Springs, (24 miles S), Custer, (9.5 miles N).; Hill City, (24 miles N), and Rapid City, (50 miles N). The blacktop driveway grants easy access for every type of vehicle. A couple of ponds, creeks, and dispersed willow, pine, and aspen trees enhance the diversity and beauty of the landscape. It is peaceful here and we enjoy sharing it with our guests during the spring, summer, and fall seasons. Plenty Star Ranch Retreat has our home, a big pole barn (RV storage), a garage/wood workshop with an attached restroom for all guests, a regular hot water shower cabin, 2 small home-built camping log cabins, 7 RV sites, 9 clearly marked tent and car-camping sites, and several water hydrants fed by our well, providing great quality drinking water. 2 pets maximum per campsite, no pets allowed when booking a cabin. Check-In is 2 pm to 9 pm; Check-Out is 10 am for the cabins and 11 am for all other sites.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$50
 / night

5. Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands

92%
(6)
72 sites · Chadron, Nebraska
Ahhh, the heartland. Wide open spaces of undeveloped land in which to spread your wings and find some breathing room. Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands is one of these places, comprised of two forests of ponderosa pine and three grassland areas. Come here to set up your temporary little house on the prairie and be a pioneer camper for a while! Wandering and exploring is unrestricted for non-motorized travel here, meaning freedom is yours for the taking! If you don’t want to just head into the abyss, try visiting the nation's oldest federal tree nursery (awww, baby trees!), or the largest extinct bison boneland in the world at the Hudson-Meng Bison Research Center. Or, head to Soldier Creek Wilderness Area for a little rewilding and backcountry exploration. Keep your eyes peeled for prairie dogs and wildflowers popping their cute little heads up, rock formations dotting the landscape, and magic around every turn. There’s a lot going on in that grass!
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires

6. Refuge Hill Campsite

48mi from Box Elder · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
So, you're planning a trip to the Black Hills? You're welcome to take refuge here at our peaceful homestead. This area is perfect for those wanting a quiet and peaceful experience that is still close to several attractions such as Crazy Horse Monument, Mount Rushmore Monument, Custer State park and Wind Cave. September has been a treat. Elk bugling all day this week during the rut. The blood moon lunar eclipse was on full display, lighting up the whole property. We can share even more activities in Custer or Hot Springs, a 25 min drive to either from our location. There are 3 RV/Van sites with power (2 include septic), and 2 more sites without power/septic (good for solar ready vehicles). Many spacious areas to set up tents for dispersed camping. There is a large gravity fed water tank for non-potable water use. You may see a few of our chickens walking around or an occasional kitten or pup. Several deer, elk, and turkey spotted on the property. On site Activities: + Half mile walking loop - featuring wild flowers, interesting rocks, and a pasture home to large elk herd. + Archery - bring your gear and prepare for your next hunt, borrow a target or BYO + Mickelson Trail - 1 mile away from the Mickelson Trail entrance! 109 mi touring trail From Deadwood to Edgemont +Frisbee Golf practice baskets - Move them to create the shots you'd like to practice. + Corn hole available + Kids Play Area - Easily viewable from camp sites (swings, jungle gym, sand area, tree house) +Star Gazing - No light pollution! Every clear night is incredible. Full moon nights are a treat. + Shooting Range - 22 Caliber or smaller at designated times/areas + EV Charging - Charge electric cars (20-50A charging) +Traveling workers - Starlink available if needed for laptop work. Notify host before check-in if you need Starlink access (minimum 4 night stay). + Dog friendly - Our 3yr old Aussie is always ready for another friend (fenced area available if needed) + Set up Hammocks +Tents, RVs, Vans If you need anything or have questions just let us know, we want this experience to be great. The number one comment we get is "I love the relaxing and peaceful vibes here".
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$45
 / night

7. Stagecoach Stays

100%
(65)
48mi from Box Elder · 5 sites · RVs
We were fulltime RV'ers for 5 years; we traveled all across the United States before we settled in the beautiful Black Hills of South Dakota. We decided to build the vacation site that we always wanted, but could never find. We have 50/30/15 amp FHU's (despite what HipCamp says). We have two large, level RV spots with 50 feet between the two sites. We have created an environment for our guests to enjoy peaceful relaxation while staying with us. We offer amazing sunsets, sunrises, wild turkey, song birds, deer and amazing Black Hills landscapes to help you enjoy your stay in this beautiful area. We have 4 beautiful horses that adorn our landscape. We hope you enjoy watching them, but please don't feed them. We also have hiking trails and a community bonfire available for our guests to use. Well-behaved pets are welcome! We offer weekly and monthly rates.
Pets
Full hookups
from 
$59
 / night

12. Horse Creek Resort

97%
(166)
22mi from Box Elder · 29 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. 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.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$50
 / night

13. Horse Creek Resort RV Sites

97%
(229)
22mi from Box Elder · 18 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. 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.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$50
 / night

18. Luxury RV Canyon Retreat

95%
(55)
41mi from Box Elder · 1 site · RV
The property is one of the few rentals allowed in Spearfish Canyon. A NEW Post and Beam Pavilion for parking and picnics! An outdoor table and chairs under pavilion available for usage. Also NEW--horseshoe pits in meadow for your enjoyment. It sits besides an historic 95-year old log cabin. A guest house, Couples Canyon Retreat, sleeps 3, is also available for rent. Contact owner. Learn more about this land: All paved road to your private luxury concrete RV pad sitting at the entrance of beautiful Spearfish Canyon. Convenient location to all sites in SD Black Hills including Deadwood, Lead, Spearfish and one hour drive to Custer State Park and Mount Rushmore. Walking distance to a trout pond for fishing and Cheyenne Crossing for a delicious meal. Hiking and off-roading trails galore. Go to sleep hearing Upper Spearfish Creek across the road, with mountain views, deer and smell of fresh pine trees. Lead Country Club Golf course close by. New Post and Beam Pavilion available for parking and picnics.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from 
$45
 / night

19. The Pond in Custer, SD

100%
(5)
35mi from Box Elder · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
🌲 Secluded Black Hills Escape: Now Expanding! Immerse yourself in 10+ acres of stunning wilderness bordering the National Forest and Mickelson Trail, just minutes from downtown Custer. The Highlights Ultimate Location: Direct Mickelson trail access for hiking/biking and a short 1-mile trip to Custer’s best restaurants. The Vibe: Secluded, quiet, and primitive. Perfect for tents, hammocks, or small vans. Navigation: Access requires driving up/down a fairly steep unpaved road. SUV, truck, or high-clearance vehicles are recommended, though cars have driven the road and been fine. 🏗️ 2026 Season Updates We are excited to be opening additional campsites this year! We are also in the process of constructing a building on the property. Please note: * Construction: Ongoing building projects may be visible. * Tranquility: We remain committed to your peace and will be highly sensitive to noise and disruption during your stay. Quick Facts * Primitive: No power/water; shared bucket toilet available. Please bring drinking water. * Quiet Policy: No generators, parties, or loud music to protect the natural serenity. Some photos courtesy of Western Skies Realty.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$8
 / night

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

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