The best camping in South Dakota with campfires

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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.

92% (3.2K) 6,083 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in South Dakota

Badlands Hotel & Campground

1. Badlands Hotel & Campground

92%
(109)
Interior, SD · 71 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, outdoor pool, fire pits, and complimentary WiFi. Your Badlands getaway awaits. What are you waiting for?244000
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Full hookups
Uncle B's Produce Farm

2. Uncle B's Produce Farm

100%
(1258)
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%
(362)
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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Potable water
Wind Cave National Park

5. Wind Cave National Park

100%
(13)
National park in South Dakota · 77 sites
Explore landscapes above–and below–-ground while camping at Wind Cave National Park.
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Custer / Crazy Horse / Black Hills KOA Holiday

6. Custer / Crazy Horse / Black Hills KOA Holiday

Custer, SD · 19 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Experience the beauty of the Black Hills like never before at Custer/Mt. Rushmore KOA, your ideal base for exploring the region's most iconic attractions. Nestled in the heart of the Black Hills, our campground is conveniently located within 6 to 23 miles of five major sites: Mt. Rushmore National Monument, Crazy Horse Memorial, Jewel Cave National Monument, Wind Cave National Park, and Custer State Park. While you’re here, don’t miss the Black Hills Playhouse, where you can enjoy captivating performances. For those looking to explore further, local tour companies offer convenient pick-up services right from your campsite. With so much to see and do, you’ll want to extend your stay! After a day of adventure, unwind in our serene campground surrounded by majestic ponderosa pines, just 3 miles west of Custer. Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the Buffalo Cafe, located within our store. Kids will love our jumping pillow and playground, while seasonal activities from Memorial Day to Labor Day include access to a heated pool (weather permitting). We offer a variety of accommodations, including 1 and 2-room camping cabins (without air conditioning or bathrooms), deluxe cabins, and both 30 & 50-amp pull-thru
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Fort Welikit Campground

7. Fort Welikit Campground

100%
(19)
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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Bear Den Cabins & Camp

8. Bear Den Cabins & Camp

100%
(479)
Hermosa, SD · 8 sites · Tents, Lodging
Bear Den is a small camp with 3 Glamping Tents, 2 cabins and shower house. Outdoor spaces for relaxing. We are located approximately 5 miles from Custer State Park, 11 miles from Keystone the Gateway to Mt. Rushmore in the beautiful southern Black Hills. Cabins have electricity, our tents do not have electricity. Cabins and showers are heated and open year round! All sites including 'bring your own tent' sites have access to the shower house and outdoor grilling areas. Pick a spot to pitch your own tent, one tent per space. If you have 2 tents please book 2 sites. We have 3 spots cleared. Hang your hammock in trees around the property. This option includes all access to the shower house and outdoor grilling areas!
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Horse Creek Resort RV Sites

9. Horse Creek Resort RV Sites

97%
(232)
Rapid City, SD · 15 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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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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Showers
Badlands National Park

12. Badlands National Park

98%
(152)
National park in South Dakota · 200 sites
Camp in an otherworldly landscape with unique rock formations.
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Electrical hookup
Toilets
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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Showers
Eagle Lode

14. Eagle Lode

98%
(42)
Lead, SD · 1 site · Tent, RV
🌲 Escape to Nature's Haven! 🌲 Discover the serenity of our primitive campsite nestled in a breathtaking 15-acre forest oasis. Perfect for adventurers seeking solace and tranquility, our campsite boasts a crystal-clear creek babbling through old growth black hills forest. Whether you're a seasoned outdoors enthusiast or a family seeking a digital detox, our campsite offers the ideal retreat. Embrace the simplicity of nature and create lasting memories at our hidden gem in the woods!
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Horse Creek Resort

15. Horse Creek Resort

97%
(169)
Rapid City, SD · 26 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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Full hookups
HTR Black Hills

16. HTR Black Hills

93%
(20)
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
Hill City/Needles Hwy KOA

17. Hill City/Needles Hwy KOA

Custer, SD · 17 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to the Hill City/Needles Highay KOA Holiday! The KOA is nestled in the heart of the Black Hills, conveniently located just minutes from Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial, Custer State Park, Sylvan Lake, the historic town of Hill City and Custer is a short drive away. Whether you're looking to explore the scenic beauty of South Dakota’s rugged landscapes or seeking a comfortable stop along your journey, HCNH KOA offers the perfect base camp. Enjoy family- and pet-friendly camping with easy access to national parks, lakes, and historic attractions. Escape to Hill City, South Dakota, where breathtaking mountain views, historic charm, and outdoor adventure await. Our campground provides the ideal base camp for exploring the Black Hills National Forest, Custer State Park, and the iconic Needles Highway. From hiking and wildlife spotting to visiting local wineries and historic train rides, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Hill City is also just a short drive from Rapid City, Deadwood, and Keystone. Hill City/Needles Highway KOA Has a Stay for Everyone At HCHN KOA, we offer a variety of RV sites, cabins, and tent camping options to suit every type of camper. Whether you prefer a scenic full-hookup RV site, a cozy cabin retreat, or a traditional tent camping experience under the stars, we have the perfect spot for you. Tent Camping: This location is known for incredible Tent Camping. Best in the Black Hills. Our tent sites provide the perfect place to relax under the starry South Dakota skies with wifi, laundry, store, grill, and bathhouse all on site. All of our sites are pet-friendly, so bring your furry companions along for the adventure! Enjoy breakfast and dinner at Needles Highway Grill. Enjoy your meal and beverage while you take in the view and watch local wildlife from our second-floor deck. HCNH KOA Amenities and Recreation Your stay at HCNH KOA comes with access to a variety of amenities and recreational activities designed to make your visit enjoyable and memorable: • Heated swimming pool • Playground for kids • Campfire rings and picnic areas • Camp store and convenience store • Needles Highway Grill • WiFi access throughout the campground • Hiking and biking trails nearby
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Full hookups
The Specialty Crop

18. The Specialty Crop

100%
(62)
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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Highland Meadows Resort

19. Highland Meadows Resort

100%
(11)
Hot Springs, SD · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Highland Meadows Resort sits on 12.5 acres atop a private mesa in Hot Springs, South Dakota. The resort features four private cabins, two glamping tipis, and an earth home on the upper mesa — and a campground on the lower mesa. Tipis are equipped with a king-size bed, sleeper sofa, and basic kitchenette. There's a shared wood fire pit, laundry facilities, horseshoe pit, and a private bath w/ shower for each tipi. Tipis also come with a pack and play for one extra infant/toddler. Kitchenettes come with a microwave, mini-fridge, coffee maker, and some basic place settings. The campground has several tent and RV sites, each with their own fire pit, picnic table, and power. The campground has a common area for larger gatherings and flush toilets with sinks. There are several water spigots in the campground as well: two near the restrooms and one at each RV site. Highland Meadows Resort is located near The Mammoth Site, Wind Cave, Cold Brook Reservoir, and local hot springs. It's a short drive from Custer State Park and Mount Rushmore. Get 10% OFF at Evans Plunge when you show them you're staying at Highland Meadows Resort.
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Beaver Lake Campground

20. Beaver Lake Campground

100%
(1)
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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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.

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