The best camping in South Dakota

Name: South Dakota
Address: South Dakota
Rating: 4.673

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.

93% (4.2K) • 7,609 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in South Dakota

Badlands Hotel & Campground

1. Badlands Hotel & Campground

92%

(116)

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

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

Uncle B's Produce Farm

2. Uncle B's Produce Farm

100%

(1271)

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...

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Fort Welikit Campground

3. Fort Welikit Campground

100%

(23)

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.

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

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.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

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.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Prospector Camp

6. Prospector Camp

Pringle, SD · 3 sites

Just north of Pringle, SD, our quiet campground offers spacious campsites with new 120/30/50-amp electric, water, and sewer hookups. The campground is better suited for adults, but everyone is welcome. We're located right off the Mickelson Trail, so bring your bikes and enjoy the ride. We're also close to Custer State Park and Wind Cave National Park. Just down the road, you'll find the Hitch Rail Bar & Grill, and the town of Custer offers plenty of dining options. One of our favorites is the Blue Bell Lodge Restaurant and Chuckwagon Cookout in Custer State Park.

Pets

Full hookups

Big Pine Campground

7. Big Pine Campground

98%

(373)

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.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Horse Creek Resort

8. Horse Creek Resort

97%

(172)

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.

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

Horse Creek Resort RV Sites

9. Horse Creek Resort RV Sites

97%

(233)

Rapid City, SD · 15 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

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.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

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.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Badlands National Park

12. Badlands National Park

98%

(156)

National park in South Dakota · 200 sites

Camp in an otherworldly landscape with unique rock formations.

Pets

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.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

The Specialty Crop

14. The Specialty Crop

100%

(65)

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!

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Home Ranch/Cheyenne River Bottom

15. Home Ranch/Cheyenne River Bottom

95%

(56)

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.

Pets

Toilets

Diamond A Cattle Ranch

16. Diamond A Cattle Ranch

99%

(112)

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.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Bear Den Cabins & Camp

17. Bear Den Cabins & Camp

100%

(480)

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!

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Eagle Lode

18. Eagle Lode

98%

(45)

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!

Pets

Campfires

Crow Peak’s Last Best Place

19. Crow Peak’s Last Best Place

98%

(263)

Spearfish, SD · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

We purchased this property in 1990, with no home or buildings on it. The trees were so little you could see OVER them!! We’ve since built our home and life here, as well as raised our family. We think our little corner of the world is perfect and just want to share it with others!!Nestled deep in the Black Hills of South Dakota, this camp site is sure to be a relaxing retreat!! With full hookups, and Spearfish just 10 minutes away, you’ll have all the amenities you need. Spearfish has plenty of restaurants, shopping and entertainment for the whole family. The Black Hills offers something for all ages. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or a history buff, you’ll find your niche here. There are winter sports and gaming just 20 miles from camp in Deadwood. These campsites are quaint and clean for your perfect getaway!!

Pets

Potable water

Full hookups

Highland Meadows Resort

20. Highland Meadows Resort

100%

(13)

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.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Nikki

1 day ago

26 ft travel trailer

With pets

1 night at Diamond A Cattle Ranch

So fun! This is my first time RVing AND using Hipcamp, and as a horse lover, this place was eat, peaceful and scenic. My dogs loved it too and they made quick friends with Fred the owners dog. Just remember to bring bug spray! The mosquitoes are heavy.

Joshua

2 days ago

50 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Diamond A Cattle Ranch

Although its a bit off of I90, I think maybe ten or so minutes, its well worth it. The views couldn't be more amazing! Open prairie as far as the eye can see with an old time feel. I can imagine what the settlers were seeing for the first time, and would definitely stay there again. And as a matter of fact, I will be when I come back through. Thanks Crystal for a pleasurable experience.

Kelsey

2 days ago

Weekend Trip to Uncle B's Produce Farm

Ready, Set, Camp site was perfect! All we needed were our sleeping bags and we were good for the night. The tent was spacious and secluded. Brian was so kind and welcoming with s’mores bags and treats for our dog. This was our first Hipcamp experience and all our future stays will have a lot to live up to!

Andrea

3 days ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Uncle B's Produce Farm

Such a wonderful host! You can tell how much love and care went into this place. Having bathrooms with running water and electricity is SO rare. What a gem!

Derek

3 days ago

24 ft Class B

Weekend Trip to Uncle B's Produce Farm

Such a FUN stop close to Sioux Falls. Brian (aka Kevin) is the perfect host, beautiful sunset…very unique, fun surprise seeing peacocks running around….gas grill for all to use, just a great place & host

Amy

3 days ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Diamond A Cattle Ranch

Really excellent place to stopover and camp with a pup!

karen

4 days ago

16 ft car

1 night at The Specialty Crop

Loved the site and their dog. The shower and toilet were nicely maintained. Katie was very sweet too.

Jodi

4 days ago

24 ft truck camper

1 night at Uncle B's Produce Farm

This has been a first stop on our treks west for the past 3 years. Brian is a great host!

Corey

6 days ago

Tent

With pets

1 night at Uncle B's Produce Farm

Brian was awesome! He was super responsive greeted me and my dog with treats for both of us and was very helpful finding our sight and getting anything we needed. His place is amazing and I would recommend it to anyone!

Scott

1 week ago

Tent

4 nights at Eagle Lode

This is a wild place! Its close to both Deadwood and Lead, but you feel like you're in the middle of nowhere. 4x4 is a must, but that adds to the adventure. The sight is amazing and if adventure is what you're looking for, this is it!

Alan

1 week ago

24 ft toy hauler

With pets

1 night at Uncle B's Produce Farm

We had a great experience at Uncle B's Hip Camp. Very peaceful and quiet. Had a nice walk on the trail and checked out the property. Bathrooms were clean and in great condition. A storm went by east of us and left a rainbow across the sky. Our dog loves to be able to go off leash. We will definitely visit again if we come thru this way.

Kristin

1 week ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Uncle B's Produce Farm

As always, the best stay. Uncle B's is an oasis where you can let the troubles of daily life drift away on the breeze. Brian goes out of his way to make sure everyone feels at home and welcome. Brian, thank you for the plant starts! This summer I'll be enjoying tomatoes and looking forward to another stay under the South Dakota stars.

They gave us a cute little lantern since we somehow forgot flashlights

Lucas

1 week ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Specialty Crop

This was the nicest interaction I have ever had on this app. Katie is very welcoming and has an amazing property with beautiful gardens and cats.

Amber

1 week ago

Weekend Trip to Uncle B's Produce Farm

This place was so quaint and relaxing. Uncle Brian was such an amazing host. He was there to greet me when I arrived and show me around the bus. He made our entire stay feel welcoming and warm. If you have the chance or are traveling through the area you should definitely stay here!!!

Mason

1 week ago

Tent

1 night at Uncle B's Produce Farm

Super Nice place with great facilities and a great owner

SCOTT

1 week ago

1 night at Uncle B's Produce Farm

I stayed here just one night as I was passing through. I had a chance to see both the Ready, Set, Camp and the Hippie Bus. Both are nice. The host has taken great efforts to make this a comfortable place with central campstove, ultraclean restrooms and a clubhouse with games. Super friendly host who will guide you to your site then make sure everything is just right. Quiet, safe and pleasant camp. I would definitely come back.

Mac

1 week ago

1 night at Downhome Country Farm

Carole’s land was absolutely beautiful. With the horses, chickens, and amazing scenery, this spot is tough to beat .The diner camper itself was extremely cozy. I could not recommend more highly!

1 week ago

20 ft campervan

1 night at Uncle B's Produce Farm

We had a relaxing stay here last night after a long day of driving. Brian was extremely nice and personable. His land is beautiful and our spot was quiet and peaceful. Nice, level grassy campsite was wonderful. Bathroom/showers were clean & convenient to our site. He even gave us milk bone treats for our dog and s'more ingredients. He is a very kind host. Nice farm to walk our dog too.

Rachel

2 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Badlands Hotel & Campground

Super easy! Excellent site! Very pretty! Recommend!

Mason

2 weeks ago

1 night at Bear Den Cabins & Camp

This was an amazing experience! Tammy was so nice and met us on arrival. She gave us a tour of the facilities, which were so clean and well stocked. The yurt we stayed in was so cozy and the bed was so comfortable, we slept great. We had to leave early in the morning, and the only thing we wish we had done was spend more time on property. We did not get to take advantage of the grills and picnic tables, but we will know better for next time. Tammy was so warm and welcoming and we highly recommend staying here!

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.

Top camping destinations around South Dakota

Black Hills National Forest

26 campgrounds

Huron

13 campgrounds

Badlands National Park

35 campgrounds

Wind Cave National Park

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you camp for free in South Dakota?

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.

How much does it cost to camp in South Dakota state parks?

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.

Can you camp anywhere in South Dakota?

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.