The best forest camping in South Dakota

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Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for finding the perfect camping experience. If you're looking to immerse yourself in the beauty of the forest, South Dakota has over 130 options that will give you just that. From the highly rated Custer's Last Chance RV Park (108 reviews) to the serene Tent camping near a pine forest (67 reviews), you'll be spoiled for choice. With activities like hiking, climbing, and snow sports, and amenities like potable water, campfires, and cooking equipment, you'll have everything you need for an unforgettable adventure. Plus, with an average price per night of $30 and options as low as $16, you can enjoy the great outdoors without breaking the bank. Let's get camping!

97% (2K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Horse Creek Resort

2. Horse Creek Resort

97%
(166)
29 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Rapid City, SD
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. *****NOTE: HWY 385 Road Construction***** South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) began Highway 385 road construction , which is the main highway that runs through the Black Hills, from Deadwood through Custer, in the fall of 2023. They recently just started construction along the section next to Horse Creek (fall of 2024), which will continue through summer of 2025. Please use the following link for any updates: us-385 dot com
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$65
 / night
Refuge Hill Campsite

4. Refuge Hill Campsite

3 sites · Tents, RVs · Hot Springs, SD
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
Toilets
Trash
from 
$45
 / night
Downhome Country Farm

5. Downhome Country Farm

100%
(19)
12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Lennox, SD
Downhome Country Farm is 10 acres of woods and prairie with a large garden, chickens, wild turkeys, guinea fowl, mules, horses, a dog, and bee hives in the pasture. We have two restored vintage campers that sleep 4 people and multiple tent sites. The bathroom and solar shower are shared by all guests. There are 2 sites for self-contained RV's with 20A electric available and water at some sites. 2 tent sites are available until the hay season (August) then the pasture is wide open tent camping. Horse boarding and camping available too. Each site can request individual fire rings. We have an outdoor community area that has a large fire pit, covered shelter and a woodfired pizza oven that will be in use on some weekends and by request. Local and national touring musicians are known to provide pop up private concerts some weekends and impromptu jam sessions. On occasion, we have outdoor movies and morning yoga along with great activities in the surrounding community too. Or just hang out in the hammocks and soak in that downhome country feeling. Come and enjoy the great outdoors on our farm!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$20
 / night
Crow Peak’s Last Best Place

10. Crow Peak’s Last Best Place

98%
(261)
3 sites · Tents, RVs · Spearfish, SD
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
Trash
from 
$60
 / night
View from our driveway with the Mickelson Trail and Hwy 385 on the right and the ranch/campground on the left

11. Plenty Star Ranch Retreat

93%
(281)
35 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Custer, SD
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
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$60
 / night
Horse Creek Resort RV Sites

14. Horse Creek Resort RV Sites

97%
(229)
18 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Rapid City, SD
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. *****NOTE: HWY 385 Road Construction***** South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) began Highway 385 road construction , which is the main highway that runs through the Black Hills, from Deadwood through Custer, in the fall of 2023. They recently just started construction along the section next to Horse Creek (fall of 2024), which will continue through summer of 2025. Please use the following link for any updates: us-385 dot com
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$60
 / night
The Retreat at Pointer’s Ridge

15. The Retreat at Pointer’s Ridge

100%
(42)
1 site · Tent · Baltic, SD
The Retreat at Pointer’s Ridge is located on 21 acres along the Big Sioux River, a place of quiet and natural beauty intended to foster social interaction and creative pursuits between artists and community in SE South Dakota, 10 miles north of Sioux Falls. Property updates at The Retreat happen constantly; we get better and better! The 100′ x 40′ main hall is perfect for larger workshops, concerts, poetry readings, small theatrical productions, classes, and other social gatherings and rentals in April through November. The A-Frame is a unique space for recitals, presentations, meetings, or a sleeping space for up to 6 people. There is a Woodworking Shop; Artist Studio; screened-in outdoor patio; playground; huge bonfire pit; and room to camp or explore. The Retreat is a space to work in quiet solitude or to collaborate on creative projects with others. The setting is inspiring; possibilities for your stay are endless. Learn more about this land: This site is a sandy spot along the Big Sioux River on a ridge well above the water line. View out over the river to a farm on the opposite bank. Spend your time with wild turkeys, geese, and an occasional deer. Site is on the far edge of an artist retreat, but still private. Spend time hiking the river bank or gravel country roads, fish in the river, take part in any Retreat activities if available, photography opportunities, enjoy an evening campfire under the stars.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$30
 / night
Buffalo Tipi Glamping

16. Buffalo Tipi Glamping

100%
(8)
11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Hot Springs, SD
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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$31
 / night

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for finding the perfect camping experience. If you're looking to immerse yourself in the beauty of the forest, South Dakota has over 130 options that will give you just that. From the highly rated Custer's Last Chance RV Park (108 reviews) to the serene Tent camping near a pine forest (67 reviews), you'll be spoiled for choice. With activities like hiking, climbing, and snow sports, and amenities like potable water, campfires, and cooking equipment, you'll have everything you need for an unforgettable adventure. Plus, with an average price per night of $30 and options as low as $16, you can enjoy the great outdoors without breaking the bank. Let's get camping!

97% (2K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Horse Creek Resort

2. Horse Creek Resort

97%
(166)
29 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Rapid City, SD
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. *****NOTE: HWY 385 Road Construction***** South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) began Highway 385 road construction , which is the main highway that runs through the Black Hills, from Deadwood through Custer, in the fall of 2023. They recently just started construction along the section next to Horse Creek (fall of 2024), which will continue through summer of 2025. Please use the following link for any updates: us-385 dot com
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$65
 / night
Refuge Hill Campsite

4. Refuge Hill Campsite

3 sites · Tents, RVs · Hot Springs, SD
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
Toilets
Trash
from 
$45
 / night
Downhome Country Farm

5. Downhome Country Farm

100%
(19)
12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Lennox, SD
Downhome Country Farm is 10 acres of woods and prairie with a large garden, chickens, wild turkeys, guinea fowl, mules, horses, a dog, and bee hives in the pasture. We have two restored vintage campers that sleep 4 people and multiple tent sites. The bathroom and solar shower are shared by all guests. There are 2 sites for self-contained RV's with 20A electric available and water at some sites. 2 tent sites are available until the hay season (August) then the pasture is wide open tent camping. Horse boarding and camping available too. Each site can request individual fire rings. We have an outdoor community area that has a large fire pit, covered shelter and a woodfired pizza oven that will be in use on some weekends and by request. Local and national touring musicians are known to provide pop up private concerts some weekends and impromptu jam sessions. On occasion, we have outdoor movies and morning yoga along with great activities in the surrounding community too. Or just hang out in the hammocks and soak in that downhome country feeling. Come and enjoy the great outdoors on our farm!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$20
 / night
Crow Peak’s Last Best Place

10. Crow Peak’s Last Best Place

98%
(261)
3 sites · Tents, RVs · Spearfish, SD
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
Trash
from 
$60
 / night
View from our driveway with the Mickelson Trail and Hwy 385 on the right and the ranch/campground on the left

11. Plenty Star Ranch Retreat

93%
(281)
35 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Custer, SD
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
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$60
 / night
Horse Creek Resort RV Sites

14. Horse Creek Resort RV Sites

97%
(229)
18 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Rapid City, SD
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. *****NOTE: HWY 385 Road Construction***** South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) began Highway 385 road construction , which is the main highway that runs through the Black Hills, from Deadwood through Custer, in the fall of 2023. They recently just started construction along the section next to Horse Creek (fall of 2024), which will continue through summer of 2025. Please use the following link for any updates: us-385 dot com
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$60
 / night
The Retreat at Pointer’s Ridge

15. The Retreat at Pointer’s Ridge

100%
(42)
1 site · Tent · Baltic, SD
The Retreat at Pointer’s Ridge is located on 21 acres along the Big Sioux River, a place of quiet and natural beauty intended to foster social interaction and creative pursuits between artists and community in SE South Dakota, 10 miles north of Sioux Falls. Property updates at The Retreat happen constantly; we get better and better! The 100′ x 40′ main hall is perfect for larger workshops, concerts, poetry readings, small theatrical productions, classes, and other social gatherings and rentals in April through November. The A-Frame is a unique space for recitals, presentations, meetings, or a sleeping space for up to 6 people. There is a Woodworking Shop; Artist Studio; screened-in outdoor patio; playground; huge bonfire pit; and room to camp or explore. The Retreat is a space to work in quiet solitude or to collaborate on creative projects with others. The setting is inspiring; possibilities for your stay are endless. Learn more about this land: This site is a sandy spot along the Big Sioux River on a ridge well above the water line. View out over the river to a farm on the opposite bank. Spend your time with wild turkeys, geese, and an occasional deer. Site is on the far edge of an artist retreat, but still private. Spend time hiking the river bank or gravel country roads, fish in the river, take part in any Retreat activities if available, photography opportunities, enjoy an evening campfire under the stars.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$30
 / night
Buffalo Tipi Glamping

16. Buffalo Tipi Glamping

100%
(8)
11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Hot Springs, SD
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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$31
 / night

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