Private Camping in South Dakota, South Dakota: Best South Dakota Private Campsites 2025

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.

99% (193)

Top-rated campgrounds

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.

99% (193)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Cheyenne River Bottom

94%

(49)

4 sites · Tents, RVs · Wall, SD

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.

2. Downhome Country Farm

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(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!

3. Buffalo Tipi Glamping

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(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.

4. Black Hills Meadow

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(7)

194 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Piedmont, SD

Welcome to Black Hills Meadow The Meadow is located in the heart of the Black Hills. Surrounded by recreational activities, historical landmarks and beautiful scenery. Locally owned and operated, we are here to make your special occasion or trip perfect and special!

5. Stagecoach Stays

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(65)

5 sites · RVs · Hot Springs, SD

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.

6. The Larson Campground

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(12)

11 sites · Tents, Lodging · Garretson, SD

Welcome to the Larson Homestead! Our 13.5 acres has a lovely view of the pasture, creek, and surrounding farms. We have pet goats, cows, chickens, dogs, cats, and kittens! Depending on when you come you could witness baby chicks hatching or baby goats being born or bottled. The goats are super friendly and love to be petted or fed. You can wander around the pasture and creek during your stay. There are many RV spots with the power along with a pool! Firewood is available on site. We reserve the right to prohibit fires if we feel it’s too dry or windy. A picnic shelter is available to use for assistance if extra bedding or space is needed. The picnic shelter is equipped with a loft along with refrigeration, stove, oven, microwave, soon, shower, and a toilet. Next to the picnic shelter is a large area to have a bonfire where you can grill food or just relax around and enjoy the scenery! Along with your stay, we provide being big boards and bags for your entertainment along with a stereo for music. If your family is traveling with four wheelers or dirt bikes we have a large area to explore along with a man-made track that is on the edge of the yard. We are located 11 miles north off of interstate 90. We are 15 miles from Sioux Falls And 6 miles from Garretson (where you have the opportunity to visit Devils Gulch, Split Rock Park, or Palisades State Park!) We have a large area for children to run and play including three different places in the sandbox. Our animals would love to meet you!

7. Cedar Canyon Campground

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(4)

13 sites · Tents, RVs · Wanblee, SD

We have a very quiet private campground with 12 full hookups sites. Your hosts Gene &Jo live in cabin onsite to answer any questions you might have. Private campsite with full hookups in a beautiful setting. Panoramic views , Enjoy the peaceful setting, hiking and wildlife on our family acreage. We are located just off of Hwy 44 and Hwy 73 in South Central SD. We are approximately 30 minutes drive from the South entrance to the Badlands National park at Interior, and 1.5 hours from Rapid City. Come with supplies, there is limited shopping approximately 10 miles from nearest shopping in Wanblee. This is a remote area, safe for single travelers. Picnic tables and covered camp shelter with electric available We are located 18 miles south of Kadoka SD on SD HWY 73 and 2 miles north of Junction SD Hwy 44 and SD Hwy73.

Camper favorites in South Dakota

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Black Hills Meadow

100%

(7)

194 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Piedmont, SD

Welcome to Black Hills Meadow The Meadow is located in the heart of the Black Hills. Surrounded by recreational activities, historical landmarks and beautiful scenery. Locally owned and operated, we are here to make your special occasion or trip perfect and special!

Stagecoach Stays

100%

(65)

5 sites · RVs · Hot Springs, SD

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.

The Larson Campground

100%

(12)

11 sites · Tents, Lodging · Garretson, SD

Welcome to the Larson Homestead! Our 13.5 acres has a lovely view of the pasture, creek, and surrounding farms. We have pet goats, cows, chickens, dogs, cats, and kittens! Depending on when you come you could witness baby chicks hatching or baby goats being born or bottled. The goats are super friendly and love to be petted or fed. You can wander around the pasture and creek during your stay. There are many RV spots with the power along with a pool! Firewood is available on site. We reserve the right to prohibit fires if we feel it’s too dry or windy. A picnic shelter is available to use for assistance if extra bedding or space is needed. The picnic shelter is equipped with a loft along with refrigeration, stove, oven, microwave, soon, shower, and a toilet. Next to the picnic shelter is a large area to have a bonfire where you can grill food or just relax around and enjoy the scenery! Along with your stay, we provide being big boards and bags for your entertainment along with a stereo for music. If your family is traveling with four wheelers or dirt bikes we have a large area to explore along with a man-made track that is on the edge of the yard. We are located 11 miles north off of interstate 90. We are 15 miles from Sioux Falls And 6 miles from Garretson (where you have the opportunity to visit Devils Gulch, Split Rock Park, or Palisades State Park!) We have a large area for children to run and play including three different places in the sandbox. Our animals would love to meet you!

Cedar Canyon Campground

100%

(4)

13 sites · Tents, RVs · Wanblee, SD

We have a very quiet private campground with 12 full hookups sites. Your hosts Gene &Jo live in cabin onsite to answer any questions you might have. Private campsite with full hookups in a beautiful setting. Panoramic views , Enjoy the peaceful setting, hiking and wildlife on our family acreage. We are located just off of Hwy 44 and Hwy 73 in South Central SD. We are approximately 30 minutes drive from the South entrance to the Badlands National park at Interior, and 1.5 hours from Rapid City. Come with supplies, there is limited shopping approximately 10 miles from nearest shopping in Wanblee. This is a remote area, safe for single travelers. Picnic tables and covered camp shelter with electric available We are located 18 miles south of Kadoka SD on SD HWY 73 and 2 miles north of Junction SD Hwy 44 and SD Hwy73.

Stories from the community

G

Gregory

October 2025

25 ft Class C

With pets

1 night at Stagecoach Stays

This was a well equipped site. We were the only ones there and it was very peaceful. Lots of wildlife there.

N

Nathan

October 2025

16 ft car

With kids

2 nights at Cheyenne River Bottom

Loved the views of the night sky and the open ability to hike around the camp area. Hospitality was awesome, and was helpful with knowledge of the surrounding areas and wildlife. Would absolutely stay again

D

David

October 2025

27 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Stagecoach Stays

Fantastic stay! New, modern services and site in a unique setting. Quiet, with a beautiful wildlife and vista. Great hosts and amazing area. We'll be back for a longer stay to explore more of the area!

L

Laura

October 2025

19 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Downhome Country Farm

The property was lovely and the owner's are so friendly and make you feel right at home. Loved all of the animals, especially their beautiful dog, Millie. The solar shower was a treat and there were so many decorations and gardens to see. We left with eggs, veggies and great memories. I would highly recommend and hope to return myself one day!

Debra

September 2025

23 ft travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at Stagecoach Stays

We love staying at stagecoach, beautiful spot, gorgeous sunsets horses all around along with deer and other critters centrally located, but we still felt off the beaten track. The host were really awesome and so helpful. It’s a beautiful place.

C

Cathy

September 2025

2 nights at Buffalo Tipi Glamping

My friend and I enjoyed our stay and Robyn and her husband were wonderful hosts!! The tipi was so warm and cozy and the bed was amazing, so comfortable!! It was great having our own bathroom!! The instructions were detailed and easy to follow once we arrived. We would recommend staying here!!

Oliver

September 2025

16 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Cheyenne River Bottom

Nice private and quiet spot. Close to Wall and Badlands NP.

Sydney

September 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Downhome Country Farm

Carole had beautiful and comfy spots for tent camping. She a had a beautiful property and her animals were pretty great. Carole herself was exceptional and went put of her way to ensure my entire family had a great time. Id highly recommend staying here and getting some fresh eggs!

C

Caleb

September 2025

5 nights at Buffalo Tipi Glamping

Terrific glamping teepee! The view was awesome, the location great, and we loved all the wildlife.

C

Chris

September 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Cheyenne River Bottom

Peaceful. Plenty of space to find the perfect spot. Host was super helpful with navigating construction detour. This will be my recommendation to any one visiting the Badlands area. No crowds.

C

Cindy

September 2025

35 ft fifth wheel

With pets

Weekend Trip to Cheyenne River Bottom

We absolutely loved it!! Very peaceful and beautiful. We had our 5th wheel camper so self contained. Angela was super and very helpful!!! Wasta Bar was cool as can be! Go Bill! Was a great break from crowded campgrounds to be able to enjoy the land

Mark

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Cheyenne River Bottom

I would definitely recommend Cheyenne River bottom it’s easy access plenty of room. Nice views and room to walk around and explore.

Gwen

September 2025

48 ft Class C

13 nights at Stagecoach Stays

Location was close to many points of interest. And the hosts were happy to give advice on things to see and the best ways to get there. We had a nice quiet stay.

S

Steph

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Downhome Country Farm

What a wonderful find near Sioux Falls! The animals were delightful as were the hosts. I will definitely return.

K

Kari

September 2025

Tent

1 night at Black Hills Meadow

We stayed one night at Black Hills Campground and it was exactly what we needed. My husband and I were the only guests, which made it incredibly quiet and peaceful. The facilities were well-kept, with hot showers and clean toilets available. It was a wonderfully restful stop and we left feeling refreshed. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a calm, comfortable place to stay.

D

Diego

September 2025

25 ft travel trailer

With pets

2 nights at Stagecoach Stays

Great private site with full hookups. The views were great and easy to into. Location was fantastic for visiting the parks. Would highly recommend.

Jessica

September 2025

Tent

With kids

1 night at Cheyenne River Bottom

This is definitely one of the most beautiful campsites! The views were absolutely stunning! This site is very true to its name— cowboy country! It’s more rugged and very secluded (outside of the other campers)— so come prepared. We saw turkeys and deer. The camp toilet was helpful. There is a single hammock available for resting. The host was very responsive and clear on instructions. She offered directions and tips in advance of our stay and even provided a contact number in case we needed something. It was a fun touch to buy her book ahead of time to connect my kids to the land a little bit too! Quick and easy set up once we got to our spot and the ground was surprisingly not too uncomfortable in spite of being on gravel. We feel it’s best for more experienced campers if you are tent camping.

Mia

September 2025

20 ft pop-up camper

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Cheyenne River Bottom

Such beautiful and quiet land. We loved staying here!

b

bryce

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Buffalo Tipi Glamping

The tipi was well stocked, I loved the location and that we had our own private bathroom. The host was responsive and promptly returned messages.

N

Nolan

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Cheyenne River Bottom

My brother and I spent 3 nights tent camping in one of the gravel pits here and it was quite nice! The land was quite expansive so there was a lot to explore, it was really pretty, and there was a decent amount of wildlife (deer, vultures, etc.). There are also a lot of trees/cover to provide shade. The local amenities like gas, food, etc. were also nice to have despite being in such a rural spot too. Last but not least, the access to the national/state parks nearby was unbeatable. I also liked having a super chill host who was very flexible and accommodating to our needs! I'm a stargazer and the night skies were incredibly dark; I could easily spot the Andromeda galaxy with the naked eye, let alone the milky way (in late August)! Looking through any telescope of any size yielded many ooos and ahhs. This is easily a bortle 1, maybe a low 2 if you're pessimistic. Unfortunately the weather didn't cooperate as it is very unpredictable in this part of the country. We were offered another night to increase our chances of good weather though, which was much appreciated. The only real downside of the site were that as it is often used as cattle ranchland, and also being by a river, there were flies. A LOT of flies. Mosquitoes too. Of course, that's not really anyone's fault, but bring your best bug mitigation tools if you camp here. Also, a few more signs to designate where the campsites are would have been useful.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Private camping in South Dakota 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.