The best camping in South Dakota

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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.

96% (4.7K) • 7,554 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in South Dakota

Horse Creek Resort RV Sites

1. Horse Creek Resort RV Sites

97%
(259)
Rapid City, SD · 16 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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Toilets
Full hookups
Uncle B's Produce Farm

2. Uncle B's Produce Farm

100%
(1380)
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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Electrical hookup
Toilets
Big Pine Campground

3. Big Pine Campground

98%
(438)
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
Black Hills National Forest

4. Black Hills National Forest

98%
(52)
National forest in South Dakota · 337 sites
Beyond Mount Rushmore, explore 1.2 million acres of forested mountains.
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Toilets
Campfires
Wind Cave National Park

5. Wind Cave National Park

100%
(15)
National park in South Dakota · 77 sites
Explore landscapes above–and below–-ground while camping at Wind Cave National Park.
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Toilets
Campfires
HTR Black Hills

6. HTR Black Hills

93%
(48)
Rapid City, SD · 79 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!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Bear Den Cabins & Camp

7. Bear Den Cabins & Camp

100%
(484)
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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Toilets
Campfires
Badlands Hotel & Campground

8. Badlands Hotel & Campground

90%
(189)
Interior, SD · 69 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, fire pits, and complimentary WiFi. Your Badlands getaway awaits. What are you waiting for?244000
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Toilets
Full hookups
Fort Welikit Campground

9. Fort Welikit Campground

97%
(74)
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
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Custer State Park

10. Custer State Park

88%
(29)
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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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.
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Toilets
Campfires
Badlands National Park

12. Badlands National Park

98%
(177)
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.
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Toilets
Campfires
Horse Creek Resort

14. Horse Creek Resort

97%
(206)
Rapid City, SD · 27 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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Toilets
Full hookups
Camp Custer in Star Valley

15. Camp Custer in Star Valley

96%
(26)
Custer, SD · 1 site · Tent, RV
Dry camping RV spot located in the southern Black Hills on 3 acres. Enjoy beautiful sunsets, visiting wildlife and occasional hot air ballons from the fire pit & picnic table just steps from your RV. Located 5 miles South of Custer. Enjoy your days visiting nearby Custer State Park, Crazy Horse Memorial, Mt. Rushmore, Wind Cave National Park, Jewell Cave. Walk, bike or run on the 109 mi Mickelson trail. We are also 2 hours from Badlands National Park. This area is rich in beauty and history so be sure to get out and explore!
Pets
Picnic table
Diamond A Cattle Ranch

16. Diamond A Cattle Ranch

97%
(133)
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.
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Electrical hookup
Toilets
Battle Creek Camping Resort

17. Battle Creek Camping Resort

98%
(27)
Hermosa, SD · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
BCCR: Your Perfect Glamping Escape in the Foothills of Hermosa, South Dakota Nestled in the breathtaking foothills of Hermosa, South Dakota, BCCR offers a one-of-a-kind getaway in the late summer of 2023. Spread across 80 acres, our family-owned and operated campground is the perfect place for families, couples, and solo travelers to unplug and unwind in nature. Unplug and Reconnect with Nature At BCCR, we intentionally offer a Wi-Fi-free and TV-free environment, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the tranquility of the outdoors. Whether you’re soaking in the stunning star-filled skies, biking around the campground, or making new friends, you’ll feel the joy of disconnecting from technology and reconnecting with those around you. Stargazing and Memories Under the Stars Our campgrounds are designed with stargazing in mind. Without the distractions of street lights, you’ll experience some of the clearest, most breathtaking night skies imaginable. Gather around your gas or wood fire pit, roast marshmallows, share stories, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Comfort and Convenience Our fully furnished lodges and domes are equipped with linens, towels, and a fully stocked coffee bar. Every detail is designed with your comfort in mind, ensuring that you have a cozy and relaxing stay. Our Most Praised Amenity: The Bath House Our bathhouse is a guest favorite, featuring private restrooms with individual sinks, showers, and toilets. Family-Friendly and Quiet Hours We are committed to maintaining a family-friendly atmosphere, so we ask that guests observe our quiet hours from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. to ensure everyone can enjoy a peaceful stay. We kindly request no loud music or disruptions during these hours. Important Check-In Information: Please note that our self-check-in process may be challenging after dark, as the area can get quite dark, and phone service may be spotty. If you anticipate arriving late, please reach out as soon as possible so we can be prepared to assist you if needed. Check In: Check in time is 4:00-10:00pm MST. Check Out: Please check out by 11:00am MST. Please be aware that calls made after 11 PM will go to voicemail, and we will return your call the following day.
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Electrical hookup
Toilets
Black Hills & Badlands Sunrise &Set

18. Black Hills & Badlands Sunrise &Set

99%
(57)
Hermosa , SD · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
🌾 Dancing Phoenix Farm | Peaceful Prairie Camping Near the Black Hills and Badlands Only 2 accommodations on 40 peaceful acres of South Dakota prairie. Welcome to Dancing Phoenix Farm—a small prairie retreat offering a quieter, more personal alternative to busy campgrounds and RV parks. Located near Badlands National Park, the Black Hills, Mount Rushmore and Custer State Park, our working farm is a peaceful home base for exploring western South Dakota. Enjoy breathtaking sunrises, unforgettable sunsets, abundant wildlife, and some of the area's darkest skies for incredible stargazing. 🌾 Choose your stay: ARTAX Campsite — Tent, camper, and RV-friendly camping with wide-open prairie views and unforgettable night skies. BADLANDS BUNKHOUSE — Comfortable lodging with modern conveniences, surrounded by the beauty and peacefulness of the South Dakota prairie. 🌾 Traveling together? The BUNKHOUSE and ARTAX are located near one another, making them ideal for families or friends who want different lodging styles, while staying close. Reserve both for your own prairie getaway. When booked separately, guests may occasionally see or hear one another, but we intentionally limit our stays to maintain a peaceful atmosphere. 🌅 Perfect for guests who enjoy: Peaceful prairie views and open spaces. Sunrises, sunsets and dark skies. Stargazing, wildlife and nature photography. A quiet retreat near the Black Hills and Badlands. As a working farm, wildlife is part of the experience. Please respect the land, wildlife, fences and neighboring properties. For everyone's safety, each adult guest must provide a valid government-issued ID and vehicle information when requesting a reservation. If you're seeking a peaceful South Dakota prairie retreat near the Black Hills and Badlands, we'd love to welcome you. 🌾 Two accommodations. Forty acres…Where the prairie meets the sky.
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Electrical hookup
Toilets
The Wilderness

19. The Wilderness

98%
(137)
West Pennington, SD · 1 site · Tent, RV
Learn more about this land:Tired of the city? Want to get away from people? This 80 acre site is perfect for getting away from civilization and experiencing nature as it was meant to be. Hike in the beautiful Black Hills or make the short trip to Lake Pactola for boating or fishing. If relaxing isn't your speed, take a bike ride on the Michelson Trail or travel one of the many off road trails nearby.
Pets
The Retreat at Pointer’s Ridge

20. The Retreat at Pointer’s Ridge

100%
(50)
Baltic, SD · 1 site · Tent, RV
The Retreat at Pointer’s Ridge is a sandy spot located on 21 acres overlooking the Big Sioux River just 12 miles north of Sioux Falls. Open April through November, The Retreat is a place of quiet and natural beauty intended to foster social interaction and creative pursuits between artists and community in SE South Dakota. The site is on the far edge of an artist retreat, but hipcampers can enjoy their own private area. Look out over the river to a farm on the opposite bank. Spend your time watching for wild turkeys, geese, eagles, and an occasional deer. Or hike 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. You might find any type of creative activity in our Main Hall -- a workshop, concert, poetry reading, small theatrical production, or other social gathering. Or just enjoy a quiet evening on the long Main Hall porch. We have a couple grills and an outdoor pizza oven for your special cooking needs. In addition, enjoy the Hall's complete indoor kitchen; you'll also find the bathrooms and showers here. Other buildings on the campus include: the A-Frame which is a unique sleeping space for up to 6 people; a Woodworking Shop; Artist Studio and Rustic Cabin for stayovers; screened-in outdoor patio; playground; huge bonfire pit; and room to camp or explore.
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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.

Frequently Asked Questions

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.

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.

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.

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