The best ranch campgrounds in South Dakota

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for all your camping needs in the United States! If you're looking for a ranch experience in South Dakota, we've got you covered. With over 70 options available, you'll find the perfect ranch campsite to suit your preferences. Prices start as low as $10 per night, so you can enjoy an affordable getaway. Need some recommendations? Check out Crystal A.'s Land (21 reviews), redblue RV SITE (9 reviews), and Steinke Ranch Buffalo (7 reviews) for top-rated campsites. Plus, our popular amenities include trash disposal, potable water, and cooking equipment. And if you're up for some adventure, don't miss out on whitewater paddling, boating, and paddling activities. So pack your bags, grab your gear, and get ready for an unforgettable ranch camping experience in South Dakota!

86% (356)

Top-rated campgrounds

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for all your camping needs in the United States! If you're looking for a ranch experience in South Dakota, we've got you covered. With over 70 options available, you'll find the perfect ranch campsite to suit your preferences. Prices start as low as $10 per night, so you can enjoy an affordable getaway. Need some recommendations? Check out Crystal A.'s Land (21 reviews), redblue RV SITE (9 reviews), and Steinke Ranch Buffalo (7 reviews) for top-rated campsites. Plus, our popular amenities include trash disposal, potable water, and cooking equipment. And if you're up for some adventure, don't miss out on whitewater paddling, boating, and paddling activities. So pack your bags, grab your gear, and get ready for an unforgettable ranch camping experience in South Dakota!

86% (356)

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. Diamond A Cattle Ranch

98%

(98)

4 sites · Tents, RVs · Pukwana, SD

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.

3. Black Hawk Creek RV Park & Cabins

100%

(15)

48 sites · RVs, Lodging · Rapid City, SD

Feel free to contact us directly, we are happy to work with you via text or phone call on the office cell phone: 605-787-0024 Year-round campground offering 110 NEW full hook-up sites and 9 fully furnished cozy cabins. We also offer Long Term options to qualified applicants. Conveniently located a few minutes from both Rapid City and I-90 you will feel like you are out in the country surrounded by all the beautiful views, nature and wildlife. (The office cell phone is 605-787-0024. Text 24/7. After hours calls for onsite and arriving guests) Interstate 90, Black Hills Harley Davidson, RV Supply stores, a horse boarding facility, and quick and convenient access to all of the treasures the Black Hills have to offer is conveniently near. Whether you are kicking your feet up for the weekend or base camping out of Black Hawk Creek RV Park and Cabins to explore the beautiful Black Hills, you will find our tranquil, quiet, and beautiful setting relaxing, convenient, and enjoyable. Additionally, If you are a full time RVer and in the market for professional RV Skirting we also host the #1 RV Skirting company in the nation, Custom Skirting. Unhitch and check out their No Snap, No Gap channel system and Therma-Slide slide out wraps over in the big barn near the entrance.

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".

5. 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.

6. Steinke Ranch Buffalo

94%

(36)

7 sites · Tents, RVs · Colome, SD

Learn more about this land: Welcome Steinke Ranch! We offer rolling hills covered with beautiful trees. We have 8 different sites available alongside 3 fishing lakes within 10 miles. Find a shooting range near by and a plenty of deer, turkey, buffalo, and pheasant, only 2 1/2 miles off of highway! Come here and enjoy ultimate peace and quiet!.........have a Camp Fire...Play Horseshoes....Cowboy putting green.....Skeet shooting....Buffalo meat ...Buffalo snacks....Wisconsin Cheese......100% Pure Maple Syrup from Vermont.....Buffalo toys......Decals.....

7. Renegades Ranch

100%

(6)

6 sites · Tents, RVs · Corona, SD

This is a beautiful older farm site, with the original home and outbuildings. On the property is a horse pasture, a walking trail, a pond and several friendly animals. There are several acres of trees with a walking trail and campsites within. The farm historically was the top farm in the area. Rooms are spacious. Some remodeling has been done with windows and doors all upgraded. Learn more about this land:12 acre hobby farm with chickens, a dog, a cat, and a horse. We have grapes, raspberries, mulberry fruit trees and make our own wine. There is a trail going through the trees where there are several campsites and fire pits to choose from. As well as open areas to camp or park your camper. There is a small stage and central fire pit with many chairs, electricity and tables available. One 30 amp camper plugin. We are only 2 miles from Big Stone Lake, or within 4 miles you can kayak whetstone creek (weather/water level permitting). We have kayaks available for rent. Also this location is only 2 miles from gourmet bar and restaurants on the lake, and additional walking trails. We can also provide farm fresh eggs for your meal, or for additional fee cook breakfast or grill gourmet meals by request.

8. Tippy Toe Acres

83%

(3)

4 sites · RVs · Trent, SD

We purchased the property for use as a honey bee ranch. We no long keep bees, but we still love to go out to the country, and garden, and just enjoy the peace and quiet. Learn more about this land: Please, don't make a reservation, and then invite a bunch of people to join you. Your guests aren't my guests, but can be. Just a field near the Big Sioux River. Amenities will be added, as demand warrants. Lots of peace and quiet. Still close to Dell Rapids SD, for gas, bait, groceries, etc. We believe in equality for all, Top Freedom Friendly!

9. Grass limited trees

100%

(11)

12 sites · Tents, RVs · Herreid, SD

Learn more about this land:We are definitely out of the way 98 miles to the closest Walmart birds deer sunsets and sunrises best in the country great fishing 15 miles west lake Oahe sitting Bull’s grave site 33 miles west

10. Rush Lake Outdoors

30 sites · Tents, RVs · Webster, SD

Rush Lake Outdoors is located on the west side of Rush Lake, right in between Webster and Waubay, SD, in the heart of the Glacial Lakes which offer some of the world's best walleye fishing. We provide Boondock camping for tenters, RV's, and campers. Our camping sites are located right off Highway 12; we offer two entrances to the camping area, and the lots are mowed grass spaces. We also offer guides for guided fishing through the spring, summer, and fall. Self-guided and guided hunting for waterfowl and pheasants in the fall is also available.

11. 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.

12. Camp Marrowbone

1 site · Tent, RV · La Plant, SD

Our rustic camp property allows you to explore the Cheyenne River Reservation while staying in our humble property. Enjoy the most beautiful sunsets over Stove Creek Bay, part of the Missouri River. Nestled along the stunning shores of Lake Oahe on the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Reservation, Camp Marrowbone offers an immersive outdoor experience like no other. This remote and scenic retreat is perfect for tent campers seeking adventure, solitude, and a deep connection to nature.

13. Whispering Pines

1 site · Lodging · Custer, SD

Connect with nature at this unforgettable escape. Off the beaten path, relax, unwind, and listen to the wind whispering through the pines on this spacious private property. Experience South Dakota like a local. Opportunities to encounter all the amazing things to do in the Black Hills, without the crowded campgrounds or hotels. Perfectly situated between Custer and Hot Springs, a short 50 minutes or less scenic drive to Mt. Rushmore, many caves, the active Mammoth dig site, and much more!

Camper favorites in South Dakota

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Renegades Ranch

100%

(6)

6 sites · Tents, RVs · Corona, SD

This is a beautiful older farm site, with the original home and outbuildings. On the property is a horse pasture, a walking trail, a pond and several friendly animals. There are several acres of trees with a walking trail and campsites within. The farm historically was the top farm in the area. Rooms are spacious. Some remodeling has been done with windows and doors all upgraded. Learn more about this land:12 acre hobby farm with chickens, a dog, a cat, and a horse. We have grapes, raspberries, mulberry fruit trees and make our own wine. There is a trail going through the trees where there are several campsites and fire pits to choose from. As well as open areas to camp or park your camper. There is a small stage and central fire pit with many chairs, electricity and tables available. One 30 amp camper plugin. We are only 2 miles from Big Stone Lake, or within 4 miles you can kayak whetstone creek (weather/water level permitting). We have kayaks available for rent. Also this location is only 2 miles from gourmet bar and restaurants on the lake, and additional walking trails. We can also provide farm fresh eggs for your meal, or for additional fee cook breakfast or grill gourmet meals by request.

Tippy Toe Acres

83%

(3)

4 sites · RVs · Trent, SD

We purchased the property for use as a honey bee ranch. We no long keep bees, but we still love to go out to the country, and garden, and just enjoy the peace and quiet. Learn more about this land: Please, don't make a reservation, and then invite a bunch of people to join you. Your guests aren't my guests, but can be. Just a field near the Big Sioux River. Amenities will be added, as demand warrants. Lots of peace and quiet. Still close to Dell Rapids SD, for gas, bait, groceries, etc. We believe in equality for all, Top Freedom Friendly!

Grass limited trees

100%

(11)

12 sites · Tents, RVs · Herreid, SD

Learn more about this land:We are definitely out of the way 98 miles to the closest Walmart birds deer sunsets and sunrises best in the country great fishing 15 miles west lake Oahe sitting Bull’s grave site 33 miles west

Rush Lake Outdoors

30 sites · Tents, RVs · Webster, SD

Rush Lake Outdoors is located on the west side of Rush Lake, right in between Webster and Waubay, SD, in the heart of the Glacial Lakes which offer some of the world's best walleye fishing. We provide Boondock camping for tenters, RV's, and campers. Our camping sites are located right off Highway 12; we offer two entrances to the camping area, and the lots are mowed grass spaces. We also offer guides for guided fishing through the spring, summer, and fall. Self-guided and guided hunting for waterfowl and pheasants in the fall is also available.

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.

Camp Marrowbone

1 site · Tent, RV · La Plant, SD

Our rustic camp property allows you to explore the Cheyenne River Reservation while staying in our humble property. Enjoy the most beautiful sunsets over Stove Creek Bay, part of the Missouri River. Nestled along the stunning shores of Lake Oahe on the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe Reservation, Camp Marrowbone offers an immersive outdoor experience like no other. This remote and scenic retreat is perfect for tent campers seeking adventure, solitude, and a deep connection to nature.

Whispering Pines

1 site · Lodging · Custer, SD

Connect with nature at this unforgettable escape. Off the beaten path, relax, unwind, and listen to the wind whispering through the pines on this spacious private property. Experience South Dakota like a local. Opportunities to encounter all the amazing things to do in the Black Hills, without the crowded campgrounds or hotels. Perfectly situated between Custer and Hot Springs, a short 50 minutes or less scenic drive to Mt. Rushmore, many caves, the active Mammoth dig site, and much more!

Stories from the community

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

Danielle

September 2025

Group trip

1 night at Plenty Star Ranch Retreat

The cabin on the property is quite lovely! It was a great place to rest for the night from the Mickelson trail. Lovely views!

Oliver

September 2025

16 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Cheyenne River Bottom

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

R

Raymond

September 2025

Tent

1 night at Plenty Star Ranch Retreat

My friend Ben and I were riding / bike camping along the George Mickleson gravel trail from Edgemont SD to Deadwood SD. We chose Plenty Star ranch due to nearest camp/cabins northbound deadwood SD. Off season it was not busy, the Point of Contact Isa was nice. Shower and restroom clean! WiFi! At camp wow!

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.

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!

Areal view of Top of the Hill RV site with buffalo

I

Ian

August 2025

20 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Steinke Ranch Buffalo

Great and easily accessible RV site with good uncluttered views. Alan’s substantial Buffalo (Bison) herd is able to be viewed close up and his available Buffalo steaks and sausages are quite tasty. The weather when we were there was damp and raining but we can only imagine how much better it would be in clear conditions.

Ranch/Campground View from Hwy 385/driveway

M

Milissa

August 2025

26 ft Class A

Weekend Trip to Plenty Star Ranch Retreat

Fabulous, quiet, clean, great location. The host was helpful and kind.

M

Milissa

August 2025

Tent

3 nights at Plenty Star Ranch Retreat

Lovely location. Well kept and maintained property. Host was above expectations with her communication. If wanting Wind Caves or Custer State Park close this is definitely the best choice in the area.

R

Ruth

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Plenty Star Ranch Retreat

This was the perfect location for our 3 day Mickelson trail bike ride. Our cabin was clean and cozy, and even though located on the highway, traffic sounds were almost non-existent at night.

Arrival, overlooking the property from the driveway. Looking toward the North

Kimberly

August 2025

Tent

1 night at Plenty Star Ranch Retreat

I am super happy that I booked the Teepee site on top of the hill. We enjoyed the privacy and proximity to the amenities. The stars were spectacular and we enjoyed how close Custer was to our tourist destinations (Mount Rushmore and Deadwood). The bathroom was clean and the shower was hot with great water pressure. The only drawbacks I would point out are road noise and the dry pond, (Clearly outside of their control), but I was glad I didn’t book the tent site near there. I would definitely stay there again and recommend it to others.

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.

S

Sue

August 2025

29 ft travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at Cheyenne River Bottom

Cowgirl Annie went above and beyond to make my stay memorable. Very friendly and accommodating. Was available if I needed anything. Plenty of space for my 30' travel trailer. Great place to stargaze. Saw a bald eagle on the gravel road coming in. It's primitive, but peaceful. Would gladly stay there again.

Catherine

August 2025

25 ft Class C

With pets

2 nights at Plenty Star Ranch Retreat

Beautiful secluded spot. Nice flat sites, plenty of space between, and beautiful surroundings.

P

Pilar

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Plenty Star Ranch Retreat

It was a nice location. We were able to find it easily. We were unable to stay since it was raining and we had a roof top tent we could not get wet. We did get our farm fresh eggs and Martin was very responsive and understanding when we had to change our plans.

g

garrett

August 2025

16 ft car

With pets

1 night at Cedar Canyon Campground

Owners were extremely nice. Site was quiet and everything well kept. Communication was quick also. Would stay again if in the area it was a beautiful place

T

Teresa

August 2025

32 ft Class B

3 nights at Plenty Star Ranch Retreat

This beautiful spread just north of Pringle is a peaceful and relaxing homebase for adventures in the Black Hills. Our full hookup spot was under shade most of the day. Stars forever in the evening!