The best forest camping near Edgemont

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Edgemont’s forests set the stage for classic tent camping—think tall pines, winding trails, and over 240 options to roll out your sleeping bag. Most sites hover around $50 a night, but you’ll spot deals starting at $20. Campfires are allowed, and you’ll find toilets and showers at plenty of sites, which makes life easier after a day fishing at the creek, riding horseback, or swimming. The locals swear by Bear Den Cabins & Camp (323 reviews), or pitch your tent at Tent camping near a pine forest (218 reviews) and wake up surrounded by ponderosa. Looking for something with a ranch vibe? Plenty Star Ranch Retreat (161 reviews) sits on open land with easy access to trails and quiet corners. Pack sturdy boots and a good map—this patch of South Dakota delivers.

98% (1.2K)

Top-rated campgrounds

View from our driveway with the Mickelson Trail and Hwy 385 on the right and the ranch/campground on the left

3. Plenty Star Ranch Retreat

93%
(281)
26mi from Edgemont · 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
Buffalo Tipi Glamping

9. Buffalo Tipi Glamping

100%
(8)
20mi from Edgemont · 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
Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands

11. Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands

92%
(6)
72 sites · Chadron, Nebraska
Ahhh, the heartland. Wide open spaces of undeveloped land in which to spread your wings and find some breathing room. Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands is one of these places, comprised of two forests of ponderosa pine and three grassland areas. Come here to set up your temporary little house on the prairie and be a pioneer camper for a while! Wandering and exploring is unrestricted for non-motorized travel here, meaning freedom is yours for the taking! If you don’t want to just head into the abyss, try visiting the nation's oldest federal tree nursery (awww, baby trees!), or the largest extinct bison boneland in the world at the Hudson-Meng Bison Research Center. Or, head to Soldier Creek Wilderness Area for a little rewilding and backcountry exploration. Keep your eyes peeled for prairie dogs and wildflowers popping their cute little heads up, rock formations dotting the landscape, and magic around every turn. There’s a lot going on in that grass!
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
The Pond in Custer, SD

13. The Pond in Custer, SD

100%
(5)
35mi from Edgemont · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · Custer, SD
Calling all nature enthusiasts seeking a serene Black Hills escape! Immerse yourself in the beauty of this stunning 10+ acre property, bordering the National Forest and the renowned Mickelson Trail. Perfect for those comfortable in tents, hammocks, cars, popups, or small RVs (please note: no medium/large campers or generators to maintain the area's natural tranquility), you can step directly from your campsite onto miles of trails ideal for hiking and biking or explore off trail in the adjacent Black Hills National Forest. Explore north on the Mickelson Trail to discover Crazy Horse and Hill City, or head south towards Edgemont. A convenient spur trail also connects you westward to the wonders of Custer State Park. For a more relaxed pace, unwind by the peaceful pond and observe the local wildlife. While families with children who appreciate the quiet beauty of nature are welcome, this is not a site for parties or loud music. This is a primitive camping experience, so please bring your own drinking water. A shared outhouse with a bucket toilet is available for guest use, but there are better bathrooms in town! Plus, downtown Custer with its fantastic restaurants is less than a mile away via the Mickelson Trail! We kindly request that guests respect the peaceful environment and refrain from loud music or disruptive behavior. Some photos courtesy of Western Skies Realty.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$34
 / night
Stagecoach Stays

15. Stagecoach Stays

100%
(65)
22mi from Edgemont · 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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$59
 / night
Nirvana  SD

18. Nirvana SD

100%
(2)
19mi from Edgemont · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · Hot Springs, SD
This property is approx 2 acres in Hot Brook Canyon on the outskirts of Hot Springs South Dakota. (not 1 mile) It has space for tent camping, small RV's and campers or Car camping. It is primitive but has Hot Brook running thru it with a nice soaking hole. Camp fires are permitted after checking the local fire warnings. A nice walk to town and the Chatauqua park along with Evans Plunge. Currently there is a circulatory water system in a small block building where you can wash dishes, take a shower if the sun has warmed the tank and a composting toilet (do not put toilet paper in it!) which I will instruct and hopefully have instructions posted. This is a choose your place and make your own fire ring for a campfire and gather your own wood but remove the fire ring when you leave. The water in the stream is good for washing and cleaning but not potable. The Chautauqua park is very close and has a restroom. There may be a camp host available but not given, they will be around. This is a primitive camping area and there are several trails and a nice soaking place in the stream. Freedom is the rule of thumb alongside respectful nature to other guests and neighbors. Noise should be kept to a minimum. There is no trash removal so take out everything you bring in. This is a Libertarian property the Rule is RESPECT for the neighbors, your fellow campers, and of course nature. Be advised I keep several vehicles and my masonry equipment as well as my bio diesel system on the site.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$15
 / night
Refuge Hill Campsite

20. Refuge Hill Campsite

20mi from Edgemont · 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

Edgemont’s forests set the stage for classic tent camping—think tall pines, winding trails, and over 240 options to roll out your sleeping bag. Most sites hover around $50 a night, but you’ll spot deals starting at $20. Campfires are allowed, and you’ll find toilets and showers at plenty of sites, which makes life easier after a day fishing at the creek, riding horseback, or swimming. The locals swear by Bear Den Cabins & Camp (323 reviews), or pitch your tent at Tent camping near a pine forest (218 reviews) and wake up surrounded by ponderosa. Looking for something with a ranch vibe? Plenty Star Ranch Retreat (161 reviews) sits on open land with easy access to trails and quiet corners. Pack sturdy boots and a good map—this patch of South Dakota delivers.

98% (1.2K)

Top-rated campgrounds

View from our driveway with the Mickelson Trail and Hwy 385 on the right and the ranch/campground on the left

3. Plenty Star Ranch Retreat

93%
(281)
26mi from Edgemont · 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
Buffalo Tipi Glamping

9. Buffalo Tipi Glamping

100%
(8)
20mi from Edgemont · 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
Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands

11. Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands

92%
(6)
72 sites · Chadron, Nebraska
Ahhh, the heartland. Wide open spaces of undeveloped land in which to spread your wings and find some breathing room. Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands is one of these places, comprised of two forests of ponderosa pine and three grassland areas. Come here to set up your temporary little house on the prairie and be a pioneer camper for a while! Wandering and exploring is unrestricted for non-motorized travel here, meaning freedom is yours for the taking! If you don’t want to just head into the abyss, try visiting the nation's oldest federal tree nursery (awww, baby trees!), or the largest extinct bison boneland in the world at the Hudson-Meng Bison Research Center. Or, head to Soldier Creek Wilderness Area for a little rewilding and backcountry exploration. Keep your eyes peeled for prairie dogs and wildflowers popping their cute little heads up, rock formations dotting the landscape, and magic around every turn. There’s a lot going on in that grass!
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
The Pond in Custer, SD

13. The Pond in Custer, SD

100%
(5)
35mi from Edgemont · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · Custer, SD
Calling all nature enthusiasts seeking a serene Black Hills escape! Immerse yourself in the beauty of this stunning 10+ acre property, bordering the National Forest and the renowned Mickelson Trail. Perfect for those comfortable in tents, hammocks, cars, popups, or small RVs (please note: no medium/large campers or generators to maintain the area's natural tranquility), you can step directly from your campsite onto miles of trails ideal for hiking and biking or explore off trail in the adjacent Black Hills National Forest. Explore north on the Mickelson Trail to discover Crazy Horse and Hill City, or head south towards Edgemont. A convenient spur trail also connects you westward to the wonders of Custer State Park. For a more relaxed pace, unwind by the peaceful pond and observe the local wildlife. While families with children who appreciate the quiet beauty of nature are welcome, this is not a site for parties or loud music. This is a primitive camping experience, so please bring your own drinking water. A shared outhouse with a bucket toilet is available for guest use, but there are better bathrooms in town! Plus, downtown Custer with its fantastic restaurants is less than a mile away via the Mickelson Trail! We kindly request that guests respect the peaceful environment and refrain from loud music or disruptive behavior. Some photos courtesy of Western Skies Realty.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$34
 / night
Stagecoach Stays

15. Stagecoach Stays

100%
(65)
22mi from Edgemont · 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.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$59
 / night
Nirvana  SD

18. Nirvana SD

100%
(2)
19mi from Edgemont · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · Hot Springs, SD
This property is approx 2 acres in Hot Brook Canyon on the outskirts of Hot Springs South Dakota. (not 1 mile) It has space for tent camping, small RV's and campers or Car camping. It is primitive but has Hot Brook running thru it with a nice soaking hole. Camp fires are permitted after checking the local fire warnings. A nice walk to town and the Chatauqua park along with Evans Plunge. Currently there is a circulatory water system in a small block building where you can wash dishes, take a shower if the sun has warmed the tank and a composting toilet (do not put toilet paper in it!) which I will instruct and hopefully have instructions posted. This is a choose your place and make your own fire ring for a campfire and gather your own wood but remove the fire ring when you leave. The water in the stream is good for washing and cleaning but not potable. The Chautauqua park is very close and has a restroom. There may be a camp host available but not given, they will be around. This is a primitive camping area and there are several trails and a nice soaking place in the stream. Freedom is the rule of thumb alongside respectful nature to other guests and neighbors. Noise should be kept to a minimum. There is no trash removal so take out everything you bring in. This is a Libertarian property the Rule is RESPECT for the neighbors, your fellow campers, and of course nature. Be advised I keep several vehicles and my masonry equipment as well as my bio diesel system on the site.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$15
 / night
Refuge Hill Campsite

20. Refuge Hill Campsite

20mi from Edgemont · 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

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