The best forest campgrounds near Hot Springs, South Dakota

98% (1645 reviews)

Looking to camp near Hot Springs, South Dakota, surrounded by lush forests? Look no further than Hipcamp, where you'll find over 140 options specifically tailored to your forest-loving preferences. With options as low as $20 per night and an average price of $30, you'll find a campsite that fits your budget. Check out top campsites like Custer's Last Chance Rv Park (108 reviews), Crow Peak’s Last Best Place (70 reviews), and Tent camping near a pine forest (67 reviews). Enjoy popular amenities such as toilets, trash, and campfires, and indulge in activities like off-roading, wildlife watching, and paddling. Happy camping!

Popular camping styles for Hot Springs

Top-rated campgrounds

98% (1645 reviews)

Looking to camp near Hot Springs, South Dakota, surrounded by lush forests? Look no further than Hipcamp, where you'll find over 140 options specifically tailored to your forest-loving preferences. With options as low as $20 per night and an average price of $30, you'll find a campsite that fits your budget. Check out top campsites like Custer's Last Chance Rv Park (108 reviews), Crow Peak’s Last Best Place (70 reviews), and Tent camping near a pine forest (67 reviews). Enjoy popular amenities such as toilets, trash, and campfires, and indulge in activities like off-roading, wildlife watching, and paddling. Happy camping!

Popular camping styles for Hot Springs

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Tent camping near a pine forest

98%

(361)

23mi from Hot Springs · 17 sites · Tents, RVs · Custer, SD

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.

2. The Wilderness

99%

(124)

47mi from Hot Springs · 1 site · Tent, RV · West Pennington, SD

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.

3. HTR Black Hills

92%

(19)

39mi from Hot Springs · 102 sites · RVs, Lodging · Rapid City, SD

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!

4. Refuge Hill Campsite

11mi from Hot Springs · 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. Bear Den Cabins & Camp

100%

(467)

28mi from Hot Springs · 8 sites · Tents, Lodging · Hermosa, SD

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!

6. Horse Creek Resort RV Sites

97%

(229)

38mi from Hot Springs · 18 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Rapid City, SD

theHCresort.com Centrally-located on 18 acres between two of the Hills’ largest and most beautiful lakes, and less than 15 miles from Rapid City and Mount Rushmore, Horse Creek Resort is the perfect creekside oasis for your next adventure. The resort is located off Highway 385, the main thoroughfare through the Black Hills National Forest, yet is peacefully nestled in a quiet valley, completely surrounded by national forestland with a tranquil year-round creek meandering throughout the property. Rock outcroppings, hiking trails and offroad trails are within footsteps of every cabin. The serene space is an outdoor sanctuary centrally-located within 20 miles of Custer State Park, Crazy Horse Memorial, Needles Eye Tunnel / Highway, and Black Elk Peak. Your adventure will also take you near Hill City, Keystone, Custer, and Historic Deadwood. Drive a little further, and end up in Badlands National Park, Wind Cave National Park, Jewel Cave National Monument, Sturgis, or Devils Tower National Monument. There are 8 open creek side RV sites (Sites 1 -8). You will receive site assignment the day prior to your stay. *****NOTE: HWY 385 Road Construction***** South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) began Highway 385 road construction , which is the main highway that runs through the Black Hills, from Deadwood through Custer, in the fall of 2023. They recently just started construction along the section next to Horse Creek (fall of 2024), which will continue through summer of 2025. Please use the following link for any updates: us-385 dot com

7. Horse Creek Resort

97%

(166)

38mi from Hot Springs · 29 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Rapid City, SD

theHCresort.com Centrally-located on 18 acres between two of the Hills’ largest and most beautiful lakes, and less than 15 miles from Rapid City and Mount Rushmore, Horse Creek Resort is the perfect creekside oasis for your next adventure. The resort is located off Highway 385, the main thoroughfare through the Black Hills National Forest, yet is peacefully nestled in a quiet valley, completely surrounded by national forestland with a tranquil year-round creek meandering throughout the property. Rock outcroppings, hiking trails and offroad trails are within footsteps of every cabin. The serene space is an outdoor sanctuary centrally-located within 20 miles of Custer State Park, Crazy Horse Memorial, Needles Eye Tunnel / Highway, and Black Elk Peak. Your adventure will also take you near Hill City, Keystone, Custer, and Historic Deadwood. Drive a little further, and end up in Badlands National Park, Wind Cave National Park, Jewel Cave National Monument, Sturgis, or Devils Tower National Monument. *****NOTE: HWY 385 Road Construction***** South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) began Highway 385 road construction , which is the main highway that runs through the Black Hills, from Deadwood through Custer, in the fall of 2023. They recently just started construction along the section next to Horse Creek (fall of 2024), which will continue through summer of 2025. Please use the following link for any updates: us-385 dot com

8. Star Valley RV Camp Spot

100%

(29)

20mi from Hot Springs · 1 site · RV · Custer, SD

Cozy full hook up RV spot centrally located in the southern Black Hills on five acres. Enjoy beautiful sunsets from the shared fire pit just steps from your RV. Located 5 miles from the town 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!

9. Buffalo Tipi Glamping

100%

(8)

0.8mi from Hot Springs · 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.

10. Camp Custer in Star Valley

95%

(20)

20mi from Hot Springs · 1 site · Tent, RV · Custer, SD

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!

11. Plenty Star Ranch Retreat

93%

(281)

16mi from Hot Springs · 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.

12. Custer's Last Chance Rv Park

92%

(218)

24mi from Hot Springs · 32 sites · Tents, RVs · Custer, SD

Custer's Last Chance RV Park Conveniently located on the East side of Custer with easy access to the Custer Spur bike trail. The French Creek runs through the property, lots of wildlife frequents the area. The creek features a couple of wide pools. The rest of the creek is fairly narrow with slow moving water. The kids will have a great time exploring the lower acreage. Full hookup sites are available with 50, 30 or 20 amps. We still have dry camping sites as well. We hope you enjoy your stay!

13. Black Elk Resort

96%

(69)

35mi from Hot Springs · 1 site · RV · Rapid City, SD

Black Elk Resort is one of the finest cottages and RV resorts in South Dakota, nestled in a beautiful wooded setting and only a short drive to Mount Rushmore. We feature 9 cottages sleeping 2 to 5 people, 8 Full Hook-up Pull-Thru 50 ft. RV sites with 30/50 Amp, picnic tables, & park style charcoal grills available for the ultimate RV experience. Whether taking advantage of our cottages, RV sites or the Palmer Creek Taproom, our long list of amenities are available for your use and enjoyment. We are proud of our family-oriented reputation and continually strive to make the Black Elk Resort as beautiful as the nature that surrounds it.

14. The Pond in Custer, SD

100%

(5)

25mi from Hot Springs · 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.

15. Stagecoach Stays

100%

(65)

3.4mi from Hot Springs · 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.

16. Rustic Rendezvous

99%

(48)

31mi from Hot Springs · 1 site · Tent, RV · Hermosa, SD

Semi secluded on 5 acres camping has a large cement pad with a bathroom that has shower, toilet, and sink. Nearby is Mt Rushmore, Custer State Park, Black Hills Playhouse, Rush Mountain Adventure Park, Keystone, Wind Cave, Jewel Cave, numerous off roading trails, and hiking trails, Iron Mountain Road, Needles Highway. A short drive away is Deadwood, Sturgis and Spearfish Canyon. Devils Tower and Badlands are within driving distance History in the Black Hills is unlimited, along with off roading adventures.

17. Starlight Carroll Creek

100%

(5)

17mi from Hot Springs · 1 site · Tent, RV · Custer, SD

Level, grassy field, good for tent camping, motor home parking, hiking, bird watching. Custer - Jewel Cave National Park within a 30 minute drive. Crazy Horse Memorial within 15 minutes (Native items and tour of Crazy Horse sculpture - largest sculpture in the world). Helicopter rides, too, in Hill City, covers Custer State Park, Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse and North to Badlands ($$). Sylvan Lake (actually several nice lakes, less than 30 minute drive). Mount Rushmore 30 minutes away. Custer State Park (miles of Bison, hungry for carrots Donkeys and Pronghorn to see) less than 30 minutes away. Downtown Custer shops (gifts, Native items, vape shop). Shooting range and gun shop 5 miles away. Hot Springs - Mammoth Park, Wind Cave National Park, Evans Plunge (indoor Hot Springs fed pool).

18. Custer Valley View RV Camp Spot

100%

(25)

20mi from Hot Springs · 1 site · Tent, RV · Custer, SD

Convenient full hook up RV spot with WiFi, fire pit and picnic table. Centrally located in the southern Black Hills on two acres. Enjoy beautiful sunsets, occasional hot air balloons and wildlife from your RV. Located 4 miles from the town of Custer. Enjoy your days visiting nearby Custer State Park, Crazy Horse Memorial, Mt. Rushmore, Wind Cave National Park, Hot Springs, Jewell Cave or Cosmos. 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!

19. Lower French Creek Camp

21mi from Hot Springs · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Custer, SD

Nestled in the forest southeast of Custer, SD, and surrounded by USFS land on three sides, this site makes an excellent ATV/UTV home base with plenty of nearby trails, as well as hiking routes that follow old Forest Service fire and logging roads. The property is extremely close to Custer State Park, Stockade Lake, Bismarck Lake, and Wind Cave National Park. Jewel Cave National Monument, Mount Rushmore, and Crazy Horse Memorial are all within easy driving distance. The camping pad has an overall depth of about 80 feet and a width of about 50 feet. It shares the property with a small A-frame vacation rental, but the two are nearly 450 feet apart, offering plenty of privacy. Please message me with any questions.

20. Castle Creek Horse Cabins

48mi from Hot Springs · 1 site · Lodging · Hill City, SD

Dry cabin rentals with access to kitchen and bath in main cabin. Electric for trailers with living quarters. Paddocks and/ small pasture. Ride from the property or trailer to one of many horse trails in the BlackHill, SD. 972-989-0840

Stories from the community

J

Jenna

3 weeks ago

25 ft Class C

1 night at Star Valley RV Camp Spot

Kurt's spot was easy to access and had everything we needed. He was a great host and ensured we had what we needed. I'd love to come back and have a bit more time to enjoy this location! A great find!

G

Gregory

3 weeks ago

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

Nicholas

October 2025

1 night at Bear Den Cabins & Camp

We had such a wonderful time. Tammy and Tim were so hospitable and set us up for one of the coolest experiences to date. We can’t wait to come back - 10/10! Thank you so much!

W

William

October 2025

12 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Tent camping near a pine forest

Beautiful place with an extremely friendly staff! I would definitely recommend it.

D

Deborah

October 2025

32 ft Class C

With pets

14 nights at Star Valley RV Camp Spot

Kurt is an amazing host in more ways than one. After I texted him saying we were set to arrive in our RV in the middle of the night, he gave detailed instructions on where to park. Not only that, but he congratulated us via text after he awoke on the good job of parking in the dark, since we had already left for the Buffalo Round up in our car. We reserved the site for two weeks but our son was with us and he was anxious to get home after being away for months hiking the Continental Divide Trail. We left after only five days and Kurt graciously agreed to refund us. He was so understanding and even spoke to my husband in person. The site is amazing because it is in the middle of the countryside with no other RVs. Accommodations were excellent...great wifi. We highly recommend this host/site and hope to return in the future.

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!

P

Paul

October 2025

26 ft Class B

With pets

2 nights at Black Elk Resort

Really nice spot , convenient to all the things we wanted to see. Level site, good power , water! Clean shower.

B

Bobbie

September 2025

Tent

7 nights at Tent camping near a pine forest

Our view was very nice! Great sunsets. Our spot was pretty flat for our tent. Easy to park our motorcycles. Great shower facilities. Definitely recommend this place!

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!

Chrissy

September 2025

30 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Custer's Last Chance Rv Park

Megan was a great host. We had a great time there.

Chrissy

September 2025

45 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Custer's Last Chance Rv Park

Megan was incredibly helpful and we had a great visit. Thank you

T

Tony

September 2025

20 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to The Pond in Custer, SD

Nora’s site is very secluded and beautiful. We were only there overnight so we couldn’t enjoy the firepit, but it is a great place to be. Close to town for the necessities, but isolated enough to allow you to enjoy the natural beauty. I’d recommend an SUV, truck, or something you’re comfortable with a fairly steep incline in for the trail in, but we had no trouble with our Ford Transit van. Enjoy this site!

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.

L

Lea

September 2025

Tent

With pets

3 nights at The Wilderness

Beautiful spot!! We camped with a few dogs and had a wonderful time in the woods.

D

Dan

September 2025

26 ft Class C

3 nights at Horse Creek Resort RV Sites

Loved our stay! Beautiful views, quiet and our site was very private. Everything was well maintained and clean. Highly recommend 👍

T

Thomas

September 2025

Tent

3 nights at Tent camping near a pine forest

We've stayed here two years in a row now. We just love this campground. The staff here is super friendly and very helpful. They arranged for us to stay in our favorite spot again this year. We highly recommend this location.

Devon

September 2025

Tent

1 night at Bear Den Cabins & Camp

Tammy was incredible! She was warm and welcoming and has absolutely everything you may need. Beautiful property. Hope to be back one day very soon!

K

Kari

September 2025

Tent

5 nights at Tent camping near a pine forest

This Campground is fantastic. The tent area was away from the Camper area which provided a quiet, peaceful experience! The bathroom/shower house was very clean and accessible. The front desk employees were extremely friendly and helpful. The delivery of wood and ice is a bonus for everyone! Highly recommend!

c

christina

September 2025

33 ft Class C

With pets

1 night at Horse Creek Resort RV Sites

Awesome trails to walk, creek next to campsites. Well taken care of.

Wes

September 2025

Tent

1 night at The Wilderness

It's the wilderness for sure. This was our third stop in a drive across the country and I thought it was quite enjoyable. The place was easy to access and had plenty of places to setup camp. If you're pulling a trailer it seemed as if there was just one place big enough to turn around and I wasn't gonna gamble and drive deeper into the property to find out if that's true or not, lol. Would visit again.