The best great views campgrounds near Rapid City, South Dakota

For a taste of the Old West, look no further than Rapid City—the gateway to the Black Hills. The city is nestled at the crux of world-famous South Dakota attractions, including Mount Rushmore and Deadwood. A weekend here means having six national parks and monuments within a one-hour drive of your campsite.

The Black Hills National Forest is a haven for outdoor fun. Here, granite spires and Ponderosa pines create the perfect backdrop for hiking, climbing, and horseback riding. Whether you're RV camping or tenting it, there are tons of campgrounds to choose from. Some even have horse corrals. (Be sure to BYOH—bring your own horse.)

You can't visit South Dakota without seeing Mt. Rushmore. After viewing the busts carved into the hill, you can even hike around the base of the rocks. Keep an eye out for mountain goats hanging out by the presidents. When you're done, be sure to check out nearby Crazy Horse Memorial. The in-the-works Native American mountain carving is even bigger than old Rushmore.

Bring your binoculars along when you visit Custer State Park—the southern Black Hills area is excellent for wildlife spotting. Keep an eye out for free-roaming herds of buffalo on the open prairies. You might even run into the famous begging burros. (Keep a close eye on your sandwich!)

Need a break? Head to the historic town of Deadwood to grab a beer at a saloon. If you have an extra day, drive over to Badlands National Park for prehistoric landscapes. Across the Wyoming border, Devil's Tower National Monument is a must-see, featuring a 1,000-foot-tall rocky outcrop.

You have plenty of camping options around Rapid City, including private RV parks and state park campgrounds. For a one-of-a-kind experience, consider staying at a horse ranch, log cabin, tipi or cottage.

Many parks and attractions around Rapid City are open year round. That said, the best time to camp is spring through fall. Avoid camping at the peak of summer when the monuments draw the biggest crowds.

97% (997) • 46 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Rapid City

Horse Creek Resort RV Sites

1. Horse Creek Resort RV Sites

97%

(229)

15mi from Rapid City · 18 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. 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.

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

from

$40

/ night

Rustic Rendezvous

2. Rustic Rendezvous

99%

(48)

16mi from Rapid City · 1 site · Tent, RV

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.

Toilets

Showers

Potable water

from

$42

/ night

The Wilderness

3. The Wilderness

99%

(124)

21mi from Rapid City · 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

from

$20

/ night

Sturgis View Campground

4. Sturgis View Campground

94%

(16)

30mi from Rapid City · 40 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Welcome to the best campground in Sturgis, offering breathtaking 360-degree views of the Black Hills. Enjoy spacious sites for families and adventurers, with hiking and stargazing just steps away. Create unforgettable memories in nature's beauty! Sturgis View Campground has been dedicated to providing the best experience for bikers attending the Sturgis Rally since 2004. With quick access to all attractions and the best views in Sturgis, there is no better place to stay. Located just 1.5 miles from Main St. in downtown Sturgis, our campground is conveniently located near Sturgis' Main Street, Sturgis Motorcycle Rally events, Deadwood and many other Black Hills destinations.

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

from

$20

/ night

Big Pine Campground

5. Big Pine Campground

98%

(361)

31mi from Rapid City · 17 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

from

$29

/ night

Plenty Star Ranch Retreat

6. Plenty Star Ranch Retreat

93%

(281)

35mi from Rapid City · 35 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

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

Toilets

Full hookups

from

$50

/ night

Stagecoach Stays

7. Stagecoach Stays

100%

(65)

43mi from Rapid City · 5 sites

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

Full hookups

from

$59

/ night

Crow Peak’s Last Best Place

8. Crow Peak’s Last Best Place

98%

(261)

46mi from Rapid City · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

We purchased this property in 1990, with no home or buildings on it. The trees were so little you could see OVER them!! We’ve since built our home and life here, as well as raised our family. We think our little corner of the world is perfect and just want to share it with others!!Nestled deep in the Black Hills of South Dakota, this camp site is sure to be a relaxing retreat!! With full hookups, and Spearfish just 10 minutes away, you’ll have all the amenities you need. Spearfish has plenty of restaurants, shopping and entertainment for the whole family. The Black Hills offers something for all ages. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or a history buff, you’ll find your niche here. There are winter sports and gaming just 20 miles from camp in Deadwood. These campsites are quaint and clean for your perfect getaway!!

Pets

Potable water

Full hookups

from

$60

43mi from Rapid City · 5 sites

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

Full hookups

from

$59

/ night

Crow Peak’s Last Best Place

8. Crow Peak’s Last Best Place

98%

(261)

46mi from Rapid City · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

We purchased this property in 1990, with no home or buildings on it. The trees were so little you could see OVER them!! We’ve since built our home and life here, as well as raised our family. We think our little corner of the world is perfect and just want to share it with others!!Nestled deep in the Black Hills of South Dakota, this camp site is sure to be a relaxing retreat!! With full hookups, and Spearfish just 10 minutes away, you’ll have all the amenities you need. Spearfish has plenty of restaurants, shopping and entertainment for the whole family. The Black Hills offers something for all ages. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or a history buff, you’ll find your niche here. There are winter sports and gaming just 20 miles from camp in Deadwood. These campsites are quaint and clean for your perfect getaway!!

Pets

Potable water

Full hookups

from

$60

/ night

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

G

Gregory

October 2025

25 ft Class C

With pets

1 night at Stagecoach Stays

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

G

Gregory

October 2025

25 ft Class C

1 night at Crow Peak’s Last Best Place

We were looking for a nice isolated, dark sky location to ourselves and got just what we wanted. We would definitely stay here again!

A

ANDREW

October 2025

20 ft campervan

With pets

1 night at Crow Peak’s Last Best Place

Beautiful location that is excellently maintained. The host was very accommodating.

W

William

October 2025

12 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Big Pine Campground

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

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!

B

Bobbie

September 2025

Tent

7 nights at Big Pine Campground

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!

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 Big Pine Campground

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.

K

Kari

September 2025

Tent

5 nights at Big Pine Campground

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!

B

Bill

September 2025

24 ft Class C

2 nights at Crow Peak’s Last Best Place

We love this place, very private , will be back. This was our second time.

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.

E

Emme

September 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Horse Creek Resort RV Sites

Beautiful wide open area! Would definitely stay here again!

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.

Melissa

September 2025

Tent

With kids

1 night at Big Pine Campground

Gorgeous setting, clean bathroom, friendly and very helpful for a late check in

L

Louis

September 2025

28 ft travel trailer

With pets

1 night at Crow Peak’s Last Best Place

Absolutely perfect, private gem of a camping spot!

J

Joseph

September 2025

15 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Wilderness

This was my second time staying at this wonderfully remote site! I highly recommend Daniel’s land if you are looking for somewhere extremely private yet not far off the beaten path.

S

Simon

September 2025

25 ft Class C

1 night at Horse Creek Resort RV Sites

Well cared for campground with a cozy feel. Garret, our host, was very accommodating and communicative. There is a neat little rock outcropping hill that stands behind the resort which is a great spot for a hike with a view. Nice facilities. Would recommend and stay again!