Notable Campgrounds
- Best for backpackers: With a permit, backcountry camping is allowed off trails that crisscross the prairies and forests in the northwest region of the park.
- Best for a traditional campout: Elk Mountain Campground has basic sites for both tents and RVs with no hookups.
- Best for camping with a group: Elk Mountain Campground has two group campsites.
Tips for Snagging a Campsite Reservation
- Reservations are available on the Recreation.gov website for dates between late May through early September.
- The booking window operates on a rolling basis, with reservations available 10 months in advance.
- Other times of year, all sites are first-come-first-served.
- This campground is open year round.
- Water and flush toilets are available late May through September, with discounted camping fees in the off season.
When to Go
The spring season may be cool but pleasant, with the highest potential for rain. Summer brings temperatures reaching 80 degrees, with low humidity and generally dry conditions, other than the potential for thunderstorms. Fall is a popular time to visit the park, as the elk mating season begins. In September and October, the sound of bugling elk fills the park at dawn and dusk. Temperatures are cool. Winter brings the potential for heavy snows and freezing temperatures.
Know Before You Go
- This park does not have a dump station. Campers should find options in the nearby towns of Hot Springs and Custer.
- Generator use is allowed between 8am and 8pm.
- Cell phone signals may be limited.
- During the summer months, ranger programs are offered daily in the amphitheater.
- Cave tours may fill up, especially in peak season, so advanced reservations are recommended.
Wind Cave National Park
Explore landscapes above–and below–-ground while camping at Wind Cave National Park.
A visit to Wind Cave National Park is like getting a two-for-one package. Above ground, you’ll find expansive prairies with roaming elk and buffalo. Below ground is one of the largest caverns in the world. Hike the 30 miles of trails, which take you through the grasslands and dense forests, and book a cave tour to view the fascinating underground structures upclose, while learning about the history and geology. Round out your visit by biking, birding, or taking a scenic drive. In addition to a developed campground, Wind Cave National Park also allows backcountry tent camping.
A visit to Wind Cave National Park is like getting a two-for-one package. Above ground, you’ll find expansive prairies with roaming elk and buffalo. Below ground is one of the largest caverns in the world. Hike the 30 miles of trails, which take you through the grasslands and dense forests, and book a cave tour to view the fascinating underground structures upclose, while learning about the history and geology. Round out your visit by biking, birding, or taking a scenic drive. In addition to a developed campground, Wind Cave National Park also allows backcountry tent camping.
Activities in the park
1 campground in Wind Cave National Park
Nestled cozily between dark forest and expansive prairie, Elk Mountain Campground is an outdoor lovers' respite in the southern black hills. Wind Cave National Park is an underloved, but incredibly beautiful national treasure. You won’t have to fight for your campsite, and you won’t have to stand in line. Wildlife is abundant, the cave is majestic Read more...
Why can't I see these campgrounds when I search with dates?
Notable Campgrounds
Notable Campgrounds
Tips for Snagging a Campsite Reservation
When to Go
The spring season may be cool but pleasant, with the highest potential for rain. Summer brings temperatures reaching 80 degrees, with low humidity and generally dry conditions, other than the potential for thunderstorms. Fall is a popular time to visit the park, as the elk mating season begins. In September and October, the sound of bugling elk fills the park at dawn and dusk. Temperatures are cool. Winter brings the potential for heavy snows and freezing temperatures.
Know Before You Go
Frequently asked questions
Is camping allowed in Wind Cave National Park?
Yes, camping is allowed in Wind Cave National Park. The park has one campground, the Elk Mountain Campground, which offers 61 campsites for tents and RVs. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis and does not require reservations. It provides basic amenities like picnic tables, fire grates, restrooms, and water. Note that there are no electrical, water, or sewer hookups for RVs at the campground. Camping outside of the designated campground is not permitted within Wind Cave National Park.
Is Wind Cave National Park worth a visit?
Wind Cave National Park is definitely worth visiting. The park offers a unique experience with its intricate cave system, which is one of the longest and most complex in the world. Visitors can take guided tours of the caves and learn about the fascinating geology, history, and Native American significance of the area. Above ground, the park also features beautiful mixed-grass prairie, ponderosa pine forests, and abundant wildlife, including bison, elk, and prairie dogs. There are hiking trails, picnic areas, and a campground for those who wish to extend their stay. Overall, Wind Cave National Park provides a memorable and educational experience for visitors of all ages.
What are the best months to visit Wind Cave National Park?
The best months to visit Wind Cave National Park are from late spring to early fall, specifically May through September. During these months, the weather is generally mild and pleasant, with daytime temperatures ranging from 60°F to 80°F, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, wildlife viewing, and camping. Keep in mind that summer months (June through August) can be busier with more visitors, so if you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting in May or September.
How do I get a campsite reservation at Wind Cave National Park?
Securing a Wind Cave National Park campsite reservation is usually a challenge due to the park's popularity. Camping trips typically need to be planned months in advance and even then, available campsites can book up within minutes. The good news is that you have other options for last-minute Wind Cave National Park campsite reservations. Try snagging one by setting up a free Hipcamp alert for any Wind Cave campground. We'll monitor campground availability, and you'll get instantly notified of any openings that come up for your dates so you can jump on it to reserve the newly open site. Set up an alert.
When should I reserve camping in Wind Cave National Park?
Most Wind Cave National Park campsite reservations open up months in advance. However, it's notoriously difficult to secure a Wind Cave reservation even if you plan ahead, as campsites are often booked up within minutes. To increase your chances of snagging a campsite, set up a free Hipcamp alert for any Wind Cave campground. We'll monitor campground availability, and you'll get instantly notified of any openings that come up for your dates so you can jump on it to reserve the newly open site. Set up an alert.
Public campgrounds (book externally) —