The best camping in Wind Cave National Park, SD

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.

• 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.

1. Reservations are available on the Recreation.gov website for dates between late May through early September.
2. The booking window operates on a rolling basis, with reservations available 10 months in advance.
3. Other times of year, all sites are first-come-first-served.
4. This campground is open year round.
5. Water and flush toilets are available late May through September, with discounted camping fees in the off season.

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.

• 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.