Camping in Badlands National Park

98% (284 reviews)

Camp in an otherworldly landscape with unique rock formations.  

Top camping in Badlands National Park

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.
98% (284 reviews)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Badlands National Park adventure.

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Top-rated campgrounds near Badlands National Park

97%
(29)

Cheyenne River Bottom

4 sites · RVs, Tents1500 acres · Wall, SD
This ranch is the home of children's book author Cowgirl Annie. This property is a working Ranch. Some of the campsites are in an abandoned gravel pit so you will be parking on a sandy gravel base. I like to let my guests decide where they want to park. I may have to move guests to a different site than the one they booked depending on what is happening on the ranch or the weather. There are cottonwood stands close by that you can hike through to the river. A wide variety of wildlife live in this area, so no telling what you may see or hear. You will have a big area to yourselves. I have tried to plan areas so you won't be disturbed by other campers. I do not groom hiking trails. You will be at one with nature. You may want to bring bug spray, sometimes the mosquitos and horseflies are bad. Wall Drug and the Badlands National Park are about a twenty-minute drive. Mount Rushmore is about an hour and 15 minutes.
Pets
Toilets
from 
$33
 / night

Cloud Nine Camping

4 sites · Lodging33 acres · Hermosa, SD
Welcome to Cloud Nine Camping Nestled within 33 acres of serene Black Hills wilderness, Cloud Nine Camping is a peaceful escape surrounded by towering pine and oak trees. As you arrive, the beauty of this landscape will take your breath away. Tucked away a half-mile beyond the front entrance—down a quiet, secluded stretch—our yurts offer a tranquil retreat. Far from the bustle of the main road, guests can fully immerse themselves in the soothing sounds of nature. Scattered throughout the property, striking rock formations rise from the earth, adding to the rugged beauty of the landscape. These ancient formations, shaped by time and weather, create a truly unique backdrop for your stay. During your visit, don’t be surprised if you spot local wildlife, including deer, wild turkeys, and even the elusive fox. Adventure Awaits Right Outside Your Door Surrounded on three sides by Black Hills National Forest, offering endless opportunities for exploration Hiking trails carved from historic logging paths, perfect for a private nature escape Off-the-beaten-path atmosphere while still being close to the best attractions in the Black Hills A Central Location for Your Black Hills Experience Cloud Nine Camping offers both seclusion and accessibility. While you're tucked away in nature, you’ll still be within easy reach of incredible destinations: 7 miles from Mount Rushmore/Keystone 3 miles from Custer State Park 3 miles from Lakota Lake 5 miles from Center Lake 22 miles from Sylvan Lake 19 miles from Hill City, SD 16 miles from Custer, SD 23 miles from Rapid City 36 miles (1 hour) from Wind Cave National Park 97 miles (1.75 hours) from Badlands National Park Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or the perfect basecamp for adventure, Cloud Nine Camping invites you to relax, recharge, and experience the magic of the Black Hills.
Pets
Potable water
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from 
$80
 / night
94%
(8)

Battle Creek Camping Resort

11 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Hermosa, SD
BCCR arrived in the late summer of 2023. We have RV sites and glamping options spread out over 80 acres, in the foothills of Hermosa, South Dakota. We are a family owned and operated glamp ground. We provide a unique experience for families, couples and solo travelers to unplug and unwind. We do not have Wi-Fi nor televisions at our campground. We are known for our stargazing friendly environment which is why we do not have street lights. We love to see kids outside riding their bikes and making lifelong friends with other guests. This has been one of the most rewarding compliments that we continue to receive. Each glamp site has a gas and wood fire pit. Families gather around the campfire at nights, roasting smores and telling stories. The laughter is pure joy and memories that will last a lifetime. The lodges, domes and tents that we have are fully furnished with linens, towels and a fully stocked coffee bar. Our most praised amenity is our bath house. This features private full restrooms with individual sinks, showers and toilets. We strive to provide a family friendly campground. Therefore, our quiet hours are from 10pm to 7am. No loud music or disruptions to other guests, of any kind, are allowed. At any time during your stay, you need assistance, please reach out by phone call, text or email. We thank you for choosing to stay with us and are grateful for the opportunity to be a part of your families memories. Check In: Check in time is 4:00-9:00pm MST. We are self-check in but it is very dark when the sun goes down and the phone service can be spotty. Please reach out asap if you know you may be arriving late so we can be prepared to assist if needed. Calls after 11pm, will go to voicemail and be returned the next day. Check Out: Please do not leave us, but if you must go, please check out by 11:00am MST.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$50
 / night

Other options near Badlands National Park

Camping in Badlands National Park guide

Overview

About

On the edge of South Dakota’s Black Hills region, Badlands National Park’s unique terrain is otherworldly. While many visitors opt to drive through the park on the Badlands Loop Road, this gives you a mere taste of the park. If you opt for a camping experience instead, you’ll enjoy round-the-clock views of the badlands as the appearance of the craggy eroded buttes changes with the sunlight. Watch for roadside bighorn sheep and prairie dogs. After dark, the view changes to the dark skies above, as the park is perfect for stargazing. Combine your adventures in the region with visits to Custer State Park, Mount Rushmore, and the kitschy Wall Drug for an ultimate road trip.

Notable campgrounds

  • Best for RVs: Cedar Pass Campground offers 96 tent camping and RV sites with electric hookups. Flush toilets and covered picnic areas are available.
  • Best for off-grid adventures: Sage Creek Campground offers 22 free, first-come-first-serve campsites along Sage Creek Rim Road, an unpaved road with limited accessibility. Pit toilets are offered here.
  • Best for wilderness camping: Backcountry camping is allowed in the park with no permit required.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  • Badlands National Park camping is especially popular on weekends and holidays and during the summer peak season.
  • A concessionaire operates Cedar Pass Campground. Reservations may be made through the Cedar Pass Lodge website or by phone.
  • Sage Creek Campground only allows RV camping for pull-behind trailers shorter than 18 feet.
  • Campsites with hookups are not available in the off season, typically running from late October to early April. Dry camping is offered.

When to go

The Badlands experience changes with the seasons. Spring and fall offer pleasant conditions, though spring may get a slow start and winter snows arrive early due to the northern latitude. Summer brings warm temperatures and sunny skies, and shade is limited in the barren park. Bring sun protection, especially if you will be biking or hiking. Shaded picnic tables may be found near camping spots. During the winter, park visits slow down, giving you some solitude, but campers need to be prepared for freezing temperatures and frequent snow.

Know before you go

  • In Sage Creek Campground, generators and campfires are not allowed.
  • Sage Creek Campground does not have hookups or restrooms with running water. Potable water is available at the Ben Reifel Visitor Center. 
  • Cedar Pass Lodge also offers cabin rentals and rooms in the Badlands Inn.
  • While many hiking trails are available, open exploration is also allowed.
98%
284 ratings · 147 reviews
  1. Badlands National Park