Camping in Wind Cave National Park

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Top-rated campgrounds near Wind Cave National Park

96%
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Horse Creek Resort

29 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents18 acres · 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
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$40
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97%
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Horse Creek Resort RV Sites

18 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents18 acres · 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
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$40
 / 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.
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$80
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Plenty Star Ranch Retreat

35 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · 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, a solar shower building, 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.
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$45
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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.
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$50
 / night
94%
(36)

Black Hills Station

54 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Piedmont, SD
Welcome to Black Hills Station – The Heart of Adventure in the Black Hills! Located in charming Piedmont, South Dakota and surrounded by the iconic Black Hills, Black Hills Station is your go-to spot for adventure, relaxation, and a whole lot of fun. Whether you’re rolling through for the legendary Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, visiting awe-inspiring Mount Rushmore, or just looking to unplug and reconnect with nature, you’ll find your perfect getaway here! 🌟 Stay Your Way: RV Camping: Spacious sites with full hookups (30- and 50-AMP), water, electricity, and sewer for all the comforts of home. Cozy Cabins: Scattered throughout the campground—just the spot to kick back after a day of exploring. Tent Camping: Sleep under the stars, surrounded by fresh pine and the sounds of the Black Hills. 🍹 Eat, Play, Relax: The Clubhouse: Grab a cold drink and hang out with friends in a lively, welcoming atmosphere. Heated Seasonal Pool: Cool off and unwind with a swim, soak up the sun on the pool deck, or let the kids splash away—it’s the perfect way to relax after a day of adventuring. 🚲 Explore More: Right off Interstate 90: Super easy to find and just minutes from Rapid City, Custer State Park, Mount Rushmore, and more. Outdoor Activities Galore: Go hiking, biking, or fishing, all just a short drive (or walk!) from your site. Family-Friendly Attractions: Enjoy nearby towns packed with delicious restaurants, art galleries, museums, and national parks. There’s truly something for everyone! Whether you’re a road-tripping family, solo explorer, festival goer, or weekend warrior, Black Hills Station is your basecamp for Black Hills adventure. Enjoy the comforts, the convenience, and the classic campground fun—plus a friendly team ready to make your stay unforgettable. We can’t wait to welcome you! Book your stay and start making memories at Black Hills Station—where every day is an adventure.
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$29
 / night
98%
(22)

Naked Acres WY

4 sites · Lodging, RVs20 acres · Newcastle, WY
Naked Acres WY welcomes you with 20 private acres located in the heart of the Wyoming Black Hills! With a private pond fed by a natural cold water spring, cool off with a swim or paddle board, sit on the dock and watch the wildlife, or enjoy the prettiest sunset this side of Mount Rushmore! The property is bordered by 200 acres of Forest Service land that you get access to, perfect for our biking and hiking friends! We are located close enough to some beautiful tourist attractions, without being too close! 54 miles to Devils Tower for all of your climbing needs. 1 hour 20 minutes to Mount Rushmore. 1 hour to Hill City, SD 36 miles to Deadwood, SD 45 miles to Spearfish Canyon, SD Naked Acres WY also boasts some amazing wildlife year round including Wild Turkey's, Gosling Hawks, Deer, Elk, Mountain Lions, and tons of different butterfly, bird, and dragonfly species. A nature lovers dream! We can't wait to welcome you with our weekly community fire social around the fire pit!
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$33.25
 / night

Other options near Wind Cave National Park

Camping in Wind Cave National Park guide

Overview

About

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.

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

  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.

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.
94%
43 ratings · 36 reviews
  1. Wind Cave National Park