The best camping in Wind Cave National Park, SD

·
94% (70)

Explore landscapes above–and below–-ground while camping at Wind Cave National Park.  

The best camping in Wind Cave National Park, SD

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.
Stagecoach Stays

2. Stagecoach Stays

100%
(65)
6.5mi from Wind Cave National Park · 5 sites · RVs · Hot Springs, SD
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
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$59
 / night
View from our driveway with the Mickelson Trail and Hwy 385 on the right and the ranch/campground on the left

4. Plenty Star Ranch Retreat

93%
(281)
9.3mi from Wind Cave National Park · 35 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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, 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
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$60
 / night
Fort Welikit  Campground

10. Fort Welikit Campground

100%
(13)
16mi from Wind Cave National Park · 124 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Custer, SD
Discover the unique charm of our campground, nestled along the picturesque Norbeck Scenic Byway in the heart of the Black Hills. This prime location offers unparalleled access to some of the region's most breathtaking natural wonders, making it an ideal base for your outdoor adventures. Just minutes from our gates, you'll find the serene beauty of Sylvan Lake, the iconic Needles Highway, and the expansive Custer State Park. Our campground serves as a gateway to exhilarating scenic drives that lead you to stunning vistas, including the majestic Mt. Rushmore and the historic town of Deadwood. Explore the awe-inspiring Iron Mountain Road, where every turn reveals new landscapes, or venture to the countless lakes and caves that invite exploration. With a variety of outdoor activities, nearby restaurants, and charming shops, our campground is the perfect destination for those seeking both adventure and relaxation in the captivating Black Hills.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$28
 / night
Battle Creek Camping Resort

12. Battle Creek Camping Resort

98%
(23)
20mi from Wind Cave National Park · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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
Horse Creek Resort

17. Horse Creek Resort

97%
(166)
29mi from Wind Cave National Park · 29 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$65
 / night
Horse Creek Resort RV Sites

18. Horse Creek Resort RV Sites

97%
(229)
29mi from Wind Cave National Park · 18 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$60
 / night
West view from your ARTAX campsite.

19. Black Hills & Badlands Sunrise&Set

100%
(38)
37mi from Wind Cave National Park · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · Hermosa, SD
Greetings! We're thrilled to extend a warm welcome to our peaceful slice of secluded paradise, on the Dancing Phoenix Farm. **Before your arrival, we ask that you familiarize yourself with the rules outlined upon booking. Also, please ensure you arrive NO LATER THAN 7PM to secure your reservation.** **PLEASE TAKE A SCREENSHOT OF THE WRITTEN INSTRUCTIONS, AS YOU WILL LOSE PHONE SERVICE ON YOUR WAY. PLEASE TRUST OUR DIRECTIONS, VS. ENTERING IT INTO YOUR GPS AND CROSSING YOUR FINGERS. YOU WILL GET LOST** To facilitate a smooth check-in process, we ask that you send us a text message an hour before your arrival, as cell phone reception is unreliable in our remote location. If you have any doubts or questions on how to get here, reach out to us BEFORE you head toward the site, and well before 7pm, as we will close all campsites at 7pm. Originally from the city, we now find ourselves fully immersed in life at The Farm, situated amidst gently rolling land in the Southwestern Grasslands of South Dakota. Your campsite is located about 15 minutes in from SD44, and approximately 45 minutes from Rapid City. You will be driving on a dirt/gravel road to get to us. You may want to put your vehicle in 4wd to get to your site, given the uneven terrain on the dirt road that takes you to your campground. The location is perfect for a quick overnighter, if you're visiting South Dakota's nearby nature sights and parks. Our family lives on the property, and we're happy to help answer any questions or concerns. This is a working farm, and you may see us on the pasture, upgrading and maintaining. We're glad to share with you and happy to have you "ghost us" as we work, if that's an interest of yours. Be sure to flag us down if you need anything. ABOUT OUR CAMPGROUND Pitch your tent, park your RV/camper, bus or other ride on our pasture and enjoy the stunning panoramic views of the rolling hills of Hermosa, the Black Hills, Badlands and unobstructed sunrise and sunset views. Children and leashed pets are welcome, at no additional cost. To give you a glimpse into the experience that awaits, take a moment to watch a video review of our MORLA site by Precious Kofi, a former guest who visited during the Spring of 2023, when we resided and hosted in Colorado. You can find the video here: {https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RvyzVA3Tzjk&t=1157s}. Your site is equipped with a table for you to enjoy your meals outdoors, and a nearby water spigot is available for your convenience. Your campsite is located in the wild and rustic, sometimes windy, plains of South Dakota, and may not be for everyone. We can experience extreme weather in all seasons. When you stay with us, you will get the experience of camping in the middle of nowhere, South Dakota - wild, raw, sometimes windy and rugged. It's an amazing experience to be had - with stunning views and a feeling of freedom that's hard to find in more urbanized locations. While here, you may encounter badgers, coyotes, deer, pronghorn, wild turkeys, frogs/toads, turtles, voles, bull snakes, rattlers, owls, creepy-crawlers - and you may experience annoying mosquitos and flies during the hotter summer season. We have a friendly barn cat, HERO, that may visit you as well. Please don't feed the beasts or approach any wildlife! Would you like to sample our homemade booch (kombucha)? Just ask! As stewards of the land, we're delighted to share this natural sanctuary with you to enjoy. Stargazing on the site can't be beat, and you may even catch a UFO or alien... if you're aligned! We've had guests liken their experience here to visiting another planet. We attribute this to the unique ambiance of our home and location. Photo enthusiasts will enjoy some amazing and breathtaking photo-worthy scenery and views. Please come prepared with blankets and sleeping bags, as nighttime temperatures can drop below freezing. Be prepared for travel and camping in sometimes extreme winter cold. Be sure to check out the local forecast before traveling. Of course, we will be happy to refund any weather-related cancellations. If you'd like to start your day with a complimentary cup of instant coffee or herbal tea delivered to your site between 5-7 am, simply let us know your preference the night before. We offer a brown-bag style breakfast/snack for $5, as well. Your choice of a couple farm-fresh hard-boiled eggs with Meusli, yogurt with Meusli - or an English muffin/butter, with mixed nuts. If you have Food Forest/Permaculture, farming, gardening or Back to Eden experience and are interested in contributing to our farm - we welcome your discussions and ideas, with short or long term arrangements. We're in the process of building a small country store on the property. Reach out If you'd like to purchase handcrafted items for yourself, or as gifts. We make shower steamers, homemade tinctures, balms, herbal oils and jewelry/gift items made from our kombucha scobies - along with organic items we make from items we collect around the farm. We also offer for purchase items such as 16 oz. propane, children's books written by Susi (featuring our adorable Bull Terrier, Makai), half dozen farm-fresh eggs (if the chicks are in the mood), MayaMoon Ceremonial Cacao, extra basic sleeping bag, and a Duraflame firelog. Hipcamp messages, email, and texts are the best way to reach us, as cellular reception is limited. Help us maintain the pristine beauty of our surroundings by tidying your campsite and removing all trash before departure. "Leave no Trace" campers, please. ABOUT THE AREA Local amenities, including mini grocery stores and gas stations, can be found in the town of Hermosa, located about 35 minutes away. For a wider range of options and services, Rapid City is located about 45 minutes from your campsite. Check out the property photos for some 'things to do nearby' suggestions. **In summary, once again: **Before your arrival, we ask that you familiarize yourself with the rules outlined upon booking. Also, please ensure you arrive NO LATER THAN 7PM to secure your reservation.** **PLEASE TAKE A SCREENSHOT OF THE WRITTEN INSTRUCTIONS, AS YOU WILL LOSE PHONE SERVICE ON YOUR WAY. PLEASE TRUST OUR DIRECTIONS, VS. ENTERING IT INTO YOUR GPS AND CROSSING YOUR FINGERS. YOU WILL GET LOST** To facilitate a smooth check-in process, we ask that you send us a text message an hour before your arrival, as cell phone reception is unreliable in our remote location. If you have any doubts or questions on how to get here, reach out to us BEFORE you head toward the site, and well before 7pm, as we will close all campsites at 7pm. We look forward to connecting!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$35
 / night
94% (70)

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Top-rated campgrounds

Stagecoach Stays

100%
(65)
6.5mi from Wind Cave National Park · 5 sites · RVs · Hot Springs, SD
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
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$59
 / night

Plenty Star Ranch Retreat

93%
(281)
9.3mi from Wind Cave National Park · 35 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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, 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
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$60
 / night

Fort Welikit Campground

100%
(13)
16mi from Wind Cave National Park · 124 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Custer, SD
Discover the unique charm of our campground, nestled along the picturesque Norbeck Scenic Byway in the heart of the Black Hills. This prime location offers unparalleled access to some of the region's most breathtaking natural wonders, making it an ideal base for your outdoor adventures. Just minutes from our gates, you'll find the serene beauty of Sylvan Lake, the iconic Needles Highway, and the expansive Custer State Park. Our campground serves as a gateway to exhilarating scenic drives that lead you to stunning vistas, including the majestic Mt. Rushmore and the historic town of Deadwood. Explore the awe-inspiring Iron Mountain Road, where every turn reveals new landscapes, or venture to the countless lakes and caves that invite exploration. With a variety of outdoor activities, nearby restaurants, and charming shops, our campground is the perfect destination for those seeking both adventure and relaxation in the captivating Black Hills.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$28
 / night

Battle Creek Camping Resort

98%
(23)
20mi from Wind Cave National Park · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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 Wind Cave National Park

The best camping in Wind Cave National Park, SD 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%
70 ratings · 53 reviews