The best camping in Black Hills National Forest, SD

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98% (55)

Beyond Mount Rushmore, explore 1.2 million acres of forested mountains. 

98% (55)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Black Hills National Forest adventure.

Top-rated campgrounds in Black Hills National Forest

Horsethief Lake Campground

1. Horsethief Lake Campground

100%
(11)
Campground in Black Hills National Forest · 22 sites · Tents, RVs
What’s better than seeing Mt
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Campfires
Custer Trail Campground

2. Custer Trail Campground

100%
(10)
Campground in Black Hills National Forest · 16 sites · Tents, RVs
Boaters and anglers looking for a relaxing camping spot should check out Custer Trail Campground
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Campfires
Redbank Spring Campground

3. Redbank Spring Campground

100%
(6)
Campground in Black Hills National Forest · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
A small, isolated, high elevation campground with four campsites, Redbank Spring Campground is your landing spot while exploring the Redbank Spring Reservoir
Toilets
Picnic table
Oreville Campground

4. Oreville Campground

100%
(4)
Campground in Black Hills National Forest · 15 sites · Tents, RVs
Tumbling streams and hundreds of miles of trails, Oreville Campground offers opportunities for every sort of outdoor recreation
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Campfires
Sheridan Lake Campground

5. Sheridan Lake Campground

100%
(3)
Campground in Black Hills National Forest · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Campers who stay at Sheridan Lake South Shore Campground will be in a nice large, developed site just a short jaunt to the lake
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Potable water
Rod And Gun Campground

6. Rod And Gun Campground

100%
(3)
Campground in Black Hills National Forest · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
Fishing, hiking, and good old fashioned relaxing? We’re not going to lie, Rod and Gun Campground is quite the stellar spot
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Potable water
Hanna Campground

7. Hanna Campground

100%
(2)
Campground in Black Hills National Forest · 13 sites · Tents, RVs
Sheltered by a forest of spruce and jagged mountains, Hanna Campground lies right in the heart of South Dakota’s gorgeous Black Hills National Forest
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Campfires
Roubaix Lake Campground

8. Roubaix Lake Campground

100%
(2)
Campground in Black Hills National Forest · 30 sites · Tents, RVs
It’s true—things don’t get much more classic than pitching your tent in a scenic, lakeside location that’s surrounded by tree after tree
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Campfires
Comanche Park Campground

9. Comanche Park Campground

100%
(2)
Campground in Black Hills National Forest · 19 sites · Tents, RVs
If you want to check out Jewel Cave, the closest place to camp will be Comanche Park Campground
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Campfires
Grizzly Creek Primitive Campground

10. Grizzly Creek Primitive Campground

100%
(2)
Campground in Black Hills National Forest · 16 sites · Tents, RVs
Calling all tent campers
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Campfires
Black Fox Campground

11. Black Fox Campground

100%
(1)
Campground in Black Hills National Forest · 9 sites · Tents, RVs
Black Fox Campground sits along the South Fork Rapid Creek, and is especially popular on summer weekends
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Toilets
Picnic table
Ditch Creek Campground

12. Ditch Creek Campground

100%
(1)
Campground in Black Hills National Forest · 13 sites · Tents, RVs
Ditch work, ditch school, Ditch Creek
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Toilets
Campfires
Pactola Reservoir Campground

13. Pactola Reservoir Campground

100%
(1)
Campground in Black Hills National Forest · 56 sites · Tents, RVs
Into water views and water sports? Yeah, us too
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Toilets
Campfires
Beaver Creek Campground

14. Beaver Creek Campground

100%
(1)
Campground in Black Hills National Forest · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
Beaver Creek Campground is an idyllic spot dotted with a handful of secluded and spacious campsites
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Potable water
Reuter Campground

15. Reuter Campground

Campground in Black Hills National Forest · 12 sites · Tents, RVs
Visit Reuter Campground for panoramic views of South Dakota and Wyoming from the nearby Warren Peak Lookout Table
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Toilets
Campfires
Sundance Campground

16. Sundance Campground

Campground in Black Hills National Forest · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
Libby Creek’s Willow Campground is just a little patch of rustic charm hidden in the lodgepole pines
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Campfires
Castle Peak Campground

17. Castle Peak Campground

Campground in Black Hills National Forest · 9 sites · Tents, RVs
Looking for a secluded spot to camp along the banks of a shady creek? Castle Peak Campground is perfect for ya
Pets
Toilets
Picnic table
Whitetail Campground

18. Whitetail Campground

Campground in Black Hills National Forest · 12 sites · Tents, RVs
Looking for a campground with secluded campsites in the forest? How about spacious camping spots with lake views? At Whitetail Campground, you can have either
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Campfires
Boxelder Forks Campground

19. Boxelder Forks Campground

Campground in Black Hills National Forest · 13 sites · Tents, RVs
Boxelder Forks Campground is great for campers looking for a quiet getaway, especially hikers and anglers
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Campfires
Dalton Lake Campground

20. Dalton Lake Campground

Campground in Black Hills National Forest · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
Dalton Lake Campground is a small campground just steps from tiny Dalton Lake
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Campfires

Top-rated campsites near Black Hills National Forest

The Wilderness

1. The Wilderness

99%
(126)
9.7mi from Black Hills National Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV
Learn more about this land:Tired of the city? Want to get away from people? This 80 acre site is perfect for getting away from civilization and experiencing nature as it was meant to be. Hike in the beautiful Black Hills or make the short trip to Lake Pactola for boating or fishing. If relaxing isn't your speed, take a bike ride on the Michelson Trail or travel one of the many off road trails nearby.
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Black Elk Resort

2. Black Elk Resort

97%
(72)
15mi from Black Hills National Forest · 1 site
Black Elk Resort is one of the finest cottages and RV resorts in South Dakota, nestled in a beautiful wooded setting and only a short drive to Mount Rushmore. We feature 9 cottages sleeping 2 to 5 people, 8 Full Hook-up Pull-Thru 50 ft. RV sites with 30/50 Amp, picnic tables, & park style charcoal grills available for the ultimate RV experience. Whether taking advantage of our cottages, RV sites or the Palmer Creek Taproom, our long list of amenities are available for your use and enjoyment. We are proud of our family-oriented reputation and continually strive to make the Black Elk Resort as beautiful as the nature that surrounds it.
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Full hookups
Horse Creek Resort

3. Horse Creek Resort

97%
(169)
15mi from Black Hills National Forest · 26 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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. We have our new Roadhouse Restaurant onsite. Walk up for breakfast, lunch, or a great steak dinner, or even a mixed adult beverage. We have it all! 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.
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Full hookups
Horse Creek Resort RV Sites

4. Horse Creek Resort RV Sites

97%
(232)
15mi from Black Hills National Forest · 15 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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. We have our new Roadhouse Restaurant onsite. Walk up for breakfast, lunch, or a great steak dinner, or even a mixed adult beverage. We have it all! 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.
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Full hookups
Naked Acres WY

5. Naked Acres WY

98%
(29)
17mi from Black Hills National Forest · 4 sites · RVs, Lodging
Naked Acres WY welcomes you with 20 private acres located in the heart of the Wyoming Black Hills! Despite the name, we are NOT clothing optional...our property was named Naked Acres because when we purchased it many years ago, it was bare "naked" land. :) 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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Fort Welikit Campground

6. Fort Welikit Campground

100%
(19)
19mi from Black Hills National Forest · 30 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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.
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Full hookups
Big Pine Campground

7. Big Pine Campground

98%
(362)
19mi from Black Hills National Forest · 19 sites · Tents, RVs
These tent sites are located in a campground, bordered by the Black Hills National Forest. While staying here you have access to free hot showers, flush toilets, a dish washing station, a charging stations for electronics, a game room and a laundry room.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Custer's Last Chance Rv Park

8. Custer's Last Chance Rv Park

93%
(221)
20mi from Black Hills National Forest · 24 sites · Tents, RVs
Custer's Last Chance RV Park Conveniently located on the East side of Custer with easy access to the Custer Spur bike trail. The French Creek runs through the property, lots of wildlife frequents the area. The creek features a couple of wide pools. The rest of the creek is fairly narrow with slow moving water. The kids will have a great time exploring the lower acreage. Full hookup sites are available with 50, 30 or 20 amps. We still have dry camping sites as well. We hope you enjoy your stay!
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Campfires
Luxury RV Canyon Retreat

9. Luxury RV Canyon Retreat

95%
(55)
20mi from Black Hills National Forest · 1 site
The property is one of the few rentals allowed in Spearfish Canyon. A NEW Post and Beam Pavilion for parking and picnics! An outdoor table and chairs under pavilion available for usage. Also NEW--horseshoe pits in meadow for your enjoyment. It sits besides an historic 95-year old log cabin. A guest house, Couples Canyon Retreat, sleeps 3, is also available for rent. Contact owner. Learn more about this land: All paved road to your private luxury concrete RV pad sitting at the entrance of beautiful Spearfish Canyon. Convenient location to all sites in SD Black Hills including Deadwood, Lead, Spearfish and one hour drive to Custer State Park and Mount Rushmore. Walking distance to a trout pond for fishing and Cheyenne Crossing for a delicious meal. Hiking and off-roading trails galore. Go to sleep hearing Upper Spearfish Creek across the road, with mountain views, deer and smell of fresh pine trees. Lead Country Club Golf course close by. New Post and Beam Pavilion available for parking and picnics.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
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Pine Haven Lodging

10. Pine Haven Lodging

95%
(21)
22mi from Black Hills National Forest · 31 sites · RVs, Lodging
Pine Haven Lodging is situated right in the center of the Black Hills of South Dakota. We're located on 19 acres of Black Hills National Forest at the base of Storm Mountain, 15 minutes from Mount Rushmore and 10 minutes from food and shopping hub Rapid City. We offer full hook-up RV sites and single-family cabins.
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Toilets
Full hookups
Star Valley RV Camp Spot

11. Star Valley RV Camp Spot

100%
(32)
23mi from Black Hills National Forest · 1 site
Cozy full hook up RV spot centrally located in the southern Black Hills on five acres. Enjoy beautiful sunsets from the shared fire pit just steps from your RV. Located 5 miles from the town of Custer. Enjoy your days visiting nearby Custer State Park, Crazy Horse Memorial, Mt. Rushmore, Wind Cave National Park, Jewell Cave. Walk, bike or run on the 109 mi Mickelson trail. We are also 2 hours from Badlands National Park. This area is rich in beauty and history so be sure to get out and explore!
Pets
Full hookups
Custer Valley View RV Camp Spot

12. Custer Valley View RV Camp Spot

100%
(28)
23mi from Black Hills National Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV
Convenient full hook up RV spot with WiFi, fire pit and picnic table. Centrally located in the southern Black Hills on two acres. Enjoy beautiful sunsets, occasional hot air balloons and wildlife from your RV. Located 4 miles from the town of Custer. Enjoy your days visiting nearby Custer State Park, Crazy Horse Memorial, Mt. Rushmore, Wind Cave National Park, Hot Springs, Jewell Cave or Cosmos. Walk, bike or run on the 109 mi Mickelson trail. We are also 2 hours from Badlands National Park. This area is rich in beauty and history so be sure to get out and explore!
Pets
Potable water
Full hookups
Camp Custer in Star Valley

13. Camp Custer in Star Valley

95%
(20)
23mi from Black Hills National Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV
Dry camping RV spot located in the southern Black Hills on 3 acres. Enjoy beautiful sunsets, visiting wildlife and occasional hot air ballons from the fire pit & picnic table just steps from your RV. Located 5 miles South of Custer. Enjoy your days visiting nearby Custer State Park, Crazy Horse Memorial, Mt. Rushmore, Wind Cave National Park, Jewell Cave. Walk, bike or run on the 109 mi Mickelson trail. We are also 2 hours from Badlands National Park. This area is rich in beauty and history so be sure to get out and explore!
Pets
Picnic table
Green's Acres

14. Green's Acres

100%
(10)
24mi from Black Hills National Forest · 1 site
5 private undeveloped acres in the black hills. Water, 50 amp breaker, and sewer hook up for an RV available. Drive out of Black Hawk SD a few miles up into the hills, into a share private drive, drive across two cattle guards, and arrive next to national forest land. Hook up your RV. Relax and enjoy deer, turkeys, and other wildlife in a beautiful quiet spot.
Pets
Full hookups
HTR Black Hills

15. HTR Black Hills

93%
(20)
24mi from Black Hills National Forest · 80 sites · RVs, Lodging
Explore the beauty of HTR Black Hills (formerly American Buffalo Campground). This unique destination is home to Mount Rushmore as well as numerous national and state parks, local attractions, and iconic events like the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. So, stay awhile when you tour all the mountains, canyons, caves, and rock formations with the spectacular backdrop of South Dakota. Nestled under tall pine trees, in the heart of the wonderful Black Hills, our on-site recreational facilities include a heated swimming pool & hot tub (open Memorial Day to Labor Day, weather permitting), mini golf, a playground area for children, basketball court, horseshoe pits, and wooded walking trails offer something for everyone!
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Full hookups
Eagle Lode

16. Eagle Lode

98%
(42)
25mi from Black Hills National Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV
🌲 Escape to Nature's Haven! 🌲 Discover the serenity of our primitive campsite nestled in a breathtaking 15-acre forest oasis. Perfect for adventurers seeking solace and tranquility, our campsite boasts a crystal-clear creek babbling through old growth black hills forest. Whether you're a seasoned outdoors enthusiast or a family seeking a digital detox, our campsite offers the ideal retreat. Embrace the simplicity of nature and create lasting memories at our hidden gem in the woods!
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Campfires
Black Hills Station

17. Black Hills Station

94%
(44)
26mi from Black Hills National Forest · 50 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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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Toilets
Full hookups
Plenty Star Ranch Retreat

18. Plenty Star Ranch Retreat

93%
(281)
27mi from Black Hills National Forest · 18 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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.
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Toilets
Full hookups
Black Hawk Creek RV Park & Cabins

19. Black Hawk Creek RV Park & Cabins

100%
(16)
28mi from Black Hills National Forest · 44 sites · RVs, Lodging
Feel free to contact us directly, we are happy to work with you via text or phone call on the office cell phone: 605-787-0024 Year-round campground offering 110 NEW full hook-up sites and 9 fully furnished cozy cabins. We also offer Long Term options to qualified applicants. Conveniently located a few minutes from both Rapid City and I-90 you will feel like you are out in the country surrounded by all the beautiful views, nature and wildlife. (The office cell phone is 605-787-0024. Text 24/7. After hours calls for onsite and arriving guests) Interstate 90, Black Hills Harley Davidson, RV Supply stores, a horse boarding facility, and quick and convenient access to all of the treasures the Black Hills have to offer is conveniently near. Whether you are kicking your feet up for the weekend or base camping out of Black Hawk Creek RV Park and Cabins to explore the beautiful Black Hills, you will find our tranquil, quiet, and beautiful setting relaxing, convenient, and enjoyable. Additionally, If you are a full time RVer and in the market for professional RV Skirting we also host the #1 RV Skirting company in the nation, Custom Skirting. Unhitch and check out their No Snap, No Gap channel system and Therma-Slide slide out wraps over in the big barn near the entrance.
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Toilets
Full hookups
Bear Den Cabins & Camp

20. Bear Den Cabins & Camp

100%
(479)
28mi from Black Hills National Forest · 8 sites · Tents, Lodging
Bear Den is a small camp with 3 Glamping Tents, 2 cabins and shower house. Outdoor spaces for relaxing. We are located approximately 5 miles from Custer State Park, 11 miles from Keystone the Gateway to Mt. Rushmore in the beautiful southern Black Hills. Cabins have electricity, our tents do not have electricity. Cabins and showers are heated and open year round! All sites including 'bring your own tent' sites have access to the shower house and outdoor grilling areas. Pick a spot to pitch your own tent, one tent per space. If you have 2 tents please book 2 sites. We have 3 spots cleared. Hang your hammock in trees around the property. This option includes all access to the shower house and outdoor grilling areas!
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Campfires

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Black Hills National Forest camping guide

Overview

About

Watched over by the four presidents of Mount Rushmore, Black Hills National Forest is South Dakota’s adventure playground. Explore 353 miles of hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding trails, leading through pine-clad hills and jagged canyons, or fish along 1,300 miles of mountain streams. Once you’ve visited the Crazy Horse Memorial, seen Jewel Cave, and marveled at the Cathedral Spires, take your pick of 30 primitive campgrounds or venture into the backcountry to pitch your tent beneath the stars. Better yet, join a summer moon walk to experience the forest on a night hike. 

Reviews for Black Hills National Forest Campgrounds

98%
55 ratings · 17 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, camping is allowed in Black Hills National Forest in South Dakota. The forest offers a variety of camping opportunities, including developed campgrounds, dispersed camping, and group camping areas. Some popular campgrounds within the forest include Hill City, Sturgis, and Hot Springs. Remember to follow Leave No Trace principles and be aware of any fire restrictions or other regulations when camping in the area.

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