- Custer State Park/
- Camping
The best camping in Custer State Park, SD
89% (30)
Top-rated campgrounds in Custer State Park
Stockade North Campground
1. Stockade North Campground
100%
(4)
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Blue Bell Campground
2. Blue Bell Campground
100%
(2)
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
French Creek Natural Area
3. French Creek Natural Area
100%
(1)
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Stockade South Campground
4. Stockade South Campground
100%
(1)
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Sylvan Lake Campground
5. Sylvan Lake Campground
89%
(16)
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Legion Lake Campground
6. Legion Lake Campground
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
French Creek Horse Camp
7. French Creek Horse Camp
Game Lodge Campground
8. Game Lodge Campground
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Grace Coolidge Campground
9. Grace Coolidge Campground
83%
(3)
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Top-rated campsites near Custer State Park
Custer's Last Chance Rv Park
1. Custer's Last Chance Rv Park
92%
(219)
6.5mi from Custer State Park · 32 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!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$27
/ night
Fort Welikit Campground
2. Fort Welikit Campground
100%
(13)
7mi from Custer State Park · 124 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.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$28
/ night
Star Valley RV Camp Spot
3. Star Valley RV Camp Spot
100%
(29)
7.3mi from Custer State Park · 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
from
$45
/ night
Camp Custer in Star Valley
4. Camp Custer in Star Valley
95%
(20)
7.3mi from Custer State Park · 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
Campfires
Picnic table
from
$20
/ night
Custer Valley View RV Camp Spot
5. Custer Valley View RV Camp Spot
100%
(25)
7.3mi from Custer State Park · 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
from
$45
/ night
Big Pine Campground
6. Big Pine Campground
98%
(361)
9.2mi from Custer State Park · 17 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
from
$29
/ night
Bear Den Cabins & Camp
7. Bear Den Cabins & Camp
100%
(467)
9.3mi from Custer State Park · 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!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$25
/ night
Plenty Star Ranch Retreat
8. Plenty Star Ranch Retreat
93%
(281)
10mi from Custer State Park · 35 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.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$50
/ night
Battle Creek Camping Resort
9. Battle Creek Camping Resort
98%
(23)
11mi from Custer State Park · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
BCCR: Your Perfect Glamping Escape in the Foothills of Hermosa, South Dakota
Nestled in the breathtaking foothills of Hermosa, South Dakota, BCCR offers a one-of-a-kind getaway in the late summer of 2023. Spread across 80 acres, our family-owned and operated campground is the perfect place for families, couples, and solo travelers to unplug and unwind in nature.
Unplug and Reconnect with Nature
At BCCR, we intentionally offer a Wi-Fi-free and TV-free environment, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the tranquility of the outdoors. Whether you’re soaking in the stunning star-filled skies, biking around the campground, or making new friends, you’ll feel the joy of disconnecting from technology and reconnecting with those around you.
Stargazing and Memories Under the Stars
Our campgrounds are designed with stargazing in mind. Without the distractions of street lights, you’ll experience some of the clearest, most breathtaking night skies imaginable. Gather around your gas or wood fire pit, roast marshmallows, share stories, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Comfort and Convenience
Our fully furnished lodges and domes are equipped with linens, towels, and a fully stocked coffee bar. Every detail is designed with your comfort in mind, ensuring that you have a cozy and relaxing stay.
Our Most Praised Amenity: The Bath House
Our bathhouse is a guest favorite, featuring private restrooms with individual sinks, showers, and toilets.
Family-Friendly and Quiet Hours
We are committed to maintaining a family-friendly atmosphere, so we ask that guests observe our quiet hours from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. to ensure everyone can enjoy a peaceful stay. We kindly request no loud music or disruptions during these hours.
Important Check-In Information:
Please note that our self-check-in process may be challenging after dark, as the area can get quite dark, and phone service may be spotty. If you anticipate arriving late, please reach out as soon as possible so we can be prepared to assist you if needed.
Check In: Check in time is 4:00-10:00pm MST.
Check Out: Please check out by 11:00am MST.
Please be aware that calls made after 11 PM will go to voicemail, and we will return your call the following day.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$50
/ night
Black Elk Resort
10. Black Elk Resort
96%
(69)
14mi from Custer State Park · 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.
Pets
Full hookups
from
$59
/ night
Pine Haven Lodging
11. Pine Haven Lodging
95%
(21)
16mi from Custer State Park · 34 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.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$59
/ night
Horse Creek Resort RV Sites
12. Horse Creek Resort RV Sites
97%
(229)
17mi from Custer State Park · 18 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.
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.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$40
/ night
Horse Creek Resort
13. Horse Creek Resort
97%
(166)
17mi from Custer State Park · 29 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.
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.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$40
/ night
HTR Black Hills
14. HTR Black Hills
92%
(19)
18mi from Custer State Park · 100 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!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$26
/ night
Stagecoach Stays
15. Stagecoach Stays
100%
(65)
18mi from Custer State Park · 5 sites
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
Full hookups
from
$59
/ night
Hidden Lake Campground And Resort
16. Hidden Lake Campground And Resort
100%
(14)
20mi from Custer State Park · 29 sites · RVs, Lodging
This is the only campground resort in the Southern Black Hills with a private lake offering a unique opportunity to relax, disconnect, and enjoy life in a natural setting and guests have been enjoying it for over 100 years.
We have a variety of cabins with different floor plans ranging from studio to four bedrooms. All cabins have full bathrooms and all have full kitchens except for our studio cabins.
All of our sites are full hook-up with sewer, water, and electric with 20, 30, and 50 amp services at each site. Our pull-through sites are big rig-friendly and are between 60-75 feet long.
Our biggest feature is our private spring-fed lake! You can enjoy soaking in the sun, floating in the water, taking a spin around the lake in a canoe, and of course fishing!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$40
/ night
The Wilderness
17. The Wilderness
99%
(124)
27mi from Custer State Park · 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.
Pets
from
$20
/ night
Black Hawk Creek RV Park & Cabins
18. Black Hawk Creek RV Park & Cabins
100%
(15)
30mi from Custer State Park · 48 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.
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
from
$59
/ night
Green's Acres
19. Green's Acres
100%
(10)
31mi from Custer State Park · 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
from
$35
/ night
Black Hills Station
20. Black Hills Station
94%
(44)
33mi from Custer State Park · 54 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.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$29
/ night
89% (30)
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Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
T
Teresa
December 2025
17 ft Class C
Very easy to find. Terrific communication from the site owners. Roomy spot. I would definitely recommend to others and would stay there again if ever back in that area.
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C
Corina
November 2025
31 ft Class C
With pets
We reached out to the camp host to see if they’d let us check in earlier and so thankful that they did. It allowed us to have enough time to drive down and explore the Badlands since we only had one day of fun. It’s about an hour away from here. We also got to see a famous roadside attraction Wall Drugs.
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C
Corina
November 2025
31 ft Class C
With pets
We were on site 10 and it’s leveled. We stayed here on their last weekend of the season. Pine Haven is near Crazy Horse and Mt. Rushmore. It’s on the outside of town but near pretty much everything. If we cross this way again, we definitely would come back here.
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C
Christopher
November 2025
With pets
Tammy's place was everything we wanted - its cozy, remote but in the heart of so much beauty. We got in at sunset and were able to take our dog on a night stroll up her hill for a very peaceful evening. The heat in our cabin was NICE and made it extra cozy. The bathroom / shower set up was top notch - sooo clean! 10/10 recommend this place! + Tammy is such a friendly, kind, good human!
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J
Jenna
October 2025
25 ft Class C
Kurt's spot was easy to access and had everything we needed. He was a great host and ensured we had what we needed. I'd love to come back and have a bit more time to enjoy this location! A great find!
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Shandra
October 2025
1 night at Battle Creek Camping Resort
Hillview Lodge was a cozy dream home away from home. I wish I had time to stay more than one night, but I do plan on returning in the future. I didn’t use the shower, but the bathroom house in general was clean and just a minute walk away from Hillview. I used the firepit at night too, ate some s’mores that were provided + had coffee in the morning before departure from provided Keurig coffee station. Would definitely recommend to any camping fantasy loving nerd!
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J
JackieG
October 2025
With pets
What an experience it was spending the night here! Loved the surrounding countryside and how quiet it was being here. The pod was small in the inside but the bed was comfortable. Enjoyed the electric fire as it provided white noise while falling asleep. The bathroom station was very clean! I had to use the bathroom along with a few other guests and since there were individual rooms, it was great. Conveniently close to Mt Rushmore NP which was a bonus for me. Then headed to Grand Teton NP which wasn’t that far of a drive from the campground. I felt safe the whole time I was there as a solo female. Definitely worth the stay!
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G
Gregory
October 2025
25 ft Class C
With pets
This was a well equipped site. We were the only ones there and it was very peaceful. Lots of wildlife there.
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A
Alisha
October 2025
With kids
We loved staying at Bear Den! Tammy and Tim are the most welcoming hosts — we immediately felt like a part of their family! As our 5-year-old told us when they went back to their house after greeting us… “They’re so nice, I wish they didn’t have to go.” :) The cabin was cozy and perfect for our family of four. We were extra impressed by the cleanliness of the facilities, and amenities we didn’t expect. Our kids loved exploring the property, seeing the stars at night, and waking up to watch the deer right outside the cabin. The location was great, and pretty central for all the things we wanted to do. Our whole family hopes to visit again, and we will tell all our friends to make a trip to the Black Hills to stay with Tammy and Tim!
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C
Charles
October 2025
2 nights at Bear Den Cabins & Camp
We had the most amazing time at Lil Bear! Tammy and Tim are so kind and made us feel so at home! Our cabin was stocked with little snacks, was so cozy, had heat, coffee machine and it was just the best! Would absolutely recommend for a weekend getaway!
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N
Nicholas
October 2025
1 night at Bear Den Cabins & Camp
We had such a wonderful time. Tammy and Tim were so hospitable and set us up for one of the coolest experiences to date. We can’t wait to come back - 10/10! Thank you so much!
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W
William
October 2025
12 ft pop-up camper
Beautiful place with an extremely friendly staff! I would definitely recommend it.
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J
Jordan
October 2025
1 night at Fort Welikit Campground
We stayed in the Covered Wagon. It was super cute! Cheap and the camp hosts were great! The showers were clean and hot, and the Wagon was comfortable with plenty or space for two people. Would defiantly recommended! Make sure you bring sleeping pads or an air mattress, they isn’t one in the wagon.
See moreD
Deborah
October 2025
32 ft Class C
With pets
Kurt is an amazing host in more ways than one. After I texted him saying we were set to arrive in our RV in the middle of the night, he gave detailed instructions on where to park. Not only that, but he congratulated us via text after he awoke on the good job of parking in the dark, since we had already left for the Buffalo Round up in our car. We reserved the site for two weeks but our son was with us and he was anxious to get home after being away for months hiking the Continental Divide Trail. We left after only five days and Kurt graciously agreed to refund us. He was so understanding and even spoke to my husband in person.
The site is amazing because it is in the middle of the countryside with no other RVs. Accommodations were excellent...great wifi. We highly recommend this host/site and hope to return in the future.
See moreD
David
October 2025
27 ft travel trailer
With pets
Fantastic stay! New, modern services and site in a unique setting. Quiet, with a beautiful wildlife and vista. Great hosts and amazing area. We'll be back for a longer stay to explore more of the area!
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Joseph
October 2025
3 nights at Fort Welikit Campground
Loved this place, we stayed in Tipi, then in Keg once it got cold. Was a great stay. Cooked over campfires. Shower/bathrooms worked great. Great location to lots of things
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S
Shelby
October 2025
1 night at Battle Creek Camping Resort
A must stay experience! Stayed 1 night and enjoyed every moment of it. This place was beautiful inside and out along with the bathrooms! The host was very helpful as well and quick to respond when needed. Highly recommended
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P
Paul
October 2025
26 ft Class B
With pets
Really nice spot , convenient to all the things we wanted to see. Level site, good power , water!
Clean shower.
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Krystl
October 2025
1 night at Fort Welikit Campground
This was a charming campground with lots of amenities nearby. I stayed in a tipi, and I'd definitely stay here again to check out some of the other unique lodgings.
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B
Bobbie
September 2025
Tent
Our view was very nice! Great sunsets. Our spot was pretty flat for our tent. Easy to park our motorcycles. Great shower facilities. Definitely recommend this place!
See moreThe best camping in Custer State Park, SD guide
Overview
About
Nestled in the Black Hills, Custer State Park is a top destination for wildlife viewing. Herds of bison, “begging” burros, elk, antelope, and bighorn sheep freely roam the 71,000 acres that make up the park. Spot them from the many trails around the park, or get up close on a buffalo safari jeep tour. Don’t miss the iconic Needles Highway, one of several scenic drives. Active visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, horseback riding, rock climbing, and water play at several lakes and streams. With nine campgrounds offering RV and tent camping, historic lodges, and camping cabins, it’s easy to spend a few days here and explore all the park has to offer.
Notable campgrounds
- Best for viewing wildlife: Lots of wildlife can be found near Game Lodge Campground, which offers sites with RV hookups and a dump station, plus easy access to the State Game Lodge.
- Best for exploring park and area highlights: Located near the Needles Highway, Sylvan Lake Campground is also closest to Mount Rushmore and the Crazy Horse Memorial.
- Best for a taste of the Old West: Go horseback riding and enjoy a hayride and chuckwagon roast near Blue Bell Campground.
Tips for snagging a campsite
- Plan ahead. Most campsites at the park can be reserved up to one year in advance. Book online or by phone as soon as you know your travel dates. Sites for summer weekends tend to fill up almost immediately.
- If you can’t book anything ahead of time, try for a spot at the Center Lake Campground, which offers same-day reservations only, starting at 6am.
- If your plans are flexible, try going in the off-season. Game Lodge Campground and French Creek Horse Campground are open year-round, though facilities will be limited in the wintertime.
When to go
Summer is the most popular season at Custer State Park, though the weather can be extreme, with afternoon thunderstorms that can bring lightning, high winds, heavy rain, and hail. A popular event is the annual Buffalo Roundup and Arts Festival held in late September. In the summer and fall, enjoy a wide range of naturalist and interpretive programs. The park is open year round, but many campgrounds, lodges, visitor centers, and even the Needles Highway, are closed over the winter.
Know before you go
- Several lodges inside the park offer restaurants, convenience stores, and gift shops. For additional supplies, the towns of Custer, Keystone, and Hill City are nearby.
- The Blue Bell, Sylvan Lake, Game Lodge, and Grace Coolidge campgrounds offer wheelchair-accessible sites and restrooms.
- Cell reception in the park can be very spotty, but wifi can be found in the lodges.
- Do not drink from any of the lakes, rivers, or streams in the park.
89%
30 ratings · 12 reviews
Recommends
· November 2025
Wild donkeys are not wild - take crackers to feed them.
G
Greg Z.
16 reviews
Recommends
· June 2025
One of our favorite places we went to. Incredible beauty, and the hiking trails are unmatched!
Ben S.
7 reviews
March 2022
The roads in the campground are very narrow. Parking pads are short and very narrow - some with steep drop-offs. Our 19' trailer barely fit on the pad with no room for our tow vehicle. Showers did not have hot water when we were there. The location is great, but if you have a trailer or RV longer than 16', I suggest looking somewhere else.
Barbara B.
4 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· November 2018
Check out each of the 3 scenic drives in Custer State Park: Iron Mountain Road, Needles Highway, and Wildlife Loop.
Sara + Mike (.
9 reviews
Recommends
· October 2018
Showers were always full until I started getting up at 7.
Jennifer H.
4 reviews
August 2017
I would highly recommend this spot. I was in 21E and we had an easy walk down to the lake. In addition there was power, a picnic table, and a fire ring. The tent pad itself was a short walk away to give us plenty of privacy. Water and showers were close by and some primitive toilets were right next to the site. All the facilities were clean and well kept.
J
John B.
4 reviews
Recommends
· July 2017
There are narrow tunnels along the Needles Highway (the most scenic and popular route to Sylvan Lake). We had to take the southern route into the campground, but this campground was so worth going out of our way for!
Fern T.
8 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· May 2017
Nice shady campsites for tents along the creek. Slight incline down to the water's edge walking from the parking spot.
M
Marie D.
8 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· May 2017
Several sites situated on a hillside- beautiful site, level tent pads, but must haul gear up. It's worth the privacy.
M
Marie D.
8 years on Hipcamp
March 2017
A cool stop while going through South Dakota. Near a fun smaller town called Hill City and Mount Rushmore. We were in campsite 26 which was secluded and very nice and dog friendly. From the campground there are hiking trails that can take you to the lake which are relatively easy but convenient to stay off the road! The lake was pretty crowded but we were close to the 4th of July when we stayed there. There's a fun hike around the lake and through the rocks in my photo. There are non-motorized boat rentals for recreation.
Jennifer H.
9 years on Hipcamp
July 2016
I promise to leave a review once I've stayed here, but I'm excited to share that I scored a reservation. I'm new to this site, so I'm extremely grateful to fellow campers who are posting reviews and helpful photos/guide suggestions/et al.
Looking forward to paying it forward.
Chad M.
9 years on Hipcamp
October 2015
Stockade North Campground was in a great location to all of the activities Custer State Park has to offer! The campsites were a great size and not right next to neighbors. Be sure to research which site you pick, ours was a little gravel-y which made staking the tent down a little bit of a challenge. The amenities were very clean and upscale compared to other places we have stayed. Be sure to look up when you are sitting around your campfire at night to catch a glimpse of the stars at night! The sky is crystal clear!
Stefanie C.
10 years on Hipcamp