With nearly 700 campsites, the Black Hills are a haven for campers of all sorts. Rich in heritage and history, the Black Hills of South Dakota comprise a sweeping pine-covered mountain range that boasts deep canyons, scenic lakes, gurgling streams, ancient caves, and striking rock formations. Whether you prefer the social interaction found at a more traditional campsite or the remote wilderness of a backpack excursion, the western portion of the state affords plenty of opportunities to sleep beneath the stars and experience the tranquil serenity of nature.
The Black Hills National Forest offers 30 campgrounds with nearly 700 campsites, and additional camping can be found in the areas surrounding the park. The sites are fairly primitive, with no electric, sewer, or water hook-ups. Below are some of the more frequented campgrounds in the area:
- Flinstones Bedrock City of Custer: Bedrock City comes alive in this Stone-age Park of fun-filled buildings and play areas. Tour Fred's Bedrock City. Great campground and theme park for the entire family.
- Beaver Lake Campground: A popular destination for families, Beaver Lake Campground offers more than 100 large, shady sites for both tent and RV camping. Modern cabins and rustic teepees are also available. Amenities include picnic areas, playgrounds, heated pools, and close proximity to popular Black Hills attractions.
- Whispering Pines Campground and Lodging: Centrally located in the Black Hills area, this scenic campground situated among sweeping meadows and lush forests, combining the wonders of nature with modern-day conveniences. Choose your preferred camping style: full RV hook-up, secluded tent camping, or rustic cabins. Campers will enjoy on-site shopping at the general store and gift shop.
- KOA Rapid City: You simply can’t beat the convenient accommodations of a KOA campground. The Rapid City KOA offers easy access to I-90 and the major Black Hills tourist attractions. Amenities include playgrounds, heated swimming pools, showers, full electric and sewer hook-up, and laundry facilities. A variety of recreational activities are available to campers.
- Elk Haven Horse Camp: For those who want a more rustic camping experience without sacrificing modern-day conveniences, the Keystone-based Elk Haven Horse Camp delivers. Scenic campsites accommodate tents and RVs, and a variety of amenities are available. Campers can explore the surrounding area with on-site horseback tours.
- Big Pine Campground: Located in the city of Custer, this secluded campground provides a serene setting for tent or RV campers. 90 large, shady sites are available with full electric and sewer hook-ups. Campers will enjoy picnic areas, restrooms with showers, laundry facilities, a game room, and a playground.
- Custer Crazy Horse Campground: For scenic mountain views and clean accommodations, try this well-maintained campground near the Crazy Horse Monument. Campers can choose from 25 camping cabins, 50 tent campsites, and more than 100 RV sites with full hook-ups.
- Rafter J Bar Campground: For a good time, look no further than Rafter J. This unique bar ranch boasts five separate camping areas nestled among a ponderosa pine forest and sweeping meadows. The sites are positioned within easy driving distance to all of the major tourist attractions of the Black Hills.
- Horse Thief Campground: Located in Hill City, this family-owned campground is nestled in the midst of the Black Hills National Forest, just one mile from Custer State Park. Tent sites, RV spots, and cabins all have access to a heated pool, playground, showers, laundry, and shopping.
- Spokane Creek Cabins & Campground: Situated on the Norbeck Scenic Byway, this creek side campground offers plenty of shaded, level sites for tents or RVs. Cabins are also available. Amenities include a general store, arcade, laundry, and a heated outdoor pool.
- Sturgis Road Campground: Tent and RV campers are welcome here, and cottages and cabins are also available. A full-service restaurant and lounge provide food, drink, and entertainment to campers.
- Arrow Campground: South Dakota hospitality is at its best at this full-service campground, which accommodates tents and RVs. Free Wireless Internet, a swimming pool, cable TV, and a playground make this a preferred destination for Black Hills campers.
- Tatanka Hill Campground: Located in the city of Piedmont, this campground is a wildlife lover’s dream. Feed wild buffalo eat right out of your hand, attend nightly barbeques during the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, enjoy hot showers in clean facilities, and then retreat to your tent or RV for a peaceful night’s sleep.
- Tilford Gulch Campground: Centrally located in the Black Hills, this campground is a popular destination for bikers during the annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. Amenities include updated showers and restrooms.
With the abundance of camping options in the Black Hills, you'll be sure to find out that suits you.