Camping › South Dakota
Camping in South Dakota
286 places to camp in South Dakota: 60 national forest and federal campgrounds, 5 state park campgrounds, 12 free dispersed and primitive spots, 209 private campgrounds and RV parks. The best camping months are May–Sep, judged from 30 years of weather at a typical camp: comfortable days, mild nights, little rain. In July expect highs near 84°F and lows near 59°F.
Best areas to camp
- Around Rapid City101 camps in the area within 25 miles
- Around Spearfish33 camps in the area within 25 miles
- Around Angostura23 camps in the area within 25 miles
- Around Sioux Falls15 camps in the area within 25 miles
- Around Watertown13 camps in the area within 25 miles
Questions
When is the best time to camp in South Dakota?
The best camping months are May–Sep, judged from 30 years of weather at a typical camp: comfortable days, mild nights, little rain. In July expect highs near 84°F and lows near 59°F.
Is there free camping in South Dakota?
Yes: 22 free or dispersed spots, mostly on national forest and BLM land.
Will I have cell signal camping in South Dakota?
At about 98% of camps, at least one carrier has 4G or better (FCC coverage maps, which tend to be generous). Plan for no signal on trails.
Where are the darkest skies for camping in South Dakota?
69 camps sit under the darkest skies (class 1–2). See the stargazing page.
Filter by camp type, amenities and activities, fly over any camp in 3D, then plan your trip.
Open South Dakota in Find campsThis week's picks
A different handful each week. Tap a camp to see it from above, check the weather and plan the drive.
- Sheridan Lake South CampgroundFederal campground · First come, first served · Cell signal
This campground is along the south shore of Sheridan Lake. Within its 5 large loops, there are many sites with direct access to the lake. Access to the south boat ramp and the Flume…
View camp → - Beaver Creek CampgroundFederal campground · First come, first served · No cell signal
Beaver Creek Campground has 8 campsites (1 accessible), 1 toilet, and is remote and quiet. The campground is on the Wyoming/South Dakota border NW of Hill City, SD (directions below).…
View camp → - Merritt SystemFederal campground · First come, first served · Cell signal
The Merritt Trail System is a 41 mile mix of motorcycle, jeep and OHV trails, located west of Highway 385, south of Rochford Road, and north of Silver City Road. This is a popular area that…
View camp → - Horsethief Lake CampgroundFederal campground · First come, first served · Cell signal
Located 10 miles south of Hill City, South Dakota, Horsethief Lake Campground is a delightful setting for visitors seeking recreation and relaxation in Black Hills National Forest. This…
View camp → - Whitetail CampgroundFederal campground · First come, first served · Cell signal
Whitetail Campground is located above Deerfield Reservoir at 6,000 feet, an ideal setting for guests seeking summer climate relief, recreation and relaxation in Black Hills National Forest.…
View camp → - Reva Gap CampgroundFederal campground · Free · Cell signal
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View camp → - Willow Creek (Horse Camp)Federal campground · First come, first served · Cell signal
Located near Mount Rushmore National Memorial, Willow Creek (Horse Camp) is nestled amongst the rocky outcroppings and pines between the confluence of Willow Creek and Palmer Creek. This…
View camp → - Rod & Gun CampgroundFederal campground · First come, first served · Cell signal
The Rod & Gun Campground has seven camp sites. Restroom facilities are available. One of the "Dances with Wolves" film sites is nearby. The campground is located adjacent to Little…
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Free camping in South Dakota
22 spots cost nothing: dispersed sites on national forest and BLM land and free campgrounds. Most have no water or toilets, and stays are usually limited to 14 days.