South Dakota is a state for adventurers: agree or disagree? I definitely agree, and for a lot of reasons - many of them being our jaw-dropping natural wonders (and the fact that you can camp at or near most of them). Our little corner of the world is a hidden gem, often overlooked in favor of more famous places. One of the best things you can do for yourself is to get out and enjoy the amazing wonders this little state has to offer, and I think camping is by far the greatest way to do that. Better still, despite the bitter cold of winter, there are plenty of campgrounds in South Dakota open all year. Perhaps my favorite year-round campground in South Dakota is the one at Wind Cave National Park; its beauty is unmatched, and the wonders there never seem to stop.
Welcome to Wind Cave National Park - one of the most beautiful places in the US.
It's vast, wide-open at points while forested in others, and it's 100% worth traveling to experience. Even if you don't explore the cave (you should), you'll be bowled over by the beauty of this landscape.
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There's just one campground here: Elk Mountain Campground.
I do recommend booking your site well in advance, though, as this campground tends to fill up quickly. It is, after all, one of the most beautiful places in South Dakota.
If you're not a huge fan of sharing a campground with others (I get it), no worries - you can also do dispersed camping in the northern part of the park.
The campground has 62 sites, and you might have large swaths of the place to yourself should you come out in the cold to brave the winter outdoors! With enough to keep you warm and safe, it's a wonderfully chilly and low-key time of year to camp. Fees are half-price in winter, too!
Reservations are required from May through September, and it's first-come, first-served all other times of year.
Camping at Wind Cave National Park is so awe-inspiring on its own that you might even forget there's an entire, enormous cave system to explore - one of the biggest caves in South Dakota, at that.
But you won't be able to forget the breathtaking natural beauty of the area...
To learn more about Elk River Campground and to reserve your campsite in advance, be sure to visit the official National Park Service website. Once you've been to this year-round campground in South Dakota, you're sure to return again and again! Planning on hiking while you're here? Good plan. Check out our epic hiking trip packing list for all kinds of inspiration.
Do you want to take the family on a unique vacation? While you can always fork out big bucks and travel elsewhere, there is plenty to see and do around the Mount Rushmore State, thanks not only to our landmarks but our many accommodations, as well. If you are looking for one of the most family-friendly places to stay, however, you will want to check out the creekside Wickiup Village which we think is the best river campground in South Dakota.
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Located on the banks of Spearfish Creek near Lead, Wickiup Village is a stunning river campground in South Dakota that is "family-owned, loved, and operated."
Comprised of 20 rustic yet modern cabins, the Wickiup Village has a space for nearly every preference and price point, beginning with quaint 2-person cabins and working up to large and luxurious 6-person accommodations (like the pictured Bear Paw). This is a great spot for South Dakota river camping.
In addition to a comfortable place to sleep, cabins at the Wickiup Village boast kitchen areas, TV and wifi, private bathrooms, plus linens and other basic necessities.
While the accommodations are reason enough to stay at Wickiup, the activities may just steal the show, beginning with Spearfish Creek tubing adventures! Looking for river tubing in South Dakota? This is a great place to start!
Reserved strictly for guests of Wickiup Village, tubing takes place along a private, quarter-mile section of Spearfish Creek, with tube rentals available at the front office. Lazy rivers in South Dakota don’t get much better than this, so it’s an added incentive to book here!
The Mount Rushmore State is home to some of the most pristine and otherworldly landscapes in the country. Its natural beauty is uncontested, and camping is one of the best ways to immerse oneself in it. As such, we've compiled a handy guide to help you discover the best campgrounds in South Dakota, and we know you'll find something to love about each of them.
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Best State Park Campgrounds in South Dakota
With over 50 state campgrounds, each offering its own unique appeal and beauty, it is no small task to narrow down the choices to the best of the best. That said, we've researched high and low and found that these 3 campgrounds are among the best state park campgrounds in South Dakota.
Park Info: Open year-round. ADA/Accessible Features, shore fishing access, vault toilets, and group picnic shelters are available.
Price: Entrance fees are $8 per vehicle, and non-electrical tent-only campsites are $11 per night.
Bear Butte State Park is a historic park near the town of Sturgis in western South Dakota. It is also a sacred site for the many Native American tribes who worship at the site of Bear Butte, also known by the Lakota name Mato Paha. It offers endless serene beauty as evidenced by trails like the 3.1-mile Bear Butte State Park Trail shown here. Enjoy an afternoon of horseback riding, picnicking, fishing, boating, and more at this breathtaking park. Be sure to respect these sacred lands when you visit, and leave the land undisturbed when you depart.
Park Info: Open year-round. Entrance fees are $8 per vehicle daily or $36 annually.
Price: Tent sites (non-electrical) start at $15 per night, and electrical sites start at $26 per night. Camping cabins (pet-friendly) rent for $55 per night, or you can stay at the Group Lodge for $280 per night.
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If you want a truly unique and memorable camping experience, Palisades State Park is sure to steal your heart. The tranquil Split Rock Creek meanders through the park while jaw-dropping Sioux quartzite rock formations line the riverbanks, creating truly picturesque scenes. Rent a camping cabin so that you can withdraw into the stillness of this little slice of paradise while still enjoying some comforts like heating and air conditioning, electricity, and a bed to sleep on. Listen to the sounds of the creek and chirping birds as you fall asleep each night. During the day, fish, swim, or kayak along the river as you marvel at the stunning geology of this hidden gem. You can enjoy additional nearby activities such as golf, mini golf, hiking trails, a swimming pool with water slides, game and rec rooms, skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, and much more. Palisades State Park is a truly paradisical getaway for you and your whole family.
Park Info: Open year-round. Showers and flush toilets are available. Group picnic shelters and accessible paved trails are also offered.
Price: The daily park usage fee is $8 per vehicle. Tent/electric campsites are $26 per night and cabins rent for $55 per night.
Hartford Beach State Park is located on South Dakota's eastern border with Minnesota on the fringes of the picturesque Big Stone Lake. There are 4 charming camping cabins in addition to 87 standard tent and electric campsites dispersed throughout the campground, and while each is sure to offer its own charm, the views from the picnic table on your cabin's deck will be hard to beat. Enjoy a day of fishing, boating, archery, hiking, and whatever other outdoor recreation beckons you, then close out the evening by roasting s'mores over your private fire pit while you gaze up at the night sky before heading in for the night. Big Stone Lake is a beloved destination for locals and out-of-staters alike for its serene beauty and endless outdoor recreation.
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Best Beach Camping in South Dakota
While South Dakota may be a long distance away from any traditional beaches of the ocean variety, there are many beach-like locales found at the many photogenic lakes and rivers across the state. During the warm summer months, you can still enjoy many beachside activities found at this selection of the best beach campgrounds in South Dakota.
Park Info: Open year-round. There are ADA/accessible features within the park.
Price: Daily fees are $8. Tent campsites start at $22 per night, and beachside cabins rent for $55 per night.
If your style of camping involves amazing beachside views from the comforts of a cabin, you'll love camping at Chief White Crane Recreation Area in southeastern South Dakota. This amazing campground offers 146 campsites and 10 cabins right on (or very near) Lake Yankton Beach. Along with serene views of the water, you can enjoy activities such as fishing, biking, canoeing, basketball, hiking, kayaking, paddleboarding, disc golf, and more. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for the majestic bald eagles that frequent this park. You'll also want to check out the neighboring Lewis and Clark Recreation Area for even more fun and recreation.
Park Info: Open year-round. ADA/Accessible Features, flush toilets, and picnic shelters are available.
Price: Admission to Roy Lake State Park is $8 per vehicle per day, with campsites starting at $22/night for non-electrical campsites. Camping cabins rent for $55 per night and modern cabins rent for between $120 and $150 per night
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The lesser-known Roy Lake State Park is a fisherman's haven, but it offers plenty more to admire than great fishing opportunities (of which there are plenty). Situated on the fringes of Roy Lake, a visit to this state park allows you to soak in the peace and quiet of nature and avoid the crowds while you're at it. The park offers boat, kayak, and canoe rentals, hiking and biking trails, disc golf, swimming, geocaching, bird watching, and more. The historic Roy Lake State Park is the perfect peaceful respite from the daily noise of life.
Park Info: Dogs are welcome with a charge of $20 per day, per dog under 20lbs; $30 per day per dog 20 to 50 lbs, and $40 per day per dog over 50lbs. No more than 2 dogs per cabin.
Price: 2-person cabins start at $164 per night, and upper-end 6-person cabins rent from $312 per night.
Wickiup Village is a charming and idyllic campground situated along the banks of Spearfish Creek near the towns of Lead and Deadwood. It offers creekside cabins that are peaceful and rustic, allowing you to fall asleep with the sounds of a peacefully flowing creek drifting in through your windows. Enjoy some of the best river tubing in South Dakota at this beloved, family-owned campground, along with excellent fishing, hiking, ATV riding, and other outdoor recreation. Wickiup Village is the perfect peaceful getaway for those looking to visit the beautiful Black Hills area of South Dakota and still have close access to Spearfish Canyon and towns like Deadwood, Rapid City, Lead, and others.
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Top Glamping in South Dakota
Glamping is an incredible way to immerse yourself in the peacefulness and beauty of nature while still enjoying the comforts and shelter from the elements that provide a truly comfortable and luxurious camping experience. These are the best glamping sites in South Dakota and you'll want to add them to your travel bucket list.
Park Info: Open from early May through the end of September.
Price: Starting from $174 per night.
Under Canvas Mount Rushmore offers more than a breath of fresh air in the wild of South Dakota, it's also luxuriously comfortable with its premium bedding, luxe linens, and plentiful amenities. You'll have close access to Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park, and other nearby attractions and destinations, then you'll be able to return to your cozy abode nestled away in the peaceful and beautiful Black Hills. Each glamping tent offers a private bathroom (with a shower and flushing toilets), a wood-burning fireplace, and a private deck. Some tents even have a window above the bed for night sky viewing from the comfort of your bed. Take advantage of the site's live music, morning yoga, kids activities and more. Plus, enjoy on-site dining with a menu that utilizes locally sourced produce. Your stay at Under Canvas Mount Rushmore is sure to be an experience you'll never forget.
For a stunning glimpse into the Under Canvas luxury glamping experience, watch the video below:
Park Info: Visitors must bring their own bedding and toiletries. There are bathroom and shower facilities on site. Firewood is available for $8 per bundle. Admission fees must be paid in addition to camping/lodging fees. Summer admission is $20 per person over 5 years of age, and in Spring and Summer admission is $16 per person over 5 years of age.
Price: Tent campsites are $10 per night, RV sites are $40 per night, small covered wagons are $60 per night, large covered wagons are $70 per night, and the Bunkhouse rents for $80 per night
The charming Ingalls Homestead is a timeless and peaceful campground located on the outskirts of the rustic small town of De Smet in eastern South Dakota. This unique campground offers a break from the traditional camping experience (although tent and RV camping are still possible here). Providing a true "Little House on the Prairie" experience, you'll be able to stay in a rustic covered wagon while still enjoying some of the modern amenities we all enjoy such as electricity, screened windows, a fan, your own firepit and picnic table, and shared shower and bathroom facilities. During the summer months, your kids can even enjoy a pony ride or pony cart ride, along with a covered wagon ride, hands-on activities, and a gift shop. Immerse yourself in the life of a sheepherder or pioneer at this peaceful respite in nature. Disconnect and enjoy a taste of the simple life at the Ingalls Homestead.
Park Info: On-site general store, free WiFi, propane fireplace, solar heated pools, outdoor concessions, and bar.
Price: Starting at $215 per night.
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Buffalo Ridge Camp Resort is the perfect blend of rugged and rustic: an oasis that is situated on 85 acres of private land in the charming town of Custer. This campsite is all-encompassing in that it offers plenty of tent and RV campsites and camping cabins, but it goes a step further by offering more unique accommodations such as authentic teepees and luxury glamping sites. Drink in the beauty of the Black Hills in one of these glamping sites and enjoy a comfortable bed, luxurious bedding, your own private deck and lawn chairs, a propane fireplace, and toiletries to add all the comforts you could want for your upscale camping experience. On the site itself, there is a general store for your basic needs, equipment rentals for all your outdoor recreation desires, a heated swimming pool, an outdoor bar, and much more. Plus, some glamping tents even have their own private hot tub. Explore the Black Hills in style and comfort at the Buffalo Ridge Camp Resort.
Best RV Camping Sites in South Dakota
Nothing beats the convenience of being able to travel with an RV across the country and experience many different campgrounds and destinations, all while still enjoying the comforts of your own private living arrangements. Whether you own an RV yourself or choose to rent an RV from a service like RVShare, each of these best RV camping sites in South Dakota offers an unforgettable camping experience.
Park Info: RV site special: stay 3 nights, get the fourth night free.
Price: RV sites range in price from $47 to $55 per night depending on the size of your RV. You can even rent a camper for $175 per night.
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Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park in Sioux Falls is an outdoor lover's Disneyland. This campground offers endless fun for the whole family with its 2 large playgrounds, outdoor swimming pool, a giant jumping pillow, a corn maze (when in season), mini golf, and even laser tag. Kids will also love the meet and greets with Yogi Bear and the gang. As for the camping experience itself, there are plenty of RV hookup sites available, not to mention hot shower facilities, an on-site general store, clean restrooms, and free WiFi. It's hard to imagine a more perfect family vacation in South Dakota.
Park Info: Open May through September. Kid and pet-friendly.
Price: RV sites start at $60 per night
Firehouse Campground is a newer, premier campground located about 12 miles from Mount Rushmore in the little town of Hill City. It offers tent, cabin, and RV camping in the heart of the Black Hills near Smokejumper Station, a pet-friendly restaurant merely walking distance from the campground. Park your RV and enjoy the comforts of the clean, modern bathrooms and shower house. The whole family will love the on-site fishing hole along Spring Creek, where varieties of Brown, Rainbow, and Brook Trout are common. You'll also be perfectly situated only 12 miles from Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse Monument, so the location is as perfect and convenient as it gets. Firehouse Campground is sure to provide all the comforts you'll need during your Black Hills adventure.
Park Info: Park entry fees are $20 per vehicle for 7-day passes. There are 9 campgrounds within the park itself. Scenic drives are open subject to weather conditions. There are ADA features, parking spaces, and campsites throughout the park.
Price: Aside from the entry fee, RV sites range in price depending on the campground selected (generally between $30 and $50 per night for sites with hookups).
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Custer State Park has repeatedly been named one of the top RV-friendly state parks in South Dakota. This beautiful 71,000-acre state park is located within the whimsical Black Hills in western South Dakota. Within this huge state park, you'll find 9 different campgrounds, each with its own allure and most of which have RV hookup campsites. Within the park, you'll be able to enjoy endless scenic drives, biking and hiking trails, fishing, horseback riding, swimming beaches, and wildlife sightings galore. In fact, the park is home to over 1,300 bison, making it one of the largest publicly-owned bison herds in the world. As such, it's not uncommon to wake up to the sight of bison meandering around grazing. Just make sure to keep your distance from these amazing but wild animals. You'll find many reasons to fall in love with Custer State Park.
Best Primitive Tent Camping in South Dakota
For those who prefer the most rustic and rugged camping experience, there are many destinations across Mount Rushmore State that offer seclusion and stunning beauty where you can set up a tent. Check out the best primitive tent camping in South Dakota for a true immersion into the beauty of nature and the landscape that surrounds you.
Park Info: Located within Badlands National Park. A $30 entrance fee per vehicle is required.
Pricing: Aside from the Entrance Fee, tent camping at Sage Creek Campground is free on a first-come, first-serve basis.
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The rustic Sage Creek Campground in Badlands National Park is the perfect camping option for those who prefer a rustic experience, don't mind few amenities, and want to immerse themselves amongst the majestic Bison of the Badlands. And who doesn't love the idea of free lodging? This campground offers 25 first-come, first-serve tent campsites within close proximity to your vehicle. Be aware that it can get quite windy at this campground due to there being very few trees to barricade against the wind, but if you manage to camp here on a calm night, you'll never forget the experience of falling asleep under the stars at one of the most incredible National Parks in the country. The Badlands landscape is unlike anything you've ever seen, and the dark skies offered by this 244,000-acre park make night sky viewing a truly magical experience.
14. Buffalo Gap National Grassland, Northeast Fall River
Park Info: The only developed campground is the French Creek Camping Area which is first-come, first-serve.
Price: There is no cost to camp.
Buffalo Gap National Grassland is the second largest National Grassland in the country and offers solitude along with its otherworldly landscape. At 600,000 acres in size, this pristine grassland presents endless opportunities for recreation, photography, wildlife viewing, and gazing at the starry night sky. The French Creek Camping Area is the only developed campground in the area and offers both tent and RV camping. There are picnic tables and fire rings at each site and vault toilets within walking distance. While remote and little-known, this can be a popular place for rockhounding and fossil collection. Just remember that a permit is required for those wanting to collect fossils while in the park. Soak in the solitude and beauty of the Badlands and the wildlife that inhabits the region during your stay within the Buffalo Gap National Grassland.
Park Info: A Custer State Park pass is required to access the campground and lake, as you'll need to drive through the state park to reach it.
Price: Daily entrance passes for Custer State Park are $8 per vehicle, and 7-day passes are available for $20 per vehicle. Campsites are typically an additional $28 per night.
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Bismark Lake Campground is a stunning campground situated along the fringes of Bismark Lake at 5,000 feet in elevation. Each site is quite private and spaced away from your neighbors to provide you with a true sense of privacy and seclusion, all while enjoying incredible views of this pristine lake. Fish for trout right from the pier on the lake's boardwalk or take advantage of endless hiking and boating opportunities in the area. Additional recreation activities that are popular among visitors include horseback riding, mountain biking, and riding off-highway vehicles through the rugged mountain terrain. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Black Hills during your stay at Bismark Lake Campground.
Check out the video below for a glimpse into what it's like to kayak the beautiful Bismark Lake.
Which of these best campgrounds in South Dakota are you most excited to add to your camping bucket list? Tag a friend you'd like to travel with to South Dakota in the comments below! And don't forget to take a look at our guide to the ultimate outdoor essentials before embarking on your next adventure.
