Camping in South Dakota

Ways to Camp in South Dakota

Stick with Simple: Tent Camping

The only thing that comes between you and the fresh air is a tent flap and a sleeping bag. Stake your claim at any of these trusty camping sites and breathe it in — you’re home for the night.

Along wooded shores west of Aberdeen, Mina Lake Recreation Area keeps you close to boating the waves, fishing for lunkers and, of course, cooling off with a swim at this spacious campground. At Palisades State Park, just outside of Garretson, Split Rock Creek flows through Sioux quartzite formations and cliffs that reach up to 50 feet above the water. With approximately 70 new campsites and four miles of new trails that include kayak launches, the park remains popular with campers, photographers, rock climbers and hikers.

Out west, for those seeking relaxation while surrounded by a forest of spruce and rugged mountains, Hanna Campground makes a strong case for a simple life of fishing and hiking. Beneath a canopy of oak and ponderosa pines, Grizzly Bear Creek Primitive Campground offers relaxing seclusion in Black Hills National Forest just two miles from Mount Rushmore National Memorial.

For more monumental views, Sage Creek Campground offers great views of the stark terrain of Badlands National Park with free first-come, first-served sites. On the banks of the Missouri River, the peaceful Randall Creek Recreation Area gives campers a chance to see birds and animals along the quiet shoreline.

Bring Your Mobile Campsite: RV Camping  

The open road and wide-open skies are all you need for a great vacation — well, that and a place to park. Whether it’s along the shores of the Missouri River or nestled in a forest of ponderosa pines, come to a complete and restful stop in our great outdoors.

Yankton's Lewis and Clark Recreation Area is the second most-visited state park in South Dakota, offering swimming beaches, boating and stand-up paddleboarding along with archery and multiuse trails. At Farm Island Recreation Area east of Pierre, explore 8 miles of hiking trails with easy access to Lake Sharpe, a Missouri River reservoir north of Big Bend Dam. It’s heaven for lovers of water and nature. Enjoy a day at the beach, a fishing adventure or spotting migrating birds.

The Forest Service campground at Pactola Lake in the central Black Hills is located in an open ponderosa pine forest adjacent to the reservoir with easy access to the nearby marina. You’ll also find great boat access and fishing at Sheps Canyon Recreation Area, the newest campground on Angostura Reservoir on the southern edge of the Black Hills.

In eastern South Dakota, wilderness adventuring comes with a side of comfortable camping, swimming in cool water and even an exhibit of the area’s archaeological finds at Oakwood Lakes State Park near Bruce. The Stokes-Thomas City Park & Campground near Watertown boasts three playground areas, a large picnic area, a biking and jogging trail, a beach area and partial RV hookups at this campground with a full-time park manager.

Opt for Shelter: Cabin Life

You love being at one with nature, but you value a sturdy roof over your head. We appreciate that commitment to comfort and extra space, as long as you step outside to experience the windswept prairie, glistening lakes and swaying aspens beyond your door.

In Black Hills National Forest, the Rafter J Bar Ranch near Hill City features a rustic setting of alpine meadows shaded by ponderosa pines. At nearby Custer State Park, the Blue Bell Lodge is a ranch hideaway with modern amenities and access to horses at Blue Bell Stables. For a more unique cabin experience, try the camping kegs at Fort WeLikIt in Custer.

Go for Glamping: Canvas Tents, Covered Wagons & Treehouses

South Dakota hosts many unique camping experiences. Glamping adds a little glamor to traditional camping by way of a private tent, covered wagon, treehouse or modular hideaway. Some provide s’mores services, farm-to-table cuisine, craft beer, wine bars and live music, along with swimming pools, hot tubs or hot springs.

On an original gold mining settlement tucked within ponderosa pines and common juniper, you’ll find upscale accommodations at Under Canvas, less than 4 miles from Mount Rushmore National Memorial. At the The Still House near Keystone, relax in your own private tent with an attached deck on 10 acres overlooking forested mountains. 

Buffalo Ridge Camp Resort in Custer celebrates the convenience and modern style of escaping into nature with luxury canvas tents and glamping tipis. In Spearfish, Beneath the Pines welcomes you to secluded bell-tent campsites where trail hikes lead to lazy days beside quiet creeks. How about spending the night in a covered wagon? South of Rapid City, The Wagons at Rushmore Shadows are custom-made luxury accommodations that can sleep four to six people per wagon.

Advance Your Outdoor Adventure: Dispersed & Backcountry Camping

Feeling adventurous? Head into South Dakota’s backcountry. Unless specified, “dispersed camping” means setting up 100 feet from water, road or trails. Plan wisely, be prepared for quick weather changes, print out that map (cell phone service may be sparse), pack out what you pack in and enjoy the peace that comes with backcountry camping in South Dakota.

Reservations & Fees

Camping reservations are available in most state parks and recreation areas within 90 days of arrival. For RV camping, an entry fee is $30 for any private vehicle, and the pass is good for one week. An annual pass is $50. Check campsite occupancies, maximum stays, generator use/electrical hookups and more camping regulations before booking.

Popular spots during peak holidays can fill early. However, many camping experiences accept last-minute reservations.