There’s nothing quite like awakening to the chirps of the Mountain Blue Bird, the rush of a creek, or the wind rustling through the Ponderosa Pine. Whether you are an avid backpacker or are enjoying sleeping under the stars for the first time, camping offers a unique, adventurous experience when visiting the Black Hills & Badlands.
The region offers a variety of camping options from National Forest campsites to full-service private campgrounds and glamping to dispersed camping sites. We’re here to provide you with camping options in the Black Hills & Badlands, as well as share tips on a safe and successful adventure.
Backpacking in the Hills
Rise with the sun, the fresh crisp pine air all while sipping your coffee as the sun peaks over the Hills, backpacking offers a unique and serene outdoor experience. The Black Hills & Badlands region is home to a variety of dispersed camping at national parks, national forest land, and state park areas. Dispersed campsites can be reached via hiking, biking along the miles of trails, or by pulling a vehicle into a spot near the road.
A minimalist and more rugged style of camping, this is an adventure for avid outdoor enthusiasts and anyone who is looking to soak in the beauty and serenity of the Black Hills.
National Forest & National Park Campgrounds
The Black Hills & Badlands region offers 30 developed campgrounds, many of which have an on-site host ready to greet you. These dedicated sites offer places to pitch a tent or park a vehicle and RV. The campsites offer modern to basic amenities such as restrooms and portable water. Electricity and showering facilities are unavailable. However, that’s all part of the rustic charm and unplugging in the Black Hills.
National Parks in the region do offer camping. Two developed campsites are available in Badlands National Park, one in Wind River National Park, and one at the Devil’s Tower National Monument in the Wyoming Black Hills.
Glamping & Full-Service Getaways
Want to experience sleeping under the stars, but enjoy the comfort of a cozy bed? Glamping is an option for you. Glamping - or glamorous camping - can be as simple or luxurious as you want to make it. This style of camping offers more spacious accommodations with full-service options. At many of these full-service campgrounds or glamping resorts, amenities such as electricity, showers, laundry services, pools, rentals, dining options and convenient stores are available.
Glamping options include yurts, a glamping tipi or canvas tents, and other options. Experience camping in the Black Hills & Badlands not only in comfort, but in style.
The Black Hills & Badlands also offers full-service, private campgrounds in the region. Private campgrounds also offer the full-service amenities of electricity, full hookups, pools, convenience stores, dine, rentals, showers, and laundry. These are perfect spots to park an RV and many offer tent camping sites, as well.
Stargazing
A perk of camping in the Black Hills & Badlands is sleeping under the open night sky speckled with shining stars. While many campers will be able to see an abundance of stars throughout the Black Hills, Badlands National Park offers exceptional opportunities to stargaze. The Park’s location away from cities greatly reduces light pollution, making the night sky illuminate.
Be prepared
The type of camping you choose will affect the gear you need. Essentials for backpacking and tent camping will include a tent and sleeping bag, as well as a portable stove and fuel, like a jet boil, to make meals, kitchen utensils, food, a flashlight, first-aid kit, and of course, morning coffee to sip while watching the sunrise over the Hills. We recommend a sleeping pad for tent campers, and a hammock is a great addition to any camping adventure, offering a peaceful spot to read, nap, or enjoy nature’s serenades. If camping at dispersed campsites, note that water will not be available, so you will need to pack adequate water supplies with you.
While the summer months are approaching, mornings and evenings can be cooler, so we recommend additional layers, as well as a rain jacket. The extra layers are beneficial especially if camping in facilities where additional heating is not an option. Waterproof gear is always a good idea. And, of course, if hiking several miles into a dispersed camp site to backpack, be sure to wear sturdy footwear that can withstand the trails and elements. You can kick off the boots and swap out flipflops when you reach your campsite!
National Forest regulations require dispersed campers to set up at least 100 feet from streams and at least a half a mile from established camps. The state also has a no fire regulation in the South Dakota Black Hills. Note that water stations are not available at dispersed camping sites, so bring your own.
Check the weather and be sure to keep up to date with National Park and National Forest news and updates.
Conscientious Camping
With any style of camping, we encourage our visitors to practice Leave No Trace and leave the Black Hills & Badlands as beautiful as you met it. Pack out what you pack in and follow all National Forest, National Park and State Park regulations.
Most campgrounds are located close to National and State Parks and Monuments, trails, and other attractions on your trip itinerary. They key is to research location and book in advance to find the perfect spot to unwind after a full day of exploring in the Black Hills & Badlands and truly immerse yourself in the natural beauty we can’t wait to share with you!