South Dakota
Black Hills granite, Badlands spires, and Mount Rushmore in between.
About this area
South Dakota pairs the eroded spires of the Badlands with the pine-covered granite peaks of the Black Hills, home to Mount Rushmore and Custer State Park's free-roaming bison herds. Late spring through early fall brings the most comfortable camping weather across the region.
Size
77,116 sq mi
Elevation
966 ft to 7,244 ft (Black Elk Peak)
Best Time to Visit
May – Sep
Places to stay
Find your perfect campsite in South Dakota
Things to do
Mount Rushmore & Crazy Horse
Visit two of the country's most famous mountain carvings, both a short drive from Black Hills campgrounds.
Custer State Park Wildlife Loop
Drive among one of the largest free-roaming bison herds in the country, plus elk, pronghorn, and burros.
Badlands Fossil Beds
Hike among eroded spires and buttes in one of the richest fossil beds in the world.
Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway
Drive a limestone canyon dotted with waterfalls, a favorite fall foliage drive in the Black Hills.
Good to know (FAQ)
Custer State Park and the areas around Rapid City and Keystone offer the widest range of RV and tent camping close to Mount Rushmore.
Yes — Custer State Park's Wildlife Loop Road is one of the most reliable places in the country to see free-roaming bison up close.
Yes, summer is peak season, though the Black Hills stay noticeably cooler than the Badlands' exposed terrain.
Yes — several private campgrounds near Wall and Rapid City offer full hookups within a short drive of the park.
Hiking, rock climbing, fishing, and scenic drives are all within reach of most Black Hills and Badlands campgrounds.
Stories & guides
South Dakota
A jewel box of discovery for all who make it here.
Five Essential Campsite Accessories
Upgrade your camp kit with rugged, reliable gear built to handle summer’s long days and cool nights.
Cowboy Craft Capital: Pendleton Is the Place for Real-Deal Western Style
To find artisans making boots, hats, belts and more, head for the Eastern Oregon rodeo town.