- Custer State Park
The best camping in Custer State Park, SD
89% (30)
The best camping in Custer State Park, SD
Stockade North Campground
1. Stockade North Campground
100%
(4)
43 sites · Tents, RVs · In Custer State Park
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Blue Bell Campground
2. Blue Bell Campground
100%
(2)
58 sites · Tents, RVs · In Custer State Park
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
French Creek Natural Area
3. French Creek Natural Area
100%
(1)
1 site · Tent, RV · In Custer State Park
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Stockade South Campground
4. Stockade South Campground
100%
(1)
36 sites · Tents, RVs · In Custer State Park
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Sylvan Lake Campground
5. Sylvan Lake Campground
89%
(16)
39 sites · Tents, RVs · In Custer State Park
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Custer's Last Chance Rv Park
6. Custer's Last Chance Rv Park
92%
(219)
11km from Custer State Park · 32 sites · Tents, RVs
Custer's Last Chance RV Park
Conveniently located on the East side of Custer with easy access to the Custer Spur bike trail. The French Creek runs through the property, lots of wildlife frequents the area. The creek features a couple of wide pools. The rest of the creek is fairly narrow with slow moving water. The kids will have a great time exploring the lower acreage. Full hookup sites are available with 50, 30 or 20 amps. We still have dry camping sites as well. We hope you enjoy your stay!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$35
/ night
Fort Welikit Campground
7. Fort Welikit Campground
100%
(13)
11km from Custer State Park · 124 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Discover the unique charm of our campground, nestled along the picturesque Norbeck Scenic Byway in the heart of the Black Hills. This prime location offers unparalleled access to some of the region's most breathtaking natural wonders, making it an ideal base for your outdoor adventures.
Just minutes from our gates, you'll find the serene beauty of Sylvan Lake, the iconic Needles Highway, and the expansive Custer State Park. Our campground serves as a gateway to exhilarating scenic drives that lead you to stunning vistas, including the majestic Mt. Rushmore and the historic town of Deadwood.
Explore the awe-inspiring Iron Mountain Road, where every turn reveals new landscapes, or venture to the countless lakes and caves that invite exploration. With a variety of outdoor activities, nearby restaurants, and charming shops, our campground is the perfect destination for those seeking both adventure and relaxation in the captivating Black Hills.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$35
/ night
Star Valley RV Camp Spot
8. Star Valley RV Camp Spot
100%
(29)
12km from Custer State Park · 1 site · RV
Cozy full hook up RV spot centrally located in the southern Black Hills on five acres. Enjoy beautiful sunsets from the shared fire pit just steps from your RV. Located 5 miles from the town of Custer. Enjoy your days visiting nearby Custer State Park, Crazy Horse Memorial, Mt. Rushmore, Wind Cave National Park, Jewell Cave. Walk, bike or run on the 109 mi Mickelson trail. We are also 2 hours from Badlands National Park. This area is rich in beauty and history so be sure to get out and explore!
Pets
Full hookups
from
$54
/ night
Camp Custer in Star Valley
9. Camp Custer in Star Valley
95%
(20)
12km from Custer State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
Dry camping RV spot located in the southern Black Hills on 3 acres. Enjoy beautiful sunsets, visiting wildlife and occasional hot air ballons from the fire pit & picnic table just steps from your RV. Located 5 miles South of Custer. Enjoy your days visiting nearby Custer State Park, Crazy Horse Memorial, Mt. Rushmore, Wind Cave National Park, Jewell Cave. Walk, bike or run on the 109 mi Mickelson trail. We are also 2 hours from Badlands National Park. This area is rich in beauty and history so be sure to get out and explore!
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from
$24
/ night
Custer Valley View RV Camp Spot
10. Custer Valley View RV Camp Spot
100%
(25)
12km from Custer State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
Convenient full hook up RV spot with WiFi, fire pit and picnic table. Centrally located in the southern Black Hills on two acres. Enjoy beautiful sunsets, occasional hot air balloons and wildlife from your RV. Located 4 miles from the town of Custer. Enjoy your days visiting nearby Custer State Park, Crazy Horse Memorial, Mt. Rushmore, Wind Cave National Park, Hot Springs, Jewell Cave or Cosmos. Walk, bike or run on the 109 mi Mickelson trail. We are also 2 hours from Badlands National Park. This area is rich in beauty and history so be sure to get out and explore!
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
from
$56
/ night
Legion Lake Campground
11. Legion Lake Campground
26 sites · Tents, RVs · In Custer State Park
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
French Creek Horse Camp
12. French Creek Horse Camp
29 sites · In Custer State Park
Game Lodge Campground
13. Game Lodge Campground
69 sites · Tents, RVs · In Custer State Park
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Grace Coolidge Campground
14. Grace Coolidge Campground
83%
(3)
27 sites · Tents, RVs · In Custer State Park
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Tent camping near a pine forest
15. Tent camping near a pine forest
98%
(361)
15km from Custer State Park · 17 sites · Tents, RVs
These tent sites are located in a campground, bordered by the Black Hills National Forest. While staying here you have access to free hot showers, flush toilets, a dish washing station, a charging stations for electronics, a game room and a laundry room.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$36
/ night
Bear Den Cabins & Camp
16. Bear Den Cabins & Camp
100%
(467)
15km from Custer State Park · 8 sites · Tents, Lodging
Bear Den is a small camp with 3 Glamping Tents, 2 cabins and shower house. Outdoor spaces for relaxing. We are located approximately 5 miles from Custer State Park, 11 miles from Keystone the Gateway to Mt. Rushmore in the beautiful southern Black Hills.
Cabins have electricity, our tents do not have electricity. Cabins and showers are heated and open year round! All sites including 'bring your own tent' sites have access to the shower house and outdoor grilling areas.
Pick a spot to pitch your own tent, one tent per space. If you have 2 tents please book 2 sites. We have 3 spots cleared. Hang your hammock in trees around the property. This option includes all access to the shower house and outdoor grilling areas!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$32
/ night
Plenty Star Ranch Retreat
17. Plenty Star Ranch Retreat
93%
(281)
16km from Custer State Park · 35 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Property description
Our property is nestled between Hwy 385, the Mickelson Trail, and the National Forest.
We are located between Custer State Park and Wind Cave National Park along Hwy 385 and the Mickelson Trail; about 30 minutes from Mt. Rushmore and Crazy Horse Mountain.
The nearest towns with restaurants are Pringle, (2 miles S); Hot Springs, (24 miles S), Custer, (9.5 miles N).; Hill City, (24 miles N), and Rapid City, (50 miles N).
The blacktop driveway grants easy access for every type of vehicle.
A couple of ponds, creeks, and dispersed willow, pine, and aspen trees enhance the diversity and beauty of the landscape. It is peaceful here and we enjoy sharing it with our guests during the spring, summer, and fall seasons.
Plenty Star Ranch Retreat has our home, a big pole barn (RV storage), a garage/wood workshop with an attached restroom for all guests, a regular hot water shower cabin, 2 small home-built camping log cabins, 7 RV sites, 9 clearly marked tent and car-camping sites, and several water hydrants fed by our well, providing great quality drinking water. 2 pets maximum per campsite, no pets allowed when booking a cabin.
Check-In is 2 pm to 9 pm; Check-Out is 10 am for the cabins and 11 am for all other sites.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$62
/ night
Battle Creek Camping Resort
18. Battle Creek Camping Resort
98%
(23)
18km from Custer State Park · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
BCCR arrived in the late summer of 2023. We have RV sites and glamping options spread out over 80 acres, in the foothills of Hermosa, South Dakota.
We are a family owned and operated glamp ground. We provide a unique experience for families, couples and solo travelers to unplug and unwind. We do not have Wi-Fi nor televisions at our campground.
We are known for our stargazing friendly environment which is why we do not have street lights. We love to see kids outside riding their bikes and making lifelong friends with other guests. This has been one of the most rewarding compliments that we continue to receive.
Each glamp site has a gas and wood fire pit. Families gather around the campfire at nights, roasting smores and telling stories. The laughter is pure joy and memories that will last a lifetime.
The lodges, domes and tents that we have are fully furnished with linens, towels and a fully stocked coffee bar.
Our most praised amenity is our bath house. This features private full restrooms with individual sinks, showers and toilets.
We strive to provide a family friendly campground. Therefore, our quiet hours are from 10pm to 7am. No loud music or disruptions to other guests, of any kind, are allowed.
At any time during your stay, you need assistance, please reach out by phone call, text or email.
We thank you for choosing to stay with us and are grateful for the opportunity to be a part of your families memories.
Check In: Check in time is 4:00-9:00pm MST.
We are self-check in but it is very dark when the sun goes down and the phone service can be spotty. Please reach out asap if you know you may be arriving late so we can be prepared to assist if needed. Calls after 11pm, will go to voicemail and be returned the next day.
Check Out: Please do not leave us, but if you must go, please check out by 11:00am MST.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$59
/ night
Rustic Rendezvous
19. Rustic Rendezvous
99%
(48)
19km from Custer State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
Semi secluded on 5 acres camping has a large cement pad with a bathroom that has shower, toilet, and sink.
Nearby is Mt Rushmore, Custer State Park, Black Hills Playhouse, Rush Mountain Adventure Park, Keystone, Wind Cave, Jewel Cave, numerous off roading trails, and hiking trails, Iron Mountain Road, Needles Highway.
A short drive away is Deadwood, Sturgis and Spearfish Canyon. Devils Tower and Badlands are within driving distance
History in the Black Hills is unlimited, along with off roading adventures.
Toilets
Showers
Potable water
from
$50
/ night
Black Elk Resort
20. Black Elk Resort
96%
(69)
22km from Custer State Park · 1 site · RV
Black Elk Resort is one of the finest cottages and RV resorts in South Dakota, nestled in a beautiful wooded setting and only a short drive to Mount Rushmore. We feature 9 cottages sleeping 2 to 5 people, 8 Full Hook-up Pull-Thru 50 ft. RV sites with 30/50 Amp, picnic tables, & park style charcoal grills available for the ultimate RV experience.
Whether taking advantage of our cottages, RV sites or the Palmer Creek Taproom, our long list of amenities are available for your use and enjoyment. We are proud of our family-oriented reputation and continually strive to make the Black Elk Resort as beautiful as the nature that surrounds it.
Pets
Full hookups
from
$68
/ night
89% (30)
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Custer State Park adventure.
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Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.Top-rated campgrounds near Custer State Park
Custer's Last Chance Rv Park
Custer's Last Chance Rv Park
92%
(219)
11km from Custer State Park · 32 sites · Tents, RVs
Custer's Last Chance RV Park
Conveniently located on the East side of Custer with easy access to the Custer Spur bike trail. The French Creek runs through the property, lots of wildlife frequents the area. The creek features a couple of wide pools. The rest of the creek is fairly narrow with slow moving water. The kids will have a great time exploring the lower acreage. Full hookup sites are available with 50, 30 or 20 amps. We still have dry camping sites as well. We hope you enjoy your stay!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$35
/ night
Fort Welikit Campground
Fort Welikit Campground
100%
(13)
11km from Custer State Park · 124 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Discover the unique charm of our campground, nestled along the picturesque Norbeck Scenic Byway in the heart of the Black Hills. This prime location offers unparalleled access to some of the region's most breathtaking natural wonders, making it an ideal base for your outdoor adventures.
Just minutes from our gates, you'll find the serene beauty of Sylvan Lake, the iconic Needles Highway, and the expansive Custer State Park. Our campground serves as a gateway to exhilarating scenic drives that lead you to stunning vistas, including the majestic Mt. Rushmore and the historic town of Deadwood.
Explore the awe-inspiring Iron Mountain Road, where every turn reveals new landscapes, or venture to the countless lakes and caves that invite exploration. With a variety of outdoor activities, nearby restaurants, and charming shops, our campground is the perfect destination for those seeking both adventure and relaxation in the captivating Black Hills.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$35
/ night
Star Valley RV Camp Spot
Star Valley RV Camp Spot
100%
(29)
12km from Custer State Park · 1 site · RV
Cozy full hook up RV spot centrally located in the southern Black Hills on five acres. Enjoy beautiful sunsets from the shared fire pit just steps from your RV. Located 5 miles from the town of Custer. Enjoy your days visiting nearby Custer State Park, Crazy Horse Memorial, Mt. Rushmore, Wind Cave National Park, Jewell Cave. Walk, bike or run on the 109 mi Mickelson trail. We are also 2 hours from Badlands National Park. This area is rich in beauty and history so be sure to get out and explore!
Pets
Full hookups
from
$54
/ night
Camp Custer in Star Valley
Camp Custer in Star Valley
95%
(20)
12km from Custer State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
Dry camping RV spot located in the southern Black Hills on 3 acres. Enjoy beautiful sunsets, visiting wildlife and occasional hot air ballons from the fire pit & picnic table just steps from your RV. Located 5 miles South of Custer. Enjoy your days visiting nearby Custer State Park, Crazy Horse Memorial, Mt. Rushmore, Wind Cave National Park, Jewell Cave. Walk, bike or run on the 109 mi Mickelson trail. We are also 2 hours from Badlands National Park. This area is rich in beauty and history so be sure to get out and explore!
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from
$24
/ night
Custer Valley View RV Camp Spot
Custer Valley View RV Camp Spot
100%
(25)
12km from Custer State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
Convenient full hook up RV spot with WiFi, fire pit and picnic table. Centrally located in the southern Black Hills on two acres. Enjoy beautiful sunsets, occasional hot air balloons and wildlife from your RV. Located 4 miles from the town of Custer. Enjoy your days visiting nearby Custer State Park, Crazy Horse Memorial, Mt. Rushmore, Wind Cave National Park, Hot Springs, Jewell Cave or Cosmos. Walk, bike or run on the 109 mi Mickelson trail. We are also 2 hours from Badlands National Park. This area is rich in beauty and history so be sure to get out and explore!
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
from
$56
/ night
Tent camping near a pine forest
Tent camping near a pine forest
98%
(361)
15km from Custer State Park · 17 sites · Tents, RVs
These tent sites are located in a campground, bordered by the Black Hills National Forest. While staying here you have access to free hot showers, flush toilets, a dish washing station, a charging stations for electronics, a game room and a laundry room.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$36
/ night
Bear Den Cabins & Camp
Bear Den Cabins & Camp
100%
(467)
15km from Custer State Park · 8 sites · Tents, Lodging
Bear Den is a small camp with 3 Glamping Tents, 2 cabins and shower house. Outdoor spaces for relaxing. We are located approximately 5 miles from Custer State Park, 11 miles from Keystone the Gateway to Mt. Rushmore in the beautiful southern Black Hills.
Cabins have electricity, our tents do not have electricity. Cabins and showers are heated and open year round! All sites including 'bring your own tent' sites have access to the shower house and outdoor grilling areas.
Pick a spot to pitch your own tent, one tent per space. If you have 2 tents please book 2 sites. We have 3 spots cleared. Hang your hammock in trees around the property. This option includes all access to the shower house and outdoor grilling areas!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$32
/ night
Plenty Star Ranch Retreat
Plenty Star Ranch Retreat
93%
(281)
16km from Custer State Park · 35 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Property description
Our property is nestled between Hwy 385, the Mickelson Trail, and the National Forest.
We are located between Custer State Park and Wind Cave National Park along Hwy 385 and the Mickelson Trail; about 30 minutes from Mt. Rushmore and Crazy Horse Mountain.
The nearest towns with restaurants are Pringle, (2 miles S); Hot Springs, (24 miles S), Custer, (9.5 miles N).; Hill City, (24 miles N), and Rapid City, (50 miles N).
The blacktop driveway grants easy access for every type of vehicle.
A couple of ponds, creeks, and dispersed willow, pine, and aspen trees enhance the diversity and beauty of the landscape. It is peaceful here and we enjoy sharing it with our guests during the spring, summer, and fall seasons.
Plenty Star Ranch Retreat has our home, a big pole barn (RV storage), a garage/wood workshop with an attached restroom for all guests, a regular hot water shower cabin, 2 small home-built camping log cabins, 7 RV sites, 9 clearly marked tent and car-camping sites, and several water hydrants fed by our well, providing great quality drinking water. 2 pets maximum per campsite, no pets allowed when booking a cabin.
Check-In is 2 pm to 9 pm; Check-Out is 10 am for the cabins and 11 am for all other sites.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$62
/ night
Battle Creek Camping Resort
Battle Creek Camping Resort
98%
(23)
18km from Custer State Park · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
BCCR arrived in the late summer of 2023. We have RV sites and glamping options spread out over 80 acres, in the foothills of Hermosa, South Dakota.
We are a family owned and operated glamp ground. We provide a unique experience for families, couples and solo travelers to unplug and unwind. We do not have Wi-Fi nor televisions at our campground.
We are known for our stargazing friendly environment which is why we do not have street lights. We love to see kids outside riding their bikes and making lifelong friends with other guests. This has been one of the most rewarding compliments that we continue to receive.
Each glamp site has a gas and wood fire pit. Families gather around the campfire at nights, roasting smores and telling stories. The laughter is pure joy and memories that will last a lifetime.
The lodges, domes and tents that we have are fully furnished with linens, towels and a fully stocked coffee bar.
Our most praised amenity is our bath house. This features private full restrooms with individual sinks, showers and toilets.
We strive to provide a family friendly campground. Therefore, our quiet hours are from 10pm to 7am. No loud music or disruptions to other guests, of any kind, are allowed.
At any time during your stay, you need assistance, please reach out by phone call, text or email.
We thank you for choosing to stay with us and are grateful for the opportunity to be a part of your families memories.
Check In: Check in time is 4:00-9:00pm MST.
We are self-check in but it is very dark when the sun goes down and the phone service can be spotty. Please reach out asap if you know you may be arriving late so we can be prepared to assist if needed. Calls after 11pm, will go to voicemail and be returned the next day.
Check Out: Please do not leave us, but if you must go, please check out by 11:00am MST.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$59
/ night
Rustic Rendezvous
Rustic Rendezvous
99%
(48)
19km from Custer State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
Semi secluded on 5 acres camping has a large cement pad with a bathroom that has shower, toilet, and sink.
Nearby is Mt Rushmore, Custer State Park, Black Hills Playhouse, Rush Mountain Adventure Park, Keystone, Wind Cave, Jewel Cave, numerous off roading trails, and hiking trails, Iron Mountain Road, Needles Highway.
A short drive away is Deadwood, Sturgis and Spearfish Canyon. Devils Tower and Badlands are within driving distance
History in the Black Hills is unlimited, along with off roading adventures.
Toilets
Showers
Potable water
from
$50
/ night
Black Elk Resort
Black Elk Resort
96%
(69)
22km from Custer State Park · 1 site · RV
Black Elk Resort is one of the finest cottages and RV resorts in South Dakota, nestled in a beautiful wooded setting and only a short drive to Mount Rushmore. We feature 9 cottages sleeping 2 to 5 people, 8 Full Hook-up Pull-Thru 50 ft. RV sites with 30/50 Amp, picnic tables, & park style charcoal grills available for the ultimate RV experience.
Whether taking advantage of our cottages, RV sites or the Palmer Creek Taproom, our long list of amenities are available for your use and enjoyment. We are proud of our family-oriented reputation and continually strive to make the Black Elk Resort as beautiful as the nature that surrounds it.
Pets
Full hookups
from
$68
/ night
Pine Haven Lodging
Pine Haven Lodging
95%
(21)
26km from Custer State Park · 34 sites · RVs, Lodging
Pine Haven Lodging is situated right in the center of the Black Hills of South Dakota. We're located on 19 acres of Black Hills National Forest at the base of Storm Mountain, 15 minutes from Mount Rushmore and 10 minutes from food and shopping hub Rapid City. We offer full hook-up RV sites and single-family cabins.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$74
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
T
Teresa
3 weeks ago
5 m Class C
Very easy to find. Terrific communication from the site owners. Roomy spot. I would definitely recommend to others and would stay there again if ever back in that area.
See more
C
Corina
November 2025
9 m Class C
With pets
We reached out to the camp host to see if they’d let us check in earlier and so thankful that they did. It allowed us to have enough time to drive down and explore the Badlands since we only had one day of fun. It’s about an hour away from here. We also got to see a famous roadside attraction Wall Drugs.
See more
C
Corina
November 2025
9 m Class C
With pets
We were on site 10 and it’s leveled. We stayed here on their last weekend of the season. Pine Haven is near Crazy Horse and Mt. Rushmore. It’s on the outside of town but near pretty much everything. If we cross this way again, we definitely would come back here.
See more
C
Christopher
November 2025
With pets
Tammy's place was everything we wanted - its cozy, remote but in the heart of so much beauty. We got in at sunset and were able to take our dog on a night stroll up her hill for a very peaceful evening. The heat in our cabin was NICE and made it extra cozy. The bathroom / shower set up was top notch - sooo clean! 10/10 recommend this place! + Tammy is such a friendly, kind, good human!
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J
Jenna
October 2025
7 m Class C
Kurt's spot was easy to access and had everything we needed. He was a great host and ensured we had what we needed. I'd love to come back and have a bit more time to enjoy this location! A great find!
See more
Shandra
October 2025
1 night at Battle Creek Camping Resort
Hillview Lodge was a cozy dream home away from home. I wish I had time to stay more than one night, but I do plan on returning in the future. I didn’t use the shower, but the bathroom house in general was clean and just a minute walk away from Hillview. I used the firepit at night too, ate some s’mores that were provided + had coffee in the morning before departure from provided Keurig coffee station. Would definitely recommend to any camping fantasy loving nerd!
See more
G
Gregory
October 2025
7 m Class C
With pets
This was a well equipped site. We were the only ones there and it was very peaceful. Lots of wildlife there.
See more
A
Alisha
October 2025
With kids
We loved staying at Bear Den! Tammy and Tim are the most welcoming hosts — we immediately felt like a part of their family! As our 5-year-old told us when they went back to their house after greeting us… “They’re so nice, I wish they didn’t have to go.” :) The cabin was cozy and perfect for our family of four. We were extra impressed by the cleanliness of the facilities, and amenities we didn’t expect. Our kids loved exploring the property, seeing the stars at night, and waking up to watch the deer right outside the cabin. The location was great, and pretty central for all the things we wanted to do. Our whole family hopes to visit again, and we will tell all our friends to make a trip to the Black Hills to stay with Tammy and Tim!
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C
Charles
October 2025
2 nights at Bear Den Cabins & Camp
We had the most amazing time at Lil Bear! Tammy and Tim are so kind and made us feel so at home! Our cabin was stocked with little snacks, was so cozy, had heat, coffee machine and it was just the best! Would absolutely recommend for a weekend getaway!
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N
Nicholas
October 2025
1 night at Bear Den Cabins & Camp
We had such a wonderful time. Tammy and Tim were so hospitable and set us up for one of the coolest experiences to date. We can’t wait to come back - 10/10! Thank you so much!
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W
William
October 2025
3 m pop-up camper
Beautiful place with an extremely friendly staff! I would definitely recommend it.
See more
J
Jordan
October 2025
1 night at Fort Welikit Campground
We stayed in the Covered Wagon. It was super cute! Cheap and the camp hosts were great! The showers were clean and hot, and the Wagon was comfortable with plenty or space for two people. Would defiantly recommended! Make sure you bring sleeping pads or an air mattress, they isn’t one in the wagon.
See moreD
Deborah
October 2025
9 m Class C
With pets
Kurt is an amazing host in more ways than one. After I texted him saying we were set to arrive in our RV in the middle of the night, he gave detailed instructions on where to park. Not only that, but he congratulated us via text after he awoke on the good job of parking in the dark, since we had already left for the Buffalo Round up in our car. We reserved the site for two weeks but our son was with us and he was anxious to get home after being away for months hiking the Continental Divide Trail. We left after only five days and Kurt graciously agreed to refund us. He was so understanding and even spoke to my husband in person.
The site is amazing because it is in the middle of the countryside with no other RVs. Accommodations were excellent...great wifi. We highly recommend this host/site and hope to return in the future.
See moreD
David
October 2025
8 m travel trailer
With pets
Fantastic stay! New, modern services and site in a unique setting. Quiet, with a beautiful wildlife and vista. Great hosts and amazing area. We'll be back for a longer stay to explore more of the area!
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Joseph
October 2025
3 nights at Fort Welikit Campground
Loved this place, we stayed in Tipi, then in Keg once it got cold. Was a great stay. Cooked over campfires. Shower/bathrooms worked great. Great location to lots of things
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P
Paul
October 2025
7 m Class B
With pets
Really nice spot , convenient to all the things we wanted to see. Level site, good power , water!
Clean shower.
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Krystl
October 2025
1 night at Fort Welikit Campground
This was a charming campground with lots of amenities nearby. I stayed in a tipi, and I'd definitely stay here again to check out some of the other unique lodgings.
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B
Bobbie
September 2025
Tent
Our view was very nice! Great sunsets. Our spot was pretty flat for our tent. Easy to park our motorcycles. Great shower facilities. Definitely recommend this place!
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D
Danielle
September 2025
Group trip
The cabin on the property is quite lovely! It was a great place to rest for the night from the Mickelson trail. Lovely views!
See more
Chrissy
September 2025
9 m travel trailer
Megan was a great host. We had a great time there.
See moreThe best camping in Custer State Park, SD guide
Overview
About
Nestled in the Black Hills, Custer State Park is a top destination for wildlife viewing. Herds of bison, “begging” burros, elk, antelope, and bighorn sheep freely roam the 71,000 acres that make up the park. Spot them from the many trails around the park, or get up close on a buffalo safari jeep tour. Don’t miss the iconic Needles Highway, one of several scenic drives. Active visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, horseback riding, rock climbing, and water play at several lakes and streams. With nine campgrounds offering RV and tent camping, historic lodges, and camping cabins, it’s easy to spend a few days here and explore all the park has to offer.
Notable campgrounds
- Best for viewing wildlife: Lots of wildlife can be found near Game Lodge Campground, which offers sites with RV hookups and a dump station, plus easy access to the State Game Lodge.
- Best for exploring park and area highlights: Located near the Needles Highway, Sylvan Lake Campground is also closest to Mount Rushmore and the Crazy Horse Memorial.
- Best for a taste of the Old West: Go horseback riding and enjoy a hayride and chuckwagon roast near Blue Bell Campground.
Tips for snagging a campsite
- Plan ahead. Most campsites at the park can be reserved up to one year in advance. Book online or by phone as soon as you know your travel dates. Sites for summer weekends tend to fill up almost immediately.
- If you can’t book anything ahead of time, try for a spot at the Center Lake Campground, which offers same-day reservations only, starting at 6am.
- If your plans are flexible, try going in the off-season. Game Lodge Campground and French Creek Horse Campground are open year-round, though facilities will be limited in the wintertime.
When to go
Summer is the most popular season at Custer State Park, though the weather can be extreme, with afternoon thunderstorms that can bring lightning, high winds, heavy rain, and hail. A popular event is the annual Buffalo Roundup and Arts Festival held in late September. In the summer and fall, enjoy a wide range of naturalist and interpretive programs. The park is open year round, but many campgrounds, lodges, visitor centers, and even the Needles Highway, are closed over the winter.
Know before you go
- Several lodges inside the park offer restaurants, convenience stores, and gift shops. For additional supplies, the towns of Custer, Keystone, and Hill City are nearby.
- The Blue Bell, Sylvan Lake, Game Lodge, and Grace Coolidge campgrounds offer wheelchair-accessible sites and restrooms.
- Cell reception in the park can be very spotty, but wifi can be found in the lodges.
- Do not drink from any of the lakes, rivers, or streams in the park.
89%
30 Ratings · 12 reviews
Recommends
· November 2025
Wild donkeys are not wild - take crackers to feed them.
G
Greg Z.
16 reviews
Recommends
· June 2025
One of our favorite places we went to. Incredible beauty, and the hiking trails are unmatched!
Ben S.
7 reviews
March 2022
The roads in the campground are very narrow. Parking pads are short and very narrow - some with steep drop-offs. Our 19' trailer barely fit on the pad with no room for our tow vehicle. Showers did not have hot water when we were there. The location is great, but if you have a trailer or RV longer than 16', I suggest looking somewhere else.
Barbara B.
4 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· November 2018
Check out each of the 3 scenic drives in Custer State Park: Iron Mountain Road, Needles Highway, and Wildlife Loop.
Sara + Mike (.
9 reviews
Recommends
· October 2018
Showers were always full until I started getting up at 7.
Jennifer H.
4 reviews
August 2017
I would highly recommend this spot. I was in 21E and we had an easy walk down to the lake. In addition there was power, a picnic table, and a fire ring. The tent pad itself was a short walk away to give us plenty of privacy. Water and showers were close by and some primitive toilets were right next to the site. All the facilities were clean and well kept.
J
John B.
4 reviews
Recommends
· July 2017
There are narrow tunnels along the Needles Highway (the most scenic and popular route to Sylvan Lake). We had to take the southern route into the campground, but this campground was so worth going out of our way for!
Fern T.
8 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· May 2017
Nice shady campsites for tents along the creek. Slight incline down to the water's edge walking from the parking spot.
M
Marie D.
8 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· May 2017
Several sites situated on a hillside- beautiful site, level tent pads, but must haul gear up. It's worth the privacy.
M
Marie D.
8 years on Hipcamp
March 2017
A cool stop while going through South Dakota. Near a fun smaller town called Hill City and Mount Rushmore. We were in campsite 26 which was secluded and very nice and dog friendly. From the campground there are hiking trails that can take you to the lake which are relatively easy but convenient to stay off the road! The lake was pretty crowded but we were close to the 4th of July when we stayed there. There's a fun hike around the lake and through the rocks in my photo. There are non-motorized boat rentals for recreation.
Jennifer H.
9 years on Hipcamp
July 2016
I promise to leave a review once I've stayed here, but I'm excited to share that I scored a reservation. I'm new to this site, so I'm extremely grateful to fellow campers who are posting reviews and helpful photos/guide suggestions/et al.
Looking forward to paying it forward.
Chad M.
9 years on Hipcamp
October 2015
Stockade North Campground was in a great location to all of the activities Custer State Park has to offer! The campsites were a great size and not right next to neighbors. Be sure to research which site you pick, ours was a little gravel-y which made staking the tent down a little bit of a challenge. The amenities were very clean and upscale compared to other places we have stayed. Be sure to look up when you are sitting around your campfire at night to catch a glimpse of the stars at night! The sky is crystal clear!
Stefanie C.
10 years on Hipcamp