Unforgettable Camping in South Dakota

Want to head out on your next camping trip and immerse yourself in nature? These campsites guarantee your next camping trip will be one for the record books. From fun-filled RV sites to farm-inspired digs, here are the best camping spots in South Dakota.

Sylvan Lake Campground, Custer, SD

Sylvan Lake Campground is the perfect place to camp in the Black Hills. Located across from a gorgeous lake created by a dam built in 1882, it's got everything you need for a great trip: rock climbing, hiking trails, and small boat rentals.

Rafter J Bar Ranch, Hill City, SD

The Rafter J Bar Ranch, once voted #1 RV Park in America USA Today, is a must-visit for outdoor lovers. Camp in the brush or close to the activities center with five different camping areas, each with an alpine meadow and shady ponderosa pines.

Hanna Campground, Lead, SD

Hanna Campground borders the spruce-lined Spearfish Creek. It’s a beautiful, private place for backcountry camping enthusiasts who love the sound of a babbling brook.

Pactola Reservoir Campground, Rapid City, SD

Located along the shore of Pactola Reservoir, this campground provides campers with lake views and various recreational activities. In addition, you can learn about environmental protection at the Pactola Visitor Center nearby.

Badlands National Park, Interior, SD

Badlands National Park offers campers spectacular rock formations, towering spires, and grasslands full of bighorn sheep and prairie dogs. Backpackers love this spot because they can camp anywhere within the park, even in the canyons.

Lake Herman State Park, Madison, SD

Lake Herman State Park is a year-round camping destination. Formed thousands of years ago by melting glacial ice, campers can expect abundant campsites with electric hook-ups, picnic tables, campfire rings with grills, and potable water.

Broom Tree Youth & Family Camp, Irene, SD

If you're in the mood for camping and spiritual rejuvenation, Broom Tree Youth & Family Camp is a perfect place to go. Young adults and their families can reconnect with their faith, the great outdoors, and each other.

Farm Island State Recreation Area Campground, Pierre, SD

Farm Island has something for everyone. Campers can choose from campsites, then enjoy swimming, hiking, angling, and bird-watching as they explore the famous beaches and trails around the island.

Chief White Crane State Recreation Area, Yankton, SD

Camping with your family? The chief White Crane State Recreation Area is the place to meet up with your loved ones. Have fun boating on the lake, hang out around the campfire, and spend time together.

Key Insights at a Glance

Sylvan Lake Campground, Custer - Black Hills camping with rock climbing, hiking, and small boat rentals near a historic dam.

Rafter J Bar Ranch, Hill City - Highly rated RV park with five camping areas in alpine meadows and pine forests.

Hanna Campground, Lead - Secluded backcountry camping along Spearfish Creek, ideal for those seeking privacy and nature sounds.

Pactola Reservoir Campground, Rapid City - Lakeside camping with recreational activities and educational resources at the Pactola Visitor Center.

Badlands National Park, Interior - Camp anywhere within the park’s stunning rock formations and spires, surrounded by wildlife like bighorn sheep.

Lake Herman State Park, Madison - Year-round camping with electric hook-ups, picnic areas, and glacially formed landscapes.

Broom Tree Youth & Family Camp, Irene - Spiritual and nature-focused camping for families looking to reconnect in a serene environment.

Farm Island State Recreation Area Campground, Pierre - Island camping with options for swimming, hiking, fishing, and bird-watching.

Chief White Crane State Recreation Area, Yankton - Family-friendly lakeside camping with boating, campfires, and gathering spots.