Go camping in historic South Dakota this year! Visit the Dakotas and pull up stop for a night in one of the many picture postcard perfect campgrounds.
ANGOSTURA RESERVOIR
South Dakota Dept. of Game, Fish and Parks
PO Box 131 A
Hot Springs, SD 57747
(605)745-6996
Positioned on the edge of the Black Hills, this area stretches more than 4, 000 acres, stretching its borders to within walking distance of the Nebraska border. If it's peace and quiet you crave, you won't be disappointed with the Angostura Reservoir. Campsites are open to tenters or those traveling by RV and are available on a first come, first serve basis. Fishing is a favorite at this spot, so don't forget your pole!
WIND CAVE NATIONAL PARK
RR 1, Box 190
Hot Springs, SD 57747-9430
(605)745-4600
Wind Cave National Park is a popular stop for those making the rounds in South Dakota. Just a short drive from the Black Hills area, Wind Cave is known as one of the world's most complex and largest caves in the world. Over 20,000 acres of land make this a nice stop for anyone looking for a place to hang their hat. Campsites are available year round to large groups, tents and RV's. There is a 14 day limit imposed on all guests. Handicapped and disabled sites and services are also available. Dogs are welcome.
COLD BROOK LAKE
PO Box 664
Hot Springs, SD 57747
(605)745-5476
Located on the southern edge of the Black Hills, Cold Brook Lake is close to Mt. Rushmore and Custer State Park. Campsites are sold on a first come, first serve basis and are well maintained for year round camping. A beach, picnic area, playground and hiking trails are also located on-site. This is a hot spot for tourists, so if you're looking for peace and quiet, you may want to check elsewhere.
PACTOLA RESERVOIR
803 Soo San Drive
Rapid City, SD 57702
(605)343-1567
Water lovers will enjoy their stay at Pactola Reservoir. Featuring a panoramic view of the Pactola Dam, which is more than 200 feet high, this area screams outdoor fun! Picnic grounds, boat ramps and scenic overlooks make this a gorgeous stopping point for anyone on their way through South Dakota. There are 80 units available at this spot, and reservations are encouraged. Kids will have plenty to see and do at Pactola!
OAHE DAM LAKE OAHE
28563 Powerhouse Road
Pierre, SD 57501
(605)224-5862
Oahe Dam was dedicated by President John F. Kennedy in 1962. This incredible dam is over 9,000 feet in length, and is situated in the middle of the 230-mile long Oahe Lake. Within the park grounds, you'll find a wide variety of places to set up camp, from highly developed areas to primitive spots. Hunting, boating, fishing, swimming and hiking are all available within the park's limits. Campers of all skill levels can't go wrong here.
BLACK HILLS NATIONAL FOREST
BEAVER CREEK CAMPGROUND
Route 2, Box 200
Custer, SD 57783
(605)673-2251
Just inside the Black Hills National Forest lies this remote, quiet resting spot. Restrooms and drinking water are the only amenities you'll find here. There are 8 very basic campsites open year round at Beaver Creek Camp. Those seeking a little solitude and a break from the tourists will be pleasantly surprised.
BADLANDS NATIONAL PARK
PO Box 6
Interior, SD 57750
(605)433-5361
Located on more than 200,000 acres of land, Badlands National Park is as big as it is famous. The rock formations here are so captivating, you'll want to extend your stay just so you won't miss an inch. Challenging hiking trails and vistas make this a great spot for all campers. This park is huge, but reservations are still encouraged. Campsites range from semi-primitive to well maintained.
