Best Camping Near Rapid City, SD

Discover the ultimate camping adventure in Rapid City, SD: Explore Mount Rushmore, Black Hills, and family-friendly KOA amenities.

9

Nearby Campgrounds

1,280

Nearby Camp Sites

4.6

Average Camper Rating

Best places to camp near Rapid City, South Dakota

9 Campgrounds Within 100 Miles

Things to do near
Rapid City, South Dakota

  • Mount Rushmore National Memorial - Just 24 miles from Rapid City, this iconic monument features the carved faces of four U.S. presidents and offers hiking trails, a museum, and stunning views.

  • Badlands National Park - Located about 60 miles from Rapid City, this park boasts dramatic landscapes with sharply eroded buttes, pinnacles, and spires. Enjoy hiking trails like the Notch Trail or join ranger-led programs.

  • Bear Country USA - Situated 8 miles south of Rapid City on US Highway 16, this drive-through wildlife park allows visitors to see black bears, elk, reindeer, and other North American mammals up close.

  • Reptile Gardens - Found on Highway 16 in Rapid City itself. This attraction holds the Guinness World Record for the largest collection of reptiles and offers interactive exhibits including alligator shows and a prairie dog town.

  • 1880 Train - Experience a vintage steam train ride through the Black Hills between Hill City and Keystone. The journey covers scenic landscapes over a twenty-mile route.

  • Rush Mountain Adventure Park & Rushmore Cave - Located in Keystone about 23 miles from Rapid City. Ride zip lines or explore beautiful cave formations such as stalagmites and helictites in Rushmore Cave.

  • Cosmos Mystery Area - About 17 miles from Rapid City on Cosmos Road. This quirky attraction features optical illusions where water flows uphill and people appear to change height depending on where they stand.

  • Big Thunder Gold Mine - Travel back in time with an underground tour at this historic gold mine located in Keystone around 23 miles from Rapid City. Pan for gold by the stream after your tour!

Ways to camp near Rapid City, South Dakota

RV Camping
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RV Camping

RV camping at KOA campgrounds offers clean, level sites with full hookups, laundry facilities, and pet-friendly amenities. Enjoy the comforts of home while exploring over 500 locations across the U.S. and Canada.

Cabin Camping
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Cabin Camping

Cabin camping at KOA offers a cozy outdoor experience with options like rustic Camping Cabins and fully-equipped Deluxe Cabins. Enjoy nature with amenities such as beds, electricity, and private bathrooms.

Tent Camping
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Tent Camping

Tent camping offers a blend of traditional camping with modern amenities. Enjoy level sites, hot showers, clean restrooms, and options like electric hookups and patios for a comfortable outdoor experience.

Extended Stays Camping
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Extended Stay

KOA campgrounds offer extended stay options that allow extended stay campers to enjoy amenities like upgraded Wi-Fi and on-site dining, whether you’re a snowbird, or just want to enjoy the outdoors longer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Rushmore Cave offers a thrilling experience with its stalagmites, flowstone, ribbons, columns, and helictites.

The Mammoth Site is an internationally renowned paleontological site where you can explore one of the world's greatest fossil treasures.

Bear Country USA is a drive-thru wildlife park where you can see bears, elk, wolves, buffalo, and other North American wildlife roaming free.

Old MacDonalds Farm offers pony rides, train rides, and opportunities to feed animals in a fun farm setting.

The Outdoor Campus West provides nature trails and indoor exhibits of South Dakota wildlife along with a freshwater aquarium.

The George S. Mickelson Trail offers 109 miles of trail suitable for bikers, hikers, cross-country skiers, horseback riders and runners alike.

Plan a trip to Rapid City, South Dakota

Plan a trip to Rapid City, South Dakota

Planning a camping trip to Rapid City, SD, promises an adventure filled with natural beauty, historical landmarks, and family-friendly activities. Nestled in the heart of the Black Hills, Rapid City is your gateway to some of South Dakota's most iconic attractions. Here’s how to make the most of your visit:

Best Time of Year to Visit

Rapid City offers something special year-round. Spring and fall are perfect for mild weather and fewer crowds. Summer is ideal for families looking to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and swimming. Winter brings a serene beauty with opportunities for snow sports.

Weather Expectations by Season

  • Spring: Mild temperatures with occasional rain showers.
  • Summer: Warm days perfect for exploring; cool evenings ideal for campfires.
  • Fall: Crisp air and vibrant foliage make it a picturesque time.
  • Winter: Cold but beautiful; great for those who love winter sports.

What to Pack

Packing smart ensures you’re prepared:

  • Clothing: Layered outfits are key due to fluctuating temperatures. Don’t forget sturdy hiking boots!
  • Camping Gear: Tent or RV essentials, sleeping bags rated for cooler nights, portable stove or grill.
  • Extras: Sunscreen, insect repellent, reusable water bottles, binoculars for wildlife viewing.

Important Considerations

  1. Reservations: KOA campgrounds can fill up quickly during peak seasons—book early!
  2. Local Attractions: Plan visits to Mount Rushmore National Memorial and Crazy Horse Memorial—both within easy reach from any KOA campground in the area.
  3. Activities: Enjoy hiking trails at Custer State Park or take a scenic drive through Badlands National Park.
  4. Safety: Always check weather forecasts before heading out on hikes or other outdoor activities.

Nearby KOA Campgrounds

Choose from several excellent KOA options:

  • Rapid City / Black Hills KOA Holiday offers convenient access to local attractions.
  • Custer / Mount Rushmore / Black Hills KOA Holiday provides proximity to historic sites like Jewel Cave National Monument.

Each campground features amenities such as clean restrooms with hot showers, laundry facilities, pet-friendly areas like KampK9®, and recreational activities including swimming pools and playgrounds.

Whether you're planning a family vacation or a solo retreat into nature's wonders around Rapid City, SD., staying at one of these welcoming KOAs will ensure you have all the comforts needed while enjoying an unforgettable adventure!

Family Eating Outside of Airstream
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Save money when camping near Rapid City, South Dakota with KOA Rewards

If you like camping, then you will love being a part of the Kampgrounds of America KOA Rewards Program. Designed with campers and outdoor enthusiasts in mind, KOA Rewards is both a discount and rewards program. From earning rewards while camping to receiving discounts at select merchants, our loyalty program is designed to help you save money in a few different ways.

Reserve Your Stay Today!

Unwind at a campground near Rapid City, South Dakota, and enjoy the outdoors where camping is fun and for everyone, and s'mores are always on the menu.