Custer State Park is South Dakota’s largest state park and preserves an incredible diversity of landscapes. Granite bluffs, soaring mountains, deep lakes, and grassland prairies are just a few of the highlights of this beautiful area. Located in the Black Hills, Custer State Park has miles of hiking trails, fishing, boating, biking, and almost any other outdoor activity you can think of.
To take advantage of everything on offer, we think you’ll be best served by spending a night in your tent or RV. By camping at Custer State Park you’ll get to experience this unique landscape firsthand.
Custer State Park has camping opportunities to suit nearly everyone. The park features nine developed campgrounds as well as the French Creek Natural Area for backpackers. In addition, the surrounding area has a plethora of RV campgrounds, car camping spots, and even some free dispersed campsites. No matter your preference, you’re sure to find the perfect campsite near Custer State Park.
Keeping reading to get all the details on camping in Custer State Park.
Custer State Park Camping Guide
Custer State Park Campgrounds
Custer State Park is located in southwestern South Dakota and sits firmly in the Black Hills. This is an incredible part of the country and nearby you’ll find multiple national parks, national forests, Mount Rushmore, and more. All of this makes Custer State Park and the surrounding region an incredible road trip destination. If you’re heading out to explore this part of the country, camping should be your first thought for accommodation.
The map below gives you a general sense of the nine campgrounds in Custer State Park and their locations relative to the surrounding area.
In addition to the overview map shown above we’ve also created an interactive map with all of the campgrounds included in this guide displayed.
Campgrounds with a green tent icon represent the developed campgrounds within Custer State Park, the blue camper trailer icon represents RV campgrounds near the park, and finally the red tent icon represents car camping options near Custer State Park.
Reservations
Of the nine developed campgrounds in Custer State Park, eight offer advance reservations. The lone exception is the Center Lake Campground, which offers same-day reservations. To make a reservation for any of the eight reservable campgrounds in Custer State Park, you’ll need to visit the Camp SD website below:
Make a campsite reservation in Custer State Park here.
Camping in Custer State Park is incredibly popular during the peak summer season. As such, we highly recommend making your reservation as soon as possible to ensure you get the campsite you want.
For backcountry camping in the French Creek Natural Area there are no advance reservations or permits required. You will need to register the day of your trip so that park staff know you are in the backcountry, but nothing is required in advance of your trip.
What to Bring
Preparing for your Custer State Park camping trip involves more than deciding which campground best fits your needs. There is also the important job of making sure you have all the right gear you’ll need to ensure a great trip.
We’re sure you’ll already have the essentials like a great tent, sleeping bags, and camp chairs, but below are some of our favorite items specifically for camping at Custer State Park:
- Coleman Camping Stove – This camping classic is perfect cooking up campsite dinners.
- Portable water container – These portable water containers are a lifesaver.
- Cooler – A good cooler makes any camping trip better. We can’t recommend Yeti enough!
- Black Hills Map Pack – This excellent set of maps from National Geographic cover Custer State Park and the surrounding area.
- Black Hills Guidebook – A good guidebook will provide insights and information to help you plan your perfect trip to Custer State Park. We like this Moon Guide to Mount Rushmore, the Black Hills, and the Badlands.
When to Camp at Custer State Park
The majority of the campgrounds in Custer State Park are open seasonally from May – October. The Game Lodge Campground is open year round, however the full facilities are not available outside of the warmer months.
Peak camping season in Custer State Park generally aligns with summer in this part of the world, and most visitors camp in Custer between Memorial Day and Labor Day. If you’re looking for a bit of solitude during your visit, it is best to try and plan your camping trip just outside of these dates.
You’ll encounter some cooler weather, but will have the place to yourself.
Developed Campgrounds in Custer State Park
There are nine developed campgrounds in Custer State Park. These campgrounds vary in size and proximity to different areas of the park and are sure to provide plenty of options for your perfect camping trip. Details for all nine campgrounds are below.
Blue Bell Campground
Number of Sites: 31 sites
Fee: $15/night for tents, $30/night for electric site
RVs: Yes, electric hookups available.
Reservations: Recommended. Visit CampSD.com to reserve.
Season: Open seasonally from May 1st – October 14th
The Blue Bell Campground is located on the western side of Custer State Park, just north of the Blue Bell Entrance Station. This is a popular entry point into the park and makes a convenient place to camp. The campground features 31 campsites and can accommodate RVs with electric hookups.
You’ll be right next to French Creek, so this is a great campground for any anglers out there!
In addition, you’ll be just up the road from the Blue Bell Lodge which features a small restaurant, laundromat, small shop, and gas station.
The campground features flush toilets, showers, and potable water. Blue Bell is open seasonally during the summer months from May 1st – October 14th. Reservations are recommended for anyone hoping to camp at the Blue Bell Campground, as it is typically full throughout the summer.
Click here to make a reservation at the Blue Bell Campground
Center Lake Campground
Number of Sites: 71 sites
Fee: $19/night
RVs: Yes, smaller size recommended. No hookups available.
Reservations: Same day reservations available. Learn more here.
Season: Open seasonally from May 1st – September 30th.
The Center Lake Campground is located in the northern section of Custer State Park, and is very convenient if you also plan to visit Mt. Rushmore on your trip. Center Lake itself is beautiful and provides ample opportunities for swimming, fishing, and boating. The campground is large, and includes 71 campsites that can accommodate tents and small RVs.
The amenities at the Custer Lake Campground are basic and include vault toilets and potable water. The campground is open from May – September, and is the only campground in Custer State Park that accepts same day reservations. This allows you to call or go online starting at 6am MT the day of your trip to reserve a campsite. The benefit here is that if you haven’t been able to secure an advance reservation at any other campground in Custer, you’ll still have a shot at securing one Center Lake Campground.
Click here to make a same-day reservation at the Center Lake Campground
French Creek Horse Camp
Number of Sites: 28 campsites
Fee: $40/night. Includes two corrals
RVs: Yes, electric hookups available.
Reservations: Recommended. Visit CampSD.com to reserve.
Season: Open year round. Full facilities including electricity from May 1st – October 31st.
As the name suggests, the French Creek Horse Camp is a campground specifically for those camping with horses. The campground is located just east of the Blue Bell Campground along North Lame Johnny Road. This location lends some solitude as it is off the main park roads.
The campgrounds features 28 individual campsites that each include two corral spaces for your equestrian friends. French Creek Horse Camp features a dump station, flush toilets, and drinking water for both you and your horses.
French Creek is open year round, although you’ll only have access to the full facilities from May – October. Advance reservations are highly recommended, and can be made below.
Click here to make a reservation at the French Creek Horse Camp
Game Lodge Campground
Number of Sites: 59 campsites
Fee: $26/night for tents, $30/night for electric site
RVs: Yes, electric hookups available.
Reservations: Recommended. Visit CampSD.com to reserve.
Season: Open year round. Full facilities open from April 1st – November 15th.
The Game Lodge Campground is located just off of Highway 16A, the main east-west road through Custer State Park. Campers here are just a short distance from the main Visitors Center as well as the eastern entrance to the park. Game Lodge features 59 campsites and can accommodate RVs with electric hookups.
The Grace Coolidge Creek flows through the campground, making this a particularly tranquil campground. In addition, you’ll be close to the Peter Norbeck Outdoor Education Center and State Game Lodge, both popular places to visit in Custer State Park.
The campground features flush toilets, showers, and an RV dump station. Game Lodge Campground is open year round, with full facilities available from April – November 15th. We recommend making an advance reservation here, which can be completed at the link below:
Click here to make a reservation at the Game Lodge Campground
Grace Coolidge Campground
Number of Sites: 26 sites, including six tent-only
Fee: $15/night for tents, $30/night for electric site
RVs: Yes, electric hookups available.
Reservations: Recommended. Visit CampSD.com to reserve.
Season: Open seasonally from May 17th – October 13th
The Grace Coolidge Campground is centrally located in Custer State Park, just off Highway 16A. The campground is conveniently located near the main Visitor Center in the park and the Peter Norbeck Outdoor Education Center. Grace Coolidge has 26 campsites, six of which are tent-only that sit on the opposite side of the highway from the main campground.
The campground features flush toilets and showers and is only a mile from the Coolidge General Store. Grace Coolidge campground is open seasonally from May 17th – October 13th, and advance reservations are essential.
Click here to make a reservation at the Grace Coolidge Campground
Legion Lake Campground
Number of Sites: 26 sites
Fee: $15/night for tents, $30/night for electric site
RVs: Yes, electric hookups available.
Reservations: Recommended. Visit CampSD.com to reserve.
Season: Open seasonally from May 1st – October 13th
The Legion Lake Campground sits just across Highway 16A from the famous Legion Lake and Lenker Rock. You’ll find 26 campsites here with a mix of tent-only sites as well as those that can accommodate RVs and feature electric hookups.
From the campground you’ll enjoy easy access to the Badger Clark Memorial as well as to Legion Lake. The lake features fishing, boating, and swimming. You can also enjoy access to the Legion Lake Lodge, which features a small restaurant and basic shop.
The campground features flush toilets, showers, and potable water. Legion Lake Campground is open from May – mid October and advance reservations are highly recommended.
Click here to make a reservation at the Legion Lake Campground
Stockade North Campground
Number of Sites: 42 sites
Fee: $26/night for tents, $30/night for electric site
RVs: Yes, electric hookups available.
Reservations: Recommended. Visit CampSD.com to reserve.
Season: Open seasonally from May 17th – October 7th
There are two campgrounds located at Stockade Lake in Custer State Park. The first, and larger of the two is the Stockade North Campground. Located just off the main highway, the Stockade North Campground has 42 campsites that can accommodate all sizes of RVs.
Stockade Lake North is a popular campground given its pristine location on the largest lake in the park and easy access to the highway. You can enjoy fishing, boating, and hiking all within close proximity to the campground.
Amenities include electric hookups for RVs, flush toilets, and showers. You’re not far from the Legion Lake Lodge which has a restaurant and small shop. Stockade North is open from mid-May through mid-October and reservations can be made through Camp SD at the link below.
Click here to make a reservation at the Stockade North Campground
Stockade South Campground
Number of Sites: 23 sites
Fee: $15/night for tents, $30/night for electric site
RVs: Yes, electric hookups available.
Reservations: Recommended. Visit CampSD.com to reserve.
Season: Open seasonally from May 17th – October 7th
The smaller of the two campgrounds at Stockade Lake, the Stockade South Campground is a bit quieter and more secluded. Situated on the south end of the lake, acces is from Lower French Creek Road. Here you’ll find 23 campsites that can accommodate tents as well as smaller RVs. There are also several camping cabins available.
Lake access is easy from the campground and you can also visit the Gordon Stockade, where gold was initially discovered back in the 1800s.
The campground features flush toilets, showers, and potable water. Stockade South Campground is open from May – early-October and advance reservations are a must.
Click here to make a reservation at the Stockade South Campground
Sylvan Lake Campground
Number of Sites: 39 sites
Fee: $15/night for tents, $30/night for electric site
RVs: Yes, electric hookups available.
Reservations: Recommended. Visit CampSD.com to reserve.
Season: Open seasonally from May 17th – September 30th
The final developed campground in Custer State Park is Sylvan Lake Campground, located in the far northwest corner of the park. Sylvan Lake is one of the most popular areas of Custer State Park, and a night spent camping here is a highlight for many.
The Sylvan Lake Campground has 39 campsites that can accommodate tents as well as RVs and has electric hookups available. The campground is located across the famous Needles Highway from the lake, although access is still quite convenient.
The campground features flush toilets, showers, and potable water. The Sylvan Lake lodge is less than a mile from the campground and we highly recommend a visit. Here you’ll find a restaurant, shop selling basic supplies, boat rentals, and more. Reservations are essential and often difficult to come by at the Sylvan Lake Campground and can be made at the link below.
Click here to make a reservation at the Sylvan Lake Campground
Backcountry Campsites in Custer State Park
French Creek Natural Area
Fee: $7/night
Reservations: Not required, but registration is mandatory for camping.
Season: Year round
For those looking for a more adventurous camping trip in Custer State Park, backpacking in the French Creek Natural Area might be just the ticket. This section of the park was set aside to preserve its incredible natural beauty and to offer visitors the opportunity to experience the rugged side of Custer State Park.
The French Creek Natural Area sits in the center of Custer State Park can be accessed from both the west and east. On the east edge of the park, you’ll utilize Wildlife Loop Road with trail access starting just south of the airstrip. From the west, French Creek Natural Area is accessed via North Lame Johnny Rd a few miles from the Blue Bell entrance near the French Creek Horse Camp.
The entire trail runs for approximately 12 miles, although keep in mind this is not a formal trail and does not have any trail markers. Those seeking to hike the entire route should be experienced in backcountry navigation and have a good understanding of the area. This is especially true for a section known as “the Narrows” which requires backpackers to either climb the 60′ cliff or swim across the 100′ river!
Camping is permitted in the French Creek Natural Area with the following regulations:
- Always practice Leave No Trace principles
- Campsites must be at least 50′ from the creek
- No campfires are permitted
- Bury all human waste at least 200′ from a water source
- Plan to bring all of your own water as the creek is not suitable for drinking
Camping near Custer State Park
Given the popularity of camping in Custer State Park it can be difficult to secure a campsite at one of the nine developed campgrounds in the park. However, don’t give up hope as there are plenty of great camping options just outside of Custer State Park that are sure to meet your needs.
Check out your best options for RV camping, car camping, and free dispersed camping near Custer State Park below. For those looking to explore some of the other highlights of South Dakota and the Black Hills, check out our other camping guides:
- The Complete Guide to Camping in Badlands National Park
- The Complete Guide to Camping at Devils Tower National Monument
- The Complete Guide to Camping at Mt. Rushmore
RV campgrounds near Custer State Park
Those camping in an RV will have plenty of options just outside Custer State Park. Check out your best bets below.
Number of sites: Plenty!
Fee: $32 – $41/night
Capacity: Prices based on 4ppl per campsite
RVs: Yes, full hookups available.
Reservations: Recommended. Click here to reserve.
Pets: Allowed
More Information
The French Creek RV Park is located immediately west of Custer State Park in the town of Custer, SD. This is a convenient camping option as you’ll have easy access to the town of Custer, while still camping in a beautiful setting. The state park is just a short drive away as well.
Campsites feature full hookups and picnic tables. There is also a grassy area for tent campers. Amenities at the French Creek RV Park include free WiFi, free Friday night potlucks, and easy access to the Mickelson Trail.
Number of sites: 60 sites
Fee: $37 – $50/night
Capacity: None stated.
RVs: Yes, full hookups available.
Reservations: Recommended. Click here to reserve.
Pets: Allowed
More Information
Wheels West RV Park is located right off Highway 16A, just a stone’s throw from the west entrance to Custer State Park. The campground features full-hookup RV sites as well as tent-only sites and bunkhouse style rooms. The campground recently got new owners and the reviews couldn’t be better.
Amenities at Wheels West include a small souvenir shop that sells shakes, plenty of lawn games, and even occasional live music.
Number of sites: Plenty!
Fee: $25 – $48/night depending on site.
Capacity: None stated.
RVs: Yes, full hookups available.
Reservations: Recommended. Click here to reserve.
Pets: Allowed
More Information
The Custer Mountain Campground is located west of the state park, just before reaching the town of Custer. The campsites here are tucked in a beautiful forest of pine trees and give a sense of tranquility and calm. Sites can be a bit close together, but the facilities are spotless and the staff friendly.
Amenities include showers, laundry, and a playground.
Number of sites: 60 sites
Fee: $59 – $69/night
Capacity: Prices based on 2 adults & 2 children
RVs: Yes, full hookups available.
Reservations: Recommended. Click here to reserve.
Pets: Allowed
More Information
Located about 1 mile south of Highway 16A just west of Custer State Park, Custer’s Gulch RV Campground makes a convenient place to spend the night. This quiet RV park features full hookups, WiFi, hot showers, and even provides on-site car rentals to explore the Black Hills.
Number of sites: Plenty!
Fee: $35/night
Capacity: Prices based on 2ppl per campsite
RVs: Yes, full hookups available.
Reservations: Recommended. Call 1-605-673-3368 to reserve.
Pets: Allowed
More Information
The Echo Valley RV Park is situated west of Custer State Park and is well located for those hoping to visit Sylvan Lake or the Crazy Horse Memorial. This is a basic campground that is set in a stunning location. Campsites all feature a picnic table and are more secluded than many campgrounds in the area.
Amenities at Echo Valley include hot showers, laundry, and incredibly friendly staff.
Number of sites: Plenty!
Fee: $44 – $50/night
Capacity: Prices based on 4 people per campsite. Max of 6 per site.
RVs: Yes, full hookups available.
Reservations: Recommended. Call (605) 673-4054 to reserve.
Pets: Allowed
More Information
The Big Pine Campground is located a bit further from Custer State Park compared to other options, but still makes a great place to camp. The campsites at Big Pine are nicely shaded and the location provides convenient access to the town of Custer, SD.
You’ll find excellent amenities at Big Pine, including a game room, hot showers, free WiFi, and more. Highly recommended!
Number of sites: Plenty!
Fee: Varies
Capacity: None stated.
RVs: Yes, full hookups available.
Reservations: Recommended. Click here to reserve.
Pets: Allowed
More Information
The Rushmore View RV Park is located north of Custer State Park, adjacent to Mount Rushmore National Memorial. This is a great location for those looking to explore both Custer State Park as well as Mt. Rushmore. The campsites at Rushmore View are generally better for smaller RVs, although they do have a few sites that can accommodate larger rigs.
Amenities include easy access to a variety of services in the town of Keystone, including gas stations, a convenience store, laundry facilities and more.
Number of sites: Plenty!
Fee: $75 – $125/night
Capacity: None stated.
RVs: Yes, full hookups available.
Reservations: Recommended. Click here to reserve.
Pets: Allowed
More Information
Situated north of Custer State Park on Highway 244, the Mount Rushmore KOA Campground offers a great RV campground for those exploring the Black Hills. You can expect the full slate of KOA style amenities here, including a pool, cable tv, WiFi, and small shop.
We don’t recommend KOAs for those in search of quiet, but you certainly can’t beat all the amenities if that is what you’re after!
Number of sites: 46 sites
Fee: $25 – $45/night
Capacity: None stated.
RVs: Yes, electric available.
Reservations: Recommended. Click here to reserve.
Pets: Allowed
More Information
The Spokane Creek Campground is perfectly situated for those hoping to explore the northern section of Custer State Park. Located near the intersection of Highway 16A and Playhouse Rd, you’ll have easy access to the Center Lake area from here. This is a quiet campground set in a beautiful location.
Amenities at Spokane Creek include an outdoor pool, basketball court, mini-golf, and a small coffee shop.
Custer / Mount Rushmore / Black Hills KOA
Number of sites: Plenty!
Fee: $50 – $125/night
Capacity: None stated.
RVs: Yes, full hookups available.
Reservations: Recommended. Click here to reserve.
Pets: Allowed
Located west of Custer State Park and the town of Custer, SD, the Custer/Mount Rushmore/Black Hills KOA is well situated to visit the surrounding area. While certainly more expensive than some of your other options, this KOA has great amenities. These include a dog park, WiFi, playground, and an on-site store selling camping essentials.
Car camping sites near Custer State Park
If you’re looking for car camping sites near Custer State Park, you’ll have several excellent options.
In addition to the options listed below, most of the campgrounds included in the RV section above welcome car campers. Keep reading below to see what your best bets are for car camping near Custer State Park.
Number of sites: 23 campsites
Fee: $20/night + $7/night for extra vehicles
RVs: Yes, no hookups available.
Reservations: Recommended. Visit Recreation.gov to reserve
Pets: Allowed
The Bismark Lake Campground is about as convenient as it gets for car camping near Custer State Park. Located just across the highway from Stockade Lake, you’ll be just minutes from the state park. There are 23 campsites at Bismark Lake along with restrooms, a picnic area, and potable water. Note that drinking water is generally only available during the summer months.
Reservations are accepted and recommended for camping at Bismark Lake and can be made through Recreation.gov here.
Number of sites: 26 campsites
Fee: $20/night
RVs: Yes, no hookups available.
Reservations: Recommended. Visit Recreation.gov to reserve
Pets: Allowed
The Oreville Campground is located northwest of Custer State Park and makes a great place to camp before exploring Sylvan Lake. The campground has 26 campsites organized in two loops. You’ll find two sets of bathrooms along with potable water here.
Advance reservations for the Oreville Campground can be made via Recreation.gov.
Grizzly Creek Primitive Campground
Number of sites: 20 campsites
Fee: $20/night + $7/night for extra vehicles
RVs: Not recommended.
Reservations: Recommended. Visit Recreation.gov to reserve
Pets: Allowed
Located between Mt. Rushmore and Custer State Park, the Grizzly Creek Primitive Campground is a great option for car camping. Grizzly Creek is a primitive site and isn’t recommended for those traveling in an RV. The campground is laid out in a large loop with restrooms on each end. Water is also available at the campground, but only during peak camping season.
Some of the campsites at Grizzly Creek are reservable in advance via Recreation.gov.
Number of sites: 34 campsites
Fee: $16/night + $7/night for extra vehicles
RVs: Yes, but no hookups available.
Reservations: Recommended. Visit Recreation.gov to reserve
Pets: Allowed
The Comanche Park Campground is located west of Custer, SD along Highway 16. This is a larger campground with 34 sites and can accommodate both tent campers and smaller RVs. You’ll be close to Jewel Cave National Monument and away from some of the hustle and bustle in the Mt. Rushmore area.
Reservations are available via Recreation.gov.
Wind Cave National Park – Elk Mountain Campground
Number of sites: 62 campsites
Fee: $16/night + $7/night for extra vehicles
RVs: Yes, but no hookups available.
Reservations: First-come, first-served.
Pets: Allowed
Your final option for car camping near Custer State Park is to stay at the Elk Mountain Campground in the adjacent Wind Cave National Park. The campground has 62 campsites, all of which are available on a first-come, first-served basis. This is a great option as it allows you to explore both Custer State Park and Wind Cave National Park from one convenient location.
Free dispersed camping near Custer State Park
Your final option for camping near Custer State Park is to find a free, dispersed campsite on adjacent US Forest Service land in the Black Hills National Forest. Located to the west of Custer State Park, this land is overseen by the USFS which manages hundreds of thousands of acres of public land throughout the country and generally allows for free ‘dispersed camping’ on it.
If you have any questions about the dispersed camping options outlined below be sure to reach out to the USFS offices that oversee the specific areas, shown below:
- Hell Canyon Ranger District : (605) 673-9200
Black Hills National Forest Dispersed Camping
Free, dispersed camping is permitted in the Black Hills National Forest near Custer State Park. The best sites are generally located to the north and west of the park. You’ll find hundreds of thousands of acres of National Forest here and plenty of camping possibilities.
Check out some of your best bets below:
- Spring Creek: Located northwest of Custer State Park, just off Highway 16.
- Wrinkled Rock: North of Custer State Park, near Mt. Rushmore.
- Keyrapmore: This area is located north of Custer, just off Highway 16.
Custer State Park Camping Must Know
The following sections contain all the basic information you need to ensure you have a great time camping in Custer State Park. Before we dive in, there are a few important regulations to note:
- Park entrance fees are available for daily, weekly, or annual rates. Check out the current fees here.
- Only camp in designated sites, with the exception of the French Creek Natural Area.
- Always store your food in your car or in an animal proof container.
- Always practice Leave No Trace principles.
Where to get supplies
Custer State Park is surrounded by a plethora of outdoor attractions including the Black Hills, Mount Rushmore, and Wind Cave National Park. This makes the area a popular road trip destination which is well served by small towns. You’ll find plenty of options to stock up on camping supplies around Custer State Park, with your best bets outlined below:
- Custer, SD: The town of Custer, SD is the main stopping off point for most visitors to Custer State Park. Located just west of the park along Highway 16A, you’ll find everything you need to prepare for your camping trip here. This includes gas stations, grocery stores, and several excellent outdoor shops.
- Keystone, SD: Keystone is the best place to stock up on supplies for those heading to Custer State Park from the north. Located between the park and Mt. Rushmore, Keystone has all the essentials you may need prior to spending a few nights in your tent.
- Rapid City, SD: The largest city in the vicinity of Custer State Park is Rapid City, SD. The gateway to the Black Hills, Badlands National Park, and Custer State Park, Rapid City has any major service you could need.
Have a great trip!
That’s it!
We hope you’ve found all of the information on Custer State Park camping in this post helpful and we know you’ll find the perfect campsite for your upcoming adventure! Be sure to let us know in the comments below if you have any questions or had a great time out camping!
