Where to Stay in Black Hills National Forest: Camping, Cabins, and More

Find your perfect Black Hills National Forest overnight stay, from family-friendly campgrounds and rustic cabins to RV sites with stunning lake views and accessibility features.

Your Home Among the Pines

Spending the night in Black Hills National Forest transforms your visit from a day trip into an immersive natural experience. As darkness falls and the day visitors depart, the forest reveals a different character—stars emerge in remarkable clarity above the pine canopy, the calls of owls and nighthawks replace daytime birdsong, and the scent of pine intensifies in the cool evening air. Waking up surrounded by the beauty of the Black Hills allows for early morning wildlife viewing and the chance to see iconic locations in the soft light of dawn before crowds arrive.

The forest offers a remarkable diversity of overnight options to suit every preference, from developed campgrounds with modern amenities to rustic cabins that connect visitors with the area’s history. Whether you’re traveling with a young family needing convenient facilities, seeking a romantic getaway in a historic cabin, or planning a rugged backcountry adventure, you’ll find accommodations that enhance your Black Hills experience.

This guide will help you navigate the many choices for overnight stays within and near Black Hills National Forest, providing the information you need to select the perfect base camp for your adventures. We’ll cover campground amenities, reservation systems, accessibility features, and insider tips to help you find those special spots that match your vision of the ideal forest getaway.

Developed Campgrounds

Black Hills National Forest maintains over 30 developed campgrounds scattered throughout its 1.2 million acres, offering visitors a wide range of settings and amenity levels. These established campgrounds provide the perfect balance between outdoor immersion and basic comforts, with designated sites, drinking water, and toilet facilities.

Lakeside Camping

Some of the most popular campgrounds in the forest are those situated alongside the clear mountain lakes and reservoirs. These locations combine the peaceful ambiance of forest camping with opportunities for water recreation just steps from your tent or RV.

Sheridan Lake Campground offers two separate camping areas (North Shore and South Shore) with a total of 129 sites surrounding this scenic 385-acre reservoir. The campground features modern amenities including flush toilets, showers, drinking water, and a dump station. Many sites have electric hookups, making this a good option for RV campers. The adjacent day-use area includes a swimming beach, boat ramp, and picnic facilities. Sheridan Lake is particularly popular with families due to its amenities and relatively warm water for swimming.

Pactola Reservoir Campground provides 84 sites near the shores of the largest lake in the Black Hills. The campground is divided into Rapid Creek and Mountain View loops, with the latter offering some sites with electric hookups. Facilities include vault toilets, drinking water, and access to boat ramps and fishing areas. The deep, clear waters of Pactola are popular for boating and fishing for lake trout and northern pike. The nearby Pactola Visitor Center (temporarily closed until 2026) offers interpretive displays about the area’s natural and cultural history.

Deerfield Lake Campground offers a more peaceful alternative to the larger reservoir campgrounds. Located on a 414-acre lake with a 5 mph speed limit, this area provides a tranquil setting perfect for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. The campground features 22 sites with vault toilets and drinking water but no hookups. The surrounding area is known for excellent wildlife viewing opportunities and spectacular stargazing due to its distance from urban light pollution.

Forest Interior Camping

For those who prefer to be surrounded by trees rather than near water, several excellent campgrounds are nestled in the forest interior, offering a more secluded woodland experience.

Horsethief Lake Campground, despite its name, is a relatively small forest campground with 36 sites set among ponderosa pines near a small lake. Its proximity to Mount Rushmore National Memorial (just 2 miles away) makes it an excellent base for exploring both the national forest and the famous monument. The campground offers drinking water and vault toilets but no hookups.

Oreville Campground provides a more remote forest experience with 15 sites located in a historic mining area. This small, peaceful campground features vault toilets and drinking water. Its central location makes it convenient for exploring attractions throughout the Black Hills while still offering a sense of seclusion.

Iron Creek Campground offers 24 sites in a beautiful setting along a clear mountain stream. This campground is popular with horse enthusiasts due to its proximity to equestrian trails and the availability of stock facilities. Standard amenities include vault toilets and drinking water.

Reservation Information

Many of the forest’s most popular campgrounds accept reservations through Recreation.gov, which can be made up to six months in advance. Reservations are strongly recommended for summer weekends and holidays, as campgrounds often fill to capacity during these peak times. Some smaller campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-served basis year-round.

Camping fees vary by location and amenity level, ranging from approximately $18-26 per night for standard sites and slightly higher for sites with electrical hookups. Interagency passes such as the America the Beautiful Senior Pass provide a 50% discount on camping fees at most forest campgrounds.

Most developed campgrounds in Black Hills National Forest are open from mid-May through September, with a few remaining open into October weather permitting. A limited number of campgrounds, primarily in the southern hills, offer year-round camping for winter recreation enthusiasts.

Rustic and Backcountry Camping

For those seeking a more primitive camping experience with fewer amenities and more solitude, Black Hills National Forest offers excellent options for rustic and backcountry camping away from developed facilities.

Dispersed Camping

Dispersed camping is allowed throughout much of Black Hills National Forest, giving visitors the freedom to find their own perfect spot away from designated campgrounds. This type of camping offers maximum flexibility and privacy but comes with greater responsibility for minimizing environmental impact.

When choosing a dispersed camping location, visitors should follow these guidelines:

Camp at least 100 feet from any water source to protect water quality
Use existing sites that show evidence of previous use to minimize impact
Position your camp at least 1/4 mile from developed recreation areas and trailheads
Stay at least 100 feet from any road
Leave no trace by packing out all trash and waste

Popular areas for dispersed camping include the Limestone Plateau region in the western hills, areas along Rochford Road in the central hills, and forest roads in the Nemo area. The free Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM) available at forest offices is essential for dispersed camping, as it shows which roads are open for motorized access and where camping is permitted.

Backcountry Camping

For those willing to hike in with their gear, backcountry camping offers the most immersive forest experience. The Black Elk Wilderness, a 13,426-acre designated wilderness area within the forest, provides outstanding opportunities for backcountry camping. No motorized or mechanized equipment is allowed in the wilderness area, ensuring a truly primitive experience.

When backcountry camping in the Black Elk Wilderness:

Group size is limited to 25 people
Campfires are permitted but should be kept small and completely extinguished
All food should be properly stored to prevent wildlife encounters
Practice Leave No Trace principles, including packing out all waste

The Centennial Trail, which runs 111 miles through the Black Hills, offers numerous backcountry camping opportunities along its route. Trail sections 3-6 pass through particularly scenic areas with good camping potential. Water sources can be limited, so backcountry campers should carry adequate water or be prepared to treat water from streams.

Regulations and Permits

No special permits are required for dispersed or backcountry camping in most areas of Black Hills National Forest. However, campers should be aware of current fire restrictions, which can change based on weather conditions and fire danger levels. During periods of high fire danger, campfires may be prohibited even in established fire rings.

The maximum stay limit for camping in one location is 14 consecutive days. After 14 days, campers must move at least 5 miles from their previous site. The total stay limit within the forest is 28 days within any 60-day period.

While permits aren’t required, it’s always a good practice to let someone know your planned camping location and expected return date when venturing into more remote areas of the forest.

Cabin Rentals

For a unique overnight experience that connects visitors with the forest’s history while providing more shelter than tent camping, Black Hills National Forest offers several historic cabins available for public rental. These structures, many dating back to the early days of forest management, have been carefully preserved and updated with basic amenities to provide comfortable accommodations in spectacular settings.

Forest Service Cabins

Nemo Guard Station, built in 1930, served as housing for forest guards patrolling the northern hills. Today, this rustic two-bedroom cabin offers a cozy retreat near Nemo. The cabin features electricity, a refrigerator, propane heat and stove, and basic furnishings. Outside, a picnic table, fire ring, and vault toilet complete the facilities. The cabin’s location provides easy access to the Centennial Trail and nearby fishing streams.

Roubaix Lake Cabin sits near the shores of Roubaix Lake in the northern Black Hills. This former Forest Service work center has been converted into a comfortable rental with two bedrooms accommodating up to six people. The cabin includes electricity, a full kitchen with refrigerator and stove, and a bathroom with shower. Its location adjacent to Roubaix Lake Campground provides access to swimming and fishing opportunities.

Summit Ridge Cabin offers a more remote experience in the central hills. This historic ranger station features two bedrooms, a full kitchen, and a living area with wood stove. While more isolated than other rentals, the cabin’s ridgetop location provides spectacular views and excellent access to hiking and mountain biking trails.

Reservation Process

Forest Service cabins can be reserved through Recreation.gov up to six months in advance. These popular rentals often book quickly, especially for summer weekends and holidays, so planning ahead is essential. Rental fees range from approximately $50-100 per night depending on the cabin and its amenities.

Most cabins are available year-round, though winter access may require additional planning as roads to some cabins are not plowed. Four-wheel drive or high-clearance vehicles may be necessary to reach certain cabins, particularly in adverse weather conditions.

What to Expect and Bring

While Forest Service cabins provide more shelter and amenities than camping, they are still rustic accommodations. Visitors should bring:

Bedding (pillows, sleeping bags or sheets and blankets)
Towels and personal toiletries
Cooking utensils, dishes, and food storage containers
Garbage bags (all trash must be packed out)
Drinking water or water purification method (some cabins do not have potable water)
Flashlights or lanterns
First aid kit

Cabins are cleaned and maintained between guests, but renters are expected to leave the cabin in the same condition they found it, including sweeping floors, washing dishes, and properly disposing of all trash.

These historic structures offer a glimpse into the lives of early forest rangers while providing a comfortable base for exploring the surrounding area. Their unique character and settings make them a special alternative to standard camping or commercial accommodations.

RV and Trailer Camping

Black Hills National Forest welcomes RV and trailer campers with numerous suitable campgrounds throughout the forest. The region’s good road network and relatively moderate terrain make it accessible for most recreational vehicles, though some planning is necessary to ensure a smooth experience.

Suitable Campgrounds

Several forest campgrounds are particularly well-suited for RVs and trailers:

Sheridan Lake Campground offers the most extensive facilities for RV camping, with 48 sites featuring electrical hookups in the South Shore area. The campground includes a dump station, drinking water, flush toilets, and showers. Most sites can accommodate vehicles up to 40 feet in length, with some suitable for larger rigs.

Pactola Reservoir Campground provides 22 sites with electrical hookups in the Mountain View loop. While there is no dump station at the campground itself, one is available at nearby Sheridan Lake. The campground can accommodate most medium-sized RVs and trailers, with some sites suitable for larger vehicles.

Comanche Park Campground near Custer offers 15 sites suitable for RVs and trailers up to 35 feet. While the campground does not have hookups, it provides a more central location for exploring attractions in the southern hills.

Whitetail Campground in the northern hills features sites that can accommodate RVs and trailers in a less crowded setting. Basic amenities include vault toilets and drinking water.

Hookup Availability

Full hookups (water, electric, and sewer) are not available at any Black Hills National Forest campgrounds. Electric hookups are available at select sites in Sheridan Lake and Pactola Reservoir campgrounds. Water fill stations are available at most developed campgrounds, but direct water hookups at individual sites are not provided.

Dump stations are located at Sheridan Lake Campground and at some private campgrounds adjacent to the forest. RV campers planning extended stays should be prepared to use these facilities or travel to nearby towns for full-service dump stations.

Size Restrictions

Site lengths vary considerably throughout the forest’s campgrounds. While some campgrounds can accommodate larger RVs and trailers (up to 40-50 feet at select sites), many forest roads and campgrounds were not designed with today’s largest recreational vehicles in mind.

When making reservations through Recreation.gov, specific site dimensions are listed to help campers choose appropriate locations for their vehicles. For first-come, first-served campgrounds, arriving early in the day provides the best opportunity to secure suitable sites for larger rigs.

Some forest roads leading to campgrounds have tight turns or steep grades that may be challenging for larger vehicles. The Forest Service recommends that visitors with RVs over 35 feet contact the appropriate district office for specific advice before planning trips to more remote campgrounds.

Accessibility Information

Black Hills National Forest is committed to providing accessible recreation opportunities for visitors of all abilities. Several campgrounds and cabins feature accessible facilities designed to accommodate visitors with mobility challenges.

ADA-Compliant Facilities

The following campgrounds include accessible sites and facilities:

Sheridan Lake Campground features multiple accessible campsites with paved parking pads, accessible picnic tables, and proximity to accessible restrooms and showers. The adjacent day-use area includes an accessible fishing dock and picnic facilities.

Pactola Reservoir Campground offers accessible sites in the Mountain View loop, with paved surfaces, accessible tables, and nearby accessible vault toilets. The adjacent Pactola Marina provides accessible fishing opportunities.

Horsethief Lake Campground includes several accessible sites with paved surfaces and accessible vault toilets nearby. A short accessible trail leads to viewpoints of the lake.

Roubaix Lake Campground features accessible sites and an accessible path to the swimming beach area.

Accessible Cabins

The Roubaix Lake Cabin has been retrofitted with accessibility features, including a ramp entrance, wider doorways, and an accessible bathroom with roll-in shower. This makes it an excellent option for visitors with mobility challenges who prefer cabin accommodations over camping.

Special Accommodations

Visitors with disabilities who require special accommodations beyond what is standardly available can contact the forest’s district offices for assistance. In many cases, reasonable accommodations can be made with advance notice.

The Black Hills National Forest website provides detailed accessibility information for each recreation site, including specific measurements and features of accessible facilities. This information helps visitors with disabilities plan appropriate trips based on their specific needs.

For visitors with service animals, all areas of the forest that are open to the public are also open to service animals. Service animals should be kept under control at all times and, like all visitors, should practice Leave No Trace principles.

Nearby Lodging Options

While staying within Black Hills National Forest offers the most immersive natural experience, numerous lodging options in surrounding communities provide additional choices for visitors who prefer more amenities or need accommodations when forest facilities are full.

Towns with Accommodations

Rapid City, located at the eastern edge of the Black Hills, serves as the region’s largest city and offers the widest range of accommodations, from budget motels to luxury hotels. Staying in Rapid City provides easy access to the eastern portions of the forest while offering urban amenities like restaurants, shopping, and cultural attractions.

Custer, situated in the central hills, provides a smaller-town atmosphere with numerous motels, cabins, and bed-and-breakfasts. Its central location makes it an excellent base for exploring both the forest and nearby attractions like Custer State Park, Mount Rushmore, and Wind Cave National Park.

Hill City, nestled in the heart of the Black Hills, offers charming accommodations in a historic railroad town setting. The town’s location along the George S. Mickelson Trail makes it particularly convenient for cyclists exploring the forest.

Spearfish, at the northern entrance to the Black Hills, provides a range of lodging options with easy access to Spearfish Canyon and the northern portions of the forest. The town’s college atmosphere brings additional dining and cultural opportunities.

Lead and Deadwood, historic mining towns in the northern hills, offer unique accommodations in restored historic buildings, along with gaming entertainment in Deadwood’s casinos.

Private Campgrounds

Numerous private campgrounds and RV parks surround Black Hills National Forest, often providing amenities not available in forest campgrounds. These facilities typically offer full hookups for RVs, laundry facilities, Wi-Fi, swimming pools, and other conveniences. Popular areas for private campgrounds include:

The Highway 16 corridor between Rapid City and Mount Rushmore
The outskirts of Custer and Hill City
Areas near Deadwood and Lead
The Highway 385 corridor through the central hills

Private campgrounds often provide shuttle services to nearby attractions and may offer organized activities for families. While typically more expensive than forest campgrounds, they can be good options during peak periods when forest facilities are full or for those requiring specific amenities.

Alternative Options

For unique overnight experiences near the forest, consider these alternatives:

Custer State Park, adjacent to the national forest, offers exceptional lodging options including the historic State Game Lodge, Sylvan Lake Lodge, and Blue Bell Lodge. The park’s campgrounds provide another option when forest campgrounds are full.

Vacation rentals in communities surrounding the forest have become increasingly popular, offering private homes and cabins for families or groups. These rentals often provide full kitchens, multiple bedrooms, and amenities like hot tubs or decks with forest views.

Dude ranches in the Black Hills region offer all-inclusive experiences with lodging, meals, and activities like horseback riding. These can be excellent options for families wanting a structured vacation experience with a western flavor.

Bed and breakfasts in historic homes throughout the Black Hills provide personalized service and local knowledge that can enhance a forest visit. Many are located in scenic settings on the forest boundary, offering easy access to trails and attractions.

Insider Tips

After exploring the many overnight options in and around Black Hills National Forest, consider these insider tips from experienced visitors and local experts to enhance your stay:

Hidden Gem Campsites

While the major campgrounds like Sheridan Lake and Pactola receive the most visitors, several smaller campgrounds offer exceptional experiences with fewer crowds:

Dutchman Campground near Deerfield Lake provides a peaceful setting with just 7 sites, making it perfect for those seeking solitude. Its higher elevation (6,000 feet) means cooler temperatures in summer and excellent stargazing opportunities.

Boxelder Forks Campground in the northern hills offers sites along a clear mountain stream in a less-visited area of the forest. The small size (10 sites) and more remote location mean it rarely fills, even on summer weekends.

Wrinkled Rock Campground near Custer provides a central location with easy access to southern hills attractions but sees fewer visitors than larger facilities. Its proximity to climbing areas makes it popular with rock climbers.

Best Sites for Families

Families with children should consider these campground recommendations:

Sheridan Lake South Shore Campground offers the best overall family experience with its swimming beach, playground, flush toilets, and showers. Sites in the 40-55 range provide the best combination of shade and proximity to facilities.

Horsethief Lake Campground works well for families due to its small lake suitable for fishing and paddling, plus its proximity to Mount Rushmore. Sites 1-10 are closest to the lake and most popular with families.

Roubaix Lake Campground features a swimming beach with gradual entry, making it ideal for families with younger children. The campground also offers relatively level sites good for family games and activities.

Quietest Locations

For those prioritizing peace and quiet:

Deerfield Lake area campgrounds (Deerfield, Dutchman, and Yellow Creek) benefit from the lake’s 5 mph speed limit, which eliminates noise from motorboats and personal watercraft. The area’s distance from major highways also reduces traffic noise.

Dispersed camping areas along Forest Road 189 in the western hills offer exceptional quiet due to their distance from popular tourist routes. These sites require high-clearance vehicles to access but reward visitors with pristine forest settings and minimal neighbor noise.

Medicine Mountain Scout Ranch offers public camping (when not in use by Scout groups) in a remarkably peaceful setting near the sacred site of Bear Butte. The extensive property provides well-spaced sites and a sense of seclusion despite having amenities like showers and a small store.

Practical Advice

Reservations for popular campgrounds should be made 3-6 months in advance for summer visits, especially for weekends and holidays.
For first-come, first-served campgrounds, arriving mid-week or before noon on Thursdays offers the best chance of securing a site during summer.
Weather in the Black Hills can change rapidly. Even in summer, nights can be cool at higher elevations, so pack appropriate clothing and bedding.
Wildlife encounters are possible at all forest campgrounds. Store food securely and maintain clean campsites to avoid attracting bears, raccoons, or other animals.
Cell service is limited or non-existent in many parts of the forest. Download maps and information before your trip, and consider bringing a portable power bank for charging devices.
Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer months. When setting up camp, look for sites away from dead trees (potential lightning strikes) and not in low areas that could collect runoff.
Campfire restrictions may be in place during dry periods. Check current fire danger levels and pack a camp stove as an alternative cooking method.

By considering these insider tips alongside the comprehensive information provided throughout this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to find the perfect overnight option for your Black Hills National Forest adventure—whether that’s a family-friendly campground, a historic cabin, or a secluded backcountry site under the stars.

Explore More About Black Hills National Forest

Ready to continue your exploration of Black Hills National Forest? Our detailed guides cover everything from historical context to practical advice for your visit:

Reserve Your Perfect Campsite

Secure your spot at popular Black Hills National Forest campgrounds and cabins up to six months in advance.

Book on Recreation.gov