From the height of summer to the depth of winter, travelers can go camping in South Dakota. While camping is an option in all four seasons, it's more popular in the summer. Providing a quiet retreat at a reasonable price, camping is a fine way to spend a vacation without worrying about the bottom line. In every corner of the state and plenty of sites in between, campgrounds in South Dakota provide a place for visitors to relax and enjoy the outdoors.

More than 50 sites in the state park system offer camping in South Dakota. Several of these locations are located around Pierre, the state capital. While travelers experience the city's history, scenic views of the Missouri River, and a downtown full of shops and restaurants, they can base their vacation at one of these campgrounds in South Dakota. Farm Island Recreation Area, Oahe Downstream Recreation Area, the Cow Creek Recreation Area, and the Chantier Creek Resort all offer campsites in and around Pierre.

The Black Hills region in another popular place for South Dakota camping. The Black Hills National Forest preserves acres of interesting landscape in Western South Dakota. Its 30 campgrounds offer nearly 700 campsites, and several of these South Dakota campsites have electric and water hookups. Dispersed camping is also allowed, meaning campers can pitch their tents and unfurl their sleeping bags away from the designated sites. Equestrian camping is available at Sundance, Iron Creek, and Willow Creek.

South Dakota Map

A number of state parks in the region have campsites, with the largest number available at Custer State Park. With 70,000 acres, this state park is bustling with activities, such as wildlife watching, hiking, fine dining, and tours of the log cabin once home to the state's first poet laureate. With sites along Sylvan Lake in view of the granite rock formations and other secluded sites, the state park offers hundreds of campsites for groups and individuals.

For those who want do South Dakota camping combined with visits to the major attractions, there are many choices. In addition to the state parks, there is an array of independent campgrounds, lodges, and cabins in close proximity to attractions big and small. Mount Rushmore is among the most popular places in the state. The Mount Rushmore/Hill City KOA campground even offers shuttles that take campers to the presidential monument as well as to the Crazy Horse Memorial.

This and other KOA campgrounds in South Dakota provide visitors with a wide range of amenities, including swimming pools, wireless internet access, and scavenger hunts. These locations for South Dakota camping suit all types of excursions, including tent camping, RV hookups, lodges, and cabins. With locations near some of the most-visited cities, including Custer, Deadwood, Rapid City, Spearfish, and Sioux Falls, vacationers can take part in activities without too much driving around.

For those who thrive in colder temperatures, winter camping in South Dakota is an option. Some of the state parks and independent campgrounds provide this unique activity. It's especially popular for those enjoying ice fishing, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing. And for those concerned about the elements, heated cabins and lodges are a good alternative.