Last Updated on July 9, 2022 by Cristina
Unlike places like Colorado and California, South Dakota is very underrated. It hasn’t gotten the recognition it deserves from the natural beauty and gems it possesses. Take a trip in your RV in South Dakota to some beautiful locations for camping. There are campgrounds near Mount Rushmore along with some attractions and memorials.
There are lots of places to visit while in South Dakota and Mouth Rushmore sits at its peak. It is located between the Black Hills National Forest that offers a scenic drive, and great hiking through the forest. The Mount Rushmore RV parks are more fun and exciting than you think.
Check out our picks on the best park near Mount Rushmore.
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Best RV Parks And Campgrounds Near Mount Rushmore
Buffalo Ridge Camp Resort
This is located just on the outskirts of the amenity-filled city of Custer. The resort is set to provide a comfortable camping option in the Black Hills. 125 campsites spread across the 30 acres of land in Buffalo Ridge. The camp resort is just 30 minutes away from Mount Rushmore.
In Buffalo Ridge, the campsites are split between non-electric tent sites and hookups. This includes a few hand-painted teepees that are capable of accommodating 7 people. The campground comes with a complete modern shower facility and laundry services as well. Visitors will also find a basketball court, a playground, and a mini-golf course in the resort.
Mount Rushmore KOA Palmer Gulch Resort
KOA is only some drive away from Mount Rushmore. The resort brings comfort and convenience. It gives you a camp vibe and a dose of vacation feeling. There are hundreds of campsites in the resort and they range from deluxe camper cabins to non-electric tents. The Mount Rushmore KOA has a complete camp kitchen, modern restrooms, and laundry facilities.
While in camp you can go biking and enjoy quality music with the bicycle rentals, and live music. There is also a wide variety of dining options which includes the Chuck-Wagon Dinner Show. Mount Rushmore KOA offers adventure as it is surrounded by luscious Black Hills scenery. There is a memorial that is a 12-minute drive from KOA, the Crazy Horse Memorial, and Cluster State Park. All these attractions are within the area. You can lodge at the Mount Rushmore lodge that features an impressive 2-story fireplace and spacious suites.
Horsethief Lake Campground
Horsethief is less than 2 miles away from Mount Rushmore. It is operated by the US Forest Services, is settled among postcard-worthy Black Hills scenery. There are 36 non-electric sites in Horsethief, and visitors can go for an afternoon swim in the lake. You can take a walk around the immediate area to George S. Mickelson Trail, or hike at Black Elk Peak – the state’s highest point.
The Horsethief lake is known as the closest to Mount Rushmore. It is ideal for summer visits, and reservation is the only guarantee to getting a spot. The sites at Horsethief can be reserved 6 months in advance. Horsethief can accommodate tents, RVs, and trailers. All the campsites have access to potable water and vault toilets. Alongside Horsethief lake is the Horsethief campground & resort which is just around the area. Do not confuse both.
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Plenty Star Ranch – Best RV Parks Near Mount Rushmore
Camping near Mount Rushmore is a whole different experience. The Plenty Star Ranch is convenient to Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park, Thunder. Basin National Grassland, and Wind Cave National Park. Your host at Plenty Star Ranch is Jack and Isa Kirk, and they have opened up the land surrounding their private home in the Black Hills. It is open to RV guests looking for tent campers, and full hookups. The log cabin is quite comfy and people can get cozy all day long.
There are several amenities in the ranch. This includes an outdoor shower that is compatible with your RV solar, clean drinking water, and a flush toilet. You also get breakfast with morning coffee and tea on the Kirks’ front porch. Take a hike through the middle of Black Hills National Forest while on the ranch.
Elk Mountain Campground, Wind Cave National Park
It is located in Southern Black Hills and it is one the longest and complex caves in the country. The underground labyrinth can best be enjoyed and explored if you stay for a long period. Elk Mountain is situated on top of the rolling prairie environment and comprises 25 non-electric campsites. Potable water and vault toilets are shared by all campsites at Elk Mountain during summer.
The campground remains very calm and quiet than other spots that surround the Black Hills. This makes it popular for those who like to lose themselves in more natural scenery. The campground also gives immediate access to daily guided tours of Wind Cave which is offered by the National Park Service.
Blue Bell Campground, Custer State Park
If you’re given one night to spend in Custer State Park, Blue Bell is your best bet. Although there are different campgrounds to choose from, Blue Bell gives you a chance at escaping into nature. It is located on the southwest side and is a 1-hour’s drive from Mount Rushmore. There are 31 campsites on the campground including potable water, large trailer capabilities, and flush toilets.
The Blue Bell Campground gives access to French Creek Natural Area where hiking takes place. It also gives access to the 18-Mile Wildlife Loop Road where there are a good number of automobiles. Alongside the wildlife and nature, the campground is a walking distance from Blue Bell Lodge.
Conclusion On Best RV Parks Near Mount Rushmore
Mount Rushmore is one of the attractive places in the United States. It has accommodation for campers and rentals for RV campers. Whether you want to have a regular time or a luxurious time, the area provides you with your camping preference.
Take your family and loved ones out for some fun and enjoy family fun activities that help with bonding. There are good amenities present for you so make your choice.
We are at the end of our article and we hope that you learned a lot. Will this piece help you when you plan your vacation? Are you ready to visit Mount Rushmore and enjoy camping? If you enjoyed this article, please share your thoughts with us and send them to your friends.
