South Dakota’s Top Campgrounds Showcase Nature’s Best Spots

Here are a few of South Dakota's best campgrounds - and one with an award you'll never believe.

Newton Hills State Park is a popular destination for campers and outdoor enthusiasts.  It is often full, so booking early is recommended. Despite having a variety of trees, hiking trails, bike paths, and evening activities, this park, located near Canton, SD, has one distinct award no one saw coming: the 62nd Best Hidden Beach in America! It's not a coastal beach, but the sandy stretch of beach along Lake Lakota has impressed visitors for years. It's a favorite hangout for kayaks, canoes, and swimmers, all nestled in rolling plains created by glaciers many years ago.

Custer State Park: You can't make a list of the best campgrounds in the state without mentioning Custer State Park in the Black Hills. Boasting 71,000  acres containing 9 scenic campgrounds, it truly is one of the best in America.

Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park: Super family-friendly Jellystone Park north of Sioux Falls is a kids' paradise. Jump pillows, dances, camp amenities, and quiet at night are a preferred camp destination for families near and far. Having camped there several times when my kids were little, I was always impressed with the cleanliness and friendliness of the park staff!

Palisades State Park Campground: Scenic and impressive rock formations with ample hiking and stone cliffs make this one of the best in South Dakota. Located near Gerretson, it's always a treat to throw a tent or park a camper near Split Rock Creek and watch sunsets.

Badlands National Park: One of the most eerie but beautiful camping spots in the United States - hands down. One of our favorite things to do is backpack out for a night or two. Remember to pack water. This is really for experienced hikers and backpackers. It can be unforgiving! Oh, and make sure to hike the Fossil Trail.

Sylvan Lake Campground: One of the aforementioned parks within Custer State Park, it features wide open spaces yet a kazillion trees. If day hiking is your thing, hit Sylvan Lake Campground. It is one of our favorites for many reasons!

Also check out Horse Thief Campground, Big Sioux Recreation Area, Lake Vermillion Recreation Area, and Sage Creek for more adventures!