Search a hike or location

search
Best camping hikes in South Dakota
Share:

Best camping hikes in South Dakota

Ready for some outdoor fun? These hikes offer everything you could want for an unforgettable adventure!

Here are some great hikes to explore in South Dakota.

Most popular hikes

1

Medium

Centennial Trail - South Dakota

Meade County, South Dakota · star 4.6 (32) · 194.8 km · Est. 11 days

2

Difficult

Lost Cabin Loop

Pennington County, South Dakota · star 4.5 (55) · 25.0 km · Est. 2 days

3

Medium

Black Elk Peak and Elkhorn Mountain Loop

Pennington County, South Dakota · star 4.5 (177) · 21.3 km · Est. 1 day 0 hrs

4

Easy

Split Rock Creek

Minnehaha County, South Dakota · star 4.5 (186) · 700 m · Est. 9 min

5

Easy

Little Spearfish Loop

Lawrence County, South Dakota · star 4.5 (176) · 10.2 km · Est. 2 hrs 27 min

6

Easy

Conata Basin Road Loop - West

Pennington County, South Dakota · star 4.5 (150) · 32.2 km · Est. 1 day 2 hrs

7

Medium

Sylvan Lake Loop Trail

Custer County, South Dakota · star 4.5 (181) · 1.8 km · Est. 23 min

8

Easy

Pelican Lake Recreation Area Loop

Codington County, South Dakota · star 4.5 (112) · 2.7 km · Est. 34 min

9

Easy

Glen Erin Creek and Hazelroad dt Cutoff Loop

Custer County, South Dakota · star 4.4 (115) · 12.1 km · Est. 2 hrs 53 min

10

Easy

Willow Creek Loop Trail

Pennington County, South Dakota · star 4.5 (189) · 4.0 km · Est. 59 min

SHOW MORE HIKES

Reviews for camping hikes in South Dakota

Carmen OMO Williams avatar

Centennial Trail - South Dakota

Carmen OMO Williams 路 reviewed over 4 years ago

star star star star star

Great trail, but July 2021 has been a drought...water is scarce. So, prepare ahead...water drops are advisable, especially in the southern part and extreme northern part as well. Fast hikers should experience less problems because of speed.

Darla McCrary avatar

Lost Cabin Loop

Darla McCrary 路 reviewed over 4 years ago

star star star star star

Louie Kessler avatar

Black Elk Peak and Elkhorn Mountain Loop

ThicketHavenranger59 路 reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Ms. Edgar Wuckert avatar

Split Rock Creek

PeakDreamer86 路 reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Theodora Nolan avatar

Little Spearfish Loop

HillTrekker48 路 reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hikes in South Dakota

What is the climate like for hiking in South Dakota?

South Dakota experiences cold, snowy winters, making summer and fall the ideal times for hiking. Summer offers lush green landscapes, but beware of heat and thunderstorms. Fall is cooler, with stunning autumn foliage.
Winter hikes are possible but require proper equipment and awareness of weather conditions. Springtime can be wet and muddy, but also brings beautiful wildflower blooms.
For current weather updates, check the National Weather Service.

Do I need a permit to hike in South Dakota?

In South Dakota, hiking in State Parks requires an entrance license, obtainable online or at park entrances. For backcountry trips in the Black Hills, contact the Black Hills National Forest for permits. Check the https://www.fs.usda.gov/main/blackhills/passes-permits for details.

Is wild camping allowed in South Dakota?

Wild camping in South Dakota's National Forests, like the Black Hills, is typically permitted; however, regulations can vary. Campers are encouraged to practice Leave No Trace principles. For specifics, refer to the Black Hills National Forest website.

Are there mountain rescue services in South Dakota?

For emergencies while hiking in South Dakota, dial 911. In some areas, Search and Rescue operations are overseen by the County Sheriff's Office. The Custer County Search and Rescue, for instance, assists in the Black Hills area. Be aware of your location for effective assistance. More info at Custer County SAR.

Are there dangerous plants in South Dakota?

South Dakota's flora changes from east to west, with deciduous forests giving way to grasslands and Black Hills' ponderosa pines. Hikers might see wildflowers like pasque or prairie crocus. Be cautious about poison ivy. More info is available at the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks website.

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in South Dakota?

outh Dakota's fauna includes white-tailed deer, pronghorns, and bison, especially in Custer State Park. Beware of rattlesnakes in the western part. Mosquitoes can be troublesome, so come prepared. Visit South Dakota's Game, Fish & Parks site for more information.

More hikes in South Dakota

by difficulty

by type

by activity