Accessible via gravel roads about seven miles south of Wall, this dispersed camping area sits on the rim of the Badlands with expansive views across the grassland formations. The Forest Service manages multiple access routes into the camping zone, though PJ F. notes "the 1st road in is less rough but be aware that there are few steep grades & a few dips on gravel" while the alternate route "has many pot holes." Both routes accommodate RVs and trailers with careful driving.
Sites spread along the rim offer level ground for tents and RVs, with cleared areas of varying sizes to accommodate different camping setups. Campers can also set up in the open field area across from the rim sites. The elevated position creates consistent wind conditions that help with ventilation but require securing gear and awnings. Tyler C. found "the wind was absolutely insane" during his July visit, leading him to car camp instead of using a tent.
The grassland hosts cattle that graze throughout the area and occasionally wander through campsites. Antelope also move through the region, and reviewers report wildlife sightings are common. Cell towers visible in the area provide decent signal coverage for most carriers. Generator use is common and generally accepted given the remote location and lack of electrical hookups.
The camping area fills up during peak summer months and holiday weekends, with many visitors using it as an overnight stop while exploring the region. Sites closer to the rim tend to claim first, though the large area typically accommodates late arrivals. For additional overnight options in the area, Badlands Boondocks and Buffalo Gap National Grasslands provide similar dispersed camping experiences nearby. The location puts campers within ten minutes of Wall for supplies and close access to Badlands National Park's Pinnacles entrance.
Description
This area is divided into two areas located in southern South Dakota. One area is south and northeast of Hot Springs and the other is south and west of Wall. There are few developed recreation sites, but plenty of space for all kinds of recreational opportunities.
Location
Dispersed CampingBuffalo Gap National Grassland is located in South Dakota
Coordinates
43.92374144 N
102.27244318 W
Connectivity
T-MobileLTESome Coverage- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileLTESome Coverage
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Dispersed
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Pull-Through Sites
- Big Rig Friendly
DISPERSED CAMPING
Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Buffalo Gap National Grassland needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 1 hr 7 min from Rapid City, SD
- 4 hrs 27 min from Casper, WY
- 5 hrs 11 min from Cheyenne, WY
- 5 hrs 32 min from Bismarck, ND
