Overview
South Dakota is one of the most underrated states in the United States. Many travelers cross it on their way between Yellowstone and the National Parks in the West or Great Lakes in the East. However, those who stay longer discover an amazing variety: huge rock formations, deep canyons, endless prairies, cave systems, historic gold mining cities and some of the most famous monuments in the United States.
South Dakota is ideal especially for RV travellers. The distances between the highlights are manageable, the roads well developed and there are numerous campgrounds as well as excellent opportunities for boondocking in the National Forests and National Grasslands.
Another advantage: Compared to many national parks in the west, visitors are significantly lower – with the exception of Mount Rushmore. This makes it possible to experience many sights relaxed even during high season.
At a glance
Category | Information
Capital | Pierre
Largest city | Sioux Falls
Area | c. 199-700 km2
Ideal travel time | 5–8 days
Fifth-wheel access | Check your vehicle, specific campsite and approach road.
Landscape | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Family Friendly | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Black Hills
The heart of the state.
Here are:
Mount Rushmore
Custer State Park
Crazy Horse Memorial
Deadwood
Spearfish Canyon
Wind Cave National Park
Jewel Cave National Monument
Most visitors spend most of their time in this region.
Badlands National Park
A spectacular landscape of rugged rocks, canyons and prairies.
Especially known for:
Bighorn Sheep
Bisons
Prairie dogs
Sunrises
Starry sky
Missouri River Region
The Missouri River forms the central part of the state.
Ideal for:
Boating
Fishing
Camping
Eastern South Dakota
Wide fields, small farm towns and quiet lakes dominate here.
Highlights include:
Sioux Falls
Palisades State Park
If Park
Why South Dakota is especially suitable for RV travellers
South Dakota is one of the most camper-friendly states in the United States.
There are several reasons for this:
Well-developed highways
little dense traffic
numerous pull-through pitches
many state parks with spacious campsites
comparatively cheap camping fees
Good supply
RV tip
The Black Hills are an excellent base for several day trips. Instead of changing the campsite every day, it is worth a longer stay at a centrally located campground.
Best time to visit
Season | Recommendation
Spring | – pleasant temperatures, blooming prairies
Summer | – ideal travel time
Autumn | – fewer visitors and beautiful autumn colours
Winter | – many attractions restricted open
Insider tip
The second half of September is considered an ideal time to travel among many experienced campers. Summer holidays are over, the temperatures are pleasant and many sights much quieter than in July or August.
Typical route (6–7 days)
A tried and tested route leads clockwise through the main sights:
Badlands National Park
Wall
Rapid City
Mount Rushmore
Crazy Horse Memorial
Custer State Park
Needles Highway
Wind Cave National Park
Deadwood
Spearfish Canyon
Devils Tower (Wyoming) or continue towards North Dakota/Wyoming
This route avoids unnecessary driving routes and combines the most famous highlights with some less known nature experiences.
RV tip
Most of the Scenic Roads in the Black Hills are well-developed. However, individual routes – especially the Needles Highway – have narrow tunnels and rock crossings that are not suitable for large Fifth Wheels. Place your team on a campsite and explore these roads with the pickup truck.
Internet & Mobile
In Rapid City and the larger towns, the reception is excellent. However, there are areas with limited or no net coverage in the Black Hills as well as in Badlands National Park.
Refuelling
Gas stations are available regularly in South Dakota, but between some attractions in the Badlands and the Black Hills, distances can be greater. Keep the tank as close as possible to over half.
Animal monitoring
Custer State Park is one of the best places in the United States to observe free-living bisons, pronghorn antelopes, wild ash and thickhorn sheep at close range.
Our recommendation
Many travelers are planning only two or three days for South Dakota. From our point of view this is far too little. Between the bizarre rock landscapes of the Badlands, the wooded Black Hills and the historic western cities, the state offers enough highlights for a whole week.
Especially for campers, South Dakota convinces with short driving distances, excellent infrastructure and a relaxed atmosphere. It is one of those places that are often underestimated – and ultimately one of the most beautiful surprises of a North America trip.