Elk Mountain Campground

Nestled along the edge of Ponderosa Pine forests and expansive open prairie, Elk Mountain Campground in Wind Cave National Park offers a serene escape into nature with stunning views of the southern Black Hills. This campground consists of 63 campsites, accommodating both tent campers and RVs, providing a unique opportunity to experience the great outdoors in diverse settings.

Available Campsites

Tent Only Sites: 1 through 9, Loop A
RV Sites: 15 through 61 in Loop B, C, D
Accessible Sites: 17 (Loop B) and 49 (Loop D)
Group Campsites: Two group sites available for reservations

Camp, RV, and Explore Outdoors

Whether you are looking for a traditional tent camping experience or a spot for your RV, Elk Mountain Campground has options to suit your needs. The campground is open year-round, with reservations accepted from May through September 30th. Visitors can reserve their sites up to 6 months in advance via Recreation.gov.

Natural Features

Visitors at Elk Mountain Campground can embrace the beauty of rolling prairie vistas, explore lush forests, and observe wildlife in their natural habitats. The park features over 30 miles of hiking trails, perfect for adventurers looking to enjoy the picturesque scenery of the Black Hills.

Pets and Family Activities

For those traveling with pets, Wind Cave National Park offers two dog-friendly trails: the Prairie Vista Trail and the Elk Mountain Trail—each approximately 1 mile long. Additionally, kids can become a Wind Cave Junior Ranger by completing activities and learning about the park.

Need to Know

Maximum Capacity: Each site allows for 2 tents, 8 people, and 1 vehicle. Group sites accommodate 9 to 30 people.
Quiet Hours: 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m., with generator usage permitted only from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Water Facilities: Flush toilets and drinking water are available from late spring to early fall. Fees are half of the regular rate when water is unavailable.
Fires: Open fires are prohibited unless in designated fire grates. Always ensure fires are completely extinguished before leaving.
Payment: This is a cashless campground; reservations must be made through credit card only.

Driving Directions

Accessing Elk Mountain Campground is easy. From Hot Springs, SD, take US Highway 385 north approximately 6 miles into Wind Cave National Park. Follow signs to the visitor center for additional information and amenities.

Recreation Opportunities

Visitors at Elk Mountain can partake in numerous recreational activities such as hiking, wildlife viewing, and ranger-led programs in the summer. The visitor center offers information on available cave tours and other attractions in the park. Don’t miss the chance to see the unique natural entrance to Wind Cave, a significant site in the area.

Reservations and Fees

Reservations at Elk Mountain Campground are available through Recreation.gov with a maximum stay limit of 14 consecutive nights. During peak season, all sites are open for reservations, while the off-season limits availability for certain sites. Kindly ensure to reserve your place before arriving, as on-site bookings require prior payment.

Elk Mountain Campground is more than just a place to camp; it’s a gateway to adventure, learning, and appreciating the profoundly beautiful landscapes of Wind Cave National Park.

Elk Mountain Campground — Wind Cave National Park