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Nearby Hill City, South Dakota (Air Miles)
-Cities With RV Parks-
10.57 miles E
11.32 miles SW
19.90 miles NE
20.12 miles SE
20.76 miles NE
22.57 miles NE
-Other Nearby Points-
Black Hills Institute Of
0.15 miles NW
Alpine Inn
0.21 miles NW
1880 Train - Black Hil
0.33 miles SE
Crooked Creek Resort
605-574-2418
605-574-2418
1.71 miles SW
Mount Rushmore National
6.66 miles SE
Rushmore Tramway
7.34 miles SE
Borglum Historical Center
8.54 miles SE
Crazy Horse Memorial
8.72 miles SW
Big Thunder Gold Mine
9.79 miles SE
Skyway
11.03 miles SW
Custer County 1881-Cour
11.43 miles SW
Texaco ($2)
Custer
Custer
11.45 miles SW
Spokane Creek Rv
(605)666-4609
(605)666-4609
11.50 miles SE
Fireside Inn Restaurant
12.09 miles NE
South Dakota
Hill City
Most Recently Reviewed
Rafter J Bar Ranch Camping Resort
Latest Review Submited On
2009-10-29 18:46:54
5 Park(s) Reviewed Near
Hill City, South Dakota
CGID4069Creekside RV Park
Camp Information
Sites
15
Date of Stay
July 2009
Latest Rate
$39
Hookups
Electric
yes
50amp
yes
Water
yes
Sewer
yes
Wireless Internet
no
Cable TV
no
Telephone
no
Modem Hookup
no
Accommodations
Pull-Thru Sites
no
Big Rig Access
yes
Waterfront Access
no
Shade Trees
no
Pool Access
no
Pets Allowed
yes
Tents Allowed
yes
Family Friendly
no
Latest Review Information
Ratings (Last 10 Newest/Oldest)
9 10 8
Clean Restrooms (Last 5 Newest/Oldest)
? ? ?
Clean Showers (Last 5 Newest/Oldest)
? ? ?
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
July 2009
$39
Small park just south of town. Very friendly camp hosts. Sites are short but wide. If you have a big rig (40' or over), plan on having your back axle on the grass behind the gravel. Bring big jack pads. We camped here in a Motorhome.
The user that posted this reviews has 7 other reviews online, click here to see them.
Review Rating
[ 10 / 10 ]
[ 10 / 10 ]
June 2007
$30
We workamped at this park, and had a wonderful time. the motto "15 spaces in the middle of all the great places" really fits. I would recommend this park for anyone there for rally. We camped here in a Fifth Wheel.
Review Rating
[ 8 / 10 ]
[ 8 / 10 ]
July 2005
$29
This campground is rather small, but a very nice quiet place to stay. The grounds around the gravelled sites were mowed and clean. We camped here in a Fifth Wheel.
CGID2574Crooked Creek Resort
Camp Information
Sites
76
Date of Stay
May 2009
Latest Rate
$25
Hookups
Electric
no
50amp
yes
Water
no
Sewer
no
Wireless Internet
no
Cable TV
yes
Telephone
no
Modem Hookup
yes
Accommodations
Pull-Thru Sites
yes
Big Rig Access
yes
Waterfront Access
no
Shade Trees
yes
Pool Access
yes
Pets Allowed
yes
Tents Allowed
yes
Family Friendly
yes
Latest Review Information
Ratings (Last 10 Newest/Oldest)
5 9 4 8 8 3 9 7 9 8
Clean Restrooms (Last 5 Newest/Oldest)
? yes ? yes yes
Clean Showers (Last 5 Newest/Oldest)
? yes ? yes yes
Review Rating
[ 5 / 10 ]
[ 5 / 10 ]
May 2009
$25
We had to run two hoses to get to a spot with water, only 1 water spot for every 3 campers. Only 1 electric plug in for every 3 camper sites. No sewer available in several spots, including our site, even though we called to confirm two weeks ago that we would have a full hookup. Thank goodness we carry extra water hoses and plenty of electrical cords. Staff was okay, but not really concerned that we didn't get what we reserved. Lots of grass, and some trees, right off the main road for easy access. We camped here in a Truck Camper.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
May 2009
$20
This is a good campground for short or long stays. Even though we were here on the shoulder of the season and the pool isn't open, everything else works great and the grounds are neat. The showers/restrooms are spotless but cold because there is no heat that we could see. Only improvement we can see is if they pave the interior roads and have the site pads paved. That said the caliche roads and pads are completely acceptable to us. There is lots of grass, good shade trees, a babbling brook running through the grounds and lots of space to exercise your dogs. There is a small playground as well as a jogging recreational trail right behind the park. Its a pretty setting. Even though this park is located in a narrow valley right next to the highway, the road noise is non-existent at night. We would return. Price above is off season discounted and we paid $19.50 per night pre-tax. We camped here in a Travel Trailer.
Review Rating
[ 4 / 10 ]
[ 4 / 10 ]
September 2008
$30
This park is well located south of Hill City and convenient to the local attractions. The site we were assigned was so close to the next site that I stepped on their sewer when I exited my coach. There were empty sites on the same row, so I have no idea why they used adjacent sites. Most of the sites are very narrow. Cable TV was OK, but Wi-Fi was unusable. I would pick another park if I was in the area again. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 8 / 10 ]
[ 8 / 10 ]
September 2008
$29
The park staff was very nice. After we got parked the owner came down to see if we needed anything and to offer his assistance. The park was clean and well maintained with clean restrooms, showers, and laundry room. The sites had shade trees but they were well trimmed and there was grass at each site. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 8 / 10 ]
[ 8 / 10 ]
June 2008
$30
I have to say we think they have the 'prime location' and beautiful setting of all the campgrounds around. The park is beautiful with the creek running thru it and lots of trees and very scenic. The negative part is I think the sites aren't wide enough for awnings and slide-outs, but the owners are willing to help you if other sites are available. Another plus for their location is midway between seeing everything and all the sights in the area, not too far to Mt.Rushmore, Crazy Horse, Hot Springs, Keystone, Custer and other sights. Hill City is kind of small but a good place to walk and do some uncrowded shopping and a few good eating places. Be sure to visit the Winery, that is Great! One other small negative note, I think they could attend the shower house (restrooms) a little more, they were cold when we showered in there and no heat available, and missing lights and bulbs, making it rather dark. The spouts in the showers weren't adjustable and we couldn't move them and in general the showers were a disappointment for the overall campground. The owners were very nice, friendly and helpful if you had any questions of where to go or what to see in the area. We would stay here again. We camped here in a Fifth Wheel.
Review Rating
[ 3 / 10 ]
[ 3 / 10 ]
October 2007
$20
This Passport America park was closing in 10 days for the winter, so the manager told me the water (and showers) would be turned off after our first night here. They had already closed off most of the park, and crammed 4 of us elbow-to-elbow in the one (unshaded) section still open. Beautiful park, but there we were off in the corner. Also, they apparently had the shower water temperature preset to someone's idea of hot enough for them, but it wasn't for me. The wifi was in/out/slow. Cable fuzzy. I think a more discounted rate would have been in order. We camped here in a Fifth Wheel.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
August 2007
$26
Wow, what a great campground! It’s buried deep in the Black Hills of South Dakota, making the drive great with lots to look at. The campground staff was polite and very helpful. The bathrooms were spotless as well as the campground it’s self. It’s proximity to Mt. Rushmore as well as the numerous other attractions in the Black Hills, makes it a great place to call home. Hill City, although very small, has some great restaurants and shopping. if you’re looking for civilization, Rapid City is 45 minutes away, so get those supplies before you arrive, although most items can probably be found in Hill City. I strongly recommend the Smart Alec GPS Tour. It plugs into your cigarette lighter, sticks to the windshield and plays through your FM Radio. It allows you to take a self guided tour through the Mt. Rushmore area (doesn’t include Deadwood yet) and provides great information as well as directions with some outstanding background music. It’s well worth the price. Besides, it allows you to tour at your own pace. If you don’t want to see the Crazy Horse Memorial, just keep driving. Unlike when on a guided tour and you go where they say you go. We loved it and will most definitely rent it again next trip. It’s available from the Mt. Rushmore KOA, only a short drive from Crooked Creek and on the way to Mt. Rushmore. We camped here in a Tent Trailer.
Review Rating
[ 7 / 10 ]
[ 7 / 10 ]
August 2007
$39
Had to give it a 7 due to many factors. I never saw restrooms but they had to be there. Best thing about the park is the wifi and the web site, it is beautiful. It is a shame there is little comparison. I have been close before, but six feet is too close for units. W/E/cable on far side of coach and sewer on the opposite side. Staff are typical Yankees and she loves signs. Cable is only 11 channels. I doubt if I would come back, only in a pinch. Best thing is Alpine Restaurant in town, dinner meal a real value. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
July 2007
$36
Very Nice Park, Shade available however I came in without a reservation. Entirely run by workcampers, the owner is on premise, but stays out of the way. Very nice folks and a beautiful location. Lot's to do in the area especially if you have children. Some pull thru's and some 50 amp. Wifi works average. Pancake breakfast on weekdays, weekends full breakfasts are served. BBQ Friday & Saturday night. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 8 / 10 ]
[ 8 / 10 ]
June 2007
$32
Very nice place and very friendly owners and staff. It's way nicer and a true bargain compared to the nearby "RV resort" at $47/night. Convenient to Mt Rushmore, Crazy Horse, Custer State Park and especially the Alpine Inn in Hill City! Bike trail (George S. Mickelson Trail I believe) passes thru the campground. We liked it and will stay there again. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 1 / 10 ]
[ 1 / 10 ]
June 2007
$53
I made reservations at Crooked Creek ion April 2007 for Bike Week (August 4-11, 2007). At the time I made my reservations I was told that I had to pay in full up front - $750.00(ish) for two sites. I found out within two weeks of making the reservations that I would have a work conflict and that we could not attend bike week. I immediately called the campground to cancel our reservations. At that time Michele, I assume one of the owners, stated that their policy was to re-reserve the sites before they offered a refund. That sounded fair. I notified them in writing and via phone that I would be cancelling. I did receive an e-mail confirmation from Crooked Creek for my reservations. It did not state a refund policy for bike week. I allowed approximately six weeks to pass before I contacted the campground again - to remind them of the refund. When I called I asked the girl who answered if they had any availability for bike week, my dates specifically, for a 30' TT - Full HU - just as I reserved. She said the largest rig they could accommodate was a 25' TT. I left a message for Michele - no return phone call. I have e-mailed her numerous times now - and finally reached her on the phone earlier this week - June 29, 2007. She agreed to refund my $$ though the sites had NOT been rented (according to her) to make me "go away." She reprimanded me quite a bit for my 'testing' her staff. To date I have NOT received the refund - though I have made repeated attempts to follow up via e-mail. Moral of this story - if you are not 100% sure - do NOT make bike week reservations. I have not received my refund - and I am EXTREMELY displeased with the "Customer Service" we have received. Their campground may be nice - and they may be close to the bike rally - and I may attend bike week another year - but I will NOT STAY at this campground. If your plans change - DO NOT count on a refund. We camped here in a Travel Trailer.
Review Rating
[ 8 / 10 ]
[ 8 / 10 ]
September 2006
$36
They really squeezed us in to the end site here, but the staff was so friendly and helpful, I have to give a good review. We asked where to get air in our tire, and the owner told us to pull up to his personal garage, where he supplied an air compressor. The woman at the desk gave great advice on getting into the campground, then also gave great advice on sightseeing. If not for her, we would not have known about the lighting ceremony at Rushmore, nor Wildlife Loop Road. Convenient location. Picnic table at the site. At the time we were there, the pool was under construction and the playground was in the construction area, so not too good for the little kids, but it was a nice place. The showers were clean, but I had to wait in line. The laundry facility was nice, but expensive. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 8 / 10 ]
[ 8 / 10 ]
September 2006
$31
Very nice campground located central to everything in the Black Hills. Very friendly and informative staff on hand to assist. We were lucky to get one of the four large spaces located near the creek at the rear of the property. Bathrooms clean but showers rather small. But overall, we were very happy with our stay there. We camped here in a Fifth Wheel.
Review Rating
[ 7 / 10 ]
[ 7 / 10 ]
August 2006
$35
In additon to the other reviews - which were 'spot-on' . . . This campground was right on the bike trail, which made it very convienent. We camped there a few weeks after Sturgis and the campground was not very full. Some sites are very tight for rigs with slides. We didn't have to share a fire ring because of lack of campers. Be careful with your awnings, the wind can unexpectedly pick up and cause damage. We always pulled ours in before leaving to tour the area. The bathrooms were clean. The owners were very friendly and helpful. Camp hosts were great. Nice, quite campground when not full. We camped here in a Fifth Wheel.
Review Rating
[ 5 / 10 ]
[ 5 / 10 ]
August 2005
$36
Not big rig friendly; the owners will tell you that they can get big rigs in but it is so tight you cannot open your awnings and there is no place on the site to park the tow vehicle or toad. The sites are very narrow if you have slides you will need to watch the trees. It is a very convenient location with many things to do and see in a 30 miles radius. We enjoyed our stay, however we were never at the campground except to sleep. Has great potential and the new owners are working hard to improve the place, and it is well maintained with friendly helpful people working there. Will stay again however need to be careful to select the right site for our rig. We camped here in a Fifth Wheel.
Review Rating
[ 7 / 10 ]
[ 7 / 10 ]
2004
$40
This was an okay park. The W/E sites were pretty sizeable but the full hook ups were slide to awning. There are area fire rings that have to be shared with your neighbors. Bathrooms are clean. The pool was very tiny and aboveground-looked more like a bathtub. This is a clean park with friendly help. A big alert though-in order to dump your tanks you have to back into the dump station. It is a decent campground close to Custer National Park and the other area sights. We camped here in a Motorhome.
CGID2575Horse Thief Campground
Camp Information
Sites
100
Date of Stay
September 2009
Latest Rate
$28
Hookups
Electric
yes
50amp
yes
Water
yes
Sewer
yes
Wireless Internet
yes
Cable TV
no
Telephone
no
Modem Hookup
no
Accommodations
Pull-Thru Sites
yes
Big Rig Access
yes
Waterfront Access
no
Shade Trees
yes
Pool Access
yes
Pets Allowed
yes
Tents Allowed
yes
Family Friendly
yes
Latest Review Information
Ratings (Last 10 Newest/Oldest)
8 7 4 7 10 9 8 8 6 9
Clean Restrooms (Last 5 Newest/Oldest)
? ? ? yes yes
Clean Showers (Last 5 Newest/Oldest)
? ? ? yes yes
Review Rating
[ 8 / 10 ]
[ 8 / 10 ]
September 2009
$28
This is a nice campground close to all the major tourist sites and worth the extra trip from the interstate if you plan on spending several days in the area. Though we had rain over a 24 hour period the individual sites were free of water or mud. Sites are not level but campers should have no difficulty leveling the sites. If you like a woody natural site this is a good campground with deer and fox visiting in the evening. Wi-Fi cannot be relied upon and local TV reception is very limited. Bring a book! We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 7 / 10 ]
[ 7 / 10 ]
July 2009
$29
My wife and I and our dog spent 2 evenings at this campground. During the day we were sight seeing and only in camp evenings. Nearby campers were a little noisy in the mornings packing up early to move on. Campground owners have no control over this, other campers could be more considerate. The campground well maintained and management and staff very friendly and helpful. The Campground very centrally located for sightseeing in Black Hills area. The WiFi was very spotty. Lack of phone service and TV reception was enjoyable for vacation. We would stay here again. We camped here in a Travel Trailer.
Review Rating
[ 4 / 10 ]
[ 4 / 10 ]
July 2009
$35
This could be a nice park if they didn't pack so many people into such a small space. The site we had was mud and gravel and our jacks punched down several inches. If you're a tent or popup camper, good luck. There is one bathhouse for a large campground. While we were self-contained, I looked in and only saw 4 showers for a campground of several hundred people. There was only one dish wash area that was always backed up at meal times. While we were there, the Wi-Fi system was down. While this seems to be the norm at campgrounds (who designs these systems?), it was still frustrating since the big rig RV area is in a narrow valley, lined with trees. We arrived early in the week and no garbage was picked up while we were there for almost a week. As a result, the dumpsters were overflowing and trash was everywhere. I don't know if this is the best in the area, but I will not stay here again. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 7 / 10 ]
[ 7 / 10 ]
July 2009
$36
Very nice park with VERY sloped sites, which is to be expected in the Black Hills. Bathrooms were nice, pool was clean, and the staff was friendly. WiFi not available while we were there. Told us it would be working the "next" day. The next day would come and we were told the "next" day. I needed internet access for work, and had planned on it, but never got it. No TV channels available, nor will you probably have a cell phone signal. We camped here in a Travel Trailer.
Review Rating
[ 10 / 10 ]
[ 10 / 10 ]
June 2009
$30
This was a beautiful campground, in a gorgeous area with the nicest staff. We would stay again in a second! We camped here in a Fifth Wheel.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
June 2009
$31
We camped here 24 years ago, as it turns out, liked it then and still do. They've made a lot of changes since then - pool, wireless, etc. This is one of the few places we've had to use the campground's wireless and it was off and on, but manageable. The kids seemed to be having a marvelous time. It's a lovely setting under tall pine trees near Rushmore and other Black Hills attractions. We would stay here again. We camped here in a Travel Trailer.
Review Rating
[ 8 / 10 ]
[ 8 / 10 ]
June 2009
$35
This is a nice, peaceful campground. It is a little far off the main road, which is why we rated it a little lower. The bathrooms are old, but clean. Some sites were a little hard to pull out of because of the angle and trees. We would camp here again. Wi-fi is almost non-existent at the sites. We camped here in a Travel Trailer.
Review Rating
[ 8 / 10 ]
[ 8 / 10 ]
June 2009
$34
This campground our first stop of a multi-stay trip. We had site 59. Its almost the farthest from the lodge. It was clean and easy to access. Our site was wooded and shaded. Hookups worked well. Bath/shower house was also clean and large too. Nice heated outdoor pool. WIFI did not reach our site despite having extra antennas in the campground. I sat on the porch to do some work. Connection was slow, but reliable. I would stay here again We camped here in a Travel Trailer.
Review Rating
[ 6 / 10 ]
[ 6 / 10 ]
June 2009
$39
The campground itself is not too bad and it is centrally located for local attractions. Our site (121) was a pull-thru with gravel and grass,and fairly level. The WI-FI did not work for several days and the office personnel attributed it to "the weather". When it finally did work it was extremely slow and would not connect most of the time. Staff considered WI-FI problems a pain and did not seem to be concerned. I agree with a previous comment that overall the campground was okay but the staff was not. If you want a "rustic" experience, this might be alright for you... There is no cell service, no cable TV,no local TV, and satellite reception only from a few sites.We will make another choice next time we are in the area. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
October 2008
$27
Everything was perfect! The only reason we give it a "9" and not a 10 is because of the gravel sites. Utilities are in the right spot. You really have Wifi at your coach. Very quiet, way off the main roads and close to ALL attractions! We would definitely recommend this site and come again! We camped here in a Fifth Wheel.
Review Rating
[ 8 / 10 ]
[ 8 / 10 ]
September 2008
$18
Sites pull through, but I needed to take off toad first as you must park in front of your motorhome and the sites start going downhill, not flat. Large park, close to Mount Rushmore and Custer State Park. We used Camp Club USA and our fee was half and owner was very easy to deal with We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 8 / 10 ]
[ 8 / 10 ]
September 2008
$24
Great park like setting. We have a 31" trailor and had no problem finding a space. WIFI worked fine for us, but was told it didn't work at some sites due to trees. Great location for sightseeing. We felt like we were camping out in the wilderness. We camped here in a Travel Trailer.
Review Rating
[ 6 / 10 ]
[ 6 / 10 ]
September 2007
$25
We used this campground as a base camp for checking the area, such as Needles Highway, Mt Rushmore, and Crazy Horse. It is centrally located for easy access. It’s basically located on the side of a hill in the woods. Loved the views, wildlife, and atmosphere. Also, my daughter loved the playground and play area. Their water has a lot of minerals in it. Clogged my water filter after two days. WiFi is a no go. Staff did their best but kept saying my computer was not compatible, but neither was anyone else’s because everyone was having the same problem. Staff was friendly and helpful with directions and area information but they did seem defensive with the WiFi. Seems they get quite a few complaints. Verizon air card and cell phone were both no go’s. Ended up traveling to Hill City and sitting in the lobby of the Comfort Inn to get internet and cell service. Not sure if we would stay here again. Glad we camped here in the off season, I would not want to stay here in peak season. The price was good for the area. We camped here in a Travel Trailer.
Review Rating
[ 7 / 10 ]
[ 7 / 10 ]
August 2007
$35
We stayed here in '93 and again just recently in aug. '05. We loved this campground! The views were excellent, and you felt as though you were camping in the Hills and not just a field. The sites at the back of the campground (behind the bathhouse), which BTW is clean, are all gravel. The sites at the front have grass and were very nice. It is centrally located in the hills. Overall a nice campground I would recommend to anyone! We camped here in a Travel Trailer.
Review Rating
[ 6 / 10 ]
[ 6 / 10 ]
July 2007
$34
Horsethief Campground in Hill City, SD has tremendous scenery around the place. The campground itself is okay and it is centrally located. Our site (126) was a secluded site but was on a hill. The trailer leveled okay but everything else (chairs, tables, etc) would not level. The driveway for the trailer and the surrounding area was all dirt (very little gravel) and we had a storm come thru which ended up giving us about 5 inches of mud all over every item we had outside. The campground web site boasts of having WI-FI available. While this is true it is extremely slow and would not connect most of the time. I asked the staff about this and they did not seem to care that I was having an issue (which I later found out that other campers were experiencing the same thing). The staff was very distant and not polite at all. Overall the campground was okay but the staff was not. I would not recommend the site to others at this time. We camped here in a Travel Trailer.
Review Rating
[ 8 / 10 ]
[ 8 / 10 ]
August 2006
$25
This campground has a great central location north of the Needles Highway in the Black Hills. Many of the sites have shade, and others have a view of the nearby mountains. Our kids loved the playground, and my wife loved the washer and dryer, saying they were the best she has seen. The bathrooms are clean and nice, though they can get crowded and there is offensive graffiti in several of the stalls. We found the staff very friendly. We definitely would stay here again. We camped here in a Travel Trailer.
Review Rating
[ 2 / 10 ]
[ 2 / 10 ]
July 2006
$30
Rude staff. Sites not level, asked to relocate and was told that there were no other sites available even though several remained open throughout stay. Would never stay at this park again. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 7 / 10 ]
[ 7 / 10 ]
October 2005
$20
Stayed with my son and family 1st week of 10/05. Found staff easy to deal with. On day of departure, 4 inches of snow made us unsure as to leave or stay. Owners assured us we could stay beyond the 11am checkout to make up our mind based on weather and road conditions. Spaces are close and back-ins at some sites might pose challenge. We would stay again. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 2 / 10 ]
[ 2 / 10 ]
2001
$26
Very tight turns. Very rude staff. One of our group was washing off his rear stabilizer and berated for washing it by owner. Cruddy laundry. Owner screamed at customer. One of our group put a broken pine branch thru the wall of his 5th wheel on a turn -if it had been sawed off this would not have happened. We shall not use this park again We camped here in a Travel Trailer.
CGID2576Mount Rushmore / Hill City KOA
Camp Information
Sites
500
Date of Stay
September 2009
Latest Rate
$42
Hookups
Electric
yes
50amp
yes
Water
yes
Sewer
yes
Wireless Internet
yes
Cable TV
yes
Telephone
yes
Modem Hookup
yes
Accommodations
Pull-Thru Sites
yes
Big Rig Access
yes
Waterfront Access
no
Shade Trees
yes
Pool Access
yes
Pets Allowed
yes
Tents Allowed
yes
Family Friendly
yes
Latest Review Information
Ratings (Last 10 Newest/Oldest)
9 10 6 9 9 9 9 5 7 10
Clean Restrooms (Last 5 Newest/Oldest)
yes yes ? yes yes
Clean Showers (Last 5 Newest/Oldest)
yes yes yes yes yes
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
September 2009
$42
The Park was very clean. It has good site sizes with nice patio, patio table, chairs and fire rings. There is a large gift shop. I would have given it a 10 except the restrooms/showers were old and could have used some work although they were clean. The WiFi worked well. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 10 / 10 ]
[ 10 / 10 ]
September 2009
$42
It is a great park, close to Mt. Rushmore. The staff was well trained, it was almost like staying at a hotel. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 6 / 10 ]
[ 6 / 10 ]
August 2009
$53
This was our first "large" park camping experience. We stayed in the central part next to one of the main roads and the vehicle traffic was constant. They call their campground a resort, probably to justify the high price. They do have a lot of things for kids: water slide, pool, mini golf, jump pillow..., and they have a great pancake breakfast in the morning. But the price is too high. We paid $57.63 for water and electric hookups, no sewer. Sewer hookups are an additional $10. The pull through lots are fairly narrow. We had to put out our campfire before we could extend the pullout on that side! On the plus side, the campground is isolated and only 5 miles west of Mt. Rushmore. There is no cable TV. Although a very nice campground, would not stay here again because of the price. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
July 2009
$70
We had a great experience at this campground. The kids had a blast of a time. The amenities are great. Our kids did not get bored at all. The two pools were clean and fun. The horse back riding, fishing, bouncing playground, and general store were all great. The price was a bit high but that was the only negative thing I can say. The showers were beautiful. This was our second trip here and we will go back again next year. Location to Mt. Rushmore is perfect. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
July 2009
$40
This is the 2nd largest KOA in the country, and it had every imaginable amenity! There are tons of things for kids to do -- water slide, pool, splash pad, playground, movies, and etc. My ONLY complaint: we got a spot with water/electric only, and it was up on steep hill. It was extremely hard to get our 31 foot 5th wheel into the spot, and the bathrooms were all at the bottom of the hill! There were no bathrooms on the hill area, which had tons of spots. If I stayed there again, I would make sure I had a spot down below the hill. It is only 5 miles from Mount Rushmore! We highly recommend this campground, just make reservations in advance because it's always booked solid. We camped here in a Fifth Wheel.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
July 2009
$71
Without a doubt the best place to stay if you have kids!! There are so many things for them to do there and there are always lots of kids for them to play with. We stayed in a premium site which included a patio with table and chairs. The site was very roomy. Great store and laundry facility. Very close to all of the activities in the area. We camped here in a Travel Trailer.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
July 2009
$60
We reserved for 3 nights, stayed 3 nights, and then begged them to let us stay longer but they had no spaces available. Yes, it's a huge park as others have reported. We were in a site near the lodge (not a deluxe site) and it was a bit cramped. But once we were in, we had plenty of room to push out slides and unroll the awning. It's crowded to say the least, but we are people persons and like being around others. Loads of kids running to and from but we enjoyed that as well. Everyone from the staff to the campers were friendly. The amenities were wonderful from rental cars to on site bar and restaurant, horse back rides, ATV rentals, even an ice cream "parlor". It's a short drive from here to Rushmore and Crazy Horse but it's also a nice base camp to see all the other sites in the Black Hills. We really enjoyed our stay here and we'd certainly stay again without hesitation. Our only recommendation? Book early! We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 5 / 10 ]
[ 5 / 10 ]
July 2009
$80
I was fooled by the lodge. It looked like a great place to be. Employees were all very nice. Sites were so close I could not even open the awning. There are lots of kids all over the place. I would pick another place because it was too crowded. We went to eat in the restaurant and the girl said it would be a 45 minute wait time. There was no one in the place. She said it was because the kitchen was small. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 7 / 10 ]
[ 7 / 10 ]
July 2009
$66
Great amenities, but most sites are nothing special. Some sites were nice, especially the deluxe sites, but the standard pull throughs were packed in very tightly and not very nice. The park was so huge and crowded we thought it looked more like a NASCAR event than a campground. There are several restaurants and shops on the grounds, as well as ATV and auto rentals. And then there is the mini golf, swimming pool, water slide, etc. that should keep any pre-teen happy. If amenities are important to you, then this is your camp. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 10 / 10 ]
[ 10 / 10 ]
June 2009
$60
Best KOA we encountered on our trip from Michigan to California and back again, staying in only KOA's along the way. Horse trail ride (right on site) was great. Each night the horses are let loose to run to their night pasture--the fenced path they take runs along the campground--a spectacular site, don't miss it. Tons of amenities, kids will love it. Shuttle to Rushmore and Crazy Horse very convenient. Beautiful views surrounding campground. We loved it. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 8 / 10 ]
[ 8 / 10 ]
June 2009
$52
Excellent resort for families and kids. two pools and hot tubs, (unheated) water slide!!!! Both pools are open until 10 pm although only one allows kids after 8 pm, which allows for quiet time for adults only which is also nice. There are horse stables for riding and Chuckwagon dinners on site. They have RENTAL CARS just for users of resort, although a bit pricey ($50+ a day) but well worth it. There is a pancake breakfast tent open every morning and entertainment in evenings. GREAT STAFF. Negatives: WiFi only works down in main campground/around store and it doesn't work very well in the upper portion or far reaches of the park. The laundry is a bit expensive. Cable TV is only available on premium sites, and one can't use antenna or dish away from premium sites due to mountains. I was told by other occupants of park that they were charged higher prices for less of a space, that may have been due to their location in campground? It seemed a bit odd when we heard about this issue from others at this park. It should be noted that this is the second largest KOA in the country and they do very well operating this park. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 7 / 10 ]
[ 7 / 10 ]
June 2009
$73
Let's get it out of the way up front, this place is crazy expensive. I would go so far to say that if you don't have kids with you this place would be a rip off. This place is also a contradiction in that it has some attributes that rate on extreme opposites of the scale. Most sites are dirt, many are not level, and many (including our travel companions') had big areas that were a muddy flooded mess the entire 4 days we were there). Also, for over $70 a night I don't think cable TV should be out of the question, which you don't get unless you have a deluxe site (which are few). The main pool was neon yellow one day and it took 2 or more of us to complain before they closed it down. The water in the slide attraction was also always cloudy and not properly treated correctly the entire time we were there. The place is dusty from the heavy traffic, it's like Grand Central Station most of the day and night. On the plus side, the visitor center was beautiful, the staff up there awesome, the views and location are also awesome. The newer bathroom/shower complex is 1st rate in construction and they did a fairly decent job of keeping it clean given the amount of traffic through there. We also had wifi most of the time there, although at times it was very slow. We thought the on-site horse rides were a good value as was the $2 pancake breakfast. It is a great place to let the kids go all day no doubt about it but if you want reasonable fees, calm atmosphere, and room to spread out this isn't for you. If they could control the price and have maintenance pay attention across the board I could almost rate it a 10. We would consider staying again but only while the kids are small enough to enjoy/partake in all the activities there. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 6 / 10 ]
[ 6 / 10 ]
June 2009
$54
We arrived during the height of tourist season and the experience might best be described as an absolute mass of teeming humanity. Our preference tends towards dry camping in national forests with occasional stops at full hookup private campgrounds, so this wasn't really our cup of tea. The facilities are huge and well maintained with lots of activities for the kids, but everything was extremely crowded due to the time of year. I am hoping the brown pool water was due the source and not lack of cleanliness. Due to the lateness of our reservation, we had a water and electric only site. It was very tight and crowded and difficult to get into and out of in our 40 ft motor home. There were many other sites which would have worked for big rigs just fine however. This is a practical and convenient location, especially for families, if you can handle the crowds. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
May 2009
$68
Pricey, but well located in the Black Hills for varied activities.. $3 one time pet charge and $5 per day resort fee included in listed price on this site. We stayed in one of the deluxe sites and had plenty of space between sites. Very large KOA, but well run and well maintained. Want to go horse back riding...they have it. Want to go down a water slide...they have it. "Wifey" doesn't want to fix breakfast...go for the outdoor pancake breakfast or on site restaurant. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
September 2008
$40
Had a truly wonderful time during our week here. Staff was really helpful and all were extremely nice. Sites were a good size. On site restaurant, not a KOA associate, was very good. Only problem we had was cell phone service, but what else do you expect at the base of a large mountain. Would stay here again. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 10 / 10 ]
[ 10 / 10 ]
August 2008
$50
We went on a two week trip from PA to Yellowstone & back. This was BY FAR the BEST campground we stayed in. Very clean, good security. Restaurant & other stores on site. Horseback riding, inexpensive shuttle to Mt. Rushmore, & ATV rentals with miles & miles of trails to explore. My family & I had a blast! The Black Hills are beautiful & if we are fortunate enough to return, we will certainly stay here again. Fantastic! We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 5 / 10 ]
[ 5 / 10 ]
August 2008
$35
If you are a family with kids then this is a very nice campground with tons of activities. Otherwise, this CG is very crowded and noisy with very short and narrow sites. Even with their "deluxe" pull throughs, finding a spot to park your toad is a challenge and the sites are so tight that your neighbor's campfire is right next to your coach. The roads are gravel and very tight due to the parking issues. They only have cable in a few deluxe sites and reception with an antenna is poor. If you are looking for peace and quiet in a beautiful part of the country stay away from this place. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
July 2008
$60
This park had tons of stuff for the kids to do like miniature golf, swimming, water slide, horseback riding, giant air pillow, splash pad. It is perfect for exploring all that the black hills has to offer. The campground is very busy. The restrooms and showers could use more than one cleaning a day, that being the only bad thing. We would stay here again. We camped here in a Fifth Wheel.
Review Rating
[ 10 / 10 ]
[ 10 / 10 ]
July 2008
$85
Definitely a place you can go and stay a week and keep the whole family entertained. Kids loved the huge playground, pool, gameroom and other kids activities. Trail ride was great. Lots of staff, very attentive. The christian student group interacted well with the kids. Some people said they could even see some of the fireworks from their campsites. We will be back. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 10 / 10 ]
[ 10 / 10 ]
June 2008
$85
This campground is the best KOA in the system. I do not mind paying a premium if the campground is worth the money; this one is. They had a staff of about 100 with 10 of them a Christian ministry team. The staff was polite, professional and great with the kids. We had a full agenda of sightseeing and activities in the area which was a shame because the kids would have been happy just playing at the campground. They lead their horses off to their night-time coral every night, which made the entire campground stop and watch; it was a spectacular site. If you come here please learn from my mistake and plan a “down” day where the kids have a day to just play at the CG. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 10 / 10 ]
[ 10 / 10 ]
June 2008
$56
Best campground we have ever visited. We have three kids, and they were kept busy with activities throughout our visit. only 5 miles from Mount Rushmore, and the drive to the park was very scenic. Gift shop and store were stocked well, which prevented trips to the small towns nearby. One tip.....camp in the valley, as the hillside sites are a bit unlevel, which makes set-up a little challenging. Overall, we loved it! We camped here in a Travel Trailer.
Review Rating
[ 10 / 10 ]
[ 10 / 10 ]
June 2008
$45
Very nice campground. Kids area was great. New restrooms were very clean. Very nice and reasonably priced laundry facilities. Horseback riding on site was very convenient and good value. Friendly staff. Great camp store. We would definitely stay there again. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 8 / 10 ]
[ 8 / 10 ]
June 2008
$54
A super or mega KOA with nearly every feature imaginable. Friendly workers greet you from the moment you arrive. Site size are average to above. Two nice size pools and a water slide for the kids. WiFi was weak but I was at the far end of grounds. We camped here in a Fifth Wheel.
Review Rating
[ 10 / 10 ]
[ 10 / 10 ]
June 2008
$70
This is the closest campground to Mt. Rushmore, and the best park we have ever stayed in. There were more than enough activities to keep the kids busy and happy. The pancake breakfast is great, too. Be sure, however, to request a deluxe site with patios and patio furniture that substitute for the common picnic table usually found in campgrounds. The sites toward the back appear a little more crowded and less maintained. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 10 / 10 ]
[ 10 / 10 ]
June 2008
$57
We stayed here for 8 nights, and found it to be a great place. The price was a bit higher because we had a patio site, but we felt it was worth it. Jane, who works in the main check in-office, was wonderful. She went out of her way to put us in a site that would give us enough room for our rig and tow car. A very big atta girl to her. The roads in the campground are a bit busy but that is to be expected in a place this large at this time of the year. The amenities make this a wonderful place for families camping with children. We would definitely stay here again. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 7 / 10 ]
[ 7 / 10 ]
June 2008
$47
We stayed here 3 nights. Well maintained park with friendly staff. Busy park with lots of kids since it is close to Black Hills attractions. WiFi early morning and evening was quite slow. Some driveways were quite narrow, primarily because the sites they served were very short for the rigs parked on them which necessitated parking the toad partially in the street. Very few shaded sites which helps satellite TV if you need it. We would stay here again. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
May 2008
$47
We camped here on Memorial Day in site #570 shortly after the resort opened for the year. This is a very good campground with a variety of sites. We arrived late at night and they left us a map and welcome pack for us. Our initial site was close to the entrance and very easy to set up in the dark (And the rain!) The next am, when we were ready, they moved us to our reserved site on the hill away from the main area. We were the first RV in that part of the campground and they forgot to turn on the water! A short time later, the water was on. This is the only reason the cg didn't get a 10. Water pressure was low near the top of the hill, but better at the bottom. I highly advise a filter, the water comes from tanks situated around the area. This is the second time we have stayed here and would recommend it to anyone! Pick your sites carefully, big variety. The main area is essentially a parking lot, but where we stayed was on the mountain and very wooded. When the rain came, it got muddy fast! We even had snow! Several specialty shops on site with two small stores at opposite ends of the resort. LOTS of cabins scattered around. Two pools, although only one was open at that time. Staff was very friendly and helpfully! Rental cars available on site. We camped here in a Travel Trailer.
Review Rating
[ 10 / 10 ]
[ 10 / 10 ]
September 2007
$28
This is one of the nicest parks we stayed at. It was close to the end of the season and we got a really nice site. The park was very well maintained and the owners were very cordial. We do plan to go back again. We camped here in a Fifth Wheel.
Review Rating
[ 10 / 10 ]
[ 10 / 10 ]
August 2007
$42
A beautifully maintained park, very knowledgeable staff, lots of creature comforts. It is mostly geared to adults after Labor Day, as we have stayed here twice. A resort feel...not your typical KOA. Convenient to Mt. Rushmore, Custer State Park and all the other sites of the area. Easy access for big rigs with no surprises. Much nicer than the other area campgrounds we checked out. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 8 / 10 ]
[ 8 / 10 ]
August 2007
$50
Very nice park. Deluxe sites are wide and fairly grassy. Good television and WiFi reception, lousy cell service. Park has a nice hotel, cabins, car rentals, pool, nice gift shop. Mount Rushmore about five miles away, Crazy Horse monument about seven miles. Very pleasant experience. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 2 / 10 ]
[ 2 / 10 ]
August 2007
$57
This is the only campground we have ever pulled into a site, began setup and then decided we just couldn't stay. We have never left a campground in over three years of camping, we never expected to have to leave a KOA, usually very nice places. Only camp here if you are only planning a quick overnight stay and make sure you stay in the "deluxe" sites or forget it. We unfortunately had made a reservation for one of the nice perimeter sites with a view. Important note: there is NO cable except in tightly packed deluxe sites and the all the "kid" amenities, aside from the pool, cost a small fortune ($60) per family for a fun pass. Our spot was in the middle of a 'parking lot' field, with no trees and a muddy camping site. We were staying 5 nights and were so depressed over the unattractive surroundings, not to mention exorbitant fees, $4 per child a night (we have 2) and $3 pet fee a night, we went to the office and asked if we could move to another site, we would have been willing to pay more. They would have moved us but had no deluxe sites left. So we called Rafter J Bar Ranch Campground up the road and asked if they had room and moved our motor home to their place. (VERY NICE, read my review of their campground). This KOA has a nice front area, and a restaurant on site, and the deluxe sites seem nice enough, though very close together. This is a VERY BIG campground, a lot of people moving around, very busy place. Some people may enjoy the bustling energy of crowds, but we kind of like to kick back, relax and enjoy the peace of nature. We were so relieved to drive out of there, we feel fortunate they were booked out. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 1 / 10 ]
[ 1 / 10 ]
August 2007
$53
Stay away from this park! From reading the description you would think that this park is great family destination. Being in the Black Hills of South Dakota and near great attractions such as Mt. Rushmore and Crazy Horse Monument it has the potential for being a really nice place, but unfortunately it is not! The sites are muddy and uneven. The bathrooms are absolutely outdated and filthy! They advertise a wate rpark on site, but when you check in they tell you that you have to pay an extra $60 to use it. They do have a pool that you can use without an extra fee. We did not go in it, but our neighbors did and they said that it was very dirty. They have horseback riding onsite which is nice and pretty reasonable. The women inside taking care of check-ins are very nice, but the older man working outside near the check in parking is very grumpy and he will yell at you and bang his radio on your car if you do not pull up far enough! We have been to many KOA's, some nicer than others, but never have we been to one as dirty as this one. KOA should be embarrassed to have their name attached to this park. We camped here in a Travel Trailer.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
July 2007
$46
Well maintained with a lot of activities for kids. We were here around the 4th of July and the pool was a little crowded for so many people. Nice stores, restaurants, and ice cream on site. The WiFi is there but I could never get an IP address and was not usable, they said there were too many people, which I did not find to be an acceptable answer. We stayed in site 189 or 289 and the trees had to be trimmed and it was fairly tight, not nearly as nice as most of the other spaces. I think they only rented out these sites on really busy weekends. We camped here in a Tent Trailer.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
July 2007
$52
Pricy, but worth it. One of the best parks we have stayed in. Closest park to Mt Rushmore and Crazy Horse monuments. Very well maintained park, well stocked store, and on-site pizza and ice cream shops. Water sports, climbing, hiking and horse rides. Friendly, knowledgeable staff. Not much shade available in main area, although tent, and pop-up sites were well shaded. Rental cars available so you can visit all the local sites without a toad. Busses available for Mt Rushmore tours at very reasonable rate. Will stay here again. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 8 / 10 ]
[ 8 / 10 ]
July 2007
$68
Very nice KOA. We went horseback riding, as well as utilized the laundry facilities, ice cream shop and the store. Our boys enjoyed the scavenger hunt and for a prize they received a free round of miniature golf. This place is so large that I was able to do a 5 mile run just inside the KOA campground! We were gone most of the time visiting the attractions, but we would recommend this campground to anyone especially after seeing the other campgrounds available. The grounds could use some work, that is why I'm giving an 8 out of 10. This campground has everything else you could need for an enjoyable stay. We camped here three nights. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 10 / 10 ]
[ 10 / 10 ]
July 2007
$48
This is one of the better KOA's and one of a few I would return to. Great site, fun things to do, close to everything. Pancake breakfast is great. Wifi did not work the entire time I was there, but heck I was out most of the time anyway. I'd come back here. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
June 2007
$50
Wonderful park. Beautiful scenery and excellent amenities. We are definitely looking forward to our next visit here! We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
June 2007
$42
Has Car rentals available. It was late at night and a shepherd vehicle guided us to the site. I chose it for the location nearby Mount Rushmore. It was a bit pricey compared to other campgrounds in the area. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 10 / 10 ]
[ 10 / 10 ]
June 2007
$55
Great Park (never given 10/10 before). But you pay for it of course. Wonderful value if you've got kids as they would never be bored unless it rained. Cable channels limited and WiFi just a little iffy at times. The place is enormous (2nd biggest in USA we're told. Reasonable food outlets and shops on site, which is lucky because it is miles away from anything else. Queue for "all you can eat pancakes" every morning. Careful where you are allocated a site. You could be literally a mile away from the office. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
May 2007
$29
This is a beautiful campground. The staff is very friendly. We camped here in early May 2007 so it wasn't crowded. The campground is also close to all major attractions. We would definitely stay here again. We camped here in a Truck Camper.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
August 2006
$35
Wonderful family park with lots of activities... great store for groceries, not over-priced. We loved the on-site horse trail rides. We realize this was bike week, but even though we had reservations months ahead, we were placed in a "tent-sized" site, and our toy hauler was barely squeezed in! Thank goodness there was not a camper behind us to the back left, because we had a "catty-corner" back out up a hill - very poor parking area for our rig and very nerve-wracking. Customer service was excellent, however - we will definitely come back here, but will request specific sites next time around. We camped here in a Travel Trailer.
Review Rating
[ 2 / 10 ]
[ 2 / 10 ]
July 2006
$45
Campers were squeezed like sardines. No privacy. Some sites had little or no shade. Very noisy with campers coming and going all the time. Barking dogs inside campers during the day. KOA charged extra for use of water slide. Pool broken and out of use for 3 (maybe more) days. Camp stores frequently out of ice. Evening movies cancelled due to more broken equipment. KOA field staff rude, bossy & crabby. Restaurant wait staff was terrible. Bath house was nice (closed 1 1/2 hrs. for cleaning.) Turned us OFF to camping. We camped here in a Travel Trailer.
Review Rating
[ 10 / 10 ]
[ 10 / 10 ]
July 2006
$70
Go to the site to check rates according to how you are staying- it all depends on what kind of site you want. Also you HAVE TO book in advance- we did a year in advance since it was prime travel season. We've been here twice and would go back again. Very clean, well maintained. Nice activities for the kids, 2 pools, great stores, nice restraunt and awesome outside pancake breakfasts for $2.00. It's very close to Mt. Rushmore- with shuttles running there and to Crazy Horse. They also have horseback riding here which is always a must. The kids playgrounds are very nice too. Would highly recommend. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 10 / 10 ]
[ 10 / 10 ]
July 2006
$55
This was a wonderful park for our visit to SD. Close to everything we wanted to visit. The stable and trail ride was wonderful. The park was clean, well taken care of and had a friendly helpful staff. The view of the Black Hills at sunset from our coach was beautiful. Never in the 5 days we were there was did we have a "noise" problem with the campground, even though there were many families with children. We would highly recommend it to visitors to Hill City, SD. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 5 / 10 ]
[ 5 / 10 ]
July 2006
$46
This CG was WAAAAY too large for our taste. I'm sure it's great for families with children, but the noise factor from SO many kids was not pleasant for us. Yes, this was close to Mt. Rushmore and Crazy Horse, but there are others in the area. We saw one or two we'd try next time. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
July 2006
$45
This was a great campground. We stayed here for two nights. This campground is very close to the Crazy Horse Memorial and Mt. Rushmore. Although we didn't use many of the facilities, there were tons. Swimming pools, activities for children, several clean laundry rooms, a dining room, a fast food place, a candy store, and a big general store. This KOA had good security and was clean. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 6 / 10 ]
[ 6 / 10 ]
July 2006
$45
This place is huge and has a lot of amenities, and a lot of people. Before reserving here we read the reviews describing the packed-in conditions but were able to secure a "more private" site at the edge of the woods. Upon arriving we found these sites to be just terraced sites, just as crowded as the sea of trailers in the meadow. The toilets were clogged in the women's restroom and showers were not clean. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 8 / 10 ]
[ 8 / 10 ]
June 2006
$42
We stopped for an overnight on the way back from Wyoming and got the last site with full hook-ups. The sites were typical KOA, close quarters, but the park was well laid out and the WiFi worked well. Use virus and internet security, because I was attacked by a trojan within moments of logging on. The nightly shuttle to the Mt. Rushmore lighting apparently books up very early, but there are rental cars on property and it was quick and easy to rent. The pools were clean and busy and people sat quietly by their fires after quiet hours with no loud noises after quiet time at 10 p.m.. We would stop here again for an overnight but it is too big and crowded for a long stay. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 6 / 10 ]
[ 6 / 10 ]
June 2006
$59
CG is convenient to Rapid City/Hill City attractions. The sites are level. Problems exist with the management of this cg. When making reservations we were not told that only the premium sites had cable tv. The premium sites are nice but not worth the increased rate of $11. Some of the staff were rude and possessed no people skill. I'm 65 years old and didn't know I was a "dude" until told so by one of the staff members. The road in the park was horrible. Deep ruts were everywhere which made traveling around difficult. If one can find another cg in the area then I suggest you go there. The company that owns this cg also owns the Capitol City KOA and the KOA in Harpers Ferry WV. We've stayed at those cgs and they are not much better than this one. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
May 2006
$45
This place is great. Beautiful campground. We camped here in a Fifth Wheel.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
May 2006
$35
Wish we would have stayed long enough to use the many activities they offered. We camped here in a Tent Trailer.
Review Rating
[ 8 / 10 ]
[ 8 / 10 ]
August 2005
$35
Very nice campground located right off needles highway. You feel as if you are really camping in the hills. Beautiful views all around you. Very nice staff and some of the cleanest bathrooms I've seen. We will stay here again. We camped here in a Travel Trailer.
Review Rating
[ 6 / 10 ]
[ 6 / 10 ]
August 2005
$49
Tourist trap, packed in like sardines, sites are not level, dump station right in the middle of the entrance to park, charged for shuttle ride to lighting ceremony. way to big for our tastes, but close to Mt. Rushmore. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 8 / 10 ]
[ 8 / 10 ]
August 2005
$45
Note that the rate is higher than normal as we were there during bike week. We got a site off behind the lodge which was totally treed and shady. If you get in the main part of the park there is no shade. We've been here before and didn't realize that the section we were in existed. It was really nice- a little on the hilly side and the turns getting in and out were a little tight but we made it without any problems. The park offers a little of everything, you can eat here, go riding or hiking and some shopping too. It's a nice place even though it's so big. We camped here in a Travel Trailer.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
July 2005
$35
This is the best KOA we have ever stayed at! It had everything close and so much to do for the kids! We really appreciated the pancake breakfast, the nightly movies in their little theater and the water slide was a huge hit with the kids! It's very close to Mt. Rushmore and Crazy Horse Memorial. There is so much to do in this area...we wish we had stayed a week rather than 4 nights. We camped here in a Tent Trailer.
Review Rating
[ 8 / 10 ]
[ 8 / 10 ]
July 2005
$52
We camped here last month while visiting the Mount Rushmore area. It is a typical KOA, in that the sites are pretty much jammed together. I would recommend that you get a site as far away from the main road as possible as it is very busy during the summer and the heavy traffic seemed to ignore the 10 mph speed limit. My kids loved the water slide they have which cost an extra $10 per day to use for the whole family. They also have horseback riding available for somewhat reasonable prices. We camped here in a Fifth Wheel.
Review Rating
[ 8 / 10 ]
[ 8 / 10 ]
2004
$35
I camped here for the annual Sturgis Rally. I really enjoyed this campground. It has a
wonderfully well stocked general store. The restaurants were very good. It was a great home base for touring the Black Hills. The staff and service was great. The sites were a little small but tolerable. Our only complaint was that the showers were not maintained very well at all. I would have thought that during the busiest time of the year, the owners/operators would have made sure everything was kept top notch. Also, the hot water ran out if you were not at the shower before 6am. We had a great time staying here and will certainly be back again in the future. We camped here in a Tent.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
2004
$35
This is a large family-oriented campground with fairly spacious sites situated in the middle of the Black Hills of South Dakota. It is very close to all the local tourist sites such as Mt. Rushmore. There are several camping cabins available as well as a lodge/motel and large family type cabins available. It has a nice quiet location and we truly enjoyed our stay here. Friendly staff helped make our stay pleasant. We stayed in a tent trailer in June of 2004 and used our heater every night and most of one day. We camped here in a Tent Trailer.
CGID2577Rafter J Bar Ranch Camping Resort
Camp Information
Sites
166
Date of Stay
September 2009
Latest Rate
$35
Hookups
Electric
yes
50amp
yes
Water
yes
Sewer
yes
Wireless Internet
yes
Cable TV
yes
Telephone
no
Modem Hookup
yes
Accommodations
Pull-Thru Sites
yes
Big Rig Access
yes
Waterfront Access
no
Shade Trees
yes
Pool Access
yes
Pets Allowed
yes
Tents Allowed
yes
Family Friendly
yes
Latest Review Information
Ratings (Last 10 Newest/Oldest)
10 9 10 10 9 10 8 5 8 8
Clean Restrooms (Last 5 Newest/Oldest)
yes yes yes yes yes
Clean Showers (Last 5 Newest/Oldest)
yes yes yes yes yes
Review Rating
[ 10 / 10 ]
[ 10 / 10 ]
September 2009
$35
Wow...we entered under the arch to an unbelievably beautiful ranch park. Jaw dropping! Our stay was wonderful. Staff worked with us to satisfy our desires in a better parking spot. Friends stayed up in a cabin. It was so fun to go back and forth for dinners and campfires. We loved it here...the best park we have every stayed in. Just wish we had spent more than 4 nights to see more of the whole area. We camped here in a Fifth Wheel.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
September 2009
$39
This is a very big park with 6 different campgrounds: we stayed in the lower ranch camp. The spaces are about average width but we were still in our space after we opened the slide-out. Wi-Fi worked from our trailer. We did not use their showers, but we checked them out and they were clean: I would use them if I needed to without hesitation. The entire park was immaculate and the staff was friendly and helpful. We would stay here again. We camped here in a Travel Trailer.
Review Rating
[ 10 / 10 ]
[ 10 / 10 ]
September 2009
$35
This is really a great campground. Set around a large meadow with hills as a great background. Deer feed in the meadow in the evenings and can easy be seen from most sites. You can hear the coyotes at night, too. All the facilities are top notch, and the sites are fairly large. There are only two bath houses which makes a drive or a walk necessary from some camp sites if you want to use them, but they are very nice and well maintained, as is the laundry. What we didn't read in other comments is there is one of the finest bike paths in the US just at the gate of the campground. This is the George Mickelson Trail from which you can ride 109 miles from start to finish! We opted to ride from one of the trail heads near Hill City, but we will ride more when we return. We highly recommend this campground. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 10 / 10 ]
[ 10 / 10 ]
September 2009
$36
This is a model of what a good RV campground should look like. Plenty of space, fire rings, grass, level sites, tables, friendly staff, and very convenient to Mt. Rushmore and Crazy Horse. Staff couldn't have been nicer. I needed some air in my tires and they wheeled out a compressor: no charge. Cable TV is only available in the Base Camp area. We camped here in a Travel Trailer.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
September 2009
$35
We chose this one because of all the good reviews and weren't disappointed. It is a beautiful park with good sized sites and lots of open grassy areas. There are plenty of dog walking trails close-by. We did have some problems with the Wifi even though we were in the Base Camp area, but the staff were very helpful and reset the modem which cleared the problem somewhat. There are a lot of campgrounds in this area, but we would have no hesitation in coming back to this one which is close to Mt Rushmore and Custer State Park. We camped here in a Fifth Wheel.
Review Rating
[ 10 / 10 ]
[ 10 / 10 ]
September 2009
$69
I am so glad we stayed here. Looking around at the other campgrounds, the space between campsites is considerable. I found the site pretty level, well maintained, and with an excellent view. It was so calming staying here. No hustle and bustle, no feeling like you had to keep the kids quiet, and everyone was friendly. My only complaints are that you will need to bring an extra sewer line and a coupler. Also the Wi-Fi is very slow, but it works. They have minivans on site you can rent. Important to those of us with small tow vehicles wanting more room for a longer trip to Devil's Tower or such. Highly recommend this RV park. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 8 / 10 ]
[ 8 / 10 ]
September 2009
$38
A beautiful Park. We stayed in the lower base camp. Had to level one side of the fifth wheel. Plenty of room between rigs. As stated in the previous review the Wi-Fi needs help. Cable TV was limited. The main advantage to this RV park is that it is about 9 miles from Mt. Rushmore and very convenient for the night lighting and ceremonies at the Monument. You must see this if you have not. After dark you don't have to drive a great distance and chances of encountering wildlife on the road are lessened. Fee quoted was less than during peak season as it just changed as of the day we were there. We camped here in a Fifth Wheel.
Review Rating
[ 5 / 10 ]
[ 5 / 10 ]
September 2009
$43
Terrific setting: meadow, trees, mountains, and a great location for the Black Hills. But management doesn't seem to know much about RVs, especially big rigs. Many very tight (90 degrees, one turn to/from main exit road more like 120 degrees). Then they have added posts and huge rocks to make it even harder to drive: guess they don't know that coach with attached toad can't back up. Their rules say don't drive on grass (actually just weeds) but this can't be avoided due to tight turns, narrow roads, narrow gravel pads, etc. Wi-Fi is seriously deficient: very slow when it works, but also poorly configured. It is easy to get totally locked out: had to get office helper to unplug the entire camp's Wi-Fi router so I could get back online. It requires frequent re-log-ins and upon connection displays the title of a different campground! They also have two of their Wi-Fi access points on adjacent channels (5 and 6) which should never be done as it messes up both. The camp's grounds have unrealized potential, degraded by silly things. The official swimming pool parking lot is next to pool, but there's no gate except on the other side of the pool! The pancake breakfast gets expensive fast. The only place to dump trash is hundreds of yards from the big rig area. If only the camp operators would try to do what their customers must do, they'd probably realize how annoying some of it is. I'd go back, knowing the frustrations, but still shaking my head.... We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 8 / 10 ]
[ 8 / 10 ]
August 2009
$45
We stayed at this park for a week. We were very pleased with the location and the grounds! The facilities were very nice, and they seemed to have everything we needed. I did not give it a higher rating because they told us we would have WI-FI in the base camp. The WI-FI was awful!! We could not keep our signal even though we had an antenna extender. Fortunately Cable and WI-FI were included in our rate. I would suggest that the office NOT guarantee WI-FI service in the base camp if it does not work efficiently. I believe there were too many users, and the system was overloaded. Other than that we had no problems and would stay here again. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 8 / 10 ]
[ 8 / 10 ]
August 2009
$45
We camped here during the Sturgis Bike Rally. Even though there were motorcycles absolutely everywhere within a hundred miles, the campground was relatively quiet. Sites are well spaced, gravel lots with trees around most. All sites surround a large green meadow. Staff was friendly and helpful even during this hectic time. Close to just about everything in the Black Hills area. We saw several RV parks in the area and Rafter J Bar Ranch seemed to be one of the best. Might have gotten a ten if they had concrete sites, or if the sight was slightly more level. We camped here in a Fifth Wheel.
Review Rating
[ 8 / 10 ]
[ 8 / 10 ]
August 2009
$45
This a nice, beautiful park with very clean facilities. The staff was not overly helpful or friendly. I asked for a nice shady spot and cable TV, and was put next to the large open meadow with no shade whatsoever. We should have asked to be moved, but chose to stay anyway. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
August 2009
$48
The park was well maintained, very open and expansive. The park staff was helpful. Most of the sites were reasonably level gravel. The sites are large with a nice view of the Black Hills. Everything is far enough from the roads that only occasional noise is heard. This is a good campground for families, groups, or RVing older couples as they have appropriate spaces for everybody. There is plenty of room to walk dogs or have kids play and ride bikes. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
August 2009
$49
A huge RV park. We stayed in the Base Camp. A fairly busy area, but well kept and we had a very roomy site, #217. Everything is a bit of a hike from the other areas, but nothing wrong with that. We did not use the showers or restrooms as they are near the main building. Pool was great, office was helpful when asked and the store is a bit expensive which is not surprising. We enjoyed our stay and would stay again. We camped here in a Fifth Wheel.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
July 2009
$53
Very nice campground to stay at. The store was well stocked. This place is huge with several different camping areas. This place is very busy with a lot of campers. Staff was friendly and the place well kept. They served a pancake breakfast ($4), but we did not attend. It's close to Rushmore and the surrounding attractions. Pool was nice for the kids and adults. We had a great time here and would return. Only reason not a 10: the kids running the front desk need better training or an adult on site. They thought I did not pay (which I did), for a second night (when I did) and gave me some grief about it. We camped here in a Travel Trailer.
Review Rating
[ 10 / 10 ]
[ 10 / 10 ]
July 2009
$30
This campground was better than expected. Plenty of room between sites, beautiful scenery (off major roadway), very clean bath house and the pool was great! Close to all Black Hills attractions. Would definitely stay here again. We tent camped here for 6 nights. We camped here in a Tent.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
July 2009
$50
We stayed here for three nights on our way out to Yellowstone. It was a beautiful resort. The sites were huge along with the whole facility. There was tons of space of the kids to run around and play. Waking up, stepping outside the trailer, breathing the mountain air and viewing the Black Hills: it was a beautiful thing. We did get hit by a couple of severe hail storms two of the nights we were here. The staff was very helpful and extremely diligent as far as getting the Wi-Fi back up and running after the storm. We highly recommend this place. I wish this were closer to our residence (Napeville, Il). If we ever get out West again, we will definitely stay here. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 10 / 10 ]
[ 10 / 10 ]
July 2009
$43
This is an excellent campground. It is a very large property with fabulous views which include Harney Peak. It also a nice large meadow in the middle that is well maintained which is great for frisbee, catch or stargazing at night. We camped with a large popup #150 in the Lower Ranch Area. It was a walk up a hill to get to Restrooms and Showers, but it mattered little for us since we have facilities in our popup. Regardless, they were immaculate. The Wi-Fi was slow, but typical in our experience for campgrounds not located near urban or suburban areas. The pancake breakfast was both cheap and delicious. I highly recommend the campground and we plan to make another trip out to it and the Black Hills in the future. We camped here in a Tent Trailer.
Review Rating
[ 10 / 10 ]
[ 10 / 10 ]
July 2009
$46
Great campground! Very large and divided into different camping areas. We stayed in the Island area which was perfect. In fact, we decided we had the best site (no. 247) in the entire campground. The sites are some of the largest we have ever seen in a campground and level. The Island area is not close to the office, pool, bathhouse, or laundry and does not have cable TV. Just need to be aware if you have those needs. They have a pancake breakfast every morning which is cheap and delicious. The rate may be high but we thought it was well worth the extra bucks. The campground is conveniently located to many area attractions including Custer State Park and Mt. Rushmore. We stayed here 5 nights and would stay longer if we were not headed elsewhere. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 7 / 10 ]
[ 7 / 10 ]
July 2009
$58
This is a nice park with lots of trees and different areas in which to camp. However our reservations were messed up upon arrival. We requested 50 amp site with cable TV: were assigned a 30 amp site with no cable TV hookup. Were it not for the mess up, we would have rated higher. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
July 2009
$45
This is a beautiful campground in the beautiful Black Hills. Some of the hills to get here are steep, so be prepared because you are staying in the mountains of SD. We camped here for six nights in the Lower Ranch Camp at the end site #190. We were backed into the farthest site of three that were somewhat close together. The site was long and the two nearby were staggered, but the drawback was that our view was partially of the back of the rig next to us. At one point the smoke from our fire pit which was about 30 feet behind their rig was going into their camper and we had to put it out. Our site was quiet and very peaceful. The bathrooms were a hike up the small hill to the 'Ranch Camp.' They were clean and well kept. We camped here in a Travel Trailer so we didn't use them, but did check them out. We loved that the Lower Ranch Camp had great views of the meadow and was easy to walk over to the new playground and heated pool. The general store was wonderful and also had ice cream. There is also a gas pump on site that is fairly priced. The location is wonderful and close to Hill City, Mt. Rushmore & Custer State Park. Overall a wonderful place to stay for a week and a great family park. We would stay here again. We camped here in a Travel Trailer.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
July 2009
$45
A nice park within an hour of the Badlands and 20 minutes from Mount Rushmore. The park is divided into 5 sections. We spent 2 nights in Line camp, which has wide sites but no shade. The third night we moved to Base camp, which has some shade but narrow sites. The Line camp was better. The site were level and the roads were okay, mostly gravel with the expected dust clouds. The park could use some added bathrooms, it was a long walk to use them should you need to. Overall, a good stay, we would probably stay here again if we return to the area. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
July 2009
$48
A beautiful campsite - one of the best we have stayed in. The location is just fantastic, waking up to that view every morning was wonderful. We booked at the last minute and had to move from the island to base camp so we experienced staying in 2 areas. Didn't get wifi in either though! The island consists of a small number of gravel sites, shade provided by ponderosa pines, ours was level with plenty of space between us and our neighbor. We were lucky enough to get an end site (237 I think) and one one side was just a huge, open grassy space, all neatly mowed. Great view, great location. The base camp is closer to the pool and playground but this seemed like an older area - our site wasn't that level. Would still stay here again though in any area of the campsite. Laundry spotlessly clean. The whole place looks to be well maintained. The only reason I didn't give it a 10 is that the office staff were not the most friendly or accommodating that we have come across. No local maps or info in the office either. Would love to stay here again! We camped here in a Travel Trailer.
Review Rating
[ 10 / 10 ]
[ 10 / 10 ]
July 2009
$44
This is a very good park, paved entrance road, gravel interior roads and sites. Many camp sites but spread around a large meadow and in the trees so it doesn't feel crowded. We were in the Base Camp full hook up area with a good Wi-Fi signal and limited cable TV although the sites are open enough that satellite TV was fine. Verizon air card also worked. Set back far from the highway so there is minimal road noise. Nice pool and play area for kids. We would stay here again. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
July 2009
$48
This is a wonderful campground. We stayed here during their high season (4th of July) in a diesel pusher. We had no real problems. The location is beautiful. We we in the Line-Camp among the trees so we could not get WiFi or Satellite TV. However, the views were excellent. All you can eat pancakes for $2.50 in the mornings. You can also get bacon, sausage and biscuits with gravy. A well stocked camp store, although the prices were high. Friendly staff. Rules were not strictly enforced but the park was pretty quiet. By 9 PM everyone was in bed - lol. I took my computer to the store so I could log onto the free WiFi. It was extremely slow, nearly unusable. Still, I would be happy to stay here again. Nice pool, hot tub, bike rentals and friendly staff. It is close to all of the major attractions, including Mt. Rushmore only a couple miles away. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
June 2009
$46
A beautiful park nestled in the woods. The kids loved the playground which was large and fairly new. We enjoyed the open space; enough to throw a frisbee. The Wi-Fi worked fine, and the location of the park is great. We went to the pancake breakfast and it was really good. The staff was really friendly and when my daughter asked the cashier if they found $3 she had lost (from the tooth fairy) the cashier GAVE her $3 to make her feel better! My only complaint(s) would be the lack of bathroom and shower facilities. This is a very large park, and does not have nearly enough facilities; nor were they clean. Also, the dumpsters were overflowing for days and there was nowhere to put our garbage. Even so, we still liked it. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 8 / 10 ]
[ 8 / 10 ]
June 2009
$43
Peaceful, clean and spacious. You could here a pin drop at night and the setting is very good. A very good base to explore the Black Hills. They had a nice hot tub for soak sore muscles from hiking and a very reasonably priced pancake breakfast in the mornings. We would camp here again. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
June 2009
$40
This is a resort. They could easily add several hundered more sites, actually, one on either side of me, to this resort. The spaces are extremely long, level and wide. There is a large and I mean large meadow in the center of the resort. I've never stayed anywhere that had this much open space. The roads are gravel and the sites are gravel with lots of grass. Yea...not a lot of concrete. Even when it rained here, the was very little standing water. Final comment, this is the first campground we've ever stayed that the pictures on their web site didn't truly represent how beautiful this place is. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 10 / 10 ]
[ 10 / 10 ]
June 2009
$47
Nice park, Lots of room with views, would stay again. We camped here in a Fifth Wheel.
Review Rating
[ 10 / 10 ]
[ 10 / 10 ]
June 2009
$51
This park is much like a state park in that the spaces are large and there is a lot of open space, with the upgrades (pool, etc.) of a commercial park. The park is quiet and roomy. There is excellent dog walking areas available. The roads are paved, dirt, and gravel. The pads are gravel and level. Mule deer are abundant. I would stay here again. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
June 2009
$46
Stayed in the Island section. Grounds were well maintained. Staff was friendly and helpful. Well stocked camp store. Restrooms were clean. I would recommend this campground. We camped here in a Fifth Wheel.
Review Rating
[ 8 / 10 ]
[ 8 / 10 ]
June 2009
$45
Nice facilities. Pretty location central to most everything in the Black Hills. We stayed in Base camp for the pull through and TV hookup. Drove around Ranch Camp but the road is a little rough and for smaller tents & trailers. Otherwise, well maintained. We'd probably choose the Main Camp on next visit as its close to the showers & laundry with full hookups and plenty of shade. We camped here in a Fifth Wheel.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
June 2009
$45
This is our first stay at this campground since 2006 and the personal and staff was very friendly and helpful which is a big improvement over our last stay here. This is a large campground with many sections and each area has there own special appeal. We chose to stay at the base camp with a back in site with full hookups. Our site was gravel and very level and no leveling blocks were needed all sites have a picnic table and fire pit. The Cable TV was good and the Wi-Fi was very good at our site. There are three laundries in the campground and we used the one at the main camp and it was nice and adequate. This is your idea campground for the Black Hills area which includes Mt. Rushmore, Crazy Horse Monument, and Custer State Park. We camped here in a Travel Trailer.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
May 2009
$30
Had a wonderful 2 nights at the Rafter J Bar Ranch. The views are beautiful, and the location is perfect if you've come here to visit Rushmore, Custer & Crazy Horse. This park is located right in the middle of all of them. The owners were very helpful and when it froze overnight, they were there to tell all of us to turn off our water connections and early the next morning, when it was okay to turn them back on. I would highly recommend this park! We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 10 / 10 ]
[ 10 / 10 ]
May 2009
$43
Two paved entrances. Very spacious property. Beautiful setting. Very clean, well-kept. Very quiet. Pancake breakfast available. Gravel interior roads, as well as site. Site base not real wide, and slightly unlevel. Much room between sites. Good for satellite. Great location for Mt Rushmore, Crazy Horse, Custer State Park, and the 1880's Train. Stayed four nights. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
May 2009
$44
A great campground, one of the nicest we saw in the Black Hills area. Well maintained grounds and facilities. Pancake breakfast available for a small fee. The Ranch Camp was the area we stayed in and would recommend that as it is close to bathrooms/laundry and more private/shaded sites. Good amount of room between sites. A beautiful location. Wi-Fi is only available near the office area. Would definitely return and stay again! We camped here in a Travel Trailer.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
September 2008
$35
We knew this would be a nice campground when the entrance road ran beside a pasture that had horses and a pretty little creek running through it. This is a huge place with several different camping areas from rustic wooded tent camping to full hook ups with huge open grassy fields in between. The staff was courteous and check in was quick and easy. We chose the full hook up area which had gravel roads and sites. Our site was level, but some RVs had to use lots of leveling blocks. All sites had a table and fire pit, and some sites had trees. Cable TV was good but limited. Wi-Fi was weak but usable. Restrooms/showers were clean, but they need to add one closer to our area. The pool was not open, but it looked like a nice area. The George Mickelson Hike/Bike Trail was nearby. This place was very centrally located for seeing the sights around Mt Rushmore, and after checking out several other campgrounds in the area we are sure we made the right choice. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
September 2008
$35
Very beautiful park, we loved the setting and the location. Stayed in the base camp area with full hookups and cable, wi-fi worked great. Great place for dogs. Quiet. Will stay here again We camped here in a Fifth Wheel.
Review Rating
[ 8 / 10 ]
[ 8 / 10 ]
September 2008
$33
This is a huge park convenient to the Black Hills attractions. The park is in a beautiful setting, with deer all over the place in the early morning. Sites are huge, well maintained, and easy to access. The only negative comment I have is that the Wi-Fi was not reliable. I would stay here again if I was in the area. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
September 2008
$37
Best location in the area for exploring the Black Hills. As other reviewers have mentioned, this is a very large RV park with 5 separate RV areas around a very large meadow. We stayed in the base camp area which is the only section with Cable TV. Pull-throughs were level, long and wide with stable power, some with shade. Wi-Fi was free. Very pet friendly. 3 miles to a nice market in Hill City. Looking at the other parks in the area this is by far the nicest RV park around. We camped here in a Fifth Wheel.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
September 2008
$37
HUGE RV Park. We stayed in the base camp section close to the office. Nice staff, large pull thrus and a fabulous view in all directions. Super close to Mt Rushmore and Custer State Park. This is one of the most scenic parks we have ever stayed in. Good Wi-Fi which was free. A great place to bring your pets. We camped here in a Fifth Wheel.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
August 2008
$43
We loved this campground. Spread out, nice amenities, lovely location and convenient to Crazy Horse and Mt Rushmore. Room for the biggest of RV's. Highly recommended. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 10 / 10 ]
[ 10 / 10 ]
July 2008
$46
This is happens to be our favorite campground in the U.S.! The Black Hills has become our favorite vacation destination for summer vacations and we have stayed at this campground twice now. Originally recommended to us by a friend we have found the campground to be a great destination for traveling with three young kids. The campground has a nice pool and hot tub and a variety of sites. I recommend the areas with the most trees, but the scenery is great everywhere. The location is excellent - only a few minutes from the main Black Hills attractions like Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse, Needles Highway, etc., etc. Hill City is also a nice town with some good restaurants and a convenient place to get groceries, gas, etc. The shower facilities at Rafter J Bar are the cleanest of any campground we have stayed at, completely cleaned twice a day! The best part about the Black Hills is the cool nights and virtually no bugs or mosquitoes making it great for a pop-up or tent. We have always stayed in a camper, but may try the camping cabins in the future if we didn't want to pull a trailer all the way. It is a good facility in a very scenic location. We camped here in a Tent Trailer.
Review Rating
[ 7 / 10 ]
[ 7 / 10 ]
July 2008
$44
Just big but that's it. The Ranch area has lots of shade. We made reservation 9 months prior requested the Ranch area. When we got there, they moved us to the Pine area which closer to the highway and was noisy. The sites are on dirt and gravel and not too even. The 100+ mile Mickelson bike trail is right next to the campground but there is a $3 fee per day to use it. $44 is not cheap plus $3 for additional person. Except for the pool, I don't recall seeing the playground for the kids. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 8 / 10 ]
[ 8 / 10 ]
July 2008
$42
There is a wide variety of sites, from heavily wooded to lined up in a row in several different camping areas, something for all tastes in camping. We got bad advice from store staff for Mt Rushmore celebration and almost missed the fireworks. There is a nice heated pool & hot tub, and bike rentals. We camped here in a Fifth Wheel.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
July 2008
$42
VERY NICE! This is the best campground we have stayed at! There were large level sites, BIG pines everywhere, and it was quiet. We even had deer walk through our campsite one night. Staff was friendly and pleasant. The location was great, close to all the attractions. We will stay here again in the future. Only reason I did not give a 10 is there were not enough pool chairs poolside. We camped here in a Travel Trailer.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
July 2008
$40
This is a huge facility that has earned its 5/5 diamond Woodall’s rating. The park was up to 279 sites when we were there (including some cabins), but it is spread over so much land it in no way feels crowded. Talk to management when you reserve about which of their 6 camping areas will be best for you. They are all separated by broad open meadows or trees and the sites are mostly nicely spaced and not at all cramped. It is a big family location that is in the center of the Black Hills attractions and the kids pretty well took over the pool while we were there. If you have a big-rig like we do, make sure you make it clear that you need a level site. We saw several rigs with one or more tires dangling quite a ways from ground. Your dumpster may also be a bit of a walk in some locations. If you get the site that is right for you and your unit, however, I’m sure you will be happy with this park. Good Sam discount available. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
June 2008
$40
This is our favorite campground in this area. Visited 2 years ago and returned this year. We stayed in "The Island". Peaceful and quiet, close to attractions. No bathroom/shower facilities in "The Island". Closest was Ranch Camp, which was a short walk away. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 8 / 10 ]
[ 8 / 10 ]
June 2008
$40
Very nice place to stay when visiting the Mount Rushmore area. Extremely convenient to all the attractions. Sites are spacious and most areas have plenty of trees. We camped here in a Travel Trailer.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
June 2008
$42
Wow-what can I say-beautiful surroundings, clean campground, and spacious sites with large Ponderosa Pines in a number of the camping areas! This was one of the best parks we have ever camped in. We spent 8 days here and enjoyed every minute of it except for the nightly storms! Managers and workers were especially helpful in determining which camping area and site would best suit our needs and accommodate our rig! As someone else suggested, be sure and look at a map of the campground since there are several different camping areas ranging from wide-open pull thru RV sites with full hookups, shaded back-in RV sites with full hookups, back-in RV sites with water and electricity only and popup and tent sites. There are plenty of things in the area to see and do as well as in the campground. As several others have said, some of the sites are not very level due to the terrain the park is built on, and the WIFI signal is weak in some of the camping areas. Also, some areas do not have their own shower/restroom or washing facilities located within reasonable walking distance. Don't miss trying the pancake breakfast-it is great and very reasonably priced! The campground also has a store with groceries, ice cream shop and some RV supplies. We would have rated this a 10 had restroom/shower and laundry facilities been near each camping area. Nightly rate was for a 50 amp site with full hookups and Good Sam discount. We camped here in a Fifth Wheel.
Review Rating
[ 8 / 10 ]
[ 8 / 10 ]
June 2008
$43
This campground came highly recommended by many friends. Reading reviews I see comments about the sites not being level - ours was not level either, but it wasn't bad. We camped deep in the campground, in the woods. I'm glad we did, as we had hail both nights we were there. They had a great deal on an all-you-can eat pancake breakfast, and frankly it was a darn good deal, and very tasty too. I could never get my computer to recognize the WIFI, however I did pick it up on my iPhone, so maybe it was an issue with my computer. The staff was very friendly, and the proximity to Crazy Horse and Mt Rushmore were ideal. I would camp here again. I saw many other less expensive campgrounds near by, however they were all on busy roads. I never heard any traffic from the busy road it was just too far from our site. This is a huge campground, so I'd recommend looking up the campground map online to see what facilities you would prefer to be near. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 4 / 10 ]
[ 4 / 10 ]
June 2008
$43
We decided to stay hear because of of AAA.. Campground refuses to give AAA discount, even though they list AAA on their billboards (right next to Good Sams) and Website. You will pay for 50 amp service even if you only have or want 30amp. Cable TV and Wi-Fi only available in certain areas. Sites not very level. Pros- Pretty campground, spacious sites, centrally located to visit area. Wouldn't stay here again. Too many other campgrounds that are nice and far cheaper. Not worth the price for what is offered. We camped here in a Fifth Wheel.
Review Rating
[ 6 / 10 ]
[ 6 / 10 ]
September 2007
$40
Frankly, this campground was not as good as we had expected from the other reviews. Some of the sites are horribly unlevel. I'm not sure how to prevent this, because we were assigned one while the campground was half empty and we had especially asked for a very level site. They let us move, but what if the campground were full? Be sure to ask if you need to be near a bathroom, because some sections are way too far away to use bath houses. This was not a problem for us. THE ADVERTISED WIFI IS BASICALLY FALSE ADVERTISING. Do not count on wifi. I'm not talking about being close enough for a good signal, because we had one. I'm talking about the fact that their satellite wifi is much much worse than dialup. Even basic e-mail was unacceptable. We camped here in a Truck Camper.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
August 2007
$41
This is a great campground. Large, shaded sites with a beautiful view of the surrounding hills. Very nice pool and camp store - be sure to try the homemade ice cream. I have yet to see a campground worthy of the $40+ price they charge, but this one comes closer than most. Conveniently located to the monuments, state parks, and caves. We camped here in a Travel Trailer.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
August 2007
$52
Huge and beautiful campground. Wide open meadows separating the different areas. We stayed here for 2 nights. The first night we were in site the lower ranch, we had to hike up the hill to get to the bathrooms in the rain, in the dark. There was no light, no path, and very muddy. The next morning we talked to the office about a refund for the second night because we just can't deal with that safety hazard unless they can assign us another site that is closer to the bathrooms. The manager arranged site #151 which is in the upper ranch area. Much better and closer to the bathrooms. This is the space to get if you do not have a huge rig. They only have bathrooms in 3 areas for this huge campground. They definitely should build more bathrooms around the campground. Fun to have the $2.00 all-you-can-eat pancake breakfast. Evening staff are high school kids and have attitudes. It was like a bother just to get ice-cream from them. Other than that, this is a great place to camp. Will come back if we can get site #151 again. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 10 / 10 ]
[ 10 / 10 ]
August 2007
$44
We moved here from the Rushmore/Hill City KOA, where we initially had a reservation, but opted not to stay. Beautiful surroundings, lovely views and open meadow, nice sites, very roomy - even in the main camping area where there is cable hookup. We stayed five days and wanted to have cable. The perimeter sites in the trees, were very nice, spacious and woodsy. We toured them on our bikes, and would have like it there, but no cable. Good location also, right off of the junction of HWY 16(385) and 244. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 7 / 10 ]
[ 7 / 10 ]
July 2007
$30
Loved the horses (site was across from the barn). Camp store was nice and had plenty of camping needs and souvenirs. Some staff were young, but nice even though they messed up my reservation and left a note for me to leave. Extremely steep roads and the dump site is on an incline that doesn't allow you to completely empty your tanks. Sites are spacious. Very close to major attractions, but there is a very steep hill to climb to get to the campground (something like 6% grade). We camped here in a Travel Trailer.
Review Rating
[ 10 / 10 ]
[ 10 / 10 ]
July 2007
$39
What else can I say, but this is a great campground. Very large spread out campground. They have the idea site for anyone. We camped in the full hook up sites on the east side of the office. The sites are very large and wide. The pool area, store and restrooms were very well maintained. A+ campground. We camped here in a Fifth Wheel.
Review Rating
[ 4 / 10 ]
[ 4 / 10 ]
July 2007
$43
We stayed in the line camp, and there was no grass. If it doesn't rain this is a nice park. BUT it did rain during our stay. We were surrounded by mud, couldn't help but track it inside. When we checked in the girl at the desk was rude and very quick to get rid of me. She didn't explain anything about the park, we didn't even know there was a pancake breakfast until the third day of our stay. I don't think we would come back We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
July 2007
$42
The site we were in was very spacious. Getting in and out of the park was fairly easy except they had me turn around in a washed out gravel area. Park had plenty of amenities for all ages. Hook ups were at the back of our site with the sewer about 10 feet behind the rig. We were in the Base Camp which was primarily Big Rigs. This area did not have a restroom facility or showers. Very good location to Crazy Horse and Mount Rushmore memorials. They had a big horse field in the middle of the campground that they allowed our dogs to run in as long as there were no horses around. Decent playground for the kids. Pancake breakfast served daily that was very affordable. We camped here in a Fifth Wheel.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
July 2007
$42
This campground is a bit pricey, but is the nicest in this area of the Black Hills. We stayed in the Ranch Camp, which is a distance from the office and pool (they have parking for those who drive to the pool). The entire Ranch Camp area is treed with pines, and is very shady. Our site was a water/30 amp back-in site, and was very spacious. There was enough room for our screen, then room on-site. Bathrooms were clean, and a there was a laundry facility in the bathhouse. The pool is large and there are no restrictions on kids in the hot tub (a mixed blessing, I guess). The location is ideal for a drive on the Needles Highway through Custer State Park, or to access Mt. Rushmore or the Crazy Horse memorial. Hill City is 3 miles away, with a number of restaurants and a decent grocery store. The Wi-Fi signal was very weak - I had to walk down to the area around the Lower Ranch Camp to pick up a signal and even then the connection was so V-E-R-Y slow as to be almost unusable. The only improvement I can think of would be to upgrade the Wi-Fi. We camped here in a Travel Trailer.
Review Rating
[ 10 / 10 ]
[ 10 / 10 ]
July 2007
$43
We've been here before and continue to admire this place. Great amenities w/wifi, pool, full hookups & 50 amp service (needed to run both a/c during hot summer months). Also great access to Rushmore/Crazy Horse/Custer SP/Lead/Deadwood/Sturgis/Devils Tower and of course, Rapid City. We will stay again. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 8 / 10 ]
[ 8 / 10 ]
July 2007
$41
We stayed in Base Camp, which is the least scenic of the sections, but the closest to the office, pool, stable and pancake breakfast. We were also able to get a few cable stations and wifi. Our site was big enough for our motorhome, sleeping tent for the kids (need permission for that) and our screen room. Campground offers a nice pool, laundry, arcade, well stocked store, meadow which was great for playing ball, ice cream counter and on site gasoline. If you are looking for a perfectly landscaped and manicured campground, this is not for you. It is natural and wild. Roads can get pretty dusty. We have checked out the other campgrounds in this area, and this one is the best. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
June 2007
$38
As others have said, it is the best campground in the area. We were in the Island section and had a very long site. It is all gravel and somewhat level. The staff was very friendly and helpful. The hot tub was very nice after a long day of site seeing. We would differently stay there again. The WIFI was iffy. We camped here in a Fifth Wheel.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
June 2007
$38
This is a great park and we would certainly stop here again. From what we saw of other CG's, this is the best. My only complaint was the $3 per person extra charge for over two on a campsite. I don't believe our 12 year old grandsons consumed another $6 worth of services per day. A nice feature is the all you can eat $2 pancake breakfast. We camped here in a Fifth Wheel.
Review Rating
[ 10 / 10 ]
[ 10 / 10 ]
June 2007
$38
Very nice beautiful park. From what we saw it is probably the best park in that area.This park is just as nice as the pictures on its web site show it. This park should be your first choice in the Rapid City area!!! We camped here in a Fifth Wheel.
Review Rating
[ 6 / 10 ]
[ 6 / 10 ]
June 2007
$38
Park is nice but staff is iffy. When we checked in the man at the office was not very friendly. We later asked to change spots and the man that helped me then was much nicer. I would have rated the park much higher if all the staff was customer focused. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
May 2007
$31
Nice park and nice reception people at the desk. At night the entrances are easy to miss if you're not familiar with the area. We camped here in a Travel Trailer.
Review Rating
[ 10 / 10 ]
[ 10 / 10 ]
May 2007
$33
This was a great CG and we hope to return soon. We only stayed 2 nights, but had we not been on a schedule, we would have stayed longer. The staff was very nice, the restrooms were some of the cleanest we have seen and their camp store was fantastic. We even had dinner there the first night (they sell pizza, ice cream, etc..) The sites were nicely spaced out with plenty of room. The WiFi worked really well where we were in the park. We purchased propane there and the price was very fair. They also have gas pumps on property, but no diesel. The pool was nice and they also had a rec room. We had zero issues. We camped here in a Fifth Wheel.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
September 2006
$40
Great place to spend Labor Day Weekend. Wasn't completely full. Stayed in the Island - nice wooded spots. Would have given it a 10, it is a great park. But the water pressure was extremely low all weekend and we lost power twice (both for less than 5 minutes during a gentle rain). Even with those very minor problems, we'd stay here again anytime. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 10 / 10 ]
[ 10 / 10 ]
August 2006
$40
We had an excellent time in this campground. The staff was very polite and friendly (even the young summer help). The facilities were very clean. We stayed in the Lower Ranch section of the campground and were very pleased with the site - a little morning sun, then shade from roughly 10AM on. The sites are also spaced well apart (40'), giving some breathing room and privacy. The sites are closely surrounded by trees, which makes backing in take a little more time (no big deal). We would definitely stay here again. We camped here in a Tent Trailer.
Review Rating
[ 8 / 10 ]
[ 8 / 10 ]
August 2006
$42
Probably the nicest CG in the Black Hills (we checked out several while we were there). I would have given the place higher marks except: a) we booked a specific site, didn't get it, and the staff told us that they had given the site we requested away (Bull), and b) road noise was much more than we expected (we were in the Island section - noise might have been less in the Ranch camp section). We camped here in a Fifth Wheel.
Review Rating
[ 10 / 10 ]
[ 10 / 10 ]
August 2006
$40
This was a great park. Lots of room, quiet...even with all the Sturgis people around. We were in space #81 in the tall timber. Bathroom/showers were close and very well taken care of. We rented a car from the office and visited Mt. Rushmore. Service was excellent...including after we left a cell phone behind. Staff not only found it, but mailed it back to us. We would definitely stay here again. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 10 / 10 ]
[ 10 / 10 ]
July 2006
$38
This is the best park I have ever stayed in. Sites are large and the park well kept. We were in the Island section of the park and had a feeling of privacy and enjoyed our stay. I would go back anytime I am in the area. I see why others have raved about this park. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
July 2006
$39
We stayed in the Ranch section which offered shade and yet allowed nice breezes throughout the day. Maneuvering was a bit tight but not impossible. Showers and laundry were kept spotlessly clean and were within close range of our site. Rafter J is located right on some of the most interesting parts of the Mickelson Bike Trail. Staff was extremely courteous and pleasant. The $2 all-you-can-eat pancake breakfast, offered by a retired couple on the property each morning, was very convenient and a great way to start the day. We will definitely stay there again when in the Black Hills. It was centrally located to all that we wanted to see and do. The town of Hill City is also nicely maintained with several interesting shops and access to the Mickelson Bike Trail. We camped here in a Travel Trailer.
Review Rating
[ 7 / 10 ]
[ 7 / 10 ]
July 2006
$42
Nice park but it seemed a bit expensive compared to other large RV parks. We camped here in a Travel Trailer.
Review Rating
[ 10 / 10 ]
[ 10 / 10 ]
July 2006
$40
Loved this campground. It is quite, and the site are big and quite. We had a family reunion here and everyone in our party loved this campground. This is a kid friendly campground. They have horseback riding, large meadows for soccer games or tag football. The pool is heated and clean. It is only minutes from Mt. Rushmore, Custer State Park, Crazy Horse. Jewel Cave is about a 1/2 hour drive. Bear County is about a 1/2 hour drive, not far from Rapid City. We will definitely stay here again. Would recommend this park to anyone. We stayed in the Lower Ranch area and loved it! We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 10 / 10 ]
[ 10 / 10 ]
July 2006
$42
A great campground. We had no problem with staff whatsoever. Many were younger college/high school kids, but were very polite and helpful. Laundry rooms were excellent, pool was great too. We stayed in the island area for 5 nights. We will be back to this campground. They keep everything cut nicely, grounds were very clean, and the roads were well maintained. Would recommend to anyone. We camped here in a Fifth Wheel.
Review Rating
[ 3 / 10 ]
[ 3 / 10 ]
July 2006
$45
They have five campground areas. They are each about a quarter to half mile apart. They only have bathrooms in three of the the five areas. If it is important to have bathroom and shower access, you must make sure you confirm this at the start. The Ranch area is very tight. We used the bathrooms here and drove there in our dually truck. I could hardly get the truck in the camping area because the trees were so tight to the road. I am talking 10 inches on each side of the truck. I do not know how people even got a pop-up in the sites. We camped here in a Fifth Wheel.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
June 2006
$36
Excellent! We will return. Don't miss the pancake breakfasts. This CG missed a "10 rating" only because the Wi-Fi via "Wild Blue Satellite" was slow. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
June 2006
$43
Excellent park! The sites were large and very well kept. Plenty of room for the kids to ride their bikes. The bathrooms were very clean. The only negative was the WiFi was very weak and over capacity much of our stay. I would recommend the park to everyone. We camped here in a Travel Trailer.
Review Rating
[ 10 / 10 ]
[ 10 / 10 ]
June 2006
$47
Nice park, we will stay here again if we are in the area. We camped here in a Fifth Wheel.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
June 2006
$39
We really liked this campground and would return in the future. The store was very well stocked, the staff was friendly. We stayed in the back of the ranch section at site 136, which was ideal for us with a 30 foot travel trailer, 3 kids, and 2 dogs. It was a mostly shady, huge site that was easy to back into. Some of the sites near us looked to be small and very difficult to get into because of the trees and curvy road. This is a huge campground with lots of space between camping areas. There are no bathroom facilities in the island, base and lower ranch sections so be prepared to have to hike to the restroom. There is so much to see and do in the area and we recommend that everyone see the laser light show at Crazy Horse. The Proud to be an American song at the end is phenomenal. We camped here in a Travel Trailer.
Review Rating
[ 7 / 10 ]
[ 7 / 10 ]
June 2006
$34
One of the best campground "layouts" we have been in. Lots of room for everyone to feel comfortable. Very helpful staff. A little expensive, but would not think twice to coming back. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 10 / 10 ]
[ 10 / 10 ]
June 2006
$27
This park is excellent for base camp in the Black Hills area. There are different area loops to stay in, we found that we like the Ranch Loop the best. There is a large pasture field in the middle of the different camping loops. There is a pancake breakfast every morning by the office. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 6 / 10 ]
[ 6 / 10 ]
May 2006
$39
We have camped at the Base Camp for the last 4 years and this year we were disappointed with our stay. The staff seemed to be rude this year and have an attitude. This is a nice camp ground and should be considered in your stay. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
August 2005
$39
Interesting that there are a few low ratings for this place. It is almost impossible to get into, and has a cult following on a very popular RV forum, so the old saying that you "can't please everybody" seems to apply. We have stayed here for years and always been satisfied. It is unusual in that there are several different camping areas that are quite a distance for each other. I prefer the upper and lower ranch camps and the island. We have stayed at other places nearby, including the KOA. There is no comparison. The KOA is tight, overcrowded, and geared toward removing as much cash from your wallet as possible. Rafter J is a lot more spread out, far less crowded and doesn't have the carnival atmosphere. I look forward to returning. We camped here in a Travel Trailer.
Review Rating
[ 10 / 10 ]
[ 10 / 10 ]
July 2005
$36
This was a great CG that was recommended by some friends of ours (a real 10 indeed!). We stayed in the Ranch Camp area that was perfect for tent trailers, a little far from the pool but not bad. Our spot was a shady site and afforded plenty of room and the bath/shower house was VERY CLEAN. The staff, very accommodating and helpful always took the time to put the guest first. With no cell service, I was unable to call home to report a safe arrival, the office let me use their phone for this purpose. The pool and hot tub were great and the store was well stocked. The only negative is if you need to use the phone bring a phone card. The pay phone was $7.00 (in change) for the first 3 min. to Chicago then the shirt off your back after that! (THIS IS NOT A NEGATIVE TO THE CAMPGROUND, just a rating of 1 for the telephone utility). I will definitely use this campground in the future as a base for enjoying the Black Hills. Be sure to see Crazy Horse, this was a great attraction and there is a Lakota flea market there to buy actual Native American items hand made on the reservation. We camped here in a Tent Trailer.
Review Rating
[ 8 / 10 ]
[ 8 / 10 ]
July 2005
$33
This is the nicest campground in the Black Hills. They have 5 different camps on the property, some are better than others, we were in the Line Camp - incredibly spacious and well shaded! Pool is fantastic, hot tub next to the pool. The staff keep the place very tidy. It's convenient to many places in the Black Hills. The only drawback seemed to be the attitude of the staff, which seemed to be "yeah, I'll help you because it's my job" most seemed to be college kids working there over summer break. I tend to think employee attitudes stem from the manager's. However, considering all the other benefits, I'd still stay here again. After checking out other campgrounds, this is the only place I'd stay in the Black Hills. We camped here in a Tent Trailer.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
July 2005
$39
We loved this place. We stayed in the ranch camp, and had a great site with a nice view and some privacy! Decent showers and laundry. There are about 5 different areas to pick from. The camp area between the pool and stables was full sun but all the other areas appeared spacious and at least partial shade; nice pool and store. Lots of open space to walk, ride bikes etc. Would defineately return! We camped here in a Travel Trailer.
Review Rating
[ 10 / 10 ]
[ 10 / 10 ]
July 2005
$42
Rafter J is a very nice park. We camped on the Island section. The restroom and shower house were clean. The staff was friendly and helpful. The pool was heated and clean. The camp store is well stocked and clean. Lots of space between campsites. Quiet hours were respected. Campground located in the center of the Black Hills. Well worth the money spent. We camped here in a Travel Trailer.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
June 2005
$39
This was our first trip to this campground and it was fantastic. It was central to everything we wanted to see, including Crazy Horse Memorial, Mount Rushmore and Custer State Park. We stayed in the Ranch Camp section and found the sites very roomy and level. The campground in all was very clean, well looked after and had a lot of amenities for the whole family to enjoy. We would strongly recommend this campground to anyone and look forward to returning. We camped here in a Travel Trailer.
Review Rating
[ 10 / 10 ]
[ 10 / 10 ]
June 2005
$37
We stayed here in June 2005 in the Island section. The campground was very nice with large sites and excellent staff. We were allowed to stay an additional day beyond what we had reserved without changing sites. The Island section is very nice with shade and a large area for the kids to play. The restrooms were very clean as well as the laundry facilities. This campground is conveniently located to numerous attractions in the Black Hills area to include Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse. We camped here in a Fifth Wheel.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
June 2005
$35
We loved this campground except for one thing, the sewer drain at our campsite was higher than our drain line, which created a little bit of a problem for us. The campground itself is very beautiful with lots of trees and spacious feeling throughout. The pool and rest rooms were clean as well as the laundry facilities, which we used a few times during our 4 night stay at the park. The staff could have been a little more friendly, but they weren't necessarily rude either--just not overly friendly. The park is a great base camp for Black Hills sight-seeing and is very quiet and peaceful. Highly reccommend! We camped here in a Travel Trailer.
Review Rating
[ 1 / 10 ]
[ 1 / 10 ]
May 2005
$33
We have stayed at this campground for the last three years and we were very disappointed this year in our stay. Not only were the facilities not as clean, the staff was extremely rude (especially the owner). They had a problem with the fact that we had more than 2 adults staying at the same site and made our stay very uncomfortable. We had convinced other people to stay with us at the campground that had stayed at the Rushmore Shadows. We felt so unwelcome here, I guess we will be camping at Rushmore Shadows next year! We camped here in a Tent Trailer.
Review Rating
[ 8 / 10 ]
[ 8 / 10 ]
August 2004
$37
This is a very large and spread out campground that calls itself a ranch and it could have
easily been one at one time. Actually, along with a great deal of things to do, there are also horses on the property that may be available for use by the guests. The park is divided into several sections, some heavily wooded and some just located along the woodline. In between, there are clearings, open pastures and fields. We stayed at the "Island" section which is a little removed from the main portion and provided quite a lot of quiet privacy. Staff are friendly and there are reportedly new owners this past year who are eager to please. The resort is very near many of the major attractions and we enjoyed our week-long stay here very much. We camped here in a Fifth Wheel.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
September 2004
$36
We stayed at upper Ranch Camp. Lots of trees but still navigable, we even got the dish to work. One of the best in the Black Hills. There is a traffic signal on the highway near here, and on a still night it sounds like they are running heats at motocross every time the thing turns green. Otherwise a ten. We would come back. We camped here in a Fifth Wheel.
Review Rating
[ 1 / 10 ]
[ 1 / 10 ]
July 2004
$35
Simply put. The Rafter J staff was abrupt and rude. We will never camp there again. We camped here in a Tent Trailer.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
2004
$32
We stayed here after labor day in 2004. We had a small travel trailer with full hookups
and everything worked very well. The park was excellent, the people friendly, the facilities were clean the one time my wife used them, however the shower stalls were a little cramped, much like our trailer. I asked if it was okay to set up a telescope in one of the meadows and had no problems. I really liked this campground and would go back whenever I am out that way. We camped here in a Travel Trailer.
Review Rating
[ 10 / 10 ]
[ 10 / 10 ]
2004
$36
This was by far the nicest campground we have been to. It is wide open space and beautiful. There was nothing about this campground we didn't like. The sites were large and easy to access and the interior roads are very good. Contrary to other posts we found all of the employees (including the teenagers) to be very polite and helpful. The horse trail rides were great. We will return here, but I now know why a reservation is a must. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 10 / 10 ]
[ 10 / 10 ]
2004
$36
This is a large campground with 5 camping areas separated by meadows. We camped under the pines. The bathroom had white tile and white grout. Very clean. The pool was heated. They have horses and stables. We went on a horse back ride in the
forest. Granddaughters 7 and 8 and we who are early 70's. The whole experience was magic. The pool warm and clean. Also had a hot tub in pool area. Pleasant
employees. Located in a great area and close to what we wanted to see. If you want satillite cable you will have to ask for that area of the campground.
We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 3 / 10 ]
[ 3 / 10 ]
2004
$50
Rafter J is over priced for what you get. It is a beautiful campground, but as stated some sites are hard to get into, at least in the Ranch Camp where we stayed. They need to upgrade their bath houses, we had at least one broken toilet, shower, washer, or dryer everyday of our visit and usually there was no hot water in the morning for showering. One evening I told a park employee about a plugged toilet in the womens bath house, and he didn't have time, because he was just there to pick up some tools to fix another plugged sewer elsewhere in the park. Some camps don't have bath houses so people from other parts come to the other bathouses, which makes quite a bit of a line up in the morning for one toilet, which we had in the mens bathroom on two different days. They are in desperate need for some new plumbing and more shower houses. On another day they oiled the gravel roads, with out warning any of the campers first. The oil smelled nasty and caused several people in our two families to feel quite nauseated, and to say the least is stuck to my truck and anyone else's truck who had to drive through it to leave the campground. I spent $9 at the coin wash in town to try washing it off, which helped but not still did not remove the oil completly. After speaking with the manager, who lied to me and said it was their first time that they had oiled the roads, after numerous employees told my wife and sister in law that it's done every year, they weren't willing to do much for us or cover any of the cost of cleaning. I think Rafter is trying to impress Woodalls and Trailer Life, when they need to take care of the basics first. If I ever return to the Hills again, it certainly wouldn't be with Rafter J, go elsewhere. We camped here in a Travel Trailer.
Review Rating
[ 5 / 10 ]
[ 5 / 10 ]
2004
$25
This park is very old. We ask for a gravel site and received one. Site has some gravel years ago, but not much. Park has been in service about 40 years now. Outlet missing at modem and could not find switch for lights in room. One outlet near by was the old two pin type and would not work. We spent two days in park and left, will not come back. Lot of very nice parks close by to stay in. Cabin side of park was very nice. Owners need to spend some money to update RV park. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 6 / 10 ]
[ 6 / 10 ]
2003
$35
It was a nice park with different camp areas. We booked the Island Camp and got the upper
ranch camp. This camp was private with large sites. We had a really nice site but some were hard to get in and out of because of the amount of trees. It was also extremely filthy as far as dirt was concerned. Everything was full of black dust without any effort. I do think that it was one of the nicer areas of the park though.
Aside from the Island Camp, I didn't like the rest of the park. The main and base camps were very crowded and out in the open. The pool was large and very nice. Their laundry facilities were mediocre. The staff, I agree with the other poster. They have youth that really yet need to aquire people skills. If you have a simple request, they act like you're dopey for asking, and their answers are very short with totally blank expressions on their faces. I tried to be friendly but it was a one-way street. Though it wasn't our favourite place, we would consider staying there again We camped here in a Travel Trailer.
Review Rating
[ 10 / 10 ]
[ 10 / 10 ]
2003
$35
Rafter J is the place to stay when visting the Black Hills. It was recommended to me, and
boy was everyone correct. This is the best place to stay. We are going to be returning to Black Hills in the Summer of 2004. Rafter J is where we will stay. Hint, make reservations to stay at this campground, the reason being is they are THAT good, and so they fill up fast. Another Plus to this campground is you are allowed a campfire. We camped here in a Travel Trailer.
Review Rating
[ 10 / 10 ]
[ 10 / 10 ]
2003
$34
Wonderful campground! There are 5 camp areas within the campground - something for everyone. Satellite TV hookup is available in only one of the camp areas, but you don't need it here. The area is so beautiful and the campground is in the valley looking up at Harney Peak. Close to Mount Rushmore and Custer State Park. I think this was our favorite campground of the whole trip. Will definitely go back. We camped here in a Travel Trailer.
Review Rating
[ 10 / 10 ]
[ 10 / 10 ]
2003
$34
Stayed in the island area. Recommend the last campsite in the island. We overlooked approximately 25 acres of spacious landscape. Campground could easily put more sites in. However, they have elected to keep this campground very well laid out. Would highly recommend this campground. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
2003
$40
What can you say about this one that hasn't already been said.. The only problem we had is that it was the only CG on our whole trip that didn't accept checks...I would advise asking for either island or ranch, if you want large sites(and they are) and shade. Lower Ranch and Main are close together and no shade.It is quite central to almost anything you want to do in the Black Hills.We stayed 6 nites and enjoyed it.... We camped here in a Travel Trailer.
Review Rating
[ 2 / 10 ]
[ 2 / 10 ]
2003
$35
Rafter J has an excellent rating and nice writeup and the place looks nice. We drove in and asked for a site and was told by the young staff in a rude manner that we had to make reservations weeks in advance to stay there. Both my wife and I commented that the staff was abrupt and down right rude. Customer service is not there high point. June 2003 We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 7 / 10 ]
[ 7 / 10 ]
2003
$28
This campground is ok, but didn't find it to be anything special. We reserved months in advance for the island area, but when we got there they had us in the ranch area, a very small, tight site. This was not acceptable for our RV, so they gave us a choice of two available sites, one of which was taken and the other a small corner site in the main camp. Very disappointing. I will look at other campgrounds if I visit the area again. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
2003
$30
Three different areas to camp. Cable not at all areas. Nice views and sites and people. Pet Friendly. Fairly close to Mt. Rushmore. We camped here in a Motorhome.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
2002
$24
Really nice. The Island is one of the better areas for shade and site width but we stayed in the part of the park where we overlooked the expansive meadow in site 170. Nobody on 3 sides of us. When we go back to SD we will stay here again. We camped here in a camper.
Review Rating
[ 10 / 10 ]
[ 10 / 10 ]
2001
$25
We also stayed at the "island". We had been there before in 1993 and it is just as nice now as it was then. Very busy in the summer but great in September after the kids are back in school. Very nice staff and owners. The only drawback we found were the numerous flies in the area. The area is clean, well kept and I would recommend it for anyone going to the Black Hills. We camped here in a camper.
Review Rating
[ 9 / 10 ]
[ 9 / 10 ]
2000
$28
Very nice park. We stayed in the "Islands" section which is more secluded and quiet. Mature pine trees everywhere. This park is very busy in the summer and would recommend reservations. Very large sites. We camped here in a camper.
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