Dutchman, Black Hills National Forest - Recreation.gov (2024)

Black Hills National Forest

Dutchman Campground, located in a shady Ponderosa pine forested area on the northeast edge of Deerfield Reservoir at 5,000 feet. This camp is an ideal setting for guests seeking recreation and relaxation in Black Hills National Forest.

Sites in the campground are widely spaced, and a few offer wide views of the lake. Of the 3 campgrounds in the Deerfield Recreation Area, this one is the most RV-friendly.

Dutchman Campground has sites able to accommodate tents, trailers, and RVs. The campground has picnic tables, campfire rings, vault toilets, and drinking water; however, electrical hook-ups are not available. Lake access is within walking distance. Deerfield Lake is a no wake lake.

Need to Know

  • These campsites are non-electric sites. Generators may run from 6 a.m. until 10 p.m. only.
  • Non-reservable sites may be available on a first come-first served basis

  • A pet fee of $2 per pet per night is required upon check in. Pets must be leashed, under control and attended at all times.

  • Drinking water is available but you CANNOT hook up for filling.

    • The Senior and Access discounts are only honored for the site that houses the card holder.
    • If multiple sites are reserved on one card, the rest of the camping fee will be collected upon arrival unless another card holder occupies the site.
  • Sites 9,10, 23 & 37 are double sites for up to 2 rigs and up to 16 people. The fee is double ($48) if the site is used in this manner. The camp host will collect any additional fees warranted upon arrival.

  • During the off season, fewer sites may be available.

  • Prevent the spread of invasive species by inspecting and cleaning packs, equipment, and tires before using lake or trails
  • Don't Move Firewood: Prevent the spread of tree-killing organisms by obtaining firewood at or near your destination and burning it on-site. For more information visit dontmovefirewood.org.
  • Click here for more information about Black Hills National Forest.

Natural Features

Located in western South Dakota and northeastern Wyoming, Black Hills National Forest encompasses nearly 1.25 million acres of rugged rock formations, canyons and gulches, open grassland parks, tumbling streams, deep blue lakes, and unique caves.

Derived from the Lakota language, the words "Paha Sapa," meaning "hills that are black," honor the dark, pine-covered hills rising several thousand feet above the surrounding prairie.

Wildlife in the area abounds. Bighorn sheep navigate mountainous terrain, while elk, deer and pronghorn gather in forests and prairies. Bald eagles, hawks, osprey, peregrine falcon, and hundreds of other bird species can be found in the forest, especially along streams, lakes and rivers.

Nearby Attractions

Possible day trips include Custer State Park with its many buffalo and other wildlife, Crazy Horse Monument and Wind Cave National Park as well as Jewel Cave which is the second longest cave in the world at 159.29 miles. It features sparkling calcite crystals and other rare formations, as well as some of the largest concentrations of passageways in the world

Recreation

Black Hills National Forest offers recreational opportunities for all ages. Guests can take advantage of opportunities for hiking, fishing, horseback riding, mountain biking, and riding off-highway vehicles (OHVs) on moderate terrain.

Open to hikers, bikers, and horseback riders, the 10-mile Deerfield Lake Loop Trail encircles Deerfield Lake, traversing the forested shoreline. It offers fantastic views and opportunities for birding and picnicking.

Across the lake, Deerfield Trail connects Deerfield Lake with Rapid Creek and Pactola Reservoir. Sites including a log flume, cabins, mines, tunnels and railroad grades provide visitors with a glimpse into the area's history.

Deerfield Reservoir is an ideal spot for fishing and boating. The lake supports populations of stocked rainbow and native brown trout.

Changes & Cancellations

No refunds will be given for weather or related events.

Contact Information

Mailing Address

Forest Recreation Management, Inc P.O. Box 1168 Hill City SD 57745

Phone Number

For campground inquiries, please call: 605-673-9200

Rental Options

Learn more about gear rental options for your trip

Driving Directions

Take Forest Highway 17 (Deerfield Road) for 16 miles northwest of Hill City, SouthDakota.

Available Campsites

  • Site 043, Loop DUTC, Type Standard Nonelectric
  • Site 017, Loop DUTC, Type Standard Nonelectric
  • Site 011, Loop DUTC, Type Standard Nonelectric
  • Site 007, Loop DUTC, Type Standard Nonelectric
  • Site 026, Loop DUTC, Type Standard Nonelectric
  • Site 028, Loop DUTC, Type Standard Nonelectric
  • Site 013, Loop DUTC, Type Standard Nonelectric
  • Site 032, Loop DUTC, Type Standard Nonelectric
  • Site 029, Loop DUTC, Type Standard Nonelectric
  • Site 033, Loop DUTC, Type Standard Nonelectric
  • Site 035, Loop DUTC, Type Standard Nonelectric
  • Site 018, Loop DUTC, Type Standard Nonelectric
  • Site XXX, Loop DUTCHMAN, Type Standard Nonelectric
  • Site 003, Loop DUTC, Type Standard Nonelectric
  • Site 015, Loop DUTC, Type Standard Nonelectric
  • Site 012, Loop DUTC, Type Standard Nonelectric
  • Site 025, Loop DUTC, Type Standard Nonelectric
  • Site 036, Loop DUTC, Type Standard Nonelectric
  • Site 037, Loop DUTC, Type Standard Nonelectric
  • Site 002, Loop DUTC, Type Standard Nonelectric
  • Site 016, Loop DUTC, Type Standard Nonelectric
  • Site 027, Loop DUTC, Type Standard Nonelectric
  • Site 004, Loop DUTC, Type Standard Nonelectric
  • Site 001, Loop DUTC, Type Standard Nonelectric
  • Site 009, Loop DUTC, Type Standard Nonelectric
  • Site 014, Loop DUTC, Type Standard Nonelectric
  • Site 042, Loop DUTC, Type Standard Nonelectric
  • Site 041, Loop DUTC, Type Standard Nonelectric
  • Site 038, Loop DUTC, Type Standard Nonelectric
  • Site 010, Loop DUTC, Type Standard Nonelectric
  • Site 034, Loop DUTC, Type Standard Nonelectric
  • Site 044, Loop DUTC, Type Standard Nonelectric
  • Site 023, Loop DUTC, Type Standard Nonelectric
  • Site 039, Loop DUTC, Type Standard Nonelectric

Photo Gallery

  • Dutchman, Black Hills National Forest - Recreation.gov (1)
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Dutchman, Black Hills National Forest - Recreation.gov (2024)

FAQs

Can you Boondock in Black Hills National Forest? ›

Setting up your own campsite away from developed fee sites, also known as dispersed camping, is allowed on most of the Forest for a maximum of 14 days in any 60-day period. However, around developed reservoirs, lakes, and campgrounds, camping is allowed only in designated areas.

How much does it cost to camp at Black Hills National Forest? ›

While amenities like electric hook-ups and showers are not provided, most sites have potable water and vault toilets. Campground fees range from $16 to $28.50 per night, and group camping is available near Pactola Reservoir and Sheridan Lake with advanced reservations.

Do you need a park pass for Black Hills National Forest? ›

Many picnic grounds, trailheads, and other recreation sites at Black Hills National Forest have no day use fee. Yet, some developed areas charge a fee. If you visit these sites frequently, you may want to purchase a Seasonal Recreation Pass for Black Hills National Forest Facilities.

Do you need reservations for Black Hills National Forest? ›

Campground reservations may be made through Recreation.gov at 1-877-444-6777 or online (link below). Due to high demand, reservations are recommended.

What are the rules for Boondocking in South Dakota? ›

Dispersed campers must set up their tents 100 feet away from any road, stream, or trail, and the dispersed camping sites should be at least ½ mile away from any developed areas. The Black Hills National Forest is near Custer State Park and Mt. Rushmore National Monument.

Where can I camp for free in the Black Hills? ›

Top Free Dispersed Camping near Black Hills National Forest
  • RD 356 Dispersed Site Black Hills National Forest. ...
  • North Pole Rd Dispersed Camping. ...
  • Spring Creek Road. ...
  • West Nemo - Dispersed Camping. ...
  • Dispersed Camping near Calumet Road. ...
  • Needles Highway Dispersed Site. ...
  • Mount Roosevelt Road Dispersed Campsite.

What is the best time of year to visit the Black Hills? ›

Old-timers say the best time to visit the Black Hills is in September or October. We agree as we particularly enjoy the fall colors, which are usually at their best in the first or second week of October. Hikers and other outdoor enthusiasts also favor autumn when daytime temperatures are usually cooler.

Do you need a permit to camp in the Black Hills? ›

The Black Hills National Forest is open, free of charge, for your use and enjoyment. Fees may be charged and permits required for some activities and locations, including camping and parking fees.

Are dogs allowed in the Black Hills? ›

Pets are permitted on all Black Hills National Forest trails and on trails in Custer State Park.

Can you have a campfire in the Black Hills National Forest? ›

Campfires are allowed in undeveloped areas in the Wyoming portion of the Black Hills National Forest. Before building a campfire, please clear all nearby vegetation and establish a campfire ring.

How much does it cost to enter Custer State Park? ›

The Custer State Park entrance fee is $20/vehicle for a seven day pass. Motorcycle passes are $10. An Annual Park Entrance License for $30 also covers entrance fees. Camping fees for Custer State Park are $11-25/night, depending on site.

How much does it cost to get into the Badlands? ›

Get an entrance pass
PassPrice
Standard Pass$15.00–$30.00
Annual Pass$55.00
America the Beautiful Pass (includes Senior Passes)FREE–$80.00
Jun 4, 2024

How long does it take to visit Black Hills National Forest? ›

And while each of those locations deserve their own visit, we highly recommend giving at least a day for the beauty of the Black Hills National Forest to really shine. How ever you choose to explore, be sure to do so responsibly and leave no trace.

Is Black Hills National Forest worth visiting? ›

The Black Hills National Forest is a drive that offers scenery and wildlife. The Peter Norbeck Byway offers overlooks with views of Mount Rushmore National Monument. There are historic timber bridges and other scenic views and stops along the way.

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