Boondocking Badlands South Dakota
We hooked up our inTech RV and headed out west. We ventured out on October 10th, 2020, please note that a lot of things are closing for the season that week and the week thereafter. We did not know this before we arrived but enjoyed a lot less tourists. We didn't have an itinerary. We knew we were heading to Badlands National Park in South Dakota. We had researched a few spots that we were going to visit, and the rest is history. We wanted to boondock on the "Wall" overlooking the Badlands. We boondocked on the "Wall" and Sage Creek and visited a lot of places in between. In this post we will describe our journey and must visit recommendations, along with some tips and reviews of places we visited.
First Stop: Wall Drug Store | Wall, South Dakota
Signs, everywhere, there is signs for this place. It's been said there are over 300 billboards starting at approximately 650 miles away including Minnesota, South and North Dakota, Nebraska, Montana and Wyoming. Wall Drug Store is approximately 76,000 square feet and features, drug store, Western art gallery, gift shop, and restaurants. They advertise free ice water and five cent coffee. It is a very curious tourist destination that draws in approximately 2 million visitors a year, not bad for a town that only has about 800 residents. The decor and interior design is like no other. Wall Drug has a little bit of everything for everyone. Definitely check out Wall Drug if you are in the area.
Second Stop: Boondocking on the "Wall" South Dakota
Boondocking is essentially dry camping. You are not connected to shore power, or water. You are running off of generator, solar, battery, propane, or nothing. When we arrived at the Badlands, we were greeted with no generator signs, so be prepared for that. We were okay because we had propane and isobutane stoves and a propane heater.
Since there are no established facilities, you'll need to come prepared. Ensure you have enough water, food, and other supplies for the duration of your stay. A reliable power source and waste disposal plan are also essential. Boondocking the Badlands South Dakota is all about self-sufficiency, and with the right equipment and mindset, it's incredibly rewarding.
How do you get to the "Wall" Badlands aka Buffalo Gap National Grasslands aka Nomad View Dispersed Camping.
South on Hwy 240
You will see two antenna towers on left side of road.
Unmarked gravel road, at the gate please close behind you. Take gravel road until it forks. Park and set up where you like.
Words of wisdom. Be prepared for very windy conditions, so please do not park to close to the cliffs and use your stabilizers. You can stay for up to 14 days as per the guidelines of the Bureau of Land Management. Enjoy one of the top 5 boondocking spots in the United States.
Boondocking on the Wall in South Dakota offers a rare chance to disconnect from the everyday and connect with the wild. The unmatched scenery, wildlife encounters, and the sense of self-sufficiency make it a unique adventure for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're an experienced boondocker or trying it for the first time, this remote and pristine corner of South Dakota will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression and a desire to return for more. So pack your gear, respect the land, and embark on a journey to the rugged beauty of the Wall in South Dakota.
Third Stop: Sage Creek Campground
Sage Creek Campground located in Wall, SD is operated by the National Park Service and is first come first serve, free campground that features 22 sites, pit toilet, and trash receptacles. The road into the campground is not paved and was very wash boarded when we were there. There is no water on site and according to the NPS campers and motorhomes that are 18 feet or longer are prohibited. We loved this site and it felt like you were 1,000 miles from nowhere. Our neighbors were bison and lots of prairie dogs.
Sage Creek Campground is situated in the western part of Badlands National Park, making it an ideal base for exploring the park's stunning geological formations and abundant wildlife. It is accessible via the Sage Creek Rim Road, a gravel road that adds to the feeling of being off the beaten path. While the campground is remote, it's still relatively easy to reach, and the journey itself is an adventure.
At Sage Creek Campground, you'll experience camping in its purest form. There are no designated campsites, no water, and no electricity. You'll need to bring all your camping gear, including plenty of water, a reliable tent, or small camper, and adequate supplies. The lack of amenities may seem challenging, but it's this very simplicity that attracts camping purists looking for a true wilderness experience.
Fourth Stop: Mount Rushmore
When in South Dakota you must stop and visit Mount Rushmore in Keystone, South Dakota. Check out George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. This project began in 1927 and ended in 1941. It is amazing to see in person and you can hike the presidential trail, it's a .6-mile trail taking you around the base offering a closer up view of the sculpture. There is no entrance fee for Mount Rushmore, but you do have to pay for parking. I think we paid $10.00 which is cheap to visit this historic site.
Fifth Stop: Custer State Park
Wow! that is the first word that comes to my mind about Custer State Park. 71,000 acres
of wildlife, beautiful landscapes and a very scenic beautiful drive. You can purchase a 7-day pass for $20.00 if you are not South Dakota resident.
Tucked away in the heart of South Dakota's Black Hills, Custer State Park is a hidden gem that perfectly balances the rugged wilderness of the American West with breathtaking natural beauty. With its rich history, diverse wildlife, and stunning landscapes, Custer State Park is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts, outdoor adventurers, and anyone seeking a tranquil escape. You can spot Bison, White Tailed Deer, Mule Deer, Pronghorn, Big Horn Sheep, Prairie Dogs, feral burros, and other wildlife as well.
The above burros will visit you at your vehicle. You can find them on the 18-mile wildlife loop. This is one of the best wildlife loops we have found in state and national parks. We were fortunate to be in the park while they are rounding up bison to vaccinate and check to see if females were pregnant. (Bottom Picture)
The above picture is of Sylvan Lake in Custer State Park. Sylvan Lake is a 17-acre lake with beautiful rock formations. This lake was featured in the movie National Treasure 2, the movie depicted this lake behind Mount Rushmore when in all actuality the lake is approximately 5 miles from Mount Rushmore. Sylvan Lake is a favorite among visitors. Nestled among the granite peaks of the Black Hills, Sylvan Lake is perfect for picnicking, swimming, or simply taking in the mesmerizing reflections of the surrounding rock formations. You can rent canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards to explore the crystal-clear waters and marvel at the unique rock formations that make this place so special.
This concludes Part One of our South Dakota Boondocking Journey, we will write a follow up blog where we will elaborate more on our trip to Devils Tower, Spearfish Canyon, Spearfish Falls, and Deadwood. Stay tuned.