Elk Mountain Campground

Elk Mountain Campground offers a rare blend of prairie and forest landscapes, providing campers with an intimate connection to Wind Cave National Park's diverse ecosystems. This year-round campground strikes a balance between accessibility and seclusion, with sites nestled among ponderosa pines or overlooking expansive grasslands. The campground's strategic location within the park positions visitors for effortless exploration of Wind Cave's underground marvels and aboveground wildlife.

Situated just a quarter-mile from the Wind Cave Visitor Center, Elk Mountain serves as an ideal base for cave tours and wildlife watching. The campground's elevation of 4,200 feet ensures cool summer nights, while its position at the forest's edge invites encounters with bison, elk, and pronghorn that frequent the nearby prairie. Hot Springs, the nearest town, is a mere 15-minute drive south, offering convenient access to supplies and additional attractions like the Mammoth Site.

Campers at Elk Mountain can immerse themselves in the park's 30 miles of hiking trails, many of which begin near the campground. The nearby Rankin Ridge Trail rewards hikers with panoramic views of the Black Hills. For those seeking underground adventure, Wind Cave's unique boxwork formations are just minutes away, with ranger-led tours departing regularly from the visitor center during peak season.