Castle Peak Campground
3.9818 reviewsCastle Peak Campground, Castle Peak Road, FSR 181, Black Hills National Forest, South Dakota
Quick Facts
Price
Free
Booking
Walk-in Only
Sites
9 campsites
Season
Year-round
Cell
No Service
Pets
Not Allowed
Quick Facts
Price
Free
Booking
Walk-in Only
Sites
9 campsites
Season
Year-round
Cell
No Service
Pets
Not Allowed
Castle Peak Campground
$0.00 - $19.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Overnight camping fees during peak season are $19 per night. During the off-season, overnight camping is free. Interagency Senior/Access Recreation...
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Standard Site Fee$19.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$19.00
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USFS
Provider(605) 343-1567
What Campers Say
3.98
Mixed Reviews
Based on 18 reviews
40 Google reviews
Most mentioned
privacyquietsites
"User reviews emphasize Castle Peak Campground's remote and primitive nature. Positive themes include its secluded location, scenic beauty, and quiet atmosphere. Negative aspects include the rough road leading to the campground and issues such as trash being left in the restroom."
Fees & Passes at Castle Peak Campground
Free
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: Stay limit not explicitly mentioned.
Cancellation: Reservations are not available; all sites are first-come-first-served.
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Mystic Ranger District, U.S. Forest Service website.
Best Time to Camp at Castle Peak Campground
Each season paints Castle Peak in dramatically different hues. Winter transforms the canyon into a hushed wonderland where temperatures dip into the teens and fresh snow blankets the spruce boughs. Come summer, the mercury climbs to comfortable mid-70s, punctuated by refreshing afternoon rain showers that release the earthy scent of pine. Spring arrives with unpredictable charm, mixing snow flurries with warming sunshine, while autumn delivers crisp mountain air and crystal-clear skies perfect for stargazing.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm days. Most facilities open. Reserve ahead.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: Peak season fees apply during the main camping season; off-season camping is free.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: The campground is accessible year-round, with peak season fees applicable.
About Castle Peak Campground
Tucked away in a secluded canyon where Castle Creek whispers through towering spruce trees, Castle Peak Campground offers an authentic wilderness escape with just nine intimate campsites. This hidden gem beckons those seeking solitude and simplicity, where the loudest sounds are birdsong and rustling branches. Far from crowds and conveniences, this primitive sanctuary delivers the kind of peaceful nights under star-filled skies that modern life rarely allows.
Castle Peak Campground is classified as a primitive camping destination with minimal facilities. It features nine individual campsites and is described as secluded and hard to access.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Castle Peak in dramatically different hues. Winter transforms the canyon into a hushed wonderland where temperatures dip into the teens and fresh snow blankets the spruce boughs. Come summer, the mercury climbs to comfortable mid-70s, punctuated by refreshing afternoon rain showers that release the earthy scent of pine. Spring arrives with unpredictable charm, mixing snow flurries with warming sunshine, while autumn delivers crisp mountain air and crystal-clear skies perfect for stargazing.
Natural Features and SceneryMother Nature serves as the primary caretaker of this pristine landscape, where ancient spruce sentinels stand guard over the babbling waters of Castle Creek. The canyon walls create a natural amphitheater of stone and forest, offering campers an immersive wilderness experience. Moss-covered rocks line the creek banks, while filtered sunlight dances through the dense canopy overhead, creating an enchanted atmosphere that feels untouched by time.
Geological RegionNestled within the ancient formations of the Black Hills National Forest, Castle Peak Campground sits in a dramatic canyon carved by centuries of flowing water. The surrounding geology tells a story millions of years in the making, where granite peaks give way to forested valleys and Castle Creek continues its patient work of sculpting the landscape. This corner of the Black Hills showcases nature's artistry through weathered rock faces, verdant spruce forests, and the ever-present soundtrack of moving water.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityRestroom facilities are available, but other accessibility features are not mentioned.
Sites SizeThe campground features nine individual campsites, but no detailed descriptions of sizes are provided.
Sites PrivacyUser reviews highlight the well-spaced nature of the campsites offering privacy. One reviewer suggests not parking tents next to other campers for a quieter experience.
Total Campsites9 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites next to Castle Creek are recommended for their scenic location. Users suggest distancing tents from others for privacy.
Best Campsites
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Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Stay limit not explicitly mentioned.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Exact number of guests per site not specified.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground layout features nine campsites, spread out to offer privacy. Many sites are located near Castle Creek.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground is accessible year-round, with peak season fees applicable.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are not supported; sites are first-come-first-served.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are available on a walk-up basis, as reservations are not supported.
Cancellation PolicyReservations are not available; all sites are first-come-first-served.
Amenities available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Castle Peak Campground offers visitors a remote and scenic location for outdoor activities. While specific recreational facilities are not outlined, user reviews describe activities such as observing wildlife and enjoying the creek flowing through the area.
Wildlife viewing
User reviews mention observing wildlife such as elk near the campground. One reviewer noted seeing a herd of elk before deciding to turn back due to rough road conditions.Winter Activities
Winter activities such as snow camping are not mentioned.Water Sports
Water sports are not described or mentioned in the sources.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fire policies are not explicitly stated; visitors should consult local guidelines.
- Quiet hours are from 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.
Hazards
General hazardsRoad conditions leading to the campground are rough and narrow, particularly treacherous after rainstorms. Wildlife such as elk has been observed in the area.
Weather at Castle Peak Campground
35
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 55%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 15.2 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Clear sky
Weather History
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Emergency Services
Mystic Ranger District, 8221 Mount Rushmore Road Rapid City, SD 57702. Phone: (605) 343-1567. Nearest hospital and police services are in Rapid City, which is approximately 50 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season fees apply during the main camping season; off-season camping is free.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned, and user reviews note issues such as trash being left in the restroom by previous visitors.
Proximity to water featuresCastle Creek flows through the campground, providing a natural water feature. However, potable water is not available.
Common complaintsFrequent complaints include rough and difficult roads, lack of garbage disposal leading to trash accumulation, and absence of potable water.
Campground Map
Castle Peak Campground, Castle Peak Road, FSR 181, Black Hills National Forest, South Dakota
Driving directionsFrom Hill City go west on Highway 17, Deerfield Road 5 miles to Tigerville, go straight and follow Mystic Road 8 miles to Castleton, turn left on Castle Peak Road, FSR 181, travel 8 miles to campground.
The last 8 miles on FSR 181 are described as rough, narrow, and treacherous. User reviews often mention that a higher-clearance vehicle such as an SUV, truck, or Jeep is strongly recommended due to road conditions. After rainstorms, roads may become washed out and hazardous.Nearby places
Hill City (approximately 13 miles, 25 minutes), Rapid City (approximately 50 miles, 1 hour), Deadwood (approximately 55 miles, 1 hour 20 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies including groceries, camping gear, and fuel can likely be found in Hill City, approximately 13 miles from the campground. Larger supply centers are available in Rapid City, about 50 miles away.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.0
18 reviews
Castle Peak Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews emphasize Castle Peak Campground's remote and primitive nature. Positive themes include its secluded location, scenic beauty, and quiet atmosphere. Negative aspects include the rough road leading to the campground and issues such as trash being left in the restroom.
Review Summaries
Based on 18 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviewers appreciate the campground’s unspoiled natural environment, privacy, and the creek running through the area. One reviewer described it as 'my favorite place to camp so far,' noting its...
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
The rough road leading to the campground was frequently cited as a challenge, with multiple reviewers warning against attempting the drive without a high-clearance vehicle such as a truck or SUV....
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing a high-clearance vehicle and planning for the absence of cell service. One reviewer advises avoiding rainy weather due to the road's susceptibility to washouts. Packing in...
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Several reviewers noted the campground’s empty state during seasonal events like the Sturgis Rally, making it ideal for campers seeking solitude during such times. Weather conditions like rain can...
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'This has been my favorite place to camp so far. It is far off of any main road, the campsites are well spaced, the area is beautiful.' - Tristan Mausser.
2. 'Roads can be bad, especially after a...
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific campsite feedback is not provided in the authoritative sources or user reviews.
Based on 18 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility reviews are not available beyond the presence of restroom facilities.
Based on 18 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews specifically address pet-friendly features or policies.
Based on 18 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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