Whitetail

4.58

101 reviews

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

SwimmingSummer Destination

Featured in:Boating Camping South Dakota#2 Pet-Friendly Campgrounds South Dakota#2 Primitive Camping South Dakota#3 +8 more

Quick Facts

6,000 ft

Price

$26/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

17 campsites

Season

Open May 21, 2025, t...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Forest Recreation Management, Inc. site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

6,000 ft

Price

$26/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

17 campsites

Season

Open May 21, 2025, t...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Forest Recreation Management, Inc. site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Whitetail

$26.00 - $26.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Peak season rates for a standard non-electric campsite are $26 per night. Additional fees include an $8 reservation fee (if booked online) and a $9...

Standard Site Fee$26.00

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

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

605-673-9200:null

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What Campers Say

4.58

Top-Rated

Based on 101 reviews

30 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewsquietpeacefulclean

Some mention

noisedusty

"Whitetail Campground is highly rated for its scenic beauty, proximity to Deerfield Lake, and cleanliness. While most reviews are positive, some issues with road dust, generator noise, and pets were noted."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

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

Whitetail

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

Driving directionsFrom Hill City, take Deerfield Rd. (County Rt. 308/Forest Rt. 17) west for 15.1 miles to Whitetail Campground sign (Forest Rt.421). Turn right onto Rt. 421 and travel 0.9 miles to the campground.

The campground can be accessed via paved roads for most of the route. However, user reviews indicate that Google Maps may lead campers down unpaved forest roads when coming from Sundance, Wyoming: 'Google will take you down about 25 miles of unpaved forest road and into the campground from a rear entrance.' Road access is generally good but dusty, especially during dry seasons: 'They need to do something about covering the road with a dust-proof barrier.'

Nearby places

Hill City (15 miles, approximately 30 minutes), Rapid City (approx. 40 miles), Custer (approx. 30 miles).

Nearby supplies

Closest supplies can be found in Hill City (15 miles away), including groceries, camping gear, and fuel.

Best Time to Camp at Whitetail

Summer transforms Whitetail into an outdoor paradise, with mild temperatures and gentle mountain breezes creating perfect conditions for hiking, fishing, and stargazing. As one visitor noted, 'Weather wasn't very cooperative but the site was great,' a testament to the campground's appeal even when nature has other plans. Winter brings a dramatic transformation, blanketing the landscape in snow while temperatures plunge and winds whisper through the pines. Each season paints the campground in different colors, from summer's verdant greens to autumn's golden asparagus and winter's crystalline whites.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Summer is peak season: mild temps, ideal for hiking, fishing, paddling and stargazing.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

Not recommended

Campground's reservable season ends Sep 7; largely closed through fall months.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.0 / 5

Open beginning May 21; late-spring access is possible but season is limited.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

Not recommended

Closed outside May 21–Sep 7 season; winter use not supported.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 21, 2025 - September 7, 2025.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open May 21, 2025, to September 7, 2025, for peak reservable season.
Current Alerts: :null

About Whitetail

Perched high above the shimmering waters of Deerfield Reservoir at 6,000 feet, Whitetail Campground offers a mountain sanctuary where time slows down and nature takes center stage. Whether you choose a lakeside site with sweeping water views or nestle into a secluded spot beneath towering ponderosa and lodgepole pines, you'll find the perfect balance of accessibility and wilderness. This high-altitude haven provides a refreshing escape from summer heat, where cool mountain breezes and pristine forest air create ideal conditions for both adventure and relaxation.

Whitetail Campground provides a range of accommodations suitable for tent camping, RVs, and trailers. It features widely spaced sites, some with lake views and others set in a pine forest.

Historical SignificanceStep back in time along the nearby Deerfield Trail, where remnants of the Black Hills' industrious past lie hidden among the pines. Discover weathered log flumes that once carried timber down mountainsides, explore abandoned cabins that housed determined miners, and trace the paths of old railroad grades that connected remote camps to the outside world. These historical treasures, including mysterious mine tunnels carved into hillsides, tell the story of pioneers who sought fortune in these rugged mountains, leaving behind a fascinating legacy for modern explorers to uncover.

Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Whitetail into an outdoor paradise, with mild temperatures and gentle mountain breezes creating perfect conditions for hiking, fishing, and stargazing. As one visitor noted, 'Weather wasn't very cooperative but the site was great,' a testament to the campground's appeal even when nature has other plans. Winter brings a dramatic transformation, blanketing the landscape in snow while temperatures plunge and winds whisper through the pines. Each season paints the campground in different colors, from summer's verdant greens to autumn's golden asparagus and winter's crystalline whites.

ElevationAt 6,000 feet above sea level, Whitetail Campground sits in the sweet spot of mountain elevation, where the air is crisp enough to invigorate your senses but not so thin as to leave you breathless. This perfect altitude delivers natural air conditioning during summer months, offering temperatures typically 15-20 degrees cooler than the surrounding plains. From this lofty perch, panoramic views unfold across the Black Hills, revealing layer upon layer of pine-covered ridges that fade into the distant horizon.

Natural Features and SceneryWhitetail Campground immerses you in the raw beauty of the Black Hills National Forest, where ancient granite spires pierce the sky and crystal-clear streams tumble through hidden valleys. The landscape unfolds like a living postcard, with deep blue lakes reflecting towering pines and rugged rock formations creating natural sculptures. Wildlife enthusiasts will delight in frequent sightings of majestic bighorn sheep navigating cliffsides, elk bugling at dawn, and deer grazing in meadows. Above, eagles and falcons ride thermal currents while the forest maintains its serene atmosphere. As visitors often note, 'Sites are well spaced, and the area is serene, with beautiful scenery' - a perfect summary of this natural wonderland.

Geological RegionWhitetail Campground lies within the mystical Black Hills National Forest, a geological marvel known to the Lakota as 'Paha Sapa' - the hills that are black. This ancient mountain island rises dramatically from the surrounding prairie, its dark pine-covered slopes creating the striking silhouette that inspired its name. The landscape tells a story millions of years in the making, with exposed granite cores, limestone caves, and dramatic canyons carved by patient streams. This diverse terrain supports an incredible array of wildlife, from nimble bighorn sheep and bugling elk to soaring bald eagles and swift peregrine falcons. Pronghorn antelope bound across meadows while hawks and osprey patrol the skies, making every day a potential wildlife watching adventure in this unique ecosystem where mountains meet prairie.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Official check-in starts at 2 PM.

Check-out

Official check-out is by 12 PM.

Stay Limit

You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Two vehicles per campsite are allowed. Additional vehicles may be accommodated upon request.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground features widely spaced sites organized in loops. 'Sites were spread apart so you had your own space.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov and affiliated apps or contact centers.

Walk-in AvailabilitySome non-reservable sites may be available on a first-come, first-served basis during the walk-up season. 'During walk-up season, fewer sites may be available.

Cancellation PolicyReservations may be canceled at any time prior to the scheduled arrival date. A $10 fee applies for cancellations, and late cancellations (within one day of arrival) will also forfeit the first night's camping fee. Changes to reservations may incur additional fees depending on the nature of the modification.

AccessibilityWhitetail Campground includes accessible campsites and drinking water. However, further details about specific ADA-compliant features are not provided.

Site SizeCampsite sizes accommodate a range of setups including tents, trailers, and RVs.

PrivacySites are widely spaced, offering varying levels of privacy with some sites being more secluded and others having lake views.

Total Campsites17 campsites

Recommended SitesReviews recommend site #12 for lakeside views, and site #17 for quiet seclusion. 'We lucked out to get one that did (#17),' said one camper.

Amenities available

Potable water

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Firewood available

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Whitetail Campground offers a variety of recreational activities like hiking, fishing, swimming, biking, and wildlife viewing. The nearby Deerfield Lake and trails provide opportunities for both relaxation and adventure.

HikingThe campground is near the 10-mile Deerfield Lake Loop Trail, which is suitable for hikers, bikers, and horseback riders, offering scenic views and opportunities for birding and picnicking. It also connects to the historic Deerfield Trail.

FishingThe Deerfield Reservoir supports populations of stocked rainbow and native brown trout, making it an excellent spot for fishing. "Deerfield Reservoir is an ideal spot for fishing and boating, but it is a no-wake lake."

SwimmingDeerfield Reservoir is nearby and provides opportunities for swimming in a serene environment. A user review mentioned, "Perfect for swimming, or kayaking."

BikingThe 10-mile Deerfield Lake Loop Trail accommodates mountain biking. A user commented, "Excellent bike ride around the lake."

BoatingDeerfield Reservoir is a no-wake lake suitable for boating activities such as kayaking or paddleboarding. "Beautiful lake for kayaking or paddleboarding."

Wildlife viewingThe area is rich in wildlife including bighorn sheep, elk, deer, pronghorn, and various bird species. "Bald eagles, hawks, osprey, peregrine falcon, and hundreds of other bird species can be found in the forest."

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include roaming wildlife such as deer and coyotes: 'Coyotes at night suitably eerie.' Dusty roads during dry conditions may cause discomfort, and flies have been noted as a nuisance in some reviews.

Active Alerts:null

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

Fire PolicyCampfires are permitted in designated rings. Firewood is available for purchase from the host.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.

Emergency ServicesClosest emergency services are in Hill City (15 miles away), which includes medical facilities, police stations, and other urgent care options.

Trash & RecyclingNo mention of designated trash or recycling facilities. Campers are likely expected to follow Leave No Trace principles.

Water FeaturesThe campground is within walking distance of Deerfield Reservoir, a no-wake lake ideal for fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. 'Deerfield Lake was beautiful!'

Camp HostThe campground host is frequently praised for being friendly and helpful, particularly one named Roger. However, user reviews have mixed feedback about other hosts, with one described as 'spacey and forgetful.'

Weather at Whitetail

Reviews

4.6

101 reviews

Top-Rated

Whitetail is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

Whitetail Campground is highly rated for its scenic beauty, proximity to Deerfield Lake, and cleanliness. While most reviews are positive, some issues with road dust, generator noise, and pets were noted.

Review Summaries

Based on 101 reviews

What Campers Love

Clean facilities, beautiful lake views, peaceful environment, and friendly campground hosts. "The campground is amazingly still and extremely quiet at night."

Based on 101 reviews

Common Concerns

Dusty roads, occasional noise from generators, and issues with unleashed pets. "There is a dirt road on which many ATVs drive by. Noisy and very dusty."

Based on 101 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Sites #12 and #17 are popular for their views and tent-friendly spots. "#12...was definitely the most coveted spot in the campsite for pitching a tent." Bring all necessary supplies as the campground...

Based on 101 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer reviews emphasize the peacefulness and recreational opportunities, while complaints about dust and road conditions are more frequent during dry periods.

Based on 101 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. "The lake is crystal clear and beautiful." 2. "The latrines are pit-style, but they were the cleanest of that variety I've ever seen." 3. "Camp host was incredibly pleasant and helpful." 4. "No...

Based on 101 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site #12 was praised for being lakeside and ideal for tents. Site #17 was noted for its spaciousness but had issues with unleashed pets.

Based on 101 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific reviews about accessibility features.

Based on 101 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Some users noted issues with unleashed pets, which affected their experience. "They apparently have never been told what ‘quiet’ means nor read the placque that also requires dogs must be leashed at...

Based on 101 reviews

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