Redbank Springs Campground
05 reviewsRedbank Springs Campground, Road #294, Black Hills National Forest, South Dakota, USA
Quick Facts
Price
$16/night
Booking
First-Come
Sites
4 campsites
Season
Typically open durin...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Not Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
Price
$16/night
Booking
First-Come
Sites
4 campsites
Season
Typically open durin...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Not Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsRedbank Springs Campground
$16.00 - $16.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The standard campsite fee is $16 per night. Payments are made on-site as reservations are not available.
Standard Site Fee$16.00
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$16.00
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USFS
Provider(605) 673-9200
What Campers Say
N/A
Limited Reviews
Based on 5 reviews
8 Google reviews
Most mentioned
quietcleanwell-maintainedsites
"The campground is appreciated for its seclusion and natural beauty but criticized for its difficult access and lack of amenities."
Fees & Passes at Redbank Springs Campground
$16/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: Campers are required to follow pack-in and pack-out principles. The campground is open seasonally in May.
Cancellation: Reservations cannot be canceled as the sites are first-come, first-served.
Prices verified November 17, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Hell Canyon Ranger District website.
Best Time to Camp at Redbank Springs Campground
The campground transforms with each passing season, offering distinct experiences throughout the year. Winter blankets the landscape in pristine snow, creating a wonderland for hardy adventurers who embrace the crisp air and frozen beauty. As spring awakens the forest, wildflowers emerge and temperatures become inviting. Summer brings warm, sun-drenched days perfect for exploration, with comfortable evenings ideal for stargazing around the campfire. The dry conditions of late spring through summer create excellent camping weather, though visitors should always prepare for the mountain's mercurial moods.
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: May. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Typically open during May, specific seasonal closures may apply.
- Current Alerts: Forest officials are working on installing new toilets; the campground may close if unsanitary conditions arise.
About Redbank Springs Campground
Tucked away in the southern reaches of the Black Hills, Redbank Springs Campground offers an intimate escape into nature with just four carefully placed campsites. This hidden gem beckons those seeking authentic wilderness experiences, where the absence of modern amenities becomes part of the adventure. Here, disconnecting from the digital world means reconnecting with the rhythms of the forest and the satisfaction of self-sufficient camping.
This is a primitive, first-come, first-served campground with four sites, suitable for tents and self-contained RVs.
Historical SignificanceWhile Redbank Springs may not bear ancient petroglyphs or historic markers, its significance lies in preserving the timeless experience of wilderness camping. This pocket of tranquility maintains the spirit of early Black Hills exploration, offering modern adventurers a chance to experience the landscape much as it has existed for generations.
Weather and SeasonsThe campground transforms with each passing season, offering distinct experiences throughout the year. Winter blankets the landscape in pristine snow, creating a wonderland for hardy adventurers who embrace the crisp air and frozen beauty. As spring awakens the forest, wildflowers emerge and temperatures become inviting. Summer brings warm, sun-drenched days perfect for exploration, with comfortable evenings ideal for stargazing around the campfire. The dry conditions of late spring through summer create excellent camping weather, though visitors should always prepare for the mountain's mercurial moods.
ElevationPerched within the rolling contours of the Black Hills, the campground sits at an elevation that provides the perfect balance of accessibility and mountain atmosphere. The altitude creates cooler temperatures than the surrounding plains, offering relief during summer months and crisp, invigorating air that enhances every outdoor experience.
Natural Features and SceneryA tapestry of towering pines creates a natural cathedral above the campground, their evergreen boughs whispering ancient secrets in the mountain breeze. Meadows dotted with wildflowers open like windows between the trees, revealing glimpses of the surrounding peaks. The nearby elk field serves as nature's amphitheater, where lucky visitors might witness these majestic creatures grazing at dawn or dusk, their bugling calls echoing through the valleys.
Geological RegionThe Black Hills rise like an island of ancient granite from the surrounding plains, their rugged terrain telling a story written over millions of years. This geological wonderland showcases dramatic rock formations, deep valleys, and pristine forests that have captivated visitors since time immemorial. The interplay of pine-covered slopes and open meadows creates a diverse ecosystem where mountain streams carve their paths through weathered stone, and every vista reveals the raw beauty of this unique landscape.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned in the authoritative sources or user reviews.
Sites SizeThere are four campsites available, but detailed information about their sizes is not provided.
Sites PrivacyThe small size of the campground (four sites) suggests limited privacy, especially if all sites are occupied.
Total Campsites4 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites fill up early; it is advisable to arrive prepared for off-grid camping with no water or electricity.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
Reveal picks
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in times are not specified.
Check-out
Check-out times are not specified.
Stay Limit
Campers are required to follow pack-in and pack-out principles. The campground is open seasonally in May.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Guests should adhere to first-come, first-served policies.
Groups
Group camping is not supported at this campground.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of four individual sites, with no detailed layout map provided.
Open and Closed SeasonTypically open during May, specific seasonal closures may apply.
Reservation PlatformsNot reservable. First-come, first-served basis.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll four sites are first-come, first-served.
Cancellation PolicyReservations cannot be canceled as the sites are first-come, first-served.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Activities at Redbank Springs Campground are limited due to its remote and basic nature. It is an ideal spot for those seeking solitude or access to nearby trails and wildlife.
Wildlife viewing
One reviewer mentioned observing elk in a field near the campsite.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are detailed, but the campground remains open year-round for self-contained users.Water Sports
No water sports are mentioned, as the site lacks water features suitable for such activities.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fire rings are provided at each site. Campers must bring their own firewood.
- Quiet hours are Not specifically mentioned; presumed to be quiet given the secluded nature.
Hazards
General hazardsUser reviews note dangerous road conditions leading to the campground, including narrow paths, sharp turns, and potholes. Wildlife such as elk may be present.
Active alertsForest officials are working on installing new toilets; the campground may close if unsanitary conditions arise.
Weather at Redbank Springs Campground
27
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 74%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 16.7 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Mainly clear
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Detailed 7-Day Forecast
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Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
Hell Canyon Ranger District office, located at 1019 N. 5th Street, Custer, SD 57730. Phone: (605) 673-9200.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay
Trash and recyclingPack-it-in, pack-it-out procedures are required. Campers must carry out all trash and waste as no facilities are available on-site.
Proximity to water featuresLocated west of Deerfield Lake, but the campground itself lacks water features and potable water.
Common complaintsComplaints include poor road conditions ('terrible road'), lack of reflectors/signage, and absence of potable water and restrooms.
HostNo host available on-site.
Campground Map
Redbank Springs Campground, Road #294, Black Hills National Forest, South Dakota, USA
Driving directionsRedbank Springs Campground is situated 11 miles west of Deerfield Lake near the Wyoming border, accessible via Road #294.
The road to the campground is reportedly narrow and unpaved, with sharp turns and potholes that may damage vehicle alignment. User reviews describe it as 'terrible' and 'dangerous,' with no reflectors or signs for navigation.Nearby places
Custer (approximately 20 miles and 35 minutes driving).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are likely available in Custer, approximately 20 miles away.
Reviews from booking and map sources
0.0
5 reviews
Redbank Springs Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground is appreciated for its seclusion and natural beauty but criticized for its difficult access and lack of amenities.
Review Summaries
Based on 5 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praised the secluded, quiet atmosphere and natural beauty of the sites. One reviewer stated, 'Absolutely beautiful camping spots,' while another noted, 'Clean, quiet, well-maintained camp...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Accessibility and road conditions are the primary concerns. A reviewer described the road as 'terrible' and 'extremely narrow,' adding that their car 'kept slipping on the gravel.' Another noted the...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Ensure your vehicle is equipped to handle rough, narrow roads. Bring all necessities, including water, firewood, and self-contained toilet systems.
Based on 5 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Seclusion and quiet are consistent highlights, but road conditions may worsen during rainy or snowy seasons. The lack of facilities makes preparation vital year-round.
Based on 5 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'This place is not even one star. My car kept slipping on the gravel and almost going into the huge ditch.' (Nola Beni)
2. 'Nice little campground. Only 4 spots. Excellent location for ATV...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
No specific recommendations or criticisms about individual sites are noted, but the campground has only four sites in total.
Based on 5 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically address accessibility features.
Based on 5 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific feedback on pet policies or pet-friendly features is provided.
Based on 5 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 17, 2025
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