South Dakota Spot Makes List Of Top Free Camping Destinations

The only thing better than a camping adventure for Memorial Day is a free excursion for the long weekend, and a South Dakota campground is among the best free places to pitch a tent in America.

The Dyrt, a campsite app, has announced the 2026 Best Places to Camp for Free Presented by Vanlife Trader, a marketplace for buying and selling campervans.

The list highlights that the most popular type of free camping is dispersed camping on public lands managed by the U.S. Forest Service or Bureau of Land Management.

Best Places to Camp for Free recognizes the top campgrounds in the country, rated highly by The Dyrt Community, where there are no fees to stay overnight. From dispersed camping to free established campgrounds, these areas will make you wonder how something so spectacular is simply available to everyone.

One South Dakota campground made the cut.

Mt. Roosevelt is number six on the list. It's 2.5 miles from Deadwood on Highway 85. Turn on Forest Road 133, then look for the sign for the picnic area at the trailhead. The hike to the tower is less than a mile from the trailhead (which also has bathroom facilities). Open every day from sunrise to sunset, most of the trail is uphill. However, it’s relatively easy and absolutely beautiful. Once you arrive at the tower, take a quick ascent up the stairs for a stunning view of the Black Hills.

There you can camp 100 feet away from any creek or stream and 1/2 mile away from developed recreation sites, including campgrounds and picnic areas.

Maximum stays are 14 days in any 60-day period.

The Dyrt's 2026 Best Places to Camp for Free

1. Dragoon Mountains — Arizona
2. Felt Picnic Area — Oklahoma
3. Mower Basin — West Virginia
4. Meadow Hot Springs — Utah
5. Fish Lake Valley Hot Springs — Nevada
6. Mt. Roosevelt — South Dakota
7. Minietta Road — California
8. Osage State Fishing Lake — Kansas
9. Cosmic Campground — New Mexico
10. Morgan Mountain Road/Spy Rock — Arkansas

Get our free mobile app

What Was It like to Vacation in South Dakota’s Black Hills 60 Years Ago?

This time of year our thoughts often turn to planning that perfect getaway to enjoy the warmer weather and extended daylight.

For a lot of us in South Dakota, that means a trek to the Black Hills and all of the things they have to offer.

But vacationing in western South Dakota is hardly a new concept. People from all over the globe have been coming to the area for decades.

Gallery Credit: Jeff Harkness/B1027.com

Where To Eat When Traveling South Dakota

When you're hungry just ask the locals.

Gallery Credit: Dave Roberts

Twelve South Dakota Places to Put on Your "Must Visit" List!

Make the most of summer in South Dakota and visit these spots that speak to why SD is great!

A lot of them you might have visited, some you haven't for sure, and some are old favorites that maybe you haven't been to in a while. So, while there is still a little time or even one more weekend, and gas prices are down a bit - - try and make it to one of these great places.

What can be found in these 12 locations?

What can't? Camping, fishing swimming, kayaking, birdwatching, and tons of other great outdoors-type activities. Historical, educational exploration, hobby interests, kids activities, just plain old beautiful scenery, and- - to use an overused phrase- -lots more!