How do I book a campsite at Horsethief Lake Campground?

Horsethief Lake Campground is a federal campground — book at Recreation.gov (search "Horsethief Lake Campground"). Sites are released 6 months in advance and sell out quickly. Set a free CamperWatch cancellation alert at camperwatch.org/campground/horsethief-lake-campground to be notified the moment a site opens up.

Horsethief Lake Campground

Black Hills National Forest — lakeside, fishing, hiking

Hill City, SD4.5 (217)

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Located 10 miles south of Hill City, South Dakota, Horsethief Lake Campground is a delightful setting for visitors seeking recreation and relaxation in Black Hills National Forest. This campground is 2 miles from Mount Rushmore National Memorial and adjacent to Horsethief Lake. Sites are tucked into a forest of towering ponderosa and lodgepole pine.

Things to do nearby

Black Hills National ForestHorsethief LakeCuster State Park

Best For

AnglersHikersWildlife watchersFamilies

Site Types

TentRV

Amenities

Fire Rings

Picnic Tables

Vault Toilets

Drinking Water

Electric Hookups

Camp Host

Fishing

Check-in

2:00 PM

Check-out

12:00 PM

Season

Memorial Day through Labor Day

Max/site

6 people

Known Issues

Federal campground — book early. No hookups at most sites. Seasonal operations.

Cancellation Policy

Recreation.gov: full refund if cancelled 7+ days before arrival. $10 cancellation fee applies.

Frequently asked questions

How much does Horsethief Lake Campground cost per night?+

Horsethief Lake Campground costs $30 per night depending on site type and season. Hookup options: No hookups. Suitable for self-contained RVs.

What season is Horsethief Lake Campground open?+

Horsethief Lake Campground is open Memorial Day through Labor Day. Check-in is 2:00 PM, check-out is 12:00 PM.

Does Horsethief Lake Campground have hookups?+

No hookups. Suitable for self-contained RVs.

What is the maximum RV length at Horsethief Lake Campground?+

Horsethief Lake Campground can accommodate RVs up to 59 feet long.

How do I make reservations at Horsethief Lake Campground?+

Horsethief Lake Campground is a federal campground — reservations open 6 months in advance at Recreation.gov. Sites sell out quickly. Set a free CamperWatch cancellation alert to be notified the moment a site opens.

How far is Horsethief Lake Campground from the nearest town?+

Horsethief Lake Campground is located in Hill City, SD. Check the map above for distance to nearby services.

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