About Elk Mountain Campground — Wind Cave NP
Above ground, Wind Cave National Park protects one of the world's finest mixed-grass prairie ecosystems with
free-roaming bison, elk, pronghorn, and prairie dogs. Below ground, 150+ miles of explored cave passages contain
the world's largest concentration of boxwork cave formations.
Highlights
- Free-roaming bison herd (400+ animals)
- Wind Cave tours (boxwork formations unique worldwide)
- Prairie dog towns visible from camp
- Elk and pronghorn antelope throughout the park
- Proximity to Custer State Park bison roundup
Directions & How to Get There
From Rapid City, SD: Take I-90 W to US-16 S to US-385 S through Custer and then Hot Springs — approximately 1.5
hours. The campground is at the park's main visitor center, 11 miles north of Hot Springs on US-385.
Nearby Attractions
- Wind Cave visitor center tours (on-site)
- Custer State Park (10 mi)
- Needles Highway scenic drive (25 mi)
- Mount Rushmore (30 mi)
- Crazy Horse Memorial (20 mi)
Insider Tips
- The annual Custer State Park buffalo roundup in September is spectacular — plan around it
- Cave tours range from easy walking tours to strenuous wild caving
- Bison can be aggressive — stay in your vehicle when they're on the road
- Combine with Badlands NP and Mount Rushmore for a complete Black Hills circuit
Best Time to Visit
Best months: May–September
Season: May–September
Access difficulty: Easy access
What to Pack for South Dakota Camping
- Navigation: downloaded offline maps, compass, and GPS device
- Water: at least 3 liters per person per day (more in desert parks)
- Food: bear canister or use provided bear boxes where required
- Shelter: 3-season tent, rain fly, and ground tarp
- Clothing: moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layer, waterproof shell
- First aid kit: including blister treatment, pain reliever, and any personal medications
- Sun protection: SPF 50 sunscreen, wide-brim hat, UV-blocking sunglasses
- Lighting: headlamp with extra batteries, lantern for camp
- Safety: whistle, emergency bivy, and knowledge of your emergency exit route