Buffalo Gap National Grassland
RV Guide
Introduction
Situated at the foot of the Black Hills, Buffalo Gap National Grassland has over 300,000 acres of open fields, prairies, and rolling hills. This majestic landscape in the heart of South Dakota is a picturesque setting to host your next RV trip. There are dozens of miles of trails cutting through the area, perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and off-roading. During the winter, you can use the trails for cross-country skiing and snowmobiling. The open hills are home to a wide range of big game species, including antelope and white-tailed deer.
In addition, there are over a dozen lakes dotted across the grasslands that are stocked with a variety of fish species. Anglers visit the area to fish for yellow perch, largemouth bass, channel catfish, and bluegill. The lakes are great for kayaking and boating during the summer. There are also a number of thermal springs in the area, allowing you to relax in warm water baths.
There is one main RV campground in the grasslands, tucked away amid rocky foothills. It’s known for its rockhounding, and you’ll also have access to a number of hiking trails. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can go off-road with your rig and camp in one of the many open areas.
RV Rentals in Buffalo Gap National Grassland
Transportation
Driving
Located near the Black Hills of South Dakota, Buffalo Gap National Grassland is fairly remote, and it will take at least five hours to reach from the nearest major cities. The area itself is RV-friendly, with wide roads and an easy-to-access campground. Do be prepared for winter conditions if you visit during the colder months of the year, as the roads tend to ice over.
If you are coming from Denver, Colorado, take I-25 north to US-85 and you’ll get to the forest in around five hours. From Cheyenne, Wyoming, take US-85 north to reach the forest in a little under four hours. There is only one developed campground in the grasslands, located at French Creek. The campground is located right off US-385, so it’s easy to access if you’re driving a large rig. If you visit the area during the winter, be prepared for ice on the roads.
Parking
Public Transportation
Campgrounds and parking in Buffalo Gap National Grassland
Campsites in Buffalo Gap National Grassland
First-come first-served
French Creek Camping Area
As the only developed campground in the grassland, French Creek Camping Area is great for private camping. The sites have as picnic tables, grills, fire pits. There is no potable water, so make sure you stock up before arriving. Vault toilets are within walking distance.
There are a number of hiking trails leading out of the campground that take you over the surrounding hills. The area is popular for rockhounding, as the hills next to the campground have exposed outer rock layers.
Alternate camping
Open Camping
Although there is only one main campground in the area, the open fields and hills mean that there is plenty of land for camping. If you have an off-road vehicle, you can drive into one of the open areas and set up your rig.
Seasonal activities in Buffalo Gap National Grassland
Off-Season
Cross-Country Skiing
If you love exploring the outdoors during winter don't forget to stock those skis in your camper. With dozens of miles of trails spread over 300,000 acres, Buffalo Gap National Grassland makes for perfect cross-country skiing during the winter. The gently rolling hills make for challenging trails, and the open prairies also give beginners plenty of options as well.
The grasslands are remote, so most of the trails will not be groomed. If you visit after a heavy snow storm, the going might be tough, especially if you are a beginner level skier. No rental gear is provided, so bring what you need along with your rig.
Hunting
The rolling hills and open fields are also popular for hunters, as you’ll find a variety of big game species, including white-tailed deer, mule deer, and antelope. You’ll have great sight lines over the hills, and a number of bodies of water attract game.
Hunting is allowed in most areas of the forest, although you cannot fire within 150 yards of any buildings. Do take caution while hunting in the grasslands, as there are a number of hiking trails that cut through the area.
Ice Fishing
If you visit during the winter, you can still enjoy fishing. There are a number of ponds and lakes throughout the grasslands that freeze over during the winter. You’ll be able to fish for largemouth bass, bluegill, and yellow perch at Big Foot, County Line, and Church Lakes.
Do take caution if you plan on ice fishing, as ice thickness can vary significantly throughout the winter. Forest officials do not guarantee the safety of the ice, so fish at your own peril.
In-Season
Exploring Hot Springs
Located just outside of the Black Hills, Buffalo Gap National Grassland has a number of unique thermal springs. These warm water springs are close to the main developed campground in the forest. You'll love the chance to explore these unique natural features while on your unforgettable RV road trip through South Dakota.
Off-roading
The wide open fields lead into South Dakota’s Badlands, some of the best land in the country for off-roading. You can find a number of trails that cross over the grasslands and cut through the hills and fields. If you want to go for a longer ride, you can connect to a number of surrounding national parks, as well as Black Hills National Forest. You can also explore off the main trails or drive out into the grasslands and set up a tent for the night.
Fishing
You’ll also find a number of angling opportunities throughout the grasslands. The area is known for having great largemouth bass fishing, and you’ll also find yellow perch and bluegill. Popular fishing areas include Channel, Church, and County Line Lakes. You can also find a few small streams were you can fish from the shore. The main campground does not have any rental gear, so make sure that you bring everything you need along with your rig.
