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Black Hills/Boxelder Forks
Overview
Boxelder Forks Campground offers a serene and secluded retreat within the Black Hills National Forest. Unlike the bustling commercial resorts found elsewhere in the region, this park provides a primitive, back-to-nature experience for travelers who want to disconnect. The atmosphere is defined by the gentle sound of the nearby creek and the scent of pine needles, creating a peaceful forest sanctuary. It is a managed Forest Service site that prioritizes the preservation of the landscape, offering a genuine sense of solitude for those visiting South Dakota's western frontier.
Location & Surroundings
Situated near the historic community of Nemo, SD, the campground is nestled at an elevation of approximately 4,800 feet. The landscape is dominated by ponderosa pine and spruce trees, with Boxelder Creek winding its way through the valley. The surrounding terrain features rugged rock outcroppings and lush meadows, making it one of the most scenic valley locations in the central Black Hills. Its position offers a cooler mountain climate that provides a welcome escape from the summer heat found in the lower plains.
Amenities & Park Features
As a traditional Forest Service destination, the park features rustic amenities designed for self-contained travelers. Guests will find spacious sites equipped with heavy-duty picnic tables and fire rings for evening gatherings. While there are no electric or water hookups, the park provides vault toilets and potable water via a manual hand pump. The layout is best suited for smaller RVs, camper vans, and tent trailers, as the access roads and turnarounds are tighter than those at modern motorhome parks.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Outdoor recreation is the primary draw for visitors staying at Boxelder Forks. The campground provides easy access to the Centennial Trail, a premier destination for hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders. Anglers often spend their afternoons fishing for trout along the banks of Boxelder Creek. Beyond the park, travelers can take a short, scenic drive to reach the historic streets of Deadwood or explore the many trails and overlooks of the nearby Vanocker Canyon and Spearfish Canyon areas.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is the perfect fit for boondockers and minimalist travelers who prefer the sounds of nature over the hum of air conditioners. It is ideal for those who enjoy dry camping and have a smaller rig that can navigate winding mountain roads. If you are a nature photographer or hiker looking for a quiet base camp that feels miles away from civilization while remaining central to the Black Hills, this campground will meet your needs perfectly.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Facility
- Hunting Nearby (within 20 miles)
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Gregory Hoffmann
Loved this place . Camped right next to the stream . And since we stayed when it was off season we stayed for free.
Michelle Mcleod
Found by accident. The place we were going to stay at said they were open but wasn't. Very quiet and the creek was lovely to listen to. They have a few sites and the one we got had a fire pit
Valerie
Other than the annoying and very populated yellow jackets, we enjoyed our reunion with family as we do every year☺️ Kuddos to the hosts (Bob & Barb) for doing a great job for 27 years. They keep the campground in tip top shape.
Kathleen Jones
Such a lovely camping area. So peaceful with a creek running right next to the sites. Easy to get to and a pretty drive there.
IowaHiker
Really enjoyed staying at campsite 4. The camp host was very friendly and has a great old dodge. I really enjoyed my time here
dewayne martin
Enjoyed our stay here. Camped right next to the camp host and no one bothered our pop-up while we were gone each day. Price was $18/day. Vault toilet, no water or electric. Hosts are very nice people.
James Parr
I’ve been camping here since I was 5 and have always enjoyed my stay wether it be during the winter or summer. This year the camp host wasn’t so inviting or very polite. Either way it’s still a great campground with many happy memories for me.
Wilma Jordan
Beautiful campground in the forest!
Kevin Cronk
Beautiful, quiet campground amidst towering ponderosa pines and magnificent rock spires, with a small stream flowing along one edge. There are 12 sites with parking, firepits, and picnic tables, and two latrines. We camped in January when only 4 sites were available (the other sites gated off for the winter), but had the place to ourselves. Although mostly frozen over, we were able to get water from the stream for dishes, etc. We found it very peaceful and relaxing, a perfect winter getaway if you can handle the cold.
Spencer Lee
Fell in love with the first site we saw. Original plan was to camp around every couple days and explore other campsites in the Black Hills but we became enamored with this tucked away spot right beside the creek. We felt very fortunate. Bob was the nicest campground host, he and his wife felt like our grandparents. We can see why you've returned for the past 30 years! Definitely hope to be back soon, thanks for everything.