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516 reviews
Horsethief Lake Campground offers a beautiful and peaceful setting, with clean facilities and friendly hosts, making it an excellent choice for camping near attractions like Mount Rushmore. Guests appreciate the proximity to nature trails, a lovely lake, and the surrounding Black Hills. Although some campers noted issues like lack of potable water and occasional noise from nearby highways or helicopter tours, the overall experience remains highly positive, with many expressing a desire to return.
Based on guest feedback
4.5
Based on 516 reviews
Showing 516 reviews
August 22, 2024 Stayed at: 007, Loop: HORS
The campsites were exactly like the pictures. Facility was extremely clean, and the hosts were the nicest people ever!
There are bathrooms, and drinking water.
No RV dump though.
Only 2 mi from Mt Rushmore
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August 22, 2024 Stayed at: 007, Loop: HORS
The campsites were exactly like the pictures. Facility was extremely clean, and the hosts were the nicest people ever!
There are bathrooms, and drinking water.
No RV dump though.
Only 2 mi from Mt Rushmore
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August 21, 2024 Stayed at: 012, Loop: HORS
Beautiful location and very quiet for those seeking to rest and recharge!
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August 21, 2024 Stayed at: 012, Loop: HORS
Beautiful location and very quiet for those seeking to rest and recharge!
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July 31, 2024 Stayed at: 018, Loop: LKSD
It was a great time thanks
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July 31, 2024 Stayed at: 018, Loop: LKSD
It was a great time thanks
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July 27, 2024 Stayed at: 026, Loop: LKSD
The campground requires improved signage at the entrance and around campsites 24-28 to clearly indicate that lake access is restricted to registered campers. My extended family and I have been camping here for the past four years and have consistently faced issues with individuals driving into the campground, parking, and trespassing through our campsites to reach the lake. This problem is exacerbated by people frequently parking near the outhouse near these campsites, often without any reservations. The lack of adequate signage and control measures is a significant oversight, allowing unauthorized individuals to access the lake. Immediate action is needed to implement effective signage and enforce access restrictions to ensure that only registered campers can reach the lake, thereby preserving the integrity and enjoyment of the campground for its intended users.
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July 27, 2024 Stayed at: 026, Loop: LKSD
The campground requires improved signage at the entrance and around campsites 24-28 to clearly indicate that lake access is restricted to registered campers. My extended family and I have been camping here for the past four years and have consistently faced issues with individuals driving into the campground, parking, and trespassing through our campsites to reach the lake. This problem is exacerbated by people frequently parking near the outhouse near these campsites, often without any reservations. The lack of adequate signage and control measures is a significant oversight, allowing unauthorized individuals to access the lake. Immediate action is needed to implement effective signage and enforce access restrictions to ensure that only registered campers can reach the lake, thereby preserving the integrity and enjoyment of the campground for its intended users.
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July 16, 2024 Stayed at: 011, Loop: HORS
Great Campground. Host was very helpful.
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July 16, 2024 Stayed at: 011, Loop: HORS
Great Campground. Host was very helpful.
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Forest Recreation Management, Inc, Hill City, SD 57745 United States
Elevation: 1,509 ft
From Hill City, take U.S. Rt. 16/385 south 3 mi to State Rt. 244. Turn left onto Rt. 244. Travel 5.9 mi to campground sign. Turn right at sign into campground.
Horsethief Lake Campground is accessible via U.S. Route 16/385 and State Route 244, with the closest major road being U.S. Route 16/385 located about 3 miles north in Hill City.
Last updated: October 24, 2026
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Population: 834
Nearby city: Rapid City, SD
Approx. 18 mi away (straight-line distance)
Elevation: 4,980 ft
Hill City, SD
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