Free Campgrounds of South Dakota

Dear Reader: We are updating these listings now (April-May, 2004). The listings on this page now are in many cases outdated. We except to have our updated directory posted by June, 2004.

Wal-Mart stores. Unless posted, RVers may spend the night for free in any Wal-Mart parking lot. For a list of Wal-Mart stores that do not permit free overnight stays, click here.

Groton
Up to three days of free camping is allowed in the city park, which is toward the north end of town on Main Street. Of 12 sites, four have free electric hookups. Donations are accepted. Info: 605/397-8422 -- EDITOR

Hot Springs
I stayed the night in the American Legion lot. I was told that RVers stay there on occasion. I suppose if there was something big going on then maybe they wouldn't allow an RVer to stay. The parking lot is big, there's a bike path by the river and a $2, outdoor "all you can eat pancake" joint. DAVE B 6-00

Miller
The city park, very nice, offers free camping with some electric hookups. -- R. OLIVER (7-00)

Pierre
Griffin City Park offers three free nights of camping with electricity. It's very nice and alongside the Missouri River. -- DEB

SOUTH DAKOTA: No More Free Camping

The following places do not permit free camping, even though they may be listed in directories or elsewhere as permitting it.

Milbank: Lake Farley City Park no longer allows free camping. (6-00)

Rapid City: The Wal-Mart here was once very RV-friendly. But in late 2000, the city outlawed stays at the Wal-Mart or at similar stores and shopping malls. Later, however, it reversed the decsion and staying overnight is once again allowed on a trail basis.

North Dakota

Grand Forks

The I-29 truck stop on the south side of Grand Forks has overnight parking for RVs.
It also has a restaurant, convenience store, propane gas fill up as well as gas & oil. Also diesel fuel. It has a hard surface parking with bathrooms inside. It is open 24 hrs. -- J. JOHNSON