RV & Camping Stays at Custer's Last Chance, SD - Rapid City

RV & Camping Stays at Custer's Last Chance, SD

Rapid Cityeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

overnight to extended stay

Fitness Level

Low physical demands; camping site usage

Overview

Custer’s Last Chance RV Park & Campground in South Dakota offers flexible sites for rigs and tents close to Mount Rushmore and the Black Hills. Friendly owners and easy access to local trails make this a smart spot for outdoor travelers.

Details

Located just outside the small town of Custer, South Dakota, Custer's Last Chance RV Park & Campground offers an ideal gateway for outdoor adventurers venturing into the Black Hills region. This family-owned park provides versatile accommodations for a variety of rigs, from large Class A motorhomes and fifth wheel trailers to tents and truck campers. Spanning sites for both larger and smaller vehicles, with options for full hookups and dry camping, it caters thoughtfully to all levels of outdoor travelers.

Custer itself lies in a region rich with natural wonders. Just minutes from iconic Mount Rushmore and towering granite spires of Needles Highway, the campground allows visitors easy access to famed landmarks alongside quieter nearby destinations like Crazy Horse Memorial and the expansive Custer State Park. Wildlife is a regular visitor here, with deer often visible near the edges of the park and occasional sightings of coyotes in the distance.

While the park’s facilities are simple, including clean porta-johns and reliable Wi-Fi, it’s the genuine hospitality of owners Dan and Megan that sets the experience apart. Guests consistently praise the personal touch—from help maneuvering rigs off the highway to thoughtful gestures like sharing photos of hot air balloons drifting overhead. The paved bike and pedestrian trail linking the campground to downtown Custer makes grocery runs or casual strolls easy, with a dog park conveniently located along the way.

Affordable rates paired with proximity to one of South Dakota’s most engaging outdoor regions make Custer's Last Chance a practical basecamp for visitors. Whether breaking the journey on a road trip, settling in for a seasonal stay, or seeking a quiet spot to reconnect with nature, this campground balances access, comfort, and genuine community spirit in the heart of the Black Hills.

Adventure Tips

Use Assistance for Large Rig Parking

Don’t hesitate to ask the owners for help parking large RVs or trailers; their local expertise makes maneuvering easier and safer.

Take Advantage of the Bike Trail

Use the paved trail connecting the campground to Custer’s town center for quick access to groceries and local amenities.

Plan for Limited Bath Facilities

Restrooms are porta-john style but well maintained and cleaned daily, so pack accordingly for comfort.

Bring Water if Dry Camping

For dry camping or boondocking sites, ensure you have ample fresh water, though the owners offer water delivery upon request.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • The quiet section of the bike trail between Custer and the campground
  • A small dog park located along the pedestrian path near town

Wildlife

  • White-tailed deer
  • Coyotes

History

The Black Hills region, where Custer sits, was originally sacred to local Lakota tribes and is rich with frontier history surrounding the Gold Rush era.

Conservation

Visitors are encouraged to practice Leave No Trace principles and respect wildlife habitats to maintain the natural integrity of this popular outdoor area.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Sunrise
Golden hour
Early morning

Best Viewpoints

  • The bike trail overlooking downtown Custer
  • Near the dog park with hot air balloons in the background
  • Entryway to the campground with surrounding pine trees

What to Photograph

Hot air balloons
Wildlife like deer and birds
Campsite scenes with rigs and natural scenery

Recommended Gear

Leveling Blocks

Essential

Ensures RV stability on uneven ground, improving comfort throughout your stay.

Portable Water Containers

Essential

Useful for dry camping sites or when fresh water delivery isn’t immediately available.

Comfortable Walking Shoes

Essential

Ideal for strolls on paved trails connecting the park to downtown Custer.

Weather-Appropriate Layers

Essential

Spring weather is variable; layering keeps you comfortable regardless of temperature swings.

spring specific