
9
Total Campsites
Campground
—
Reservable Sites
Mostly first-come
—
Accessible
ADA-compliant sites
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Organization
Managing agency
Overview
About WILLOW CREEK HORSE CAMP
Overview This horse camp is nestled at the confluence of Willow Creek and Palmer Creek near the Black Elk Wilderness area of the Black Hills National Forest. From this campground, hikers and horseback riders can access a network of trails into the backcountry. The campground is within the Norbeck Wildlife Preserve. Recently renovated by Forest Service and our Partners, Backcountry Horsemen of America, Willow Creek Campground is a good choice for horse campers. Recreation Hikers and horseback riders can access the trailhead for the Willow Creek Loop, which provides scenic views of the Black Elk Wilderness. There is also easy access to the Lost Cabin Trail, which offers many views of Black Elk Peak on its descent. Willow Creek Horse Camp provides a good starting point for a day-long hike or horseback ride to Black Elk Peak and Harney Lookout Tower. Both the Willow Creek Loop and the Lost Cabin Trail connect with the Black Elk Peak Trail. Facilities Hikers and horseback riders can access the trailhead for the Willow Creek Loop, which provides scenic views of the Black Elk Wilderness. There is also easy access to the Lost Cabin Trail, which offers many views of Black Elk Peak on its descent. Willow Creek Horse Camp provides a good starting point for a day-long hike or horseback ride to Black Elk Peak and Harney Lookout Tower. Both the Willow Creek Loop and the Lost Cabin Trail connect with the Black Elk Peak Trail. Natural Features The Black Hills in western South Dakota and northeastern Wyoming feature a varied landscape of rugged rock formations, canyons and gulches, open grassland parks, tumbling streams and deep blue lakes. The Black Elk Wilderness is its only wilderness area, and it sits in the center of Norbeck Wildlife Preserve. Norbeck is home to a variety of wildlife, including elk, deer, bighorn sheep and mountain goats. Its most prominent landmark is Black Elk Peak, which, at 7,242 feet, is the highest point in the country east of the Rockies. contact_info For facility specific information, please call (605) 574-4402. Nearby Attractions Named for South Dakota's former governor and U.S. Senator, the Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway offers 70 miles of outstanding sights including Mount Rushmore, which is only 6 miles from the camp, The Needles Highway, Iron Mountain Road and Custer State Park. The Norbeck Overlook provides views of Black Elk Peak and Mount Rushmore. Charges & Cancellations No refunds will be given for weather or related events.
- 9 total campsites listed.
- Primarily first-come camping based on current listing data.
- Most common site type: unknown (9).
- Map coordinates are available for trip planning.


Our Take
What makes WILLOW CREEK HORSE CAMP special
Where Willow Creek meets Palmer Creek in the heart of the Black Hills, Willow Creek Horse Camp offers equestrian campers a rare combination of trailhead access and backcountry atmosphere. Situated near the Black Elk Wilderness, this nine-site campground was designed with riders in mind, featuring corrals and generous site spacing that accommodates trailers and stock animals comfortably. The surrounding landscape is classic Black Hills terrain: dense ponderosa pine forest, granite outcrops, and meadows threaded with clear-running creeks. From here, riders can access a network of trails that wind through some of the most scenic country in western South Dakota, including routes toward Black Elk Peak, the highest point east of the Rockies. Hikers are welcome too, and the creek confluence makes for a peaceful spot to spend a lazy afternoon. Hill City, a charming small town with restaurants and supplies, is a short drive away, and the iconic Mount Rushmore and Custer State Park are both within easy reach. The campground is best enjoyed from late May through September, when trails are clear and the weather cooperates. Sites are first-come, first-served, so plan to arrive early on summer weekends. Bring your own water and feed for stock. For riders seeking a genuine backcountry camp with trail access right from your site, Willow Creek is hard to beat.
Campsite Inventory
9 sites to choose from
Unknown
0
Reservable
0
Accessible
Amenities & Details
Everything you need to know
ACCESSIBLE DRINKING WATER
Accessible Drinking Water
ACCESSIBLE GRILLS
Accessible Grills
ACCESSIBLE VAULT TOILETS
Accessible Vault Toilets
CAMPFIRE RINGS
Campfire Rings
Campfire Allowed
Yes
Site capacity
N/A
Check-in time
2:00 PM
Check-out time
1:00 PM
Condition Rating
N/A, Prime
Driveway entry
Back-in, Pull-Through
Driveway surface
Gravel
HORSE CORRALS
Horse Corrals
HOST
Host
Horse Stall/Corral
Yes
Max Num of Horses
6
Max guests
8
Max vehicle length (ft)
25, 34, 35
Minimum guests
Yes
Reservations & Contact
Plan your stay
Phone
605-673-9200
Getting There
From Hill City, South Dakota, take US 16/385 south for 7 miles. Go east on State Hwy 244. The campground is located across from the Mt. Rushmore KOA.
FAQ
Common questions
Everything you need to know before your trip to WILLOW CREEK HORSE CAMP.
How do reservations work for WILLOW CREEK HORSE CAMP?
Reservation availability for WILLOW CREEK HORSE CAMP can vary by season and campsite type. Check the contact and access section before booking.
What campsite types are available at WILLOW CREEK HORSE CAMP?
WILLOW CREEK HORSE CAMP currently lists Unknown (9).
Where is WILLOW CREEK HORSE CAMP located?
WILLOW CREEK HORSE CAMP is in South Dakota near Hill City. Coordinates: 43.9031, -103.5350.
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