Picnic Spring Campground

Open — Open year-round on a first-come, first-served basis, though winter conditions may prevent access. No reservations accepted.

About

Picnic Spring Campground offers a remote and scenic camping experience in the North Cave Hills Unit of the Custer Gallatin National Forest's Sioux Ranger District. Located 8 miles west and north of Ludlow, South Dakota, this small campground features 8 individual sites plus 2 group sites nestled adjacent to beautiful woods and a rocky, cliff-edged canyon. The setting provides excellent opportunities for day hiking and exploring the unique landscape of the Cave Hills. This is a primitive, no-fee campground managed on a first-come, first-served basis with a 14-day stay limit. Amenities include vault toilets and picnic tables at each site, but no potable water is available on-site. A nearby spring provides non-potable water that must be treated or filtered before use. Campers should come prepared with adequate water supplies or treatment methods. The campground does not provide trash service, so visitors must pack out all waste. Average parking spurs accommodate trailers and RVs up to 50 feet. Access to Picnic Spring requires navigating several miles of forest roads from Highway 85, making it an ideal destination for those seeking solitude and a more backcountry camping experience. The campground is open year-round, though winter conditions may prevent access during periods of snow and ice.

Directions

From Ludlow, SD travel north 2 miles on Hwy 85 to Tufte Road. Turn left and continue for 4 miles and turn right continuing on Tufte Road. Go 1 mile and turn left on Forest Road 3114 (Fuller Pass Road). Go 1/4 mile and turn left on Forest Road 3123. Go 1/4 mile and turn right into Picnic Spring Campground.

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