Whitetail
The campground is currently closed for the off-season and reopens May 20, 2026 for the reservation season. Reservations are available through Recreation.gov at $24/night. Stage 1 fire restrictions are in effect for Black Hills National Forest.
Wheeled Vehicles in Wilderness
This order describes the prohibition of wheeled vehicles in all National Forest Wilderness Areas of the Rocky Mountain Region and any exceptions thereof.
Weed Free Forage Products
The purpose of this Order is to prevent the introduction or spread of noxious weeds.
Cave Closure and Restrictions
The purpose of this Order is to reduce the spread of the fungus that causes White nose syndrome and to protect bat species during critical biological periods.
About
Whitetail Campground is perched above Deerfield Reservoir at 6,000 feet in the Black Hills National Forest of South Dakota. The campground offers 12 widely spaced sites nestled among ponderosa and lodgepole pines, providing a mix of lake views and secluded forest settings. Each site includes a picnic table and fire ring, and the campground has vault toilets. Deerfield Reservoir is within walking distance and offers fishing for stocked rainbow and native brown trout on a no-wake lake ideal for peaceful paddling. The 10-mile Deerfield Lake Loop Trail encircles the reservoir and is open to hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders. The nearby Deerfield Trail connects to Pactola Reservoir and passes historic log flumes, cabins, and old mining sites. The campground operates year-round. During off-season (early September through mid-May), only the lower loop is open on a free first-come, first-served basis. Reservations are available through Recreation.gov during the summer season at $24 per night.
Directions
From Hill City, take Highway 17 (Deerfield Road) west for approximately 16 miles to Forest Road 421 (Whitetail Loop). Turn right and travel about 1 mile north to the campground.
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | — |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $26 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 76ft |
| Max Trailer Length | 76ft |
| Big Rig Friendly | — |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (605) 343-1567 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Availability
Photos
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