Community Forums

HicksRA · 08-27-2014, 03:12 PM

Thinking about a trip to the Black Hills/Custer/Keystone area in mid to late October.
Can anyone advise as to what the weather is like during that period? I don't want to get up there and get stuck in a snow storm.
If the weather is probably suitable for that time of year, any recommendations for some good scenic RV parks?

Randyman1 · 08-27-2014, 03:53 PM

Palmer's Gulch is a nice KOA located close to there. You would need to check to see if they are open that time of year. The weather there in late Oct. could very well see snow. Just have to check the forecasts as it gets closer, but they are forcasting more snow and moisture this year for us in the panhandle of Nebraska and we mimic their weather. JMO Randy

HicksRA · 08-28-2014, 03:12 PM

Looks like Palmer's Gulch closes the end of September.
Maybe October will be too late to enjoy that area.

ditto · 08-28-2014, 03:16 PM

We were there October 1 2013, 100 year blizzard! But it melted quickly, great place to visit.

Randyman1 · 08-28-2014, 03:23 PM

Check out Elkhorn Ridge RV Resort, Spearfish, SD. located at exit 17 on I-90. I know they are open year round at it is a beautiful RV resort. It would be within 60 miles or so of Keystone, it is only 8 miles from Deadwood, and that is a gambling town if you like that sort of thing. Still smack dab in the Black Hills and very relaxed atmosphere there. Almost forgot, check out Holiday RV park just outside of Rapid City, on Highway 16, I think they are open year round too and that would be closer, just not as nice a facility as Elkhorn Ridge.

JMonroe · 08-28-2014, 05:04 PM

Many campgrounds in the area will be closed right after the Buffalo roundup (if not just before) in early October. Be sure to confirm the one you choose will be open when you go. Weather in late October can be variable between warm and pleasant and a blizzard.

We're heading to the Black Hills this weekend, should be set up at the Rafter J Bar by Sunday evening. Planning on a couple of weeks in the area before moving on to Colorado...

two slides · 08-28-2014, 06:48 PM

just came back from area 2 weeks ago. stayed at LAZY J rv park on 16.
nothing fancy about the place (it's on side of hill & sites are level) but has a great view of Rapid City. it is an older park but has nice owners. walmart is only a short drive away & Mount Rushmore only 25 minutes away. we stayed here in 35' motorhome/toad but many rv's were 40' plus. I think they are open til last week in October.

BTW---the Buffalo round-up in Custer State Park is scheduled for Friday, Sept. 26. it is really something to see---we saw it several years ago.
don't forget to feed the burros some carrots.

becks · 08-28-2014, 07:20 PM

Spearfish city CG should work for you also.

JFXG · 08-28-2014, 11:09 PM

In Oct 2012 we were at Cedar Pass CG in Badlands NP on Oct 30, then stayed 10/31 and 11/1 at Happy Holiday CG on Rt 16 just south of Rapid City. Weather was great-- light jacket weather during the day, maybe in the mid 50s.