Allen Ranch Campground

mr. Allen is the perfect host. Easy check in on the board tells you where to go. Dump station is right near the bathrooms easy and easy out. This campground has two levels. The lower level is for shorter trailers and allows you to camp right next to the brook. The brook is swimmable and I saw kids with floaters going down the brook. Having a great time. The upper section is drive-through with water and electric hook up. It’s close to the road but the noise abates in the evening. Each campsite has a fire ring. This is a good location to explore the Black Hills starting in the south. Every day we have to drive through Buffalo territory, and if you go through enough times, you will see them right next to the road. The state park has great roads to see the wildlife as well as great rides on motorcycle.

Plan A was to stay at Elk Mount CG near Wind Cave for $18/night, no hookups. Temps shot up to 96, so in the spirit of promoting matrimonial harmony we did a search for nearby options with electric. Allen Ranch was perfect. Called and spoke to a friendly gentleman who said pick a spot and check ourselves in. Agree with other reviewers that at $40 we'd probably pass, but Passport America discount of $20 is perfect.

Stayed in mid May and I can safely say that my dog (lab) found her favorite campground. Had trouble extricating her from the cold, fast flowing stream that runs through the park. There are few amenities - but the showers (plenty of hot water) were most welcomed.

While there are some signs of neglect in the upkeep department, overall we really enjoyed our stay and would have sought an extension if we weren't on such a tight schedule. Not sure if it's worth the $40/night regular rate, but it's a bargain at the Passport America rate of $20.

Our next stop was only 40 minutes away and didn't want to see us until 4 PM. Despite being offered a twenty to let us stay a few extra hours, Mr. Allen would have none of that and told us to stay as long as we needed! In contrast, the previous park charged us a $10 fee for arriving 20 minutes early!

This is a nice little park that deserves your consideration.

We were lucky to get site #1. Right on the creek/river and relaxing. Close to hwy. but really didn’t notice the noise. Campground shows it’s age and starting to need some upkeep, especially showers. Nice place to go for a walk and some people were Floating down the river. No sewer but they had a dump site... I would recommend going into town and using the free city dump station. There are larger sites on first level, zero shade and right on the road. Entrance to the campground is a bit rough but in a 30’ 5th wheel not a problem. Dusty, dusty you will need a wash but overall a good experience. Don’t forget to go see the mammoth dig, it is simply amazing. the wild horse sanctuary was closed but a nice drive, and all of the springs out that direction. Pack a picnic and play in the springs.

Paid 20.00/night via Passport America. Regular rate is 40.00/night. Mr. Allen was super accommodating. Went out of his way to meet me at the Driver's license office to bring me a receipt to satisfy the SD one night stay requirements. Camp site was clean. No sewer connection but there is a dump station conveniently located. Had water and 30/50 amp service. Would definitely recommend if you are visiting the black hills.

This place is so pretty! The creek that runs through the property is amazing. It’s great to stand or even swim in. There is ONE teepee up when I ventured back with amazing constrast to the red rocks and cliff. We have a 43” fifth wheel and was able to fit comfortably in site 8 next to the creek.
The other big rig spots on the hill have great views but, like another review mentioned they didn’t have picnic tables or fire pits. If you do have a bigger rig the layout needs to be broader to accommodate turn arounds better and the space definitely needs gravel brought in on the sites and surrounding areas.
The details that someone done with this place took time and care but, it feels like it doesn’t get the care it needs anymore. (Structures and grass) there are fresh flowers and the office area looks great.
The grass is long up to the ankle in common areas and knee high on the outskirts.

Tents and smaller rigs shouldn’t have any trouble enjoying the surrounding beauty and the proximity to town. Lots of birds to look at and small fish in the stream.

They have water and electric and a dump station.

The owner is great and very nice.