Pros & cons
PROS
- Shaded, roomy sites a short walk from Stockade Lake
- Clean bathhouses with free, hot showers
- Quieter than the park’s headline campgrounds
CONS
- No on-site dump station; nearest option is about 10 miles away
- No water or sewer hookups at sites (electric only at some)
- Some road noise near US-16A
Overview
Tucked into ponderosa pines on the north side of Stockade Lake, this 42-site campground is a low-key, convenient base for exploring the west side of the park. It trades the buzz of bigger campgrounds for shade, space, and easy lake access.
Setting & Vibe
Sites sit among granite outcrops and tall pines with good separation, so it feels private even when it’s full. You can stroll down informal paths to the water, scramble on the granite, or wander toward the historic stockade area at the end of the campground. Expect a relaxed crowd—families, anglers, and folks who like a quieter scene.
Campsites & Amenities
- Mix of tent and RV sites; some have electric hookups.
- Bathhouses are widely praised—clean with free, hot showers.
- Each site typically has a picnic table and fire ring.
- Big playground and even an outdoor program area make it kid-friendly.
- No on-site dump station, and sites don’t have water or sewer hookups; potable water spigots are available around the loops.
Lake Time
Stockade Lake is the star here. Bring a rod, kayak, or just a camp chair for shoreline lounging. For swimming beaches and broader lake access, you’ll likely drive a short bit around the lake. Sunrises and sunsets gild the pines and rock—bring a camera.
Wildlife
Deer, wild turkeys, and rabbits are regulars around camp. At night, listen for owls and coyotes. Waterfowl cruise the lake, and you’ll spot plenty of songbirds in the trees.
Nearby & Logistics
Town runs (groceries, gas, restaurants) are easy—Custer is roughly 4–6 miles away. Plan ahead for waste: the closest dump option is reported to be about 10 miles away. Being near US-16A makes getting around the park simple, though sites closest to the highway can hear some road noise.
Best Time to Visit
- Late spring through early fall for prime camping weather.
- Midweek stays are calmer and easier to book in summer.
- Early and late daylight are best for lake photos; evenings are lovely under the pines.
- Heads-up: early June can bring heavy pine pollen that coats gear.
Tips for a Smooth Stay
Reserve ahead for summer, confirm you’re booking “North” (not “South”), and bring bug spray for warm months. If you’re in an RV, fill your fresh tank at a spigot before leveling on your site and plan your dump-stop logistics in advance.
Where it is
43.7716, -103.5228Tips for Stockade Lake North Campground
- 01Double-check you’re reserving Stockade Lake North, not South.
- 02There’s no dump station on-site—plan a dump stop about 10 miles away.
- 03Fill fresh water at a spigot before settling into your site.
- 04For quieter nights, pick sites farther from US-16A.
- 05Early June can bring heavy pine pollen—cover gear when not in use.
Amenities
Near Stockade Lake North Campground
All places →All trails →
0.2 mi awayStockade Lake North Picnic AreaLakeside picnic spot with shelter and easy fishing accessPicnic Table · Restroom
0.4 mi awayStockade LakeLargest lake with beach, playground, and bring-any-boat funTrailhead · Pullout
0.4 mi awayGordon StockadeRebuilt 1874 gold‑rush fort with self‑guided storytellingExhibit · Parking
0.5 mi awayStockade Lake South CampgroundQuiet piney campground near Stockade Lake with showersRestroom · Campground
0.7 mi awayStockade Lake TrailEasy lake loop with quiet overlooks and Black Hills panoramasEasy · 1.5 mi · 1 hr
3 mi awayLegion Lake TrailGentle lakeside loop with lodge perks and reliable wildlife watchingEasy · 1 mi · 36 min
3.4 mi awayCentennial Trail #89 (Custer State Park section)Rolling Black Hills singletrack with wildlife and granite viewsModerate · 22 mi · 9 hr
3.4 mi awayBadger Clark Historic TrailA quiet 1-mile loop around Badger Clark’s cabin and pines.Easy · 1 mi · 30 min
