The Black Hills National Forest (BHNF) is a friendly place for ATV explorers; much of the more than 5,000 miles of trails are open to registered and licensed ATVs. There are many campgrounds--some more primitive than others--that welcome ATVs and even rent them for day or night trips.
Considerations
Though most of these 1.2 million acres in western South Dakota are open to you, there are private areas where you can't set up camp. These areas are marked on the U.S. Forest Service map with "no trespassing" signs, according to the Black Hills Badlands and Lakes Association. Other areas that are strictly "no-gos" include Black Elk, Spearfish Canyon, Bear Mountain, Polo Peak, Jasper and Elk Mountain.
Rentals
ATV-friendly campgrounds include those that have their own rental vehicles. Rush-No-More Campground in Sturgis is ready-made for ATV campers; its 130-pad, full-service site helps to arrange ATV trail rides and backs right into the Black Hills National Forest, according to its website. Custer Crossing Campground at Deadwood also rents ATVs and Wild Bill's, just south of Deadwood, is promoted as an ATV-friendly site.
Motorcycle-friendly
Chances are, if your campground of choice likes bikers, they'll like you and other less traditional types of vehicles. Cyclefish is a biker networking organization whose Black Hills members include the Black Hills Motor Camp in Belle Fourche and the Broken Boot in Spearfish. Campgrounds in Sturgis are also a good bet, as the town is home to the internationally recognized motorcycle rally of the same name.
Forest
There are campsites located throughout the BHNF. These sites may be primitive, with simple pit toilets and hand pumps, according to the U.S. National Forest Camp guides. These sites and other features, like mines and trails, are shown on the Forest Service map, which can be found on the USDA's Forest Service site.
Dangers
The Custer South Dakota website reports that dry or extreme weather is frequent in the Black Hills and the surrounding Custer State Park. During these times, the government may place restrictions on campfires or grilling, including at campsites. Because of fire dangers, blazes are only allowed in designated grates or areas and ashes and embers should be attended to by stirring thoroughly until extinguished.
Laws
ATVs in South Dakota follow the same laws as their motorcycle counterparts. When it comes to off-roading, there is no minimum operating age but manufacturer's guidelines must be followed. For any riding on roads, you must have a driver's license and a licensed vehicle; driving on the interstate highway system is not allowed, according to the Black Hills Badlands and Lakes Association.
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