What Is Black Hills Trailside Park Resort?
Updated
Black Hills Trailside Park Resort is a campground and vacation resort on the edge of Hill City, South Dakota, in the Black Hills. It offers 46 RV sites, 9 tent sites, 9 vacation cabins, and an 8-person Mickelson Trail suite. It suits travelers who want to camp or stay in a cabin while being within walking distance of downtown Hill City and a short drive from Mount Rushmore and other Black Hills attractions.
Where It Is and What That Means for Your Trip
The resort sits in the Black Hills but just on the edge of Hill City. According to the resort, it is a quick 5-minute walk down the Mickelson Trail to downtown Hill City.
Distances the resort lists to nearby destinations:
| Destination | Distance |
|---|---|
| Hill City, SD | 5 blocks |
| 1880 Train | 4 blocks |
| Needles Highway | 2.8 mi |
| Sheridan Lake | 6 mi |
| Custer State Park | 8.7 mi |
| Mount Rushmore | 10 mi |
| Crazy Horse Memorial | 14 mi |
| Pactola Lake | 15.3 mi |
| Rapid City, SD | 27.7 mi |
| Deadwood, SD | 44.6 mi |
| Spearfish Canyon | 57.8 mi |
| Badlands National Park | 88.2 mi |
The resort notes that Mount Rushmore is close enough to visit during the day and again at night for the Lighting Ceremony.
Ways to Stay
RV and Tent Camping
- 46 RV sites with 20/30/50-amp power, water, sewer, and Wi-Fi
- 9 tent sites
- Free Wi-Fi, with a cell tower nearby and recently upgraded Wi-Fi
Cabins and Suite
- 9 cabins, accommodating up to 4 or 5 guests each
- The 8-person Mickelson Trail suite
Trail and Outdoor Access
The Mickelson Trail, a 109-mile hiking-biking trail, runs directly through the resort, giving guests direct access for hiking, walking, running, and bicycling. The resort also notes it is a short distance from hundreds of miles of Black Hills National Forest ATV trails, and it offers e-bike rentals.
Who It's For
This resort fits travelers who want a base for Black Hills sightseeing without staying in a larger city, and who value trail access from the property. Campers with RVs or tents, families or small groups booking cabins, and cyclists or e-bike riders using the Mickelson Trail are the most direct matches.
Practical Next Steps
To check availability, current rates, and specific site or cabin details, use the resort's booking option on its website. Policies and FAQ information are also published there.