Public Campground
Alkali Creek Campground
Sturgis, South Dakota
Campground in South Dakota.
Photos shown are stock images and may not represent the actual campground.
About Legion Lake Campground
Campground in South Dakota.
Nestled in the heart of South Dakota's Black Hills region, Legion Lake Campground offers a serene escape into nature with the perfect blend of outdoor recreation and peaceful solitude. This public campground serves as an ideal basecamp for exploring one of America's most iconic landscapes, where granite peaks rise dramatically from pine forests and winding roads lead to unforgettable vistas at every turn.
The campground's location is exceptionally convenient for travelers seeking access to major Black Hills attractions. You'll find yourself within striking distance of Mount Rushmore, the colossal monument carved into mountainside that draws visitors from around the globe. Beyond this famous landmark, the region teems with natural wonders including the stunning Custer State Park, where bison roam freely across rolling grasslands, and the intricate cavern systems that wind beneath the earth. The scenic byways throughout the area offer some of the most rewarding driving experiences in the country, with pullouts and viewpoints that showcase dramatic canyon formations and forested valleys.
Legion Lake itself provides a beautiful focal point for the campground experience. The crystal-clear waters invite fishing enthusiasts, swimmers, and those simply seeking to relax by the shoreline. Nature lovers will appreciate the abundance of wildlife in the region and the extensive hiking trail systems that crisscross the Black Hills. Whether you're an avid outdoor enthusiast looking to tackle challenging mountain trails or a casual visitor content to enjoy peaceful lakeside mornings with a cup of coffee, this location accommodates diverse interests.
The area welcomes families seeking quality time together in a natural setting, couples looking for a romantic getaway, and solo adventurers eager to explore South Dakota's treasured landscapes. Photographers will find endless inspiration in the dramatic lighting and varied terrain. The campground provides a comfortable launching point for day trips while offering enough natural beauty on its own grounds to justify spending several days here. The elevation and forest setting create pleasant temperatures even during summer months, making it an excellent choice for those escaping excessive heat elsewhere.
The campground's location is exceptionally convenient for travelers seeking access to major Black Hills attractions. You'll find yourself within striking distance of Mount Rushmore, the colossal monument carved into mountainside that draws visitors from around the globe. Beyond this famous landmark, the region teems with natural wonders including the stunning Custer State Park, where bison roam freely across rolling grasslands, and the intricate cavern systems that wind beneath the earth. The scenic byways throughout the area offer some of the most rewarding driving experiences in the country, with pullouts and viewpoints that showcase dramatic canyon formations and forested valleys.
Legion Lake itself provides a beautiful focal point for the campground experience. The crystal-clear waters invite fishing enthusiasts, swimmers, and those simply seeking to relax by the shoreline. Nature lovers will appreciate the abundance of wildlife in the region and the extensive hiking trail systems that crisscross the Black Hills. Whether you're an avid outdoor enthusiast looking to tackle challenging mountain trails or a casual visitor content to enjoy peaceful lakeside mornings with a cup of coffee, this location accommodates diverse interests.
The area welcomes families seeking quality time together in a natural setting, couples looking for a romantic getaway, and solo adventurers eager to explore South Dakota's treasured landscapes. Photographers will find endless inspiration in the dramatic lighting and varied terrain. The campground provides a comfortable launching point for day trips while offering enough natural beauty on its own grounds to justify spending several days here. The elevation and forest setting create pleasant temperatures even during summer months, making it an excellent choice for those escaping excessive heat elsewhere.
4.8
Rating
105
Reviews
Park Details
Tips & Tricks
Book Early
Custer is popular during peak season. Reserve 2-4 weeks in advance for weekends and holidays.
Check-in Time
Most parks have check-in after 1:00 PM and check-out by 11:00 AM. Call ahead if you'll arrive late.
Local Weather
South Dakota weather can change quickly. Pack layers and check the forecast for Custer.
Explore the Area
Don't miss local attractions near Custer. Ask the camp host for hidden gems and trails.
Legion Lake Campground Reviews
Sign in to Review
G
Alexis Keilly
Mar 23, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Alexis Keilly
Awesome and clean campground with lots of great trees for shade and hanging hammocks (or in our case hanging our wet tent to dry out). Steve the host is wonderful - super friendly and knowledgeable and recommended some great hikes accessible from the campground. Legion Lake is gorgeous and less popular than Sylvan Lake. A family of baby ducks was hanging out there when we visited. The facilities w... Awesome and clean campground with lots of great trees for shade and hanging hammocks (or in our case hanging our wet tent to dry out). Steve the host is wonderful - super friendly and knowledgeable and recommended some great hikes accessible from the campground. Legion Lake is gorgeous and less popular than Sylvan Lake. A family of baby ducks was hanging out there when we visited. The facilities were spotless and showers have plenty of hooks and changing space.
G
Catherine Ortiz
Mar 23, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Catherine Ortiz
Our camp hosts were the sweetest people and were very knowledgeable about the park when we asked a few questions. The campground was spotless as were the bathrooms! The sites were level which made pitching our tent for the first time an easy task. With a fairly central location in the park and right across from Legion Lake, you couldn't ask for more!
G
Jeff Lawrence
Mar 23, 2026
4.0
Google Review by Jeff Lawrence
Great small campground in great location within Custer St Park. Electric only hookups so make sure you have water when you come. Nice restroom with showers. Hosts keep bathrooms spotless. Legion lake and Lodge directly across hwy.
G
joy
Mar 23, 2026
5.0
Google Review by joy
Small, really nice campground paved sites electric only. The lake is right across the road and so is the lodge that has a store and a restaurant. The lake has a trail around it and there’s a trail out the back of the campground that goes over a mile . But if you need water, make sure you fill up at the dump station because the campground does have one spot to get water but it’s behind the bathroom... Small, really nice campground paved sites electric only. The lake is right across the road and so is the lodge that has a store and a restaurant. The lake has a trail around it and there’s a trail out the back of the campground that goes over a mile . But if you need water, make sure you fill up at the dump station because the campground does have one spot to get water but it’s behind the bathroom! So you would have to park your RV in front of the bathrooms and run a hose to the water
G
Wisconsin Glacier
Mar 23, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Wisconsin Glacier
Luxurious-ish! 11/9/24 visit. Asphalt pads are nicely spaced and level. Very nice host. Clean, warm and well cared for bathrooms and showers, which were fully operational. The campground is located across from a cute lake with a walking trail around it. About 20 sites total, all with electric. Overall the campground and lake lodge are well cared for. Good enough cell coverage for both AT&... Luxurious-ish! 11/9/24 visit. Asphalt pads are nicely spaced and level. Very nice host. Clean, warm and well cared for bathrooms and showers, which were fully operational. The campground is located across from a cute lake with a walking trail around it. About 20 sites total, all with electric. Overall the campground and lake lodge are well cared for. Good enough cell coverage for both AT&T and Verizon for calls, texts and surfing.
Own or manage Legion Lake Campground?
Claim this listing for free to update info, respond to reviews, add real photos, and start accepting online bookings.
