FacilityCampgroundRecreation.gov

Picnic Spring Campground

Ludlow, South Dakota · Harding County · Campground

A campground with 8 sites located in the North Cave Hills Unit, Sioux Ranger District near Ludlow, SD. Camp sites: 8Accessible Facilities:Toilet Trash Pickup: NoFirewood: NoNo Reservations: This campground does not use a reservation system, it is managed on a first-come, first-served basis. There is a 14 day stay limit…

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45.87361, -103.48417
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About Picnic Spring Campground

A campground with 8 sites located in the North Cave Hills Unit, Sioux Ranger District near Ludlow, SD. Camp sites: 8Accessible Facilities:Toilet Trash Pickup: NoFirewood: NoNo Reservations: This campground does not use a reservation system, it is managed on a first-come, first-served basis. There is a 14 day stay limit.Information:Sioux District OfficeBox 37, Main & FirstCamp Crook, SD 57724(605) 797-4432

How to Get There

From Ludlow, SD travel north 2 miles on Hwy 85 to Tufte Road. Turn left and continue for 4 miles and turn right continuing on Tufte Road. Go 1 mile and turn left on Forest Road 3114 (Fuller Pass Road). Go 1/4 mile and turn left on Forest Road 3123. Go 1/4 mile and turn right into Picnic Spring Campground.

Driving directions (Google Maps) →

What to Pack for Your Stay

Tuned to the live forecast for this park.

👔 What to Wear

  • 👕
    Long-sleeve shirt
    Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
  • 🧥
    Light shell or windbreaker
    Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
  • 👖
    Hiking pants or convertible
    Layer for variable conditions.
  • 🥾
    Trail runners or low boots
    Comfortable, broken in.

🎒 What to Pack

  • 💧
    Water
    Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
  • 🍫
    High-energy snacks
    A snack for the trail.
  • 🧴
    Sun protection
    Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
  • 🩹
    First-aid kit
    Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
  • 🗺
    Offline map
    Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.

Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.

Plan Your Visit to Picnic Spring Campground

Heading to Picnic Spring Campground? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for Picnic Spring Campground?

No central reservation system listed for Picnic Spring Campground. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/239840) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to Picnic Spring Campground?

From Ludlow, SD travel north 2 miles on Hwy 85 to Tufte Road. Turn left and continue for 4 miles and turn right continuing on Tufte Road. Go 1 mile and turn left on Forest Road 3114 (Fuller Pass Road). Go 1/4 mile and turn left on Forest Road 3123. Go 1/4 mile and turn right into Picnic Spring Campground.

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