Located in the heart of the United States, is the unforgettable state of South Dakota. Famous for being one of the best places to road trip in the U.S. because of its diverse landscapes with stunning national parks, it’s an adventure lovers’ paradise.
South Dakota is where you’ll find Mount Rushmore National Memorial and Badlands National Park, as well as the Black Hills mountain range and the underground caves of Wind Cave National Park.
With all this nature to explore, staying in a boring hotel room just doesn’t add to the appeal. One of the best ways to appreciate nature is to stay right in it. How do you do that? Stay in a cabin of course!
Cabins in South Dakota are located right in the thick of nature, next to lakes, deep in forests, or at the foothills of mountains. This means insane views and total serenity.
Sounds good right?
Finding a cabin in South Dakota is no easy task so to help you out, I’ve prepared this list of the best cabins in South Dakota so you can find a place to stay in no time.
In a Hurry? Here’s Where to Stay in South Dakota for One Night
Intimate Lakeside Cabin in Wentworth
If you’re a first time visitor in South Dakota then you should definitely consider staying at this intimate lakeside cabin in Wentworth. The cozy cabin sleeps up to four guests and sits right on the water, with spectacular lake views and forest backdrops. You’ll also find a cozy outdoor space that is equipped with a modern firepit and a gazebo.
- Sioux Falls
- Lake Herman State Park
- Historic Prairie Village
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Staying in a Cabin in South Dakota
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South Dakota is widely regarded as being one of the best road trip destinations in the northern states of the US, especially for those who love nature and cutting-edge landscapes. With so much nature to enjoy, staying in a cabin is the ultimate way to really understand what South Dakota has to offer.
The cabins in South Dakota vary in size, style and budget. Some are designed for an epic family adventure, while others know how to pull off the perfect romantic getaway.
While you might think a cabin is a dark and dreary place, you will be pleasantly surprised that all cabins are pretty much homes away from home. They have fully equipped kitchens, indoor bathrooms with hot water, plush comfy beds and living areas.
Most cabins in South Dakota are remote, which is all part of the appeal of staying in a cabin. If you want to escape the city and unwind in nature, there is no better way. But staying in a remote location often means you have a few things to look out for…
What to Look for in Cabins in South Dakota
As with any vacation, location is the first thing you need to think about. This is arguably even more important when picking a Cabin in South Dakota as the landscapes vary and the towns are pretty spread out and it’s not possible to see it all in one trip (unless you’re road tripping).
South Dakota is home to some awesome sites, so if you don’t have a car, it’s best to stay near Rapid City or Sioux Falls which have many things to do.
Perhaps you want to be near one of the best National Parks, including the famous Badlands. In that case, you’ll need to make sure you have a car to be able to drive to all these sites.
Some of the cabins are outside of towns and in rural areas, where public transport is inaccessible. As well as renting a vehicle, you’re going to need to check that the cabin has parking and a road that can be used by a normal vehicle. In the winter, pack snow chains and be prepared for snowy weather.
Most cabins are equipped with modern facilities but some common commodities like WiFi and cell service might not always be provided. It’s a good idea to check the listing to see what the WiFi and sell service is like, as when you’re staying in remote locations, it’s not always possible to have these luxuries.
You should also check what’s provided in the kitchen and prepare accordingly. You’ll likely need to stock up on groceries before you get there, but if there’s no oven or pots and pans, you might need to bring those too if you want to cook.
If you’ve got your eyes set on one of the luxurious cabins in South Dakota, then check out what high-end facilities it offers. It’s not uncommon to find outdoor hot tubs, fire pits, wrap-around porches, heated patios and private docks. If you’re staying on the lake, check to see if kayaks and watersports equipment is available.
Intimate Lakeside Cabin in Wentworth
- > $$
- > 4 Guests
- > Modern outdoor firepit and seating
- > Waterfont lake access
Modern Tiny Home in Rapid City
- > $
- > 4 Guests
- > BBQ area
- > Incredible panoramic views
Log Bunkhouse in Hot Springs
- > $
- > 4 Guests
- > Outdoor patio
- > Authentic style
Huge Lodge in The Woods
- > $$$
- > 12 Guests
- > Outdoor hot tub
- > Shared heated pool
Secluded Modern Chalet
- > $$$
- > 8 Guests
- > Double sided stone fireplace
- > Hot tub
Modern A-Frame near Custer State Park
- > $$$
- > 4 Guests
- > Outdoor terrace
- > Spectacular views
Cabin w/Hot Tub on Terry Peak
- > $$$
- > 8 Guests
- > Private deck
- > Outdoor hot tub
The 10 Best Cabins in South Dakota
Now you know what to expect from cabins in South Dakota, it’s time to take a look at the best of the best!
Overall Best Value Cabin in South Dakota – Intimate Lakeside Cabin in Wentworth
The award for the overall best value cabin in South Dakota has to go to this beautiful lake-side cabin on the outskirts of Wentworth. There is no doubt that one of the best elements of this cabin is its cozy outdoor space. Here you will find a modern fire pit that is surrounded by a sleek seating area and is lit up by pretty fairy lights.
After finishing your coffee in the beautiful outdoor seating area you are in the prime position to explore the lake with the property sitting right on the waterfront.
Guests have the opportunity to pick their access of choice to the lake whether you want to dive straight in for a swim, rent a boat for the day or perhaps grab one of the free kayaks provided by the cabin.
Want to save money on accommodation?
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Best Budget Cabin in South Dakota – Modern Tiny Home in Rapid City
If you’re backpacking the USA and need an affordable place to stay, don’t worry, I got your back. This cleverly designed cabin-style studio has been primely located centrally in the sought-after Black Hills near Rapid City.
This has meant that the cabin is surrounded by acres of beautiful high meadows and is just several miles away from some of the state’s hot spots including Nation Forestland and Rapid City. The property is also very well priced and you would find it hard to find a cabin with such a good location at similar prices.
Despite having a basic design the cabin itself is a charmer. It is equipped with a deluxe and comfortable bedroom and has high-speed Wi-Fi. You’ll also find a great selection of common spaces including a fully equipped kitchen and warming fireplace which is the perfect place to relax in the evenings.
Best Authentic Cabin in South Dakota – Log Bunkhouse in Hot Springs
It’s all about the location with this cabin, with it being surrounded by scenic pine forests and open meadows that will make you feel as if you’re in a movie.
Situated in the Southern Black Hills of South Dakota the cabin is in a perfect location if you want to see the stripped-back and authentic side of the state.
The cabin is surrounded by adventurous things to do with the Black Hills National Forest, Wind Cave National Park, and Angostura State Park all within a few miles. It is also just a short drive away from the town of Hot Springs where there is a plethora of restaurants and cultural attractions if you fancy joining civilization again.
Best Cabin in South Dakota for Groups of Friends – Huge Lodge in The Woods
This well-equipped cabin has everything you and your group of friends will need for an epic stay in South Dakota. This beautiful 4 bedroom custom-built cabin can fit up to 12 guests and accepts large groups of friends, it also has incredible facilities for a fun vacation, including an outdoor hot tub, access to a heated pool, and a vibrant clubhouse!
The cabin is situated in the highly popular Gilded Mountain area which is surrounded by great scenery and wildlife. One of the best ways to explore the nearby area is by car in the summer or snowmobile in the winter months which can both be easily rented from the cabin.
This means you can take the adventurous route to the famous rimrock canyon walls of Spearfish Canyon which is just a short drive away.
Over-the-Top Luxury Cabin in South Dakota – Secluded Modern Chalet
If you’re looking for a cabin with a wow factor that’s going to impress your fellow travelers then this is the one for you.
This secluded chalet near Lead has a modern yet rustic atmosphere and is surrounded by 10 acres of beautiful forestland.
The Sheep Hill chalet has been consistently ranked one of the most luxurious valleys in South Dakota by several travel magazines and we can see why with 16-foot huge floor-to-ceiling windows, a state-of-the-art kitchen, immaculately designed bedrooms, and of course the acres of private land.
To get to the cabin you will have to drive up a scenic 5-mile gravel road from the main highway, some guests have described this journey as if you’re in a fairytale driving up to a private castle.
Amazing Luxury Cabin in South Dakota – Modern A-Frame near Custer State Park
This modern A-frame cabin in Custer combines the perfect mixture of luxurious facilties with an authentic and rustic cabin feel. The beautiful cabin can fit up to four guests and is equipped with a deluxe queen bed in the loft along with an ultra-comfortable sofa bed in the downstairs area.
The unique cabin is also equipped with a spacious outdoor deck where a brand new grill lies. Here is the perfect place to whip up something tasty to eat which can then be enjoyed whilst watching views of the nearby rock formations and wildlife.
If you’re lucky enough you may get to capture a glimpse of the famous fluffy buffalo right from your cabin!
Best Cabin in South Dakota for Families – Cabin w/Hot Tub on Terry Peak
This cabin has been perfectly designed for families or large groups of friends with it having a spacious layout and 3 bedrooms that fit up to 8 guests. The entire house has a traditional log cabin feel that has had a slight modern revamp.
On-site you will find a fully furnished kitchen, laundry, multiple smart TVs, foosball tables, and a beautiful fireplace. The excellent facilities also extend outside the cabin with a bubbling hot tub being located on the wooden patio where you can relax n the warm waters whilst being surrounded by pine forest views.
After listing these epic facilities you may feel as if you don’t want to leave the comforts of the cabin. However if you do then there are some great hiking, biking, and skiing trails nearby at the famous Terry Peaks where you can explore hundreds of miles of beautiful tracks.
Coolest Cabin in South Dakota – Loft Treehouse in Valley Springs
This isn’t a traditional cabin; it’s a spectacular treehouse located in the heart of Valley Springs. Arguably the best thing about this home is the views, here you get to wake up to a stunning 360 degree views overlooking the surrounding countryside whilst also experiencing some of the most breathtaking sunsets in South Dakota.
The treehouse is described as a quiet retreat in a peaceful hilltop oasis making it the perfect place to unwind from the stresses of daily life. However, if you do fancy heading somewhere a bit more lively for the day, then the state’s largest city of Sioux Falls is just a 20 minute drive away.
Cabin with an Epic Location in South Dakota – Hideaway Cabin near Rochford
This cabin is for those travelers who really want to zone out and have a vacation off-the-grid in South Dakota with the property having no cell service or wifi!
The quaint Cabin is located on the outskirts of Rochford which is nicknamed the friendliest little ghost town in the Black Hills, here you will find a small selection of local restaurants to enjoy a tasty meal in the evenings.
If you want to explore the surrounding nature during the day, the Hideaway Cabin is just a mile from the Mickelson Trail which is famous for its hiking and biking paths along with the beautiful Rapid Creek being just a short walk down the hill.
Best Cabin for Couples in South Dakota – Tiny Cabin in Pheasant Country
If you’re looking for a romantic getaway in South Dakota then this Micro Cabin in Pheasant Country might be your best option! This cabin is an Escape Vista trailer that has a full-size queen bed and full bathroom with a cozy yet brightly lit interior.
The location of this cabin is pretty rural which allows you to experience the beauty of the South Dakota Plains. The property also overlooks the famous Salt Lake which boasts the most spectacular views in the evening where you can watch the golden South Dakotan sun ooze into the water.
Don’t Forget Your South Dakota Travel Insurance
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on Cabins in South Dakota
South Dakota is best known for being an epic state to explore the great outdoors, so why not make your accommodation as exciting as the activities you’ll enjoy?
Hopefully, this guide helped you navigate your way around the best cabins in South Dakota. As you can tell there are a fair few to choose and are best suited to many different types of travelers.
But before you go, remember that if you’re traveling internationally, it is always safe and wise to take travel insurance. It helps keep you safe on your travels in case of any unforeseen events and makes you a smart traveler too!
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