Welcome to Kennebec KOA Journey
Looking for the best RV park near the Black Hills, a convenient campground on the way to Yellowstone, or a relaxing South Dakota camping stop? Welcome to Kennebec KOA Journey, now under new ownership and bringing fresh, exciting energy to one of South Dakota's most iconic campgrounds. Perfectly located along I-90, this is more than just a stopover; it's your new favorite place to stay, recharge, and explore.
As the first KOA campground in South Dakota, Kennebec KOA blends rich history with exciting new updates. We're reimagining the guest experience with a remodeled pool coming soon and a brand-new camp store designed to elevate your stay with convenience, essentials, and fun extras you didn't know you needed.
Ways to Stay
Whether you're traveling cross-country or planning a Black Hills adventure, we have the perfect stay for every type of camper:
This isn't just a place to sleep, it's a place to breathe, reset, and enjoy the journey:
Adventure starts right outside your campsite:
Whether you're staying for a night or settling in for a few days, Kennebec KOA Journey delivers comfort, convenience, and a renewed sense of adventure. Come see what's new, experience the difference, and make your next stop one worth remembering.
Seasonal Pool: Our swimming pool is currenly under a remodel. Please stay tuned for opening day information.
We currently offer the following activities:
Starts: 06/27/2026 - Ends: 06/28/2026
Step into a world of knights, nobles, and mythical creatures at the Black Hills Renaissance Festival, returning for an exciting weekend of medieval merriment. Hosted at Kickstands Campground, this immersive event invites guests of all ages to experience the sights, sounds, and spirit of the Renaissance.Enjoy live entertainment throughout the weekend, including armored combat, theatrical performances, music, and interactive storytelling. Wander through a lively marketplace filled with artisan vendors offering handcrafted goods, period-inspired clothing, and unique treasures. Costumed performers and festival goers bring the grounds to life, creating a fully immersive atmosphere where you can dress the part or simply take it all in.Visitors can also look forward to demonstrations of traditional skills, themed food and drink, and plenty of opportunities to engage with characters straight out of history—and legend. Whether you're cheering on a knight, browsing the market, or enjoying the festive atmosphere, the Black Hills Renaissance Festival offers a memorable journey into a different time and place.If you're traveling to or from the festival, Kennebec KOA Journey makes for a convenient and relaxing stop along the way. Located about 180 miles from Sturgis—roughly a 3-hour drive—it's an ideal place to break up your trip. Campers can unwind after a full day of festivities, recharge before continuing their journey, and enjoy a quieter setting away from the crowds. Whether you're heading west into the Black Hills or returning home, it's a comfortable and easy stop to make your trip more enjoyable.
Starts: 06/19/2026 - Ends: 06/21/2026
Wild Bill Days | June 19–21, 2026
Step back into the Old West and honor the legendary gunslinger Wild Bill Hickok during this lively Deadwood tradition. The weekend is packed with live music performances, a bustling vendor market, and hands-on experiences that bring frontier history to life. Visitors can enjoy historical reenactments and demonstrations, check out a classic car auction (or even join in), and try their hand at gold panning and sluicing with guidance from the Northern Hills Prospectors. It's a fun-filled celebration of history, music, and Western heritage.If you're heading to Deadwood, consider making Kennebec KOA Journey part of your travel plans. Located roughly 190 miles away—about a 3 to 3.5 hour drive—it's a convenient and comfortable stop to relax, recharge, and enjoy the journey before arriving in the Black Hills for Wild Bill Days.
Photo courtesy of Travel South Dakota