Summer Camps

Camp Application

Waiver  Media Release

BHSU RPED'S Camp

More Information will be coming soon.

Black Hills State University is excited to host it's first RPED's Summer Camp through the U.S. Department of Education's Rural Postsecondary & Economic Development program.

The mission of the summer camp will be to enhance college access, experience, and success for rural students in western South Dakota. Campers will receive an orientation to campus and explore various majors and careers, including a visit to the Sanford Underground Research Facility in Lead.

Information Regarding RPED Grant Award. 

2025 Camp Information

  • CHECK-IN: Monday, June 1st (11am MT)
  • CHECK-OUT: Thursday, June 4th (Noon MT)
  • DURATION: 4 days/ 3 nights
  • LOCATION: BHSU Spearfish
  • ON-CAMPUS RESIDENCE: Bordeaux Hall, BHSU Spearfish
  • COST: FREE (Subject to change)
  • APPLICATION: Apply here.
  • CAMPERS: Must be an incoming Freshman (9th), Sophomore (10th), or Junior (11th) in Fall 2026, and attending a West River South Dakota school district school. Accepted campers will be notified by May 1st, 2026.

Included in the Camp

  • Drawstring Bag or Similar
  • Notebook with Pens
  • Water bottle
  • 2 T-Shirts (For Tuesday & Wednesday camp days)
  • All Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner)
  • Transportation & entrance into all site visit locations
  • Shared room in Bordeaux Hall - BHSU SpearfishA light blanket, sheets, pillow, pillowcase, towel, and washcloth are provided, however it is recommended that campers bring an extra towel, pillow, and blanket

What to Bring

  • Personal Hygiene ItemsToothbrush/Toothpaste
  • Shampoo/Bodywash/Soap
  • Deodorant
  • Medication(s) & SupplementsPrescription Medication will need the corresponding prescription and packaging (bottle/container with prescribing healthcare professionals information)
  • Vitamins
  • Glasses
  • Sunscreen
  • Clothing for 4 days/ 3 nightsUndergarments
  • Shirts, Pants, Socks
  • Closed-Toed Shoes (REQUIRED)
  • Outerwear (Sweater/Jacket)
  • Pillow, Blanket, Small Fan (other sleep wear)A sleeping bag is not needed, but may be brought
  • Snacks for between mealsAccess to the BHSU Bookstore, site gift shops, and vending machines are provided, however BHSU is not liability for any lost or stolen items, including money, cash, cards, phones etc. 

What Not to Bring

  • Minifridge
  • Microwave
  • TV and/or any gaming console that is not handheld
  • Weapons of any kind (Automatically sent home if found/discovered)
  • This includes pocketknives