Burning Coal Vein Campground marks the southernmost trailhead for the 144-mile Maah Daah Hey Trail, with stunning views of the badlands. The primitive campground is a first-come, first-served, quiet site with a $10 fee, operating on a “pack it in, pack it out” policy. It includes eight spacious campsites with a vault toilet, a hand-pump for water, picnic tables, and fire rings—ideal for starting your northbound thru-hike.
You can park overnight with no fee in the main campground or in the nearby overlook lot behind the campsites. Due to the remoteness of the area, it’s a good idea to leave a note on your windshield with your itinerary.