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About Camp Rapid
Camp Rapid, located in Rapid City, South Dakota, is a National Guard training facility for the South Dakota Army National Guard. Established in the early 20th century, Camp Rapid plays a critical role in preparing National Guard soldiers for missions both domestically and abroad. The base supports a variety of training operations, including field exercises and leadership development. In addition to military training, Camp Rapid offers services for National Guard personnel and their families, including housing assistance, recreational opportunities, and access to local amenities in Rapid City.
Camp Rapid Veterans Guide
If you’re stationed at Camp Rapid or are planning on moving here our guide covers everything from housing options, both on and off base, to the best things to do in the area, financial resources, and local businesses offering military discounts, this guide is your one-stop resource for everything.
PCS Information
Moving can be stressful, especially during times of global uncertainty. It’s essential to comprehend the best techniques to manage the logistics of your move and respond swiftly when you get your orders. The Department of Defense provides various resources to help make your PCS as simple and safe as possible:
VA Home Loans
The greatest benefit afforded veterans of the military are VA home loans. With no down payment or mortgage insurance required they are the cheapest type of mortgage loan available. Get pre-approved for a VA loan with our network of VA lenders today. We can also refer you to a top local real estate agent to help you find the home of your dreams.
Camp Rapid Information
Contact Information
- Main Phone Number: +1 (605) 394-0000
- Housing Office: +1 (605) 394-0001
- Health Services Coordinator: +1 (605) 394-0002
- Family Support Office: +1 (605) 394-0003
- Legal Office: +1 (605) 394-0004
Address: Camp Rapid, 2823 W Main St, Rapid City, SD 57702, United States
Website URL:
https://sd.ng.mil/Army/Camp-Rapid/Pages/default.aspx
Base Resources and Information
- Housing Options: Camp Rapid does not have on-base housing. However, personnel typically find off-base housing in nearby Rapid City. The Housing Office provides assistance for National Guard soldiers and their families seeking local housing options. Contact the Housing Office at +1 (605) 394-0001.
- Popular off-base areas include Rapid City and surrounding neighborhoods, offering a variety of single-family homes and apartments.
- Current median home prices in Rapid City: $300,000 (as of 2024).
- Base Transportation: Camp Rapid does not offer internal shuttle services, but the base is easily accessible from U.S. Highway 16, providing quick access to downtown Rapid City and nearby areas.
- Medical and Emergency Services: Medical services for Camp Rapid personnel are available at local facilities in Rapid City. For assistance, contact the Health Services Coordinator at +1 (605) 394-0002.
- Dining Facilities: There are limited on-base dining options at Camp Rapid. However, off-base dining is available in Rapid City, which offers a range of restaurants from local eateries to national chains.
- Fitness and Wellness Programs: Camp Rapid has basic fitness facilities available for National Guard personnel. Off-base, Rapid City offers several fitness centers, including YMCA and private gyms. The nearby Black Hills provide ample opportunities for outdoor recreational activities like hiking, biking, and rock climbing.
Education:
- On-Base Schools: There are no on-base schools at Camp Rapid. Children of National Guard personnel attend local schools in the Rapid City Area School District.
- Off-Base Schools: Families living off-base in Rapid City have access to a variety of schools in the Rapid City Area School District, offering K-12 education. Higher education opportunities are available at South Dakota School of Mines & Technology and Western Dakota Technical College.
- Child Development Center (CDC): Camp Rapid does not operate a CDC. Families can access child care services through local providers in Rapid City.
Things to Do:
- Outdoor Activities: Camp Rapid is located near the Black Hills, providing access to hiking, camping, and fishing. The base is also close to Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park, and other tourist attractions.
- Shopping and Dining: While the base itself has limited shopping and dining, Rapid City offers a wide variety of shopping centers and restaurants, including Rushmore Mall and local establishments in downtown Rapid City.
Local Support and Resources:
- Veterans Service Organizations: Local VFW and American Legion posts in Rapid City provide support and resources for veterans and their families.
- Family Support Office: Provides deployment support, financial counseling, family advocacy services, and more. Contact the Family Support Office at +1 (605) 394-0003.
- Legal Services: The Legal Office provides assistance with wills, powers of attorney, and other legal matters. Contact the Legal Office at +1 (605) 394-0004 for more information.
Base History and Mission: Established in the early 1900s, Camp Rapid is a vital training facility for the South Dakota Army National Guard. The base supports training exercises, leadership development, and preparation for state and federal missions.