Overview

Black Hills National Forest covers an area 125 miles in length and 65 miles in width in western South Dakota and northeastern Wyoming.

Encompassed within this large expanse is some of the region’s most beautiful scenery including dramatic rock formations, gorges, pine-forested hills, lakes, streams and prairies.

The landscape is home to deer, elk, turkeys, and a variety of trout and warm-water fish and contains miles of trails, 30 campgrounds, 11 reservoirs and dozens of picnic areas. Enjoy such popular activities as hunting, fishing, boating, rock climbing, camping, hiking, biking, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing.

Location

Situated in western South Dakota and northeastern Wyoming.

Follow interstate-90/Hwy-14 for the northern and eastern entry towns of Sundance, Lead, Spearfish and Rapid City.

Hwy-85 cuts north and south through the center of Black Hills Forest.

Seasons

Black Hills National Forest is accessible year-round.

Activities

Water Activities

• With 11 reservoirs and 1,300 miles of streams in Black Hills National Forest, water-lovers will have plenty of room to float, boat, paddle, fish and swim.
• Water-ski Pactola or Sheridan Reservoirs or troll Deerfield, Horsethief or Bismarck Lakes. Check regulations for motorized and non-motorized areas and rules.
• Kayak and canoe enthusiasts have a range of places to paddle.
• Anglers can ice fish in winter, drift the ponds and reservoirs for pike, perch and crappies, or fly fish for trout in high-country streams.

Take To The Trails
450 miles of hiking trails varying in difficulty and length are located here as well as hundreds of miles of mountain biking trails near Rapid City, Custer, Spearfish and Sundance. Additionally, horseback riding trails are located throughout the forest including several designated horse camping areas.

Camping
Black Hills Forest has 30 designated campgrounds, most containing potable water and vault toilets and many camping areas feature a host to welcome and assist you. Camping fees apply from mid-May through October. Nightly rates range from $6-$21. For reservations in some campgrounds, call: 1-877-444-6777 or visit the National Forest Service website.

Hunting
Black Hills National Forest is a popular area for big game, small game and bird/waterfowl hunting, especially elk, turkey and deer hunting. Check South Dakota Game and Fish Department for licensing information.

Winter Fun
Winter is a great time to visit Black Hills National Forest. Explore designated snowmobile trails and cross-country skiing and snow shoeing areas.

Additional Information

Contact the Black Hills National Forest Service at:

• Phone: 605-673-9200
• Website