Sylvan Lake, South Dakota

Perhaps one of the most beautiful lakes in South Dakota, Sylvan Lake offers spectacular recreational opportunities with a serene ambiance. Nestled at the base of Harney Peak, and surrounded by impressive rounded rock formations and ponderosa pine trees, your family will bedelighted with all that Sylvan Lake has to offer. The unique rock formations surrounding the lake were formed in the same manner as the Needles: igneous and metamorphic rocks were uplifted, and weather has since shaped the rocks into their current form. The Needles spires are sharper and more pointy than the rocks around Sylvan Lake because the Needles were formed as closely spaced joints. The rounded forms of granite around the lake, on the other hand, were produced by widely spaced joints. Once at Sylvan Lake, take a swim, test your fishing skills, or go kayaking or canoeing. If you do not have your own water craft, you can rent one at the general store. The beaches also provide an excellent place to sunbathe in the summer. There are hours of fun to be had on Sylvan Lake.

If you are interested in hiking, there are several trailheads at Sylvan Lake that lead to an intricate circuit of exciting trails. One of the most popular and rewarding trails takes you to the top of Harney Peak, the highest mountain east of the Rockies. Not only will you gain an impressive view of the Black Hills, but you'll get a glimpse of Mount Rushmore as well.
For a more educational experience, guided geology walks offered by Custer State Park are offered around the lake region. You'll learn about how geology has affected the entire Black Hills area, from habitat to scenery. The geology walks start at the Sylvan Lake General Store.
There are several accommodations at the lake. Sylvan Lake Campground offers campsites for about $15 per night. If you are not into roughing it, you can stay at the beautiful Sylvan Lake Resort which was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. The Resort offers cozy lodge rooms and various amenities such as an auditorium for parties and reunions, as well as the Lakota Dining Room where you can order a local game dish.