Black Hills Boating, Canoeing

Complete your Black Hill’s summer vacation with a day or two spent on a state or national park river, lake or reservoir, with boat rentals available in numerous locations.

Overview

Boating enthusiasts will find ample opportunity to canoe, kayak or motor on several Black Hills' lakes and rivers. Lake canoeing and kayaking are popular activities within Black Hills National Forest and Custer State Park, with many rental companies operating in and around these areas. Additionally, some lakes offer motor-boating and water-skiing. River travel, whether by canoe, kayak or tube, is recommended during spring and early summer when flows are at their best. Boaters are reminded to adhere to safety and navigational rules.

Lakes/Reservoirs

With canoeing and kayaking allowed on most South Dakota lakes, it’s an excellent way to explore the beauty of the Black Hills. Try:

Black Hills National Forest

• 11 reservoirs open for boating.
• Trolling boats allowed on Horsethief, Deerfield, and Bismark Lakes (“no wake” rule enforced).
• Water-skiing allowed on Pactola and Sheridan Lakes.
• Boat rentals available on Pactola and Sheridan Lakes.
• Location: Situated in western South Dakota and northeastern Wyoming.

Custer State Park

• Boating access on Center, Legion, Stockade,  and Sylvan Lakes.
• Paddle boat, kayak and row boat rentals available.
• Location: Custer State Park falls within Black Hills National Forest, located 8 miles east of Custer.

Angostura Reservoir

• Marina.
• 4 boat ramps.
• 36 miles of shoreline.
• Canoe and Kayak rentals ($15/three hours, $30/day).
• Location: Angostura State Recreation Area is 10 miles southeast of Hot Springs.

*Other popular boating areas include Bear Butte State Park and Shadehill Recreation Area.

Rivers

Launch your canoe down one of these rivers…

Belle Fourche: 290-miles of pristine water with multiple access points and gentle flows.

White River: Enjoy the surrounding dense forests and high cliffs. Try the 25-mile stretch in between Spring Creek Day School and Ghost Hawk Park.

…or kayak some of these whitewater locations:

Rapid Creek: Traverse Dark Canyon, featuring “Hummer” drop (Class 3).

Whitewood Creek: Its Class 5 waters are for experienced kayakers.

Rentals and Fees

With dozens of boat rental companies operating in the Black Hills region, locations are not hard to find, including: Custer, Hill City, Rapid City, Keystone, Deadwood, Sturgis and more. Daily canoe and kayak rental rates start as low as $30 (including equipment). Powerboat and multiple day rentals can set you back a few hundred dollars, but the recreational opportunities they provide are well worth the costs.

Hire A Guide

Multi-day guided lake kayak trips are available, featuring such areas as Deerfield and Pactola Lakes. Book one of these tours and explore the Black Hills from atop serene waters. Whitewater rafting opportunities and river trips are also available.