Black Hills Swimming

Avoid the hottest part of the day and take a refreshing afternoon dip in the cool waters of a lake, reservoir or swimming pool during your Black Hills’ summer vacation.

Overview

The Black Hills region is known for its hot summer temperatures, so escape to a nearby lake or pool and enjoy designated swimming areas and sandy beaches replete with picnic tables, playgrounds and volleyball courts. Black Hills National Forest features 11 reservoirs, most of which are open to swimming and other water sports. State Parks and Recreational Areas also provide swimming opportunity.

Precautions 

• Lakes/reservoirs do not feature life guards - SWIM AT YOUR OWN RISK.
• Summer water temperatures are generally comfortable but always watch for signs of hypothermia.
• When indicated, stay within designated swimming areas and watch for passing water crafts.
• Park and Recreational Entrance fees apply.

Where To Go Swimming

Black Hills National Forest: 11 reservoirs open for recreational use, with the following three featuring designated swimming beaches:

Pactola Reservoir

• Location - 19 miles west of Rapid City, SD
• Highlights: Beautiful mountain lake with picnic area, marina, nearby campground, visitors center and B&Bs.

Sheridan Lake

• Location – 18 miles west of Rapid City, SD, just off HWY 385 S.
• Highlights – Swim beach, marina, campground, boat launch and hiking trails.

Roubaix Lake

• Location – East of Rapid City and HWY 385, just off Forest Road 255.
• Highlights – Ponderosa forests, hiking trails and campground.

State Parks and Recreation Areas:

Angostura Reservoir

• Location – 10 miles southeast of Hot Springs, SD
• Highlights: Pristine waters and one of the best natural sandy beaches in the region, with volleyball courts and picnic area.
• 66° average summer water temperature

Custer State Park

Cruise Needles Highway or Wildlife Loop Road, hike or bike ride down one of the trails, and then spend the hottest part of the day splashing in one of these five lakes, all open to swimming:

• Center Lake
• Legion Lake
• Stockade Lake
• Sylvan Lake
• Game Lodge Pond

Shade Hill Recreation Area

• Location - Off Summerville Road, near Lemmon, SD.
• Highlights - One swimming beach with volleyball court, play ground and picnic area.

Fees

Private campgrounds, RV parks, resorts and lodges operating in the Black Hills often feature outdoor heated swimming pools, some providing life guards. Private facilities with pools can be found in: Deadwood, Wall, Rapid City, Belle Fourche, Hot Springs, Hill City, Lemmon and more. Fees are generally covered in accommodation costs.

Additionally, for those seeking a relaxing float in geothermal spring water, private pool and spa facilities can be found in Hot Springs. Admission fees start at around $9.