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Black Hills/Sheridan Lake South Shore

Overview

Nestled within the expansive beauty of the Black Hills National Forest, Sheridan Lake South Shore provides a classic outdoor experience for travelers. This Forest Service destination serves as a peaceful retreat for those who appreciate the quiet rustle of ponderosa pines and immediate access to one of the region’s largest bodies of water. This location provides a rugged and rewarding way to experience the South Dakota wilderness, focusing on a traditional camping atmosphere where the natural landscape remains the primary draw for every visitor.

Location & Surroundings

The campground is situated along the southern banks of Sheridan Lake, roughly 20 miles southwest of Rapid City, South Dakota. The terrain is characterized by rolling hills and dense evergreen forests, offering plenty of shade and a sense of seclusion from the city. Its proximity to the historic Flume Trail makes it a prime spot for hikers who want to explore the remnants of the mining era while enjoying panoramic views of the water and surrounding granite peaks.

Amenities & Park Features

As a National Forest site, the amenities here are designed for self-contained RVs and those seeking a rustic stay. The park features specific layouts to enhance your forest experience:

  • Paved parking pads designed to accommodate various rig lengths.
  • Centralized vault toilets and potable water stations throughout the loops.
  • Individual fire rings and heavy-duty picnic tables at every site.
  • Convenient boat launch and fishing pier access for water enthusiasts.

Nearby Attractions & Things to Do

Water recreation is the highlight of this location, with the lake providing excellent opportunities for trout and perch fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. For those looking to explore the broader region, the park is a short drive from iconic landmarks like Mount Rushmore National Memorial and the Crazy Horse Memorial. Families often enjoy the nearby swimming beach on the north shore, while the surrounding forest service roads offer miles of exploration for mountain bikers.

Who This Park Is Best For

This destination is ideal for boondocking enthusiasts and RVers who prefer natural beauty over modern luxury resorts. It is a fantastic choice for families who enjoy water sports and hikers looking for a quiet basecamp near the region's best trails. If you travel in a self-contained rig and want to wake up to the sounds of nature rather than highway traffic, this tranquil lakeside setting will perfectly suit your travel style.

Amenities

- Recreational Facilities

• Lake
• Swimming
• Fishing
• Ramp
• Boat Rental
• Boat Marina
• Body Of Water (Sheridan Lake)
• Kayaking/Canoeing

- Policies

• Pets Welcome
• Pets $
• Day Max Stay (14)
• Tent Camping Allowed

- Other Amenities & Services

• Pit Toilets

- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)

• Hiking
• Mountain Biking
• Road Biking Trails
• Watersports

- Facility

• Type (National Forest)
• Partial Handicap Access

- Hunting Nearby (within 20 miles)

• Season: Winter,Spring,Fall

- On-Site Rentals

• 

- Sites

• Spaces Available (126)
• Max Length (27)
• Gravel Sites (126)
• No Hookups (126)
• Back-ins (15 x 27)
• Fire Rings

User Reviews

Lisa Nold

September 24, 2025

Loved this campground. Very clean and staff helpful and informative. Quiet. My only wish is that they would further limit hours that generators are allowed.

Laura Moore

August 03, 2025

Boondockers only! No generators at night! No showers houses or water hookups or dump station! No signal! That being said the scenery is beautiful and the hosts are very kind. Site we were initially booked on our rv couldn’t even level on. We won’t return as we prefer at least some access to water sewer and electrical and our 47 foot rig was far to big for these small slanted spots…

Nick Mills

May 31, 2025

Even though it was a rainy trip, Sheridan lake was beautiful and quiet! Just note- camp host are volunteers and are very nice but also still learning their ways too….so it can be a little slower at first. Close to Rapid City and Mount Rushmore…I would totally go back again!

Jonathan Scott Turner

July 17, 2024

This is Noah B from ND. He caught his first bass. I told him I'd post his picture. I hope you find it Noah. Nice fish and God bless!

Hayley Peerless

May 30, 2022

Only complaint was the condition of the outhouses, otherwise beautiful campsite

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Map for Black Hills/Sheridan Lake South Shore

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