Escape to the water with a day of swimming, paddling or boating surrounded by Black Hills scenery. From quiet mountain lakes perfect for kayaks and paddleboards to larger reservoirs made for boating and full days on the water, these are some of our favorite places to cool off during a Black Hills summer.
POOL ACCESS
Staying in Powder House Pass or Gilded Mountain? Select Black Hills Adventure Lodging homes in these communities include access to shared clubhouse and pool amenities. Powder House Pass features two outdoor pools, including a heated year-round pool and a larger seasonal pool, while Gilded Mountain offers a heated outdoor pool and clubhouse. Check your individual property listing for included amenities and access details.
NORTHERN HILLS
1. Iron Creek Lake
Location: Spearfish Canyon Area, SD
Best For: Swimming, Kayaking & Canoeing
Description: A peaceful mountain lake tucked into the forest south of Spearfish. Its smaller size and quiet setting make it an easy choice for families looking for a relaxed lake day close to the Northern Hills.
2. Roubaix Lake
Location: South of Deadwood, SD
Best For: Swimming & Quiet Lake Days
Description: A small mountain lake with a sandy swimming beach and peaceful forest setting, making it especially nice for swimming, paddling and relaxed family outings.
CENTRAL BLACK HILLS
3. Pactola Reservoir
Location: Central Black Hills, SD
Best For: Boating, Kayaking, Paddleboarding & Swimming
Description: The largest reservoir in the Black Hills and one of the area's premier destinations for a full day on the water. Explore quiet coves by kayak or paddleboard, spend the day boating, or relax along the shoreline and designated swimming areas.
More Info: https://www.fs.usda.gov/blackhills
Watercraft Rentals: Pactola Marina offers pontoon boats, fishing boats, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards.
Website: https://pactolamarina.com/
4. Sheridan Lake
Location: Central Black Hills, SD
Best For: Swimming, Boating & Water Sports
Description: A large, scenic reservoir with a designated swimming beach, boat ramps and plenty of room for boating, kayaking and other water activities. A great choice for a traditional summer lake day.
More Info: https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232300
5. Deerfield Lake
Location: Deerfield, SD
Best For: Kayaking, Paddleboarding & Quiet Water
Description: A peaceful mountain reservoir surrounded by Black Hills National Forest. Its calm setting makes it especially appealing for kayaking, canoeing and paddleboarding.
More Info: https://www.fs.usda.gov/blackhills
CUSTER STATE PARK & SOUTHERN HILLS
6. Sylvan Lake
Location: Custer State Park, SD
Best For: Swimming, Kayaking & Paddleboarding
Description: One of the most iconic lakes in the Black Hills, surrounded by towering granite formations and ponderosa pine. Swim, paddle or combine your lake day with the scenic trail around the shoreline.
More Info: https://gfp.sd.gov/parks/detail/custer-state-park/
7. Legion Lake
Location: Custer State Park, SD
Best For: Swimming, Paddling & Families
Description: A smaller, relaxed lake with a swimming beach, scenic shoreline and seasonal watercraft rentals, making it an easy place to spend a laid-back summer afternoon.
More Info: https://gfp.sd.gov/parks/detail/custer-state-park/
8. Stockade Lake
Location: Custer State Park, SD
Best For: Boating & Swimming
Description: The largest lake in Custer State Park and one of the park's best options for visitors bringing a boat, with swimming and shoreline recreation as well.
More Info: https://gfp.sd.gov/parks/detail/custer-state-park/
9. Center Lake
Location: Custer State Park, SD
Best For: Swimming, Kayaking & Family Lake Days
Description: A scenic forest lake with a swimming beach and calm-water atmosphere, making it a good choice for paddling and families looking for a quieter lake day.
More Info: https://gfp.sd.gov/parks/detail/custer-state-park/
10. Horsethief Lake
Location: Near Mount Rushmore, SD
Best For: Swimming & Paddling
Description: A small mountain lake tucked into the forest near Mount Rushmore, offering a beautiful setting for swimming, kayaking or paddleboarding while exploring the Central and Southern Hills.
More Info: https://www.fs.usda.gov/blackhills
BEFORE YOU GET ON THE WATER
Water levels, swimming areas, rentals and boating restrictions can vary by season and location. Some lakes allow motorboats and water sports while others restrict motors, wakes or boat speeds. Always review posted regulations and current conditions before heading out.
Black Hills National Forest: https://www.fs.usda.gov/blackhills
Custer State Park: https://gfp.sd.gov/parks/detail/custer-state-park/
South Dakota Boating Information: https://gfp.sd.gov/boating/