Belle Fourche

"The Geographic Center of the Nation"

Population 4,900 • Elevation 3,017

Nestled on the northern rim of the fabled Black Hills at a "Beautiful Fork" in the river that gave the town its name, Belle Fourche (pronounced Bell Foosh). In the heyday of the “open range,” Texas cattle drives and sheep barons, Belle Fourche emerged as one of the most important livestock shipping railheads in the West. The community retains its Western aire as a modern service center for vast livestock ranges in a tri-state area. Belle Fourche welcomes trail-weary travelers with its own brand of Western hospitality.

In addition to outstanding antique shops, motels, museums, campgrounds and restaurants, Belle Fourche is home to one of America's premier rodeos — The Black Hills Roundup. You'll discover summer concerts in Herrmann Park; the Center of the Nation All Car Rally each June; Air Shows; and excellent outdoor recreation at nearby Orman Dam and the Belle Fourche Country Club. When you're ready for a place where the West still rings true, say "howdy" to Belle Fourche. We'll be waiting for you.

Geographic Center of the Nation
With the admission of Alaska and Hawaii to the Union in 1959, the U.S. Coast and Geodetic Survey officially designated a point 20 miles north of Belle Fourche as the Geographic Center of the Nation. Today, the Center of the Nation is marked by a 21-foot diameter monument made of South Dakota granite in the shape of the compass rose, at the Belle Fourche Visitor Center and Tri-State Museum.

Chalk In The Park - Belle Fourche
Aug 3, 2013 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
Each artist will get a 4 ft. by 4 ft. square to create a masterpiece. Chalk and supplies are provided. Reserve early to reserve space. The registered artist work will be judged by a panel of 3 to determine the 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners.  A child’s chalk land will be available to children to make pictures for viewing.