State Parks and Recreation Areas

Home to four State Parks and Recreation Areas, the Black Hills and Badlands of South Dakota offers dozens of opportunities to experience outdoor recreation at its best. Some of the best fishing, boating, wildlife viewing and hiking can be found at Bear Butte State Park, Custer State Park, Angostura State Recreational Area and Shade Hill State Recreational Area. With camping and lodging facilities available, stay one day or several!

Angostura State Recreation Area
Angostura Reservoir, located 10 miles southeast of Hot Springs off US Hwy. 385/18, is a water-lover’s haven. Known for its clear waters and natural sand beaches, there’s plenty of elbow room to enjoy boating, fishing and swimming.

Bear Butte State Park
Located 6 miles northeast of Sturgis off Highway 79, Mato Paha or “Bear Mountain” is the Lakota name given to this site. The mountain, an almost-volcano, is sacred to many American Indian tribes who come here to hold religious ceremonies.

Custer State Park
South Dakota’s premier State Park comprises 71,000 acres famous for its bison herds, other wildlife, scenic drives, historic sites, visitor centers, fishing lakes and interpretive programs. With eight campgrounds and four unique resorts, you can plan even more time in the Park.

Shadehill State Recreation Area
Located 14 miles south of Lemmon off SD Hwy. 73, Shadehill State Recreation Area offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy land- and water-based activities. With more than 5,000 surface acres of water, the reservoir is one of western South Dakota’s few large lakes.