Black Hills National Forest South Dakota Review

19 August 2021By Brett

Black Hills National Forest in South Dakota was honestly the highlight of my trip in July! It was beyond belief and truly a wonder. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but it was as extraordinary as everyone had said when I arrived. I just stayed for one night but I will return as soon as I can! Here’s where my trip took me and things you can do while in the Black Hills!

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Things to Do in Black Hills National Forest

a waterfall going over high cliff with forest on top and bottom and a wooden deck for a lookout area
Bridal Veil Falls in Black Hills National Forest.

There are many places you can visit in the Black Hills National Forest in South Dakota. I only stayed 1 night, but while driving around, I could still see several things during my trip. There are several hiking trails all throughout the area. I was near the Roughlock Falls trail, which ended at a modern lodge for camping, hiking, or offroading trips. The Roughlock Falls Nature Area is also near the campground I stayed at. The drive alone was worth it with views, and waterfalls, and creeks all around!

Rod and Gun Campground

a black and brown dog standing on a gravel road in rod and gun campground in black hills national forest
Sammy in Rod and Gun Campground in the Black Hills National Forest.

I stayed at the Rod and Gun Campground located here. This is a fee area of $18 per night with a pit toilet and water. The campground made up for any lack of amenities with beautiful skies and jagged cliffs all around. The final scene of Dances with Wolves was filmed in this area. The Roughlock Falls and Nature Area is just down the road and several trails traverse this campground and follow the Little Spearfish Creek.

Roughlock Falls and Nature Area

a creek flows by a picnic table with cliffs in the background
The picnic area next to Little Spearfish Creek in Black Hills National Forest.

The Roughlock Falls is part of the greater Spearfish Canyon Nature Area which is administered by the South Dakota Game, Fish & Parks. It is located here. The area is beyond gorgeous and the nature area consists of more than this waterfall but several others in the area. Roughlock Falls is near the campground I stayed. The falls are a mix of foliage and forest and rocky cascades. You can picnic and enjoy the area for several hours. This place should be on your to-do list if you’re ever in the Black Hills!

roughlock falls with cascade rock and foliage growing in the creek
Roughlock Falls in Black Hills South Dakota.
Where can you camp in Black Hills National Forest?

Dispersed camping and fee area camping are both available in Black Hills National Forest.

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