About 20 minutes to Pactola Reservoir
Pactola Reservoir Camping in the Central Black Hills
Pactola is the big lake of the Black Hills, and it is about 20 minutes down US-385 from camp. Swim, paddle, and fish all day, then come back for dinner, hot showers, and a campfire.
Pactola from camp
Pactola Reservoir is the largest and deepest reservoir in the Black Hills, formed by a dam on Rapid Creek and managed by the Black Hills National Forest. Custer Crossing sits about 13 to 15 miles north on US-385, roughly 20 to 30 minutes depending on which beach or boat launch you are heading to. It is the closest major lake to camp.
Things to do at Pactola
- Swim: a designated swim beach is popular on summer afternoons.
- Boat and paddle: the reservoir has boat launches and a marina, and the clear water is a favorite for kayaks and paddleboards.
- Fish: anglers come for trout. A South Dakota fishing license is required.
- Hike: the Centennial Trail passes near the reservoir.
- Visit the dam overlook: the Forest Service visitor center on the dam is open seasonally.
Check the Black Hills National Forest website for current fees, launch status, and water levels.
Make it a lake loop
Pactola pairs well with Sheridan Lake (about 35 minutes from camp) and Hill City for lunch. On a hot day, stock up on ice and firewood at Custer's Last Store and Gas before you go.
Your base at Custer Crossing
- About 20 full-hookup RV sites with water, sewer, and electric, plus a fire pit and picnic table
- About 11 camping cabins with two queen beds, heat and A/C, mini fridge, microwave, coffee maker, and a deck (cabins)
- Tent sites with a picnic table and campfire ring (tent camping)
- Clean bathrooms, hot showers, and laundry
- Custer's Last Store and Gas: fuel including 91 octane, propane, ice, firewood, and supplies
- Custer's Last Meal, our on-site restaurant, home of the Burger Challenge
- Wi-Fi across the park, dog-friendly camping, and on-site UTV rentals
Approximate drive times from camp
From 22036 Hwy 385. Based on public map data; traffic, weather, road work, and Rally week all change these.
- Deadwood and Lead: about 15 miles, roughly 25 minutes
- Pactola Reservoir: about 13 to 15 miles, roughly 20 to 30 minutes
- Sheridan Lake: about 21 miles, roughly 35 minutes
- Hill City: about 27 miles, roughly 40 minutes
- Rapid City: about 28 miles, roughly 45 minutes
- Downtown Sturgis: about 29 miles, roughly 40 minutes
- Spearfish: about 31 miles, roughly 45 minutes
- Keystone: about 31 miles, roughly 45 minutes
- Mount Rushmore: about 33 miles, roughly 55 minutes
- Sylvan Lake (Custer State Park): about 36 miles, roughly 1 hour
- Crazy Horse Memorial: about 38 miles, roughly 1 hour 5 minutes
- Custer (town): about 41 miles, roughly 1 hour
- Custer State Park Visitor Center: about 51 miles, roughly 1 hour 20 minutes
Good to know
Frequently asked questions
How far is Custer Crossing from Pactola Reservoir?
About 13 to 15 miles, roughly 20 to 30 minutes depending on where you are going at the lake. Approximate.
Can you swim at Pactola Reservoir?
Yes. Pactola has a designated swim beach. Check the Black Hills National Forest for current conditions and fees.
Can I fish at Pactola?
Yes. Pactola is known for trout fishing, and a South Dakota fishing license is required.
Is there a boat launch at Pactola?
Yes. The reservoir has boat launches and a marina. Check the Forest Service for current status.
Can I get ice and firewood before heading to the lake?
Yes. Custer's Last Store and Gas at our entrance has ice, firewood, fuel, and supplies.
What can I book at Custer Crossing?
About 20 full-hookup RV sites, about 11 camping cabins, and tent sites, open April 15 to November 1.
More answers on our campground FAQ.
Open April 15 to November 1