Sheridan Lake
Forest Recreation Management, Inc, P.O. Box 1168, Hill City, SD, 57745, USA
Sheridan Lake
$26.00 - $28.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Peak season rates are $28 per night for standard non-electric and tent-only sites. Non-peak rates are $26 per night. Additional fees include $2 per...
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Standard Site Fee$28.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$28.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider605-673-9200
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of the Black Hills National Forest, Sheridan Lake Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its five spacious camping loops that embrace the shoreline. This prime location serves as your gateway to winding recreational trails and fascinating historical sites, offering the perfect basecamp for Black Hills adventures.
Sheridan Lake Campground accommodates a variety of camping styles, including tent camping, RVs, and trailers. Sites range from standard non-electric to tent-only options.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time as you explore the remnants of the historic Rockerville Flume Trail, an engineering marvel from the 1800s that once channeled precious water across the hills to support the region's bustling placer mining operations. This waterway tells the story of fortune seekers who shaped the Black Hills during the gold rush era.
Weather and SeasonsSummer days at Sheridan Lake unfold with comfortable temperatures hovering around 75°F, ideal for hiking and water activities, while evenings cool to a refreshing 50°F perfect for campfire gatherings. Winter transforms the landscape into a snow-covered wonderland, with crisp temperatures dipping to 20°F, creating a serene atmosphere for those seeking solitude.
ElevationPerched at a comfortable moderate elevation within the Black Hills National Forest, the campground offers the perfect balance of mountain atmosphere without the challenges of high-altitude camping.
Natural Features and SceneryWake up to panoramic vistas of Sheridan Lake framed by verdant pine-clad hills that stretch to the horizon. This pristine wilderness sanctuary teems with remarkable wildlife—watch for majestic bighorn sheep navigating rocky outcrops, elk grazing in meadows, deer threading through the forest, and the awe-inspiring sight of bald eagles and osprey soaring overhead.
Geological RegionThe surrounding Black Hills National Forest showcases nature's dramatic artistry through its diverse landscape of towering rock formations, mysterious canyons, and hidden gulches. Explore rolling grasslands that give way to babbling streams, discover crystal-clear mountain lakes, and venture into ancient caves that reveal the geological secrets of this extraordinary region.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes accessible facilities, such as boat ramps, vault toilets, and fishing docks. Sites are designed to accommodate individuals with mobility challenges.
Sites SizeSites vary in size, suitable for tents, trailers, and RVs. Some sites are spacious and well-spread, while others are noted as small or uneven.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary by site. While some sites offer good spacing and seclusion, others are crowded or lack sufficient natural barriers. One reviewer stated, 'Sites are spread out nicely so you are not right on top of your fellow campers.'
Total Campsites124 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose campsites in the WOOD loop for lake views and quieter surroundings. Avoid sites near vault toilets due to odor issues.
Best CampsitesHighly rated campsites include 065 and 069 in the WOOD loop for their lake views and spacious layouts.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
3:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum of 14 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 8 guests
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampground features five loops: SMOK, WOOD, CHIP, ROCK, and SMOK, each offering a mix of tent and RV sites.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 21, 2025 – September 28, 2025 for reservations.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available through Recreation.gov and phone contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityNon-reservable sites available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10 fee plus forfeiture of the first night's fee if made less than 1 day before arrival. No refunds for weather-related events.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Sheridan Lake Campground offers an array of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. The lake is a popular spot for swimming and water sports. Trails like the Flume Trail and nearby attractions enhance the experience.
Hiking
Hiking trails are abundant, including access to the Flume Trail and the Centennial Trail. The Flume Trail is particularly noted for its historical significance and 11-mile length, with a 3-mile loop option. 'The Flume Trail has been designated a National Recreation Trail because of its historical significance,' as described in the official content.Fishing
Fishing is a major attraction at Sheridan Lake, with populations of rainbow trout, brown trout, northern pike, and perch. One reviewer noted, 'The lake was warm, beautiful, and easily accessed from our site.' Ice fishing is also popular in the winter.Swimming
Swimming is available at designated beaches. However, some reviews highlight issues such as 'mucky' conditions at the beach. Many campers prefer swimming off the rocks or from their campsites.Biking
Mountain biking is popular in the area, with trails like the Dakota Point Trailhead for the Centennial Trail offering options for cyclists.Boating
Boating is a highlight of Sheridan Lake. The campground features an accessible boat ramp and dock, and boat rentals are available at the marina. Kayaking and paddleboarding are also popular activities.Wildlife viewing
The Black Hills National Forest is home to diverse wildlife, including deer, elk, and various bird species. One reviewer described the setting as 'stunning,' with opportunities to observe nature up close.Beach activities
The campground offers access to beaches for sunbathing and swimming. However, some users have mentioned that the beaches could benefit from maintenance, such as algae removal.Winter Activities
Winter activities include snowshoeing, skiing, and snowmobiling, making the campground a year-round destination.Water Sports
Water sports like kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding are popular activities. Several reviewers praised the lake's suitability for these sports.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed in designated fire rings. Firewood must be purchased locally to prevent invasive species.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM – 6:00 AM
Hazards
General hazardsFly infestations in vault toilets have been noted. Narrow roads and steep campsites may pose challenges for RVs.
Active alertsNone currently reported.
Weather forecast
27
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 49%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 17.1 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Clear sky
7 day forecast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest hospital: Monument Health Custer Hospital (~15 miles, ~25 minutes). Ranger Station: Black Hills National Forest Office (~10 miles, ~15 minutes).
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 21, 2025 – September 7, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, but their exact locations or pickup schedules are not detailed. Some reviews suggest improvements, such as relocating trash bins farther from campsites to reduce flies.
Proximity to water featuresSheridan Lake provides direct access for swimming, fishing, kayaking, and boating. Boat ramp available.
Common complaintsVault toilets are infested with flies and poorly maintained. Generators disrupt quiet hours.
HostHosts are available on-site to assist, though reviews suggest variability in attentiveness.
Campground Map
Forest Recreation Management, Inc, P.O. Box 1168, Hill City, SD, 57745, USA
Driving directionsFrom Rapid City, take Highway 16 for 18 miles west to Three Forks. Turn right (north) on Highway 385 and travel 2 miles to Calumet Road at the inlet. Turn right and travel 1 mile to the campground.
The campground is accessed via paved roads but includes narrow sections and challenging navigation for RVs or trailers. Seasonal closures may occur due to weather conditions.Nearby places
Hill City (10 miles, ~15 minutes), Rapid City (20 miles, ~30 minutes), Custer (15 miles, ~25 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Three Forks convenience store and gas station (~2 miles). Firewood available at campground entrance. RV dump station and water fill station located at Three Forks RV Park (~$10 fee).
Camper Reviews
4.5
253 reviews
Sheridan Lake is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User feedback highlights Sheridan Lake Campground's scenic beauty and lake access as major positives, while maintenance of vault toilets and the absence of showers are common complaints. The campground is praised for its spacious sites and variety of activities.
Review Summaries
Based on 253 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include lake access, well-spaced campsites, friendly hosts, and the abundance of recreational opportunities. Reviewers frequently describe the campground as 'beautiful' and emphasize...
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Common Concerns
Common issues raised by users include the lack of showers, unmaintained vault toilets, and the absence of Wi-Fi or cell service. Some campers also noted challenges with campsite leveling and the...
Based on 253 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing extra water and planning for a dry camping experience. Those seeking privacy should carefully select their site. Early arrivals are suggested for better site selection.
Based on 253 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular time, with reviewers enjoying swimming, hiking, and boating. However, winter activities like ice fishing and snowshoeing are also noted. Spring and fall offer milder...
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Camper Quotes
1. 'The lake is beautiful, the fishing is good, and the weather was delightful.' 2. 'Vault toilets were fly-infested and didn't appear to have been cleaned.' 3. 'Our site was spacious and had a...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Specific reviews include mentions of popular sites like #65 and #109, known for their lake views. Others caution against sites that are difficult to level or poorly maintained.
Based on 253 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features are noted positively, but vault toilets received mixed reviews in terms of cleanliness and usability.
Based on 253 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but a $2 per night fee applies. Some users mentioned the lack of clarity about the pet fee during registration.
Based on 253 reviewsLast updated November 24, 2025
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