Pactola Visitor Center
The Pactola Visitor Center is normally open during the summer months and early fall season as an educational and interpretive facility related to the Black Hills National Forest. It is located about 22 miles west of Rapid City, South Dakota, following Hwy 44 to Hwy 385 toward the Pactola Reservoir.
In 2025, due to extensive road construction along Hwy 385 near the facility, the Pactola Visitor Center is closed for the season and is planned for reopening in the late spring of 2026. We apologize for the inconvenience and encourage travelers to visit one of the Ranger Districts for more information.
- Staff are available to answer questions, provide guidance, and assist with an assortment of publications to help create positive and memorable travel experiences.
- Exhibits and displays provide visitors with a sense of exploration toward the natural and cultural resources in western South Dakota.
- At different times throughout the summer season, programs and special events are scheduled at the visitor center, nearby observation decks, and at various sites on the Forest. For more information about programs, activities, and youth engagement opportunities, please refer to Visitor Programs.
- The Black Hills Parks and Forests Association (BHPF) offers a store outlet inside the visitor center. Products include educational books, identification guides, trail maps, posters, CDs and DVDs, nature games, clothing, recreation guides, and memorable souvenirs related to the Forest and surrounding area. Purchases from the store support wonder and exploration through financial aid and programming assistance back to the Forest. BHPF is the official non-profit, partner organization of the Black Hills National Forest; BHPF also manages store outlets at Agate Fossil Beds National Monument, Buffalo Gap National Grassland Visitor Center, Jewel Cave National Monument, Scotts Bluff National Monument, Wind Cave National Park, and sites within the Nebraska National Forest and Grasslands. For additional sales assistance, visit BHPF online at www.blackhillsparks.org or call (605) 745-7020.
NOTE: If you are searching for Smokey Bear products to complement your vacation, please visit the BHPF Online Store for an assortment of options.
For more information about the visitor center, please contact the Recreation Program at the Forest Supervisor’s Office by email or (605) 673-9200.
Pactola Visitor Center
Black Hills National Forest
22995 Hwy 385
Rapid City, South Dakota 57702
(605) 343-8755
General Information
There are no fees or passes required to visit the Pactola Visitor Center.
Only service animals are allowed within the Pactola Visitor Center. However, dogs are allowed on the grounds of the facility, as long as they are on a leash (and under control) at all times. A Dogipot Station is also available on the grounds for those that need a dog area for exercise, breaks, etc.
Contact Name: Recreation Program
Contact Phone: (605) 673-9200
Facility and Amenity Information
Restrooms
Restrooms are not available at this site.
In 2025, due to road construction along Hwy 385, the Pactola Visitor Center and related restroom facilities are closed for the season.
Water
Potable water is not available at this site.
Drinking water is only available in the nearby restrooms. Be advised that drinking water is also available inside the facility through bottled water being sold by the official partner of the Forest - Black Hills Parks and Forests Association.
Picnic Tables
Picnic tables are available at this site.
Multiple picnic tables are available on the grounds of the Pactola Visitor Center. Some are located in the front garden area of the facility, while two tables and some benches are available on a platform that overlooks the Pactola Reservoir.
