With several national icons nestled among the pines of the Black Hills National Forest, this Island in the Plains serves as the backdrop for these symbols of America. Specialized campgrounds, roaded recreation opportunities and a system of trails connecting communities, showcase this Forest that provides user friendly access to year round family activities. Together the attractive features of the Black Hills National Forest, Custer State Park, and area National Parks, Memorials, and Monuments are the foundation for the local recreation economies.
Amid the splendid scenery of the Black Hills National Forest are 11 reservoirs, 30 campgrounds, 26 picnic areas, 2 scenic byways, 1,300 miles of streams, 13,000 acres of wilderness, 353 miles of trails, and much more.
Use the sidebar menu on the leftor right: find an area/find an activity to learn about all the different ways you can enjoy the outdoors in the Black Hills National Forest.
The Cook Lake Recreation Area has 32 camp sites and 33 picnic sites. The lake is stocked with trout, catfish, and sunfish, and there is a wheelchair accessible pier. There is carry-down access to the lake for small watercraft. Approximately four miles of hiking and bicycling trails are available at the recreation area.
The State of Wyoming allows open fires only if they are contained and not left unattended. Be sure that your fire is completely extinguished before leaving. Check with the local Forest Service Office for fire restrictions.
A hike to Warren Peak Lookout Tower makes a scenic day trip for visitors to the Cook Lake Recreation Area.
The Norbeck Wildlife Preserve and Black Elk Wilderness Trail System has eighteen trails ranging in length from 0.6 mile to 8.9 miles. Unless otherwise noted, the trails listed are open for hikers and stock users only.
