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Welcome to the Black Hills National Forest
Described as an “Island in the Plains,” the multiple-use Black Hills National Forest has an activity for everyone. Explore the many formations, canyons and gulches, open grasslands, tumbling streams, and deep blue lakes.
Photo: Pactola Reservoir by Black Hills National Forest/USDA Forest Service
The Black Hills, in western South Dakota and northeastern Wyoming, consists of 1.2 million acres of forested hills and mountains, approximately 110 miles long and 70 miles wide.
The name "Black Hills" comes from the Lakota words Paha Sapa, which mean "hills that are black." Seen from a distance, these pine-covered hills, rising several thousand feet above the surrounding prairie, appear black.
Millions of visitors come to the Black Hills each year to experience the rich and diverse heritage.
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Passes & Permits
The Black Hills National Forest is open, free of charge, for your use and enjoyment. Fees may be charged and permits required for some activities and locations, including camping and parking fees.
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Maps & Publications
The Forest Service publishes a variety of map products to help you enjoy your visit. Many maps and brochures are available online and more options are available at our Forest offices.
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OHV Information
The Black Hills offers over 3,600 miles of motorized travel on the forest, including over 700 miles of system trails.
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The Black Hills | from More Than Just Parks
Experience the Forest like never before with this beautiful video featuring "Dazzling rock formations, beautiful pine forests, incredible wildlife, mesmerizing magic hour and an insane amount of recreation opportunities..."
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National Trails Day Event - June 4, 2022
Celebrate National Trails Day with a hike on June 4, 2022 at 7 p.m. on the Osprey Trail. This event is presented by Dr. Jennifer Fowler/Interpretive & Education Volunteer.
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Campground Reservations
Memorial Day through Labor Day, campground reservations may be made through Recreation.gov at 1-877-444-6777 or online at Recreation.gov. Due to high demand, reservations are recommended.
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Vicinity Map
The Forest has four Ranger Districts and a Forest Supervisor’s Office. Offices are located in Sundance and Newcastle, Wyoming and Custer, Rapid City and Spearfish, South Dakota.
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Upcoming 2022 Forest Moon Walks
During its 27th year of guided hikes, Forest visitors will learn about local fire history and the important role it plays, about critters that prefer the night, the relationships between the Civilian Conservation Corps and Forest, and about bats and their role in the Black Hills and Bearlodge Mountains.
Recent News
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Black Hills National Forest Announces 2022 Moon Walk Schedule
Release Date: May 10, 2022
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Black Hills National Forest Campgrounds and Seasonal Gates Scheduled to Open
Release Date: May 9, 2022
Features
Black Hills Forest Plan Revision
The Black Hills National Forest is beginning the process of revising its current Plan which was first released in 1983, revised in 1997 and amended in 2006.
