Welcome to the Black Hills National Forest

Photo: Fall Colors in the Northern Black Hills by Kassidy Boyd

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.

• Forest Offices

  

  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.

  Contact Information

• 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.

  Learn More

• 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.

  Explore

• OHV Information

  

  The Black Hills offers over 3,600 miles of motorized travel on the forest, including over 700 miles of system trails.

  OHV Maps & Permits

• Fall Foliage Information

  

  Fall colors typically peak the last week of September, first week of October in the Black Hills. (Photo by Dakota Baker, Black Hills National Forest)

  Explore

• Off Season Camping Information

  

  Several Black Hills National Forest campgrounds remain open during the off season for your enjoyment!

  Learn More

• 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..."

  Watch Now

• Forest Feature: Putting Together the Pieces of a Puzzle

  

  It’s a lot like putting together the pieces of a puzzle, digging into history, there are clues here and there and you must go digging for the right piece to complete the picture.

  Read