Passes

Many picnic grounds, trailheads, and other recreation sites on the Black Hills National Forest have no day-use fees. Yet, some developed areas charge a fee due to the amenities offered, such as trash canisters, water, toilet facilities, picnic tables, interpretive panels, etc. 

During the late spring, summer, and early fall seasons, a Forest Concessionaire operates all of the fee-based sites through a special use permit with the Forest. Because of this, the concessionaire fees are separate from the Forest and fund the active management of these sites by the concessionaire. Furthermore, the fees generate revenue for the concessionaire that is also used by the Forest to enhance and improve numerous visitor services. Past examples of this work include campground renovations, new toilet facilities, picnic table replacements, and improved day-use sites. 

If you visit developed recreation sites frequently, you may wish to purchase an annual pass from the Forest Concessionaire. The passes are available at several sites across the Forest and allow pass holders access to concessionaire-operated sites free of charge.