Outdoor Science and Learning
Check out these unique interpretive areas found across the Black Hills National Forest. View wildlife, plants, and scenery while learning about the history and importance of these special areas.
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'76 Trailhead
Conquer the ‘76 Trail: a steep ¾-mile hike climbing 1,000 ft for breathtaking Spearfish Canyon views. Foot traffic only—no pets or bikes.
Bear Mountain Fire Lookout
Historic Bear Mountain Fire Lookout offers sweeping Black Hills views and a century of fire detection history. Still staffed spring to fall.
Bismark Lake Campground
Site Open
Peaceful camping at Bismark Lake in the Black Hills. Reserve your site and enjoy lake views, privacy, and easy access through Custer State Park.
Black Elk Wilderness & Norbeck Wildlife Preserve
Explore Black Elk Wilderness within the Norbeck Wildlife Preserve in the heart of the Black Hills.
Breezy Point Overlook & Picnic Area
Hear the winds through the pines while getting excellent views of neighboring granite spires and mountains from a scenic overlook point access by a short cement sidewalk (this short walk is highly…
Bridal Veil Falls
Site Open
The beautiful (approx. 60 ft. tall) Bridal Veil Falls waterfall can be seen from Highway 14A in Spearfish Canyon and is a popular destination. A platform provides visitors year-round viewing…
Cement Ridge Fire Lookout
The original Cement Ridge Fire Lookout was built between 1911 and 1913. At that time it was a one-room log cabin with a shingle roof. In 1921, a crow’s nest with a glassed-in house was…
Custer Peak Fire Lookout
The Custer Peak Lookout is still in use by the Forest Service as a fire lookout. The first lookout was built in 1911 as a small cabin on a platform. In 1916 it had wrap-around windows installed. In…
Dalton Lake Campground
Site Closed
Historic CCC Campground at Dalton Lake offers 11 first-come sites, fishing for trout, and access to the Centennial Trail.
Elk Mountain Fire Lookout
Perched on a 67-foot tower near the South Dakota-Wyoming border, Elk Mountain Fire Lookout offers sweeping Black Hills views.