Water Activities

Pactola Reservoir and Sheridan Lake are perfect for water fun—waterskiing, fishing, boating, kayaking, and more. Both have marinas that offer boat and slip rentals, launch sites, food service, fishing licenses, and supplies for boating and fishing. Marina operating seasons are generally consistent, but weather and water levels can affect opening and closing dates.

Smaller lakes such as Deerfield Reservoir, Horsethief Lake, and Bismarck Lake allow small-motor (trolling) boats. “No wake” rules are in place to keep these areas calm and safe.

Individuals wishing specific marina information may contact the marinas at the following numbers:

• Pactola Marina- (605) 343-4283
• Sheridan Marina- (605)574-2169

Reservoir water levels and boat ramp data can be found on the Bureau of Reclamation website for Pactola and Deerfield Reservoirs.

Boat washing tips and locations

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Recreation Opportunities

Boating - Motorized (6)

Boating - Non-Motorized (15)

Swimming (10)

Waterskiing (2)

Showing: 1 - 10 of 20 results

Bismark Lake

Bismark Lake Picnic Area, surrounded by aspens and pines, offers fishing, non-motorized boating, and relaxation near Custer State Park on Hwy 16A.

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.

Cook Lake Recreation Area

Site Open

Cook Lake offers camping, fishing, kayaking, hiking, and picnics in a quiet Black Hills setting. Reserve campsites at Recreation.gov.

Dalton Lake

Site Open

Dalton Lake offers fishing for trout, non-motorized boating, a picnic area, and history in a peaceful Black Hills setting near Little Elk Creek.

Deerfield Cove Boat Launch

Site Open

The Deerfield Cove Boat Launch is located at Dutchman Campground at Deerfield Reservoir.When temperatures drop and before the lakes freeze over, boat docks on the forest are removed for the winter.…

Horsethief Lake

Horsethief Lake near Mount Rushmore offers trout fishing, boating and an ADA pier. Ice fishing is popular. Horsethief Campground is nearby.

J.H. Keith Cascade Falls Picnic Area

The J.H. Keith Cascade Falls Picnic Area has eight picnic sites located near the Falls. Restroom facilities are available.

J.H. Keith Cascade Springs Picnic Area

The J.H. Keith Cascade Springs Picnic Area has eight picnic sites located near the warm spring. Restroom facilities are available.

Jenny Gulch Picnic Area Fishing Access

Jenny Gulch Picnic Area Fishing Access has three picnic tables located at an inlet on the west side of Pactola Reservoir. There is a small hand launch for small watercraft.