Wrinkled Rock Climbing Area
Located in the southern Black Hills, within the Norbeck Wildlife Preserve, and close to Mount Rushmore National Memorial, Wrinkled Rock Climbing Area offers many different climbing opportunities across granite rock formations. Climbing sites can be accessed from the trailhead where parking is available, along with climbing information and toilet facility.
NOTE: Climbing the nearby Mount Rushmore sculpture is prohibited. Other climbing opportunities exist within the Memorial. The Forest encourages interested climbers to contact Mount Rushmore National Memorial directly for more information.
Please be advised that camping is no longer available at Wrinkled Rock Climbing Area. The tent pads have been removed, as of Memorial Day Weekend 2025. The site is a day-use area and is only available from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.
General Information
Open Year-Round
Passes and/or permits are not needed at this site.
For climbers interested in establishing new climbing routes, please be advised that each agency within the Black Hills offers different regulations and restrictions. For instance, the Forest, Mount Rushmore National Memorial, and Custer State Park all offer rock climbing opportunities; however, their requirements and/or restrictions may be different. Climbers are encouraged to contact the Hell Canyon Ranger District for additional information and guidance.
NOTE: As of Memorial Day Weekend 2025, Wrinkled Rock Climbing Area is a day-use only site. It is available for recreation from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Overnight parking or camping is no longer allowed at this site.
No fees are required for this site
Day-Use Fee: $0/day
Dogs in developed recreation sites, such as campgrounds, picnic sites, and day-use areas, must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times. Furthermore, dogs are not allowed on any swim beaches on the Forest. For the safety and comfort of fellow recreationalists, the Forest encourages guests to avoid leaving pets unattended at campsites and/or in parked vehicles.
Refer to the Rock Climbing section of the Outfitters and Guides with Special Use Permits for more information.
Contact Name: Hell Canyon Ranger District
Contact Phone: (605) 673-9200
Address: 1019 N. 5th Street Custer, SD 57730
Phone: (605) 673-9200
Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (Closed on federal holidays)
Getting There
Latitude / Longitude
Latitude: 43.887014
Longitude: -103.469105
Elevation
5200
Directions
Wrinkled Rock Climbing Area is located on the north side of Highway 244 (Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway), adjacent to the west boundary of Mount Rushmore National Memorial.
Facility and Amenity Information
Restrooms
Restrooms are not available at this site.
Water
Potable water is not available at this site.
Picnic Tables
Picnic tables are not available at this site.
Other Amenities
The Black Hills National Forest partners with the Black Hills Climbing Coalition on the routine maintenance and upkeep of Wrinkled Rock Climbing Area. Their volunteer efforts help maintain this site for our various users, and they provide additional support through communications with their members, visiting climbers, and local enthusiasts.
Recreation Opportunities
Climbing and Caving
Climbing - Rock