Indian Creek Recommended for Wilderness Area
This area includes an interpretive panel and overlook where you can enjoy beautiful views of the valley and the Black Hills to the west. Forest System Road 7129 travels down into the valley and along Indian Creek. This is a popular area for hikers and rock collecting. There are approximately 15 creek crossings along the 9.7 mile road. Vehicles are allowed on designated roads only. High-clearance, 4x4 vehicles are recommended. Be mindful of grazing operations and close all gates you open. Cattle graze in the area from May to October and bison graze in the area from November to March.
General Information
Open year-round
Dogs are to be leashed or under strict voice control. There are active prairie dog colonies in the area. Be aware of the potential for plague and keep dogs away from prairie dog colonies, ensure flea and tick prevention, and seek veterinary care if your dog shows signs of illness.
Contact Phone: 605-279-2125
Address: 710 Main Street Wall, SD 57790
Phone: 605-279-2126
Hours: 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM, Monday - Friday (mountain time). Hours vary so please call ahead. (Closed on federal holidays)
Getting There
Directions
Located approximately 25 miles from Wall, South Dakota. From Highway 589 by Scenic, South Dakota, take Indian Creek Road to access Forest System Road 7129.
Coordinates: 43.77801, -102.66908
Facility and Amenity Information
Restrooms
Restrooms are not available at this site.
Recreation Opportunities
Rockhounding Info
Rockhounding is a popular activity throughout Buffalo Gap National Grassland and especially along Indian Creek. Follow these rules and regulations when out rockhounding:
- Rockhounding is restricted to surface-collection only, no digging.
- A visitor is allowed to collect up to 25 pounds of rock per day or 250 pounds per year.
- No collecting of vertebrate fossils, remains of animals with backbones (fish, mammals, amphibians, reptiles, birds, etc.)
- Collecting of common and abundant invertebrate fossils, remains of animals without backbones (shells, ammonites, baculites, clams, insects, corals, etc) is allowed for personal use and cannot be bartered or sold.
- No collecting of prehistoric, historic, and archaeological resources such as artifacts.
To learn more view the UDSA Forest Service Rockhounding Guide found here. Or call your local USDA Forest Service office.