Recreation area

Cliff Swallow Trailhead (Trail #91)

Black Hills National Forest · South Dakota — managed by USDA Forest Service

Open recreation area — no reservation needed

About this campground

The Cliff Swallow Trail is a 3.7 mile loop trail. Cliff swallows nest in the limestone bluffs above Beaver Creek.  Look for gourd-shaped mud nests in the rock out-croppings below the ridge.  Other wildlife commonly seen along the trail include white-tailed deer, elk, and turkey. Along Beaver Creek, watch for blue herons, beaver, and water dippers. High above, turkey vultures are often seen riding the thermal drafts. Mountain lions, although rarely seen, also call this area home.

Activities

  • HIKING

Nearby federal campgrounds

Explore more South Dakota camping

Cliff Swallow Trailhead (Trail #91) doesn't take campsite reservations — but plenty of nearby South Dakota campgrounds do, and we'll alert you the moment a sold-out site opens up.

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Details from Recreation.gov's official RIDB catalog. Conditions change — confirm with the managing office before you go. Not affiliated with Recreation.gov or any federal agency.