Recreation area

Pactola Visitor Center

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

Open recreation area — no reservation needed

About this campground

The Black Hills National Forest Visitor Center is located west of Rapid City on Pactola Reservoir Dam on Highway 385 in the central hills. Open Daily: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., 7 days a week, Mid-May - after Labor Day weekend Phone: (605) 343-8755 Request for Expression of Interest Information: The friendly visitor center staff has brochures, maps, and other information to help you plan your visit to the area and forest. Exhibits and Programs: The center's exhibits feature wildlife mounts including a bald eagle! An outdoor bulletin board explains the reservoir's history and recreational opportunities. If you have time, stay for an interpretive program given by the staff!  Black Hills Parks and Forests Association: This non-profit organization has outlets in most Forest Service offices and at the visitor center, and Wind Cave National Park, Jewel Cave National Monument, and Custer State Park. Sales of forest maps, books, and other items support the education programs and facilities on the forest and may be purchased on their website: www.blackhillsparks.org or by calling 605-745-7020 or tollfree at 888-804-9090. For more information, please contact the Pactola Visitor Center at (605) 343-8755 or any of the other Black Hills National Forest offices.

Activities

  • VISITOR CENTER

Nearby federal campgrounds

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Pactola Visitor Center 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.