Cook Lake Rec Area

Only two things bothered me. No cell phone service and cliff swallow trail needs to signs posted around half point. Someone could get lost.

This is somewhat of a hidden gem. The good and bad news is it’s 9 mi on a dirt road. Takes about 20 minutes to get to the camp site. You are completely out of cell range. The camp sites are above the lake amongst the pines and it is very peaceful. The other campers were respectful and only used generators when needed, even though you could run them from 0600-2200 hours.
The lake is set in a valley and the lake is like glass most times. Good walking path around lake. There is a trail that takes you to the top of the ridges and around is a good brisk hike.
The fishing was somewhat of a disappointment. Caught about 100 pan fish the size of a minnow. Only caught 1 small rainbow trout from shore. There is a good boat launch on lake, but I believe you cannot use gas motors.
This is a must stop and camp if you’re in the area.

Quiet campsite in as beautiful area. Camp host was helpful and kind.

Very quiet during the weeknights. Busy but pleasant on the weekend. Camp host was very, very courteous and friendly!

Cook Lake is very remote, quiet, and rustic. If that's what you're looking for, I think you'd enjoy it. The trails were nice and campground host was friendly.

Quite a trip up the gravel road and wasn’t sure what to expect after the dry grasslands but then we got into the beautiful pine trees and came to the lake which was so pretty. The camp host was so nice and and very helpful. We had space 27 and it was a bit tight with the trees by the road and the camp spot sign to get a 34 ft 5th wheel in but we did it after several tries. It’s a nice quiet campground with hiking trails, fishing, canoes and small boats on the lake. The camping spots are above the lake so there are great sites that look down on the lake. The restroom was kept super clean as well as the campground. There are day spots for picnicking, swimming and fishing. Would definitely go there again.

Wonderful experience over Labor Day weekend. Quiet and well spaced out campsite to accommodate our 34-foot trailer, family and dog. Walking distance to a gorgeous lake and lots of hiking and biking trails nearby. The camp host, Bryce, is very welcoming and helpful. Easy 30-minute drive to Devil's Tower and a 2.5 hour drive to Mount Rushmore. We saw it all and loved it. I would return here again!

Only 2 of us in the campground on far side of the lake. It’s very nice and quiet but the bathroom door slams shut waking the dead.
Also no available water on far side. The next night I was alone and loving it until the sky’s opened up and doused me for 6 1/2 hours before I finally gave in and got a motel room. Overall I’d give this one the highest rating possible.

Nice secluded area. Host was great

This is the second time we camped here. Such a beautiful peaceful place. We will be back .