Warning
GeneralConstruction project planned for Loop B only in 2026, this may impact reservations throughout the summer. You will be notified if your reservation changes, we recommend looking at a different loop if your dates are not flexible. We will update Rec.gov with new information as available.
About Pactola Reservoir Campground
Number of accommodations: 52
Campground Amenities
-
Beach Access -
Lake Access -
Marina
Seasonal information
2026 Season availability
Sites & Availability
52 Sites Available
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Site Details
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52 Sites Available
No available sites
All sites are booked for your selected dates. Try showing all sites to see booked options, create an alert to be notified when something opens up, or adjust your dates.
Reviews (198)
What Guests Are Saying
Pactola Reservoir Campground offers beautiful, clean campsites with spacious pads suitable for larger RVs and tents, and close proximity to the scenic Pactola Lake. Camp hosts are friendly and helpful, enhancing the overall experience, while the campground provides excellent access to outdoor activities like fishing, swimming, and kayaking. Some minor downsides include uneven site entrances and occasional noise from generators, but the serene environment and stunning views make it a popular choice for campers.
What Guests Are Saying
Pactola Reservoir Campground offers beautiful, clean campsites with spacious pads suitable for larger RVs and tents, and close proximity to the scenic Pactola Lake. Camp hosts are friendly and helpful, enhancing the overall experience, while the campground provides excellent access to outdoor activities like fishing, swimming, and kayaking. Some minor downsides include uneven site entrances and occasional noise from generators, but the serene environment and stunning views make it a popular choice for campers.
Review Summary
Janice W
VerifiedJuly 16, 2021 • Stayed at: 028, Loop: PACT
If you like camping in a parking lot this might be the place for you.
Website misrepresents campsites.
Camp hosts nowhere to be seen while visitors of campers park any which way and block cars of those who paid.
Gerald B
VerifiedJuly 13, 2021 • Stayed at: 040, Loop: PACT
Great location; wonderful campground hosts and staff
Bethany A
VerifiedJuly 10, 2021 • Stayed at: 066, Loop: RESB
Had spots 66 & 67 on Loop C. No where in the description did it state that you have to park your camper in a parking lot and your camp space is above it. Never camped like that before and despite how strange it was to park your camper in a parking lot with your truck right next to it, we really enjoyed it. Big open field behind the camp spots that was perfect for games and kids. Lots of trees, well shaded and clean bathrooms
Charlotte D
VerifiedJuly 8, 2021 • Stayed at: 025, Loop: PACT
We used this site as a jumping-off point for various Park Service sites in the area (Jewel Cave, Wind Cave, Mt. Rushmore). We enjoyed the evening program at Mt. Rushmore.
The site was nice but it was hard to find two flat spots for our tents. Vault toilets, but no hand sanitizer. Camp host congenial and helpful.
steven e
VerifiedJuly 6, 2021 • Stayed at: 071, Loop: RESB
Everything went well...once we got there! GPS led us to the wrong entrance--not your fault, of course. But there were signs at the locked gate telling us to call a couple of other phone numbers. Well, there is no cell service there and those numbers are not answered after hours! It would be much more helpful if the sign said, "Wrong entrance. Use east entrance." Or a sign back near the main road that directs travelers to the correct entrance.
Dylan C
VerifiedJuly 5, 2021 • Stayed at: 045, Loop: PACT
It's a lovely spot. Even our site on the inside of a loop felt large and nicely private. Great for hammocks, and the reservoir itself is perfect to cool off in after a good hike! The hosts were great!
Donna M
VerifiedJuly 5, 2021 • Stayed at: 026, Loop: PACT
The site was beautiful and only a short walking distance from the lake. The camp hosts were inviting and greeted us with a big welcome. The site was clean and the weather was amazing. I would do it again.
Jennifer S
VerifiedJune 30, 2021 • Stayed at: 008, Loop: RSVC
This is one of my favorite campgrounds. It's so clean, the spaces are all nice, and the setting is beautiful.
Terry G
VerifiedJune 27, 2021 • Stayed at: 016, Loop: RSVC
The campground is wonderful with pit toilets, firewood, water, fire rings and beautiful scenery to boot.
Rich C
VerifiedJune 22, 2021 • Stayed at: 011, Loop: RSVC
This is a wonderful campground. You have a great view of the lake, while being surrounded by the giant pine trees. There is plenty of space between the camp pads. The facilities, such as restrooms, are clean. I am already planning our next trip. I'll definitely be recommending this to area to others.
Location Pactola Reservoir Campground
Address:
Forest Recreation Management, Inc
Hill City, SD, 57745
United States
Drive 17 miles west on State Highway 44 from Rapid City, South Dakota. From
Highway 44, turn on 385 south. Campground located 2 miles off US Highway
385.
Latitude & Longitude: 44.0753 / -103.533
Elevation: 1429 feet
Policies & Rules
| Category | About |
|---|---|
| General |
These campsites are non-electric sites. Generators may run from 6 a.m. until 10 p.m. only. |
| General |
Non-reservable sites may be available on a first come, first served basis |
| General |
Prevent the spread of invasive species by inspecting and cleaning packs, equipment, and tires before using lake or trails |
| General |
A pet fee of $2 per pet per night is required upon check in |
| General |
Click here for more information about Black Hills National Forest. |
| General |
Don't Move Firewood: Prevent the spread of tree-killing organisms by obtaining firewood at or near your destination and burning it on-site. For more information visit dontmovefirewood.org. |
| General |
The Senior and Access discounts are only honored for the site that houses the card holder.
|
Warnings & Advisories
Warning
GeneralConstruction project planned for Loop B only in 2026, this may impact reservations throughout the summer. You will be notified if your reservation changes, we recommend looking at a different loop if your dates are not flexible. We will update Rec.gov with new information as available.
