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
Nate R
VerifiedJanuary 10, 2020 • Stayed at: 051, Loop: RESB
Great campsites and easy use of reservoir.
Jasmine O
VerifiedJanuary 10, 2020 • Stayed at: 043, Loop: PACT
I cannot explain how beautiful this reservoir is. We only stayed one night during our road trip, but it was relaxing. We had a couple locals stay with us (geese) my kids named them Harry and Marv. We fished, the kids swam, we roasted smores and took in the breathtaking views. The little store there was a bonus, the employees were welcoming and polite. I would highly recommend visiting Pactola reservoir to anyone.
kelly k
VerifiedJanuary 10, 2020 • Stayed at: 038, Loop: PACT
Great place to get away.
Bruce C
VerifiedJanuary 10, 2020 • Stayed at: 009, Loop: RSVC
Clean
James F
VerifiedDecember 30, 2019 • Stayed at: 039, Loop: PACT
Beautiful lake and campground. Gave 4-stars due to the tent pad area being slightly uneven. Would absolutely stay at this campground again. Served as a great central hub for exploring the Black Hills. Also, rent a pontoon from the marina. Totally worth it.
Kathleen K
VerifiedDecember 20, 2019 • Stayed at: 034, Loop: PACT
Summer 2019 was our second consecutive visit to Pactola Reservoir. We love the convenience and beauty of the lake. This is a nice central location to visit our favorite sites. We recommend Keystone, Hill City, and Custer State Park and all of the wonderful activities they offer. Pactola Reservoir was kept clean. The convenient store workers were very friendly. We highly recommend Pactola Reservoir if you like camping without electricity and water.
Dustin K
VerifiedDecember 17, 2019 • Stayed at: 009, Loop: RSVC
Pactola Reservoir is an amazing and beautiful place witha wonderful campground, lots of fun.
Anonymous
{"text"=>"I'm trying to figure this out. Are they a scam? Do they have any real authority? Does neither a national forest pass or state park pass qualify? We paid a day use fee but it seemed like it was just some old lady peddling cars for cash. I'd never heard of them before and their presence makes no sense.", "languageCode"=>"en"}
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.
