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
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Beach Access
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Lake Access
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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
Dennis M
VerifiedAugust 30, 2023 • Stayed at: 042, Loop: PACT
Always a good experience. Maybe one of the most beautiful views in the United States. We like the way it is run as it is rough camping. We do like the generator rules and would just as soon see it run as is. We have been coming here for about 26 years and it is about the same today as 26 years ago. We like it like it is as this is just showing the beauty of the forest and the Black Hills. So dark at night!! So peaceful.
Nicole S
VerifiedAugust 25, 2023 • Stayed at: 008, Loop: RSVC
Loved the beautiful lake for swimming & paddle boarding. We enjoyed the lake view from our campsite too though wished we were closer to the lake. Unfortunately our campsite was such that the neighbors had to basically walk thru it to get to the nearest toilet.
Nicole U
VerifiedAugust 22, 2023 • Stayed at: 016, Loop: RSVC
Campsite was clean, bathrooms clean, it was quiet and great. My only complaint would be that I was right across from the camp host that had such a bright light coming off the camper it took away from star gazing a bit, but that wasn’t that big of deal.
James C
VerifiedAugust 16, 2023 • Stayed at: 016, Loop: RSVC
I think this is my favorite site now!
James C
VerifiedAugust 16, 2023 • Stayed at: 012, Loop: RSVC
great view from the campsite of the lake.
Hayden F
VerifiedAugust 13, 2023 • Stayed at: 033, Loop: PACT
Such a pretty lake!!! Absolutely loved my site and view. Definitely recommend
Patricia B
VerifiedAugust 8, 2023 • Stayed at: 033, Loop: PACT
One of the most beautiful lakes in the Black Hills of South Dakota. Cool clear water, plenty of fish and miles and miles of beautiful shoreline and scenery. Campsites that are on the shoreline with a great view, camp store with good food and things a camper or visitor might need. 2 marinas, 2 boat ramps, swimming beach. Everything you need for a great getaway vacation.
Kyle J
VerifiedJuly 23, 2023 • Stayed at: 047, Loop: PACT
Fantastic campground. Clean bathrooms and clean campsites.
Leon F
VerifiedJuly 17, 2023 • Stayed at: 012, Loop: RSVC
Most of the sites here have limited views of the lake because of trees. The toilets are well maintained as are the grounds. As an added bonus this is one of the few campgrounds that have excellent cell service.
Anne H
VerifiedJuly 12, 2023 • Stayed at: 024, Loop: PACT
Bathrooms were incredibly clean, we love that! No bothersome campground host in our business every hour was also a bonus. There was a host there but they left everyone alone, like it should be!
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.