Horsethief Lake
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Horsethief Lake

A quiet fishing lake in the pines, minutes from Mount Rushmore.

Horsethief Lake is a small forest lake with a campground and picnic area just west of Mount Rushmore. It is far quieter than the big attractions nearby, and a pleasant place for a picnic or an evening fish.

It makes an easy, calm stop between the crowds at Rushmore and the drive back to Custer.

Highlights

  • Fishing and picnicking
  • A campground
  • A quiet forest setting
  • Close to Mount Rushmore and Keystone

Local tips

  • Check Black Hills National Forest for campground and fee details.
  • Go on a weekday or in the evening for the quietest time.
  • Bring insect repellent in summer.

Also nearby

The closest other places in the guide to Horsethief Lake.

about 3 mi from here
Towns & day trips

Keystone

A historic mining town just down the road from Mount Rushmore.

about 3 mi from here
Scenic drives & views

Iron Mountain Road

Pigtail bridges and tunnels that frame Mount Rushmore.