Sheridan Lake
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Sheridan Lake

Swimming beach, paddling and fishing in the national forest.

Sheridan Lake is a popular reservoir in the Black Hills National Forest, with a swim beach, a boat ramp, picnic areas and campgrounds. It is one of the easiest places in the Hills to get out on the water.

Bring paddleboards or kayaks and go out on a calm morning, or just spread a picnic on the shore.

Highlights

  • Swim beach and picnic areas
  • Fishing and paddling
  • Campgrounds
  • Right on US 385 between Hill City and Pactola

Local tips

  • Beaches and boat ramps can be busy on summer weekends, so arrive early.
  • Check Black Hills National Forest for recreation fees and swim-area conditions.
  • Bring sunscreen, water and insect repellent.

Also nearby

The closest other places in the guide to Sheridan Lake.

about 6 mi from here
Wildlife & parks

Horsethief Lake

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

about 6 mi from here
Towns & day trips

Keystone

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

about 7 mi from here
Towns & day trips

Hill City & the 1880 Train

The Heart of the Hills, and a steam train through the forest.