The Black Hills of South Dakota is an outdoor enthusiasts paradise with mountains, prairies, open landscapes and grasslands to explore at every turn. Whether it is on bike, via horseback, traversed by foot or by boat, the health-conscious traveler can explore the area's parks, public recreation centers and forests year-round.
Backpacking
Hiking fans can explore 450 miles of trails in the Black Hills National Forest. The forest has trails for most athletic levels and the hikes vary from less than an hour long to several days in length. According to the Black Hills Badlands and Lake Association, the best seasons to backpack are during the fall and spring when the temperatures are moderate. Backpackers should take layers of clothes, as the temperatures can become much cooler during the evening.
Camping
According to the United States Department of Agriculture, the Black Hills National Forest has 30 campgrounds for visitors to spend overnights in the great outdoors. The campgrounds provide almost 700 individual sites for groups of campers, most of which have potable water and toilet access. According to the Forest Service, campers can set up their own campsites away from the department's developed campsites and reservoirs for up to two weeks. In these areas, however, building a campfire is not allowed.
Fishing
Anglers can test their luck and skill fishing in the Black Hills for rainbow trout, brown trout and perch. South Dakota requires a fishing license for all anglers, which can be purchased at various local retailers throughout the state, including sporting goods stores, bait and tackle stores and directly from the county. Fishing is available at the Sheridan Lake Reservoir, Deerfield Lake Reservoir and the Pactola Lake Reservoir. Children under 16 years old don't need a fishing license in South Dakota.
Horseback Riding
Both novice riders and professional equestrians can take part in horseback riding in the Black Hills. Many tour companies offer one-hour, two-hour, half-day and full-day guided horseback rides on trails throughout Black Hills. Riders can also bring their own horses to Black Hills to trot on the rugged landscape of the Deerfield Reservoir, which has 28 miles of trails; the 109-mile Mickelson Trail; the 18-mile Spearfish area trail (where scenes from the movie Dances with Wolves were filmed); or the 50-miles of trails on the Harney Range trail area. There are also a few campsites in Black Hills, including some with on-site corrals where travelers can take their horses.
Rock Climbing
According to the United States Department of Agriculture's Forest Service, there are climbing areas for various skill levels throughout Black Hills, South Dakota. Travelers can choose to rent gear and hire a guide from one of the local businesses, or more advanced climbers may want to climb one of the Forest Service's designated areas. Climbing areas include Spearfish Canyon and the Wrinkled Rock Climbers Trailhead. Outdoor enthusiasts can choose to climb limestone canyons, granite formations or the large boulders that dot the landscape.
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