Black Hills National Forest

Welcome to the Black Hills National Forest located in the rugged terrain of western South Dakota.

Forest History: For both the Native Americans, who roamed this land for thousands of years, as well as modern day residents and visitors, this magnificent forest has been a place for spiritual and physical renewal. Some of the Native American tribes who occupied this region include the Arapaho, Kiowa, Lakota, and Cheyenne Tribes. The Black Hills were so special to these tribes that they were declared a neutral zone for tribes at war with one another could meet in peace. In the 1840’s many European settlers came to the region to engage in fur trading. In 1874, General George Custer discovered gold in the region while leading a group of men on an Army Expedition, thereby sparking settlement of the region. Many settlers came to set up farms and harvest the region’s timber.

In 1893 forest fires sparked local interest in protecting the forest and on February 22, 1897 President Cleveland established the Black Hills Forest Reserve. In 1907 it became the Black Hills National Forest.

Wildlife: The Black Hills National Forest helps protect the home of numerous wild critters including deer, squirrels, rabbits, and many others. Please treat their home with respect.

For the lover of the outdoors Black Hills National Forest boasts over 450 miles of hiking trails, mountains to be climbed, gold panning, trout fishing, and so much more. Come on out and explore.

In March 2023 this forest grew by 239 acres.