Sylvan Lake
13400 US Highway 17A, Custer SD 57730
Daylight.
$$
camping, hikes, outdoor-adventures, water-activities, road-trips
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The enchanting Sylvan Lake is an absolute must-see when exploring the Black Hills.
No trip to the Black Hills would be complete without visiting the iconic Sylvan Lake. It's true that there's something special around every corner in Custer State Park, and this spot is no exception. Surprisingly, this gorgeous lake is actually man-made. A dam was built back in 1881, and this created the lake. If the views look familiar, you may have seen glimpses of it before in the movie National Treasure: Book of Secrets.
The lake is a popular destination throughout the summer months, with lodgings including the Sylvan Lake Lodge, as well as ample camping spaces (though RVers should take note - no large motorhomes or trailers are allowed). Featuring boat rentals, a gorgeous swimming beach, paddleboat, and canoe rentals, and some spectacular hiking trails, this place has tons of family fun in store. You'll also find ample parking in the lots, as well as restrooms on-site.
Our girls adored climbing the giant rock formations and checking out the views, as well as playing on the beach. They spent some time playing with pebbles on the shore and were overall really excited to explore here. Be sure to bring comfortable shoes for rocky areas, sunscreen, and plenty of snacks. I highly recommend packing a picnic for the lake and continuing to explore along the Wildlife Loop once you're ready to discover more of the park.