Pactola North Public Water Access

**Location & Access:** Pactola North is located on Pactola Reservoir near the dam on Rapid Creek, approximately 15 miles west of Rapid City. From Rapid City, take Highway 44 west for 15 miles, then turn south on Highway 385 and travel 2 miles to the dam area. The access point is situated at the Black Hills National Forest Visitor Center location.

**Facilities & Recreation:** This is a developed access site with boat ramps available for launching kayaks, canoes, and motorboats onto the reservoir. The area features a visitor center (open daily 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., mid-May through Labor Day weekend) where staff can provide maps, brochures, and current information about water conditions. Two nearby campgrounds—Boxelder Forks and Pactola Reservoir Campground—offer convenient overnight options with amenities including picnic areas, vault toilets, and drinking water. The site provides access to scenic paddling on the 23-mile reservoir set within the Black Hills National Forest.

**Planning Tip:** Before heading out, check current reservoir water levels through the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation website (usbr.gov), as water conditions can vary seasonally. The visitor center staff can advise on conditions and help you plan your paddling route on this scenic mountain reservoir.

The Black Hills National Forest Visitor Center is located west of Rapid City on Pactola Reservoir Dam on Highway 385 in the central hills.Open Daily: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., 7 days a week, Mid-May - after Labor Day weekendPhone: (605) 343-8755Request for Expression of InterestInformation: The friendly visitor center staff has brochures, maps, and other information to help you plan your visit to...

The Black Hills National Forest Visitor Center is located west of Rapid City on Pactola Reservoir Dam on Highway 385 in the central hills.Open Daily: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., 7 days a week, Mid-May - after Labor Day weekendPhone: (605) 343-8755Request for Expression of InterestInformation: The friendly visitor center staff has brochures, maps, and other information to help you plan your visit to the area and forest.Exhibits and Programs: The center's exhibits feature wildlife mounts including a bald eagle! An outdoor bulletin board explains the reservoir's history and recreational opportunities. If you have time, stay for an interpretive program given by the staff! Black Hills Parks and Forests Association: This non-profit organization has outlets in most Forest Service offices and at the visitor center, and Wind Cave National Park, Jewel Cave National Monument, and Custer State Park. Sales of forest maps, books, and other items support the education programs and facilities on the forest and may be purchased on their website: www.blackhillsparks.org or by calling 605-745-7020 or tollfree at 888-804-9090.For more information, please contact the Pactola Visitor Center at (605) 343-8755 or any of the other Black Hills National Forest offices.

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