Pactola South Public Water Access

**Location & Access:** Pactola South Boat Launch is located on Pactola Reservoir on Rapid Creek, about 15 miles west of Rapid City. From Rapid City, take Highway 44 west for 15 miles, then turn south on Highway 385 and continue 2 miles to the dam area. This is one of two boat ramps available at the reservoir, making it a convenient launch point for paddlers and boaters exploring the area.

**Boating Opportunities:** The reservoir supports both motorized and non-motorized boating, including kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. Pactola Reservoir is well-stocked with rainbow, lake, and brown trout, as well as largemouth and rock bass, kokanee salmon, and yellow perch. No reservations are required at this site. The facility is within walking distance of nearby Pactola Reservoir Campground and Boxelder Forks Campground (both reservable), which offer picnic tables, vault toilets, drinking water, and beach access.

**Nearby Recreation:** The Black Hills National Forest and Mount Rushmore National Memorial are nearby, making this an excellent base for a multi-day outdoor trip combining paddling, camping, and sightseeing in the Black Hills region.

Pactola South Boat Launch is 1 of 2 boat ramps available at Pactola Reservoir. Non-motorized and motorized boating activities, including boat fishing is very popular. The reservoir is stocked with rainbow, lake and brown trout as well as largemouth and rock bass, kokanee salmon and yellow perch.