Black Hills National Forest

Lord knows how I love the Hills. Oldest mountains in North America (yes even older than the Appalachians). They have a soul that's hard to put into words. It's like the feeling inside when an animal trusts you and your friends completely. You'll have great times and have fun stories to tell but you also now have a responsibility to that animal. To protect it from those that would wish to do it harm. We have that responsibility, that obligation, to protect the Hills. It's a magical place, truly it is. There is a strangeness to the soul too. If you spend enough time in the Hills you'll end up with some stories that may be better left untold when little kids are present. Stories of that time things very quickly got far too quiet, when you felt watched, when you swear that was not like that an hour ago, when you hear a sound that couldn't have possibly been natural, when you hear your friend calling from just over the ridge in front of you but he's about 20 feet behind you. This may sound negative but I truly mean it when I say I wouldn't have it any other way. She is beautiful and mysterious and she gives and she takes and I love her all the same.

We drove through the area on our way to visit the needle eye tunnel. While that was a treat the drive through the hills and seeing all the amazing views was incredible. We had so many stops to see that we didn't get to explore it fully but it's definitely on our list to come back and visit and stay longer.

We did an overlanding trip through SD in Sept. 2022 and had an amazing experience exploring the woods of the Black Hills National Forest. Honestly, I prefer these woods over the badlands. One of our favorite dispersed camping sites was southwest of Lead near Cheyenne Crossing, and man, it was SO BEAUTIFUL. So many wildflowers and we could see the Milky Way at 11:30 PM. 10/10 recommend exploring these woods. Leave no trace.

Amazing location, it’s soothing to drive among the trees & feel the breeze. The Mount Rushmore view is great from the top. when we entered to the forest, we got so much relaxed by the breeze, weather and so much peace.

Nice lush green away from hustling city life... it's an escape from all chaos of life. We went to Custer and from there went to visit black hills. Morning sunrise views are mesmerizing. Also we took hot air balloon ride to see black hills forest from top. Would definitely recommend visiting. Very peaceful, quite since not much crowd like California.

Great place to drive around so much to see and do. A lot of great hikes for inexperienced people like me😅 very beautiful place. Needless Highway is a must! There is a lot of curves when driving, so if it makes you sick take something before you start driving. The views are so impressive.

This was absolutely breath taking!!!! Weather was amazing the day I went and getting to see the animals up close and personal was awesome!!! One of the highlights of my time living in South Dakota. Can’t wait to eventually go back! Totally recommend a trip through here.

Loved driving through it. Lakes are beautiful and clean. A great spot and there is so much to do. Do carry a map to make sure you are visiting all points of interest and you can choose where to take a stop as well. Pactola lake in Black Hills Forest is one of the most beautiful lake. There are trails, paved driving route as well. Hiking, driving, boating, kayaking, swimming, photography, pickniking and so much fun..