Cold Brook Dam, SD was constructed to reduce flood damages in the Fall River
Basin. Located less than 1 mile from the town of Hot Springs, SD, Cold Brook
Lake offers an excellent variety of recreational activities year-round
including canoeing, fishing, swimming, wildlife viewing, and camping. Winter
activities include ice fishing, skating, and cross-country skiing.

Cold Brook Dam, SD was constructed to reduce flood damages in the Fall River Basin.  Located less than 1 mile from the town of Hot Springs, SD, Cold Brook Lake offers an excellent variety of recreational activities year-round including canoeing, fishing, swimming, wildlife viewing, and camping.  Winter activities include ice fishing, skating, and cross-country skiing.

## Overview

Located less than 1 mile north of Hot Springs, South Dakota sits one of the
area's most perferred campgrounds. At the south end of Cold Brook Campground
sits Cold Brook Lake, a popular destination for those looking to take a swim
at the beach, snorkel in the crystal clear water or wet a line while trying to
catch a variety of fish species. At the north end of the campground sits a
wildlife area with a two-track trail that is good for a morning stroll or a
short bike ride with the possibility of seeing wildlife.

## Recreation

Cold Brook Lake is about 33 acres in size and it provides a quiet opportunity
to wet a line and possibly catch a large mouth bass, northern pike, catfish,
carp, rainbow trout, or various pan fish. Canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, or any
other small non-gas motorized boat can commonly be seen on the lake. As the
summer heats up, the beach tends to be a popular hangout for both locals and
tourists. The non-motorized two-track path in the wildlife area is a great
spot for a short hike or letting pets enjoy being off a leash. Other popular
outdoor recreational opportunities include picnicking, playing at the
playground, wildlife viewing, photography, and archery hunting. Archery
hunting is permitted in designated areas only and both hunting and fishing
regulations are established and enforced by the State of South Dakota.

## Facilities

Cold Brook Lake is about 33 acres in size and it provides a quiet opportunity
to wet a line and possibly catch a large mouth bass, northern pike, catfish,
carp, rainbow trout, or various pan fish. Canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, or any
other small non-gas motorized boat can commonly be seen on the lake. As the
summer heats up, the beach tends to be a popular hangout for both locals and
tourists. The non-motorized two-track path in the wildlife area is a great
spot for a short hike or letting pets enjoy being off a leash. Other popular
outdoor recreational opportunities include picnicking, playing at the
playground, wildlife viewing, photography, and archery hunting. Archery
hunting is permitted in designated areas only and both hunting and fishing
regulations are established and enforced by the State of South Dakota.

## Natural Features

Located in the Southern Black Hills of South Dakota, construction of Cold
Brook Dam began in 1949 and was completed in 1953, under the Flood Control Act
of 1941. Although the dam was originally built for flood control, it has
created a park with approximately 450 acres of public lands and water that
provides a variety of benefits to both the public and wildlife. Once here you
will see how the rugged hills, crystal clear water and evergreen trees create
a picturesque site.

## contact_info

For local information, please call (605) 745-5476 or call (605) 450-8000 for
general information.

## Nearby Attractions

Popular nearby attractions include:

  * Black Hills National Forest
  * Wind Cave National Park
  * The Mammoth Site
  * Evans Plunge
  * Jewel Cave National Monument

## Charges & Cancellations

Reservation changes and cancellations can be made on Recreation.gov or by
calling 1-877-444-6777.

For more information on rules and policies regarding reservation cancellations
and changes, please visit: https://www.recreation.gov/rules-reservation-
policies.

<h2>Overview</h2>
<p>Located less than 1 mile north of Hot Springs, South Dakota sits one of the area's most perferred campgrounds. At the south end of Cold Brook Campground sits Cold Brook Lake, a popular destination for those looking to take a swim at the beach, snorkel in the crystal clear water or wet a line while trying to catch a variety of fish species. At the north end of the campground sits a wildlife area with a two-track trail that is good for a morning stroll or a short bike ride with the possibility of seeing wildlife.</p>
<h2>Recreation</h2>
<p>Cold Brook Lake is about 33 acres in size and it provides a quiet opportunity to wet a line and possibly catch a large mouth bass, northern pike, catfish, carp, rainbow trout, or various pan fish. Canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, or any other small non-gas motorized boat can commonly be seen on the lake. As the summer heats up, the beach tends to be a popular hangout for both locals and tourists. The non-motorized two-track path in the wildlife area is a great spot for a short hike or letting pets enjoy being off a leash. Other popular outdoor recreational opportunities include picnicking, playing at the playground, wildlife viewing, photography, and archery hunting. Archery hunting is permitted in designated areas only and both hunting and fishing regulations are established and enforced by the State of South Dakota.</p>
<h2>Facilities</h2>
<p>Cold Brook Lake is about 33 acres in size and it provides a quiet opportunity to wet a line and possibly catch a large mouth bass, northern pike, catfish, carp, rainbow trout, or various pan fish. Canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, or any other small non-gas motorized boat can commonly be seen on the lake. As the summer heats up, the beach tends to be a popular hangout for both locals and tourists. The non-motorized two-track path in the wildlife area is a great spot for a short hike or letting pets enjoy being off a leash. Other popular outdoor recreational opportunities include picnicking, playing at the playground, wildlife viewing, photography, and archery hunting. Archery hunting is permitted in designated areas only and both hunting and fishing regulations are established and enforced by the State of South Dakota.</p>
<h2>Natural Features</h2>
<p>Located in the Southern Black Hills of South Dakota, construction of Cold Brook Dam began in 1949 and was completed in 1953, under the Flood Control Act of 1941. Although the dam was originally built for flood control, it has created a park with approximately 450 acres of public lands and water that provides a variety of benefits to both the public and wildlife. Once here you will see how the rugged hills, crystal clear water and evergreen trees create a picturesque site.</p>

<h2>contact_info</h2>
For local information, please call (605) 745-5476 or call (605) 450-8000 for general information.
<h2>Nearby Attractions</h2>
<p>Popular nearby attractions include:</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/blackhills" rel="nofollow">Black Hills National Forest</a>  </li>
<li><a href="https://www.nps.gov/wica/index.htm" rel="nofollow">Wind Cave National Park</a>  </li>
<li><a href="https://www.mammothsite.org/" rel="nofollow">The Mammoth Site</a>  </li>
<li><a href="http://www.evansplunge.com/" rel="nofollow">Evans Plunge</a> </li>
<li><a href="https://www.nps.gov/jeca/index.htm" rel="nofollow">Jewel Cave National Monument</a> </li>
</ul>
<h2>Charges & Cancellations</h2>
<p>Reservation changes and cancellations can be made on Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.  </p>

<p>For more information on rules and policies regarding reservation cancellations and changes, please visit: <a href="https://www.recreation.gov/rules-reservation-policies" rel="nofollow">https://www.recreation.gov/rules-reservation-policies</a>.   </p>

Camping reservations can be made at Recreation.gov or by calling
1-877-444-6777.

Wildlife Area Adjacent to Campground

Kids learning about different aquatic species and fossils during Jake's Day event

Jake's Day Event at Cold Brook

Kid's learning how to operate a motor boat along with water safety

Jake's Day Event  at Cold Brook

Wildcat Classic

Cold Brook Lake

Cold Brook Lake and Dam

Cold Brook Campground

Group day use picnic shelter at Cold Brook Lake.

Group Day Use Shelter is Wildlife Area

The beginning of the Wildcat Classic Event

Wildcat Classic Event

Bird's eye view of the park

Cottonwood Springs Dam, SD was constructed to reduce flood damages in the Fall
River Basin. Located just 5 miles west of Hot Springs on U.S. Highway 18 and
nestled in the rugged hills and evergreen trees of the southern Black Hills,
Cottonwood Springs Lake is the place to go for nature lovers. This recreation
area offers primitive camping only (no hookups), hiking, fishing (only
electric motors), and picnicking.

Cottonwood Springs Dam, SD was constructed to reduce flood damages in the Fall River Basin.  Located just 5 miles west of Hot Springs on U.S. Highway 18 and nestled in the rugged hills and evergreen trees of the southern Black Hills, Cottonwood Springs Lake is the place to go for nature lovers. This recreation area offers primitive camping only (no hookups), hiking, fishing (only electric motors), and picnicking.

## Overview

Located just 5 miles west of Hot Springs, SD is a hidden gem of a campground.
Cottonwood Springs Campground is a quiet, peaceful campground tucked away in
the southern part of the Black Hills of South Dakota. It offers beautiful
scenic views within a short walk of each campsite.

## Recreation

While Cottonwood Springs Lake is a small lake, it provides a quiet opportunity
to wet a line and possibly catch a large mouth bass, rainbow trout, or various
pan fish. Canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, or any other small non-gas motorized
boat can commonly be seen on the lake. The non-motorized gravel path in the
wildlife area is a great spot for a short hike or for letting pets enjoy being
off a leash. Other popular outdoor recreational opportunities include
picnicking, playing at the playground, wildlife viewing, photography, and
archery hunting. Archery hunting is permitted in designated areas only and
both hunting and fishing regulations are established and enforced by the State
of South Dakota.

## Facilities

While Cottonwood Springs Lake is a small lake, it provides a quiet opportunity
to wet a line and possibly catch a large mouth bass, rainbow trout, or various
pan fish. Canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, or any other small non-gas motorized
boat can commonly be seen on the lake. The non-motorized gravel path in the
wildlife area is a great spot for a short hike or for letting pets enjoy being
off a leash. Other popular outdoor recreational opportunities include
picnicking, playing at the playground, wildlife viewing, photography, and
archery hunting. Archery hunting is permitted in designated areas only and
both hunting and fishing regulations are established and enforced by the State
of South Dakota.

## Natural Features

Located in the Southern Black Hills of South Dakota, construction of
Cottonwood Springs Dam began in 1968 and was completed in 1969. Cottonwood
Springs Dam began construction in 1968 and was completed in 1969. Although the
dam was originally built for flood control, it has created a park with
approximately 600 acres of public lands and water that provides a variety of
benefits to both the public and wildlife. Once here you will see how the
rugged hills and evergreen trees create a picturesque site.

## contact_info

For local information, please call (605) 745-5476 or call (605) 450-8000 for
general information.

## Nearby Attractions

Popular nearby attractions include:

  * Wind Cave National Park
  * Black Hills National Forest
  * The Mammoth Site
  * Evans Plunge
  * Buffalo Gap National Grassland
  * Jewel Cave National Monument
  * Badlands National Park 
  * Custer State Park
  * Crazy Horse Memorial 
  * Mount Rushmore National Memorial

## Charges & Cancellations

Reservation changes and cancellations can be made on Recreation.gov or by
calling 1-877-444-6777.

For more information on rules and policies regarding reservation cancellations
and changes, please visit: https://www.recreation.gov/rules-reservation-
policies.

<h2>Overview</h2>
<p>Located just 5 miles west of Hot Springs, SD is a hidden gem of a campground. Cottonwood Springs Campground is a quiet, peaceful campground tucked away in the southern part of the Black Hills of South Dakota. It offers beautiful scenic views within a short walk of each campsite.</p>
<h2>Recreation</h2>
<p>While Cottonwood Springs Lake is a small lake, it provides a quiet opportunity to wet a line and possibly catch a large mouth bass, rainbow trout, or various pan fish. Canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, or any other small non-gas motorized boat can commonly be seen on the lake. The non-motorized gravel path in the wildlife area is a great spot for a short hike or for letting pets enjoy being off a leash. Other popular outdoor recreational opportunities include picnicking, playing at the playground, wildlife viewing, photography, and archery hunting. Archery hunting is permitted in designated areas only and both hunting and fishing regulations are established and enforced by the State of South Dakota.</p>
<h2>Facilities</h2>
<p>While Cottonwood Springs Lake is a small lake, it provides a quiet opportunity to wet a line and possibly catch a large mouth bass, rainbow trout, or various pan fish. Canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, or any other small non-gas motorized boat can commonly be seen on the lake. The non-motorized gravel path in the wildlife area is a great spot for a short hike or for letting pets enjoy being off a leash. Other popular outdoor recreational opportunities include picnicking, playing at the playground, wildlife viewing, photography, and archery hunting. Archery hunting is permitted in designated areas only and both hunting and fishing regulations are established and enforced by the State of South Dakota.</p>
<h2>Natural Features</h2>
<p>Located in the Southern Black Hills of South Dakota, construction of Cottonwood Springs Dam began in 1968 and was completed in 1969. Cottonwood Springs Dam began construction in 1968 and was completed in 1969. Although the dam was originally built for flood control, it has created a park with approximately 600 acres of public lands and water that provides a variety of benefits to both the public and wildlife. Once here you will see how the rugged hills and evergreen trees create a picturesque site.</p>

<h2>contact_info</h2>
For local information, please call (605) 745-5476 or call (605) 450-8000 for general information.
<h2>Nearby Attractions</h2>
<p>Popular nearby attractions include:</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.nps.gov/wica/index.htm" rel="nofollow">Wind Cave National Park</a> </li>
<li><a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/blackhills" rel="nofollow">Black Hills National Forest</a> </li>
<li><a href="https://www.mammothsite.org/" rel="nofollow">The Mammoth Site</a> </li>
<li><a href="http://www.evansplunge.com/" rel="nofollow">Evans Plunge</a> </li>
<li><a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/nebraska/recarea/?recid=30329" rel="nofollow">Buffalo Gap National Grassland</a> </li>
<li><a href="https://www.nps.gov/jeca/index.htm" rel="nofollow">Jewel Cave National Monument</a> </li>
<li><a href="https://www.nps.gov/badl/index.htm" rel="nofollow">Badlands National Park </a> </li>
<li><a href="https://gfp.sd.gov/parks/detail/custer-state-park/" rel="nofollow">Custer State Park</a> </li>
<li><a href="https://crazyhorsememorial.org/" rel="nofollow">Crazy Horse Memorial </a> </li>
<li><a href="https://www.nps.gov/moru/index.htm" rel="nofollow">Mount Rushmore National Memorial</a> </li>
</ul>
<h2>Charges & Cancellations</h2>
<p>Reservation changes and cancellations can be made on Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.  </p>
<p>For more information on rules and policies regarding reservation cancellations and changes, please visit: <a href="https://www.recreation.gov/rules-reservation-policies" rel="nofollow">https://www.recreation.gov/rules-reservation-policies</a>.  </p>

Cottonwood Springs

Cottonwood Springs Lake

Cottonwood Springs Lake view

A Buck relaxing in the shade under a tree

Cottonwood Springs Wildlife

Aerial view of Cottonwood Springs Campground

Aerial Cottonwood Springs Campground

Cottonwood Springs Campground

The Angostura Dam and Reservoir are located at the southeast edge of the Black
Hills on the Cheyenne River in southwestern South Dakota near the Nebraska
border. The reservoir has approximately 4,407 water surface acres, 4,546 land
acres and 42 miles of shoreline. Recreation on this reservoir is managed by
the SD Department of Game, Fish and Parks for the Bureau of Reclamation and
includes campgrounds, boat ramps, fishing pier and a marina. Fish species
include walleye, bass, northern pike, perch, bluegill, and crappie.Because the
reservoir is located on the southeastern edge of the Black Hills and is the
only large body of water in an isolated area of arid southwestern South
Dakota, it is attractive to migrating waterbirds that follow the eastern edge
of the Black Hills. The lake also provides habitat for migrant passerine
species that travel along the Cheyenne River on their twice-yearly flights to
and from the north and the west. The best birding area is along the
undeveloped western side.The area is open year-round and an entrance fee is
required year-round. The Angostura Unit is part of the Pick-Sloan Missouri
Basin Program. Current Reservoir Levels.

The <a href="http://www.usbr.gov/projects/Facility.jsp?fac_Name=Angostura+Dam" rel="nofollow">Angostura Dam</a> and Reservoir are located at the southeast edge of the Black Hills on the Cheyenne River in southwestern South Dakota near the Nebraska border.  The reservoir has approximately  4,407 water surface acres, 4,546 land acres and 42 miles of shoreline. Recreation on this reservoir is managed by the SD Department of Game, Fish and Parks for the Bureau of Reclamation and includes campgrounds, boat ramps, fishing pier and a marina.  Fish species include walleye, bass, northern pike, perch, bluegill, and crappie.Because the reservoir is located on the southeastern edge of the Black Hills and is the only large body of water in an isolated area of arid southwestern South Dakota, it is attractive to migrating waterbirds that follow the eastern edge of the Black Hills.  The lake also provides habitat for migrant passerine species that travel along the Cheyenne River on their twice-yearly flights to and from the north and the west.  The best birding area is along the undeveloped western side.The area is open year-round and an entrance fee is required year-round.  The Angostura Unit is part of the Pick-Sloan Missouri Basin Program. <a href="http://www.usbr.gov/gp-bin/arcweb_agr.pl" rel="nofollow">Current Reservoir Levels</a>.

Angostura Reservoir

Wind Cave National Park protects two very different worlds - one deep within
the earth, the other a sunlit world of many resources. Bison, elk, and other
wildlife roam the rolling prairie grasslands and forested hillsides of one of
America's oldest national parks. Below the remnant island of intact prairie
sits Wind Cave, one of the longest and most complex caves in the world.

Wind Cave National Park protects two very different worlds - one deep within the earth, the other a sunlit world of many resources. Bison, elk, and other wildlife roam the rolling prairie grasslands and forested hillsides of one of America's oldest national parks. Below the remnant island of intact prairie sits Wind Cave, one of the longest and most complex caves in the world.

## Overview

Elk Mountain Campground, straddles the edge of a ponderosa pine forest and
open prairie, offering unique opportunities to view the diverse flora and
fauna of the southern Black Hills. These campsites are available in both
forested and open environments.

  * **Campsites may be reserved all year through Recreation.gov.** Reservations may be made 6 months in advance of your stay and same day reservations are available. 

**NOTE:** This is a cashless campground. Only credit cards will be accepted
through Recreation.gov or the Recreation.gov mobile app.

## Recreation

Hiking at Wind Cave

  * View rolling prairie vistas, ponderosa forests, and see wildlife in its natural environment. Wind Cave National Park has over 30 miles of hiking trails on the surface and provides visitors the opportunity to view pristine Black Hills scenery. Find out which trail is the best for you.

Pet Friendly Hikes

  * If you are traveling with a furry friend, Wind Cave has two pet friendly trails. The Prairie Vista trail leaves from the Visitor Center and the Elk Mountain Trail leaves from the amphitheater at the Elk Mountain Campground. Both trails are approximatly 1 mile in length. 

Become a Wind Cave Junior Ranger

  * Kids of all ages can become a Wind Cave Junior Ranger. Complete the activity book, learn about the park, and take the pledge to earn a Junior Ranger badge.

## Facilities

Hiking at Wind Cave

  * View rolling prairie vistas, ponderosa forests, and see wildlife in its natural environment. Wind Cave National Park has over 30 miles of hiking trails on the surface and provides visitors the opportunity to view pristine Black Hills scenery. Find out which trail is the best for you.

Pet Friendly Hikes

  * If you are traveling with a furry friend, Wind Cave has two pet friendly trails. The Prairie Vista trail leaves from the Visitor Center and the Elk Mountain Trail leaves from the amphitheater at the Elk Mountain Campground. Both trails are approximatly 1 mile in length. 

Become a Wind Cave Junior Ranger

  * Kids of all ages can become a Wind Cave Junior Ranger. Complete the activity book, learn about the park, and take the pledge to earn a Junior Ranger badge.

## Natural Features

Wind Cave National Park protects two very different worlds - one deep within
the earth, the other a sunlit world of many resources. Bison, elk, and other
wildlife roam the rolling prairie grasslands and forested hillsides of one of
America's oldest national parks.

Visit Wind Cave's Natural Entrance

  * You can still see the largest natural opening into Wind Cave without going on a tour. This small hole is one of the only known natural entrances into the cave. Lakota oral tradition speaks of how the first bison and humans emerged from this deeply spiritual place.

## contact_info

This location is unstaffed. To speak with our main office for general
information, please call: (605) 745-4600.

<h2>Overview</h2>
<p>Elk Mountain Campground, straddles the edge of a ponderosa pine forest and open prairie, offering unique opportunities to view the diverse flora and fauna of the southern Black Hills. These campsites are available in both forested and open environments.</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Campsites may be reserved all year through Recreation.gov. </strong>Reservations may be made 6 months in advance of your stay and same day reservations are available. </li>
</ul>
<p><strong>NOTE:</strong> This is a cashless campground. Only credit cards will be accepted through Recreation.gov or the Recreation.gov mobile app.</p>
<h2>Recreation</h2>
<p>Hiking at Wind Cave</p>
<ul>
<li>View rolling prairie vistas, ponderosa forests, and see wildlife in its natural environment. Wind Cave National Park has over 30 miles of hiking trails on the surface and provides visitors the opportunity to view pristine Black Hills scenery. Find out which trail is the best for you.</li>
</ul>
<p>Pet Friendly Hikes</p>
<ul>
<li>If you are traveling with a furry friend, Wind Cave has two pet friendly trails. The Prairie Vista trail leaves from the Visitor Center and the Elk Mountain Trail leaves from the amphitheater at the Elk Mountain Campground. Both trails are approximatly 1 mile in length. </li>
</ul>
<p>Become a Wind Cave Junior Ranger</p>
<ul>
<li>Kids of all ages can become a Wind Cave Junior Ranger. Complete the activity book, learn about the park, and take the pledge to earn a Junior Ranger badge.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Facilities</h2>
<p>Hiking at Wind Cave</p>
<ul>
<li>View rolling prairie vistas, ponderosa forests, and see wildlife in its natural environment. Wind Cave National Park has over 30 miles of hiking trails on the surface and provides visitors the opportunity to view pristine Black Hills scenery. Find out which trail is the best for you.</li>
</ul>
<p>Pet Friendly Hikes</p>
<ul>
<li>If you are traveling with a furry friend, Wind Cave has two pet friendly trails. The Prairie Vista trail leaves from the Visitor Center and the Elk Mountain Trail leaves from the amphitheater at the Elk Mountain Campground. Both trails are approximatly 1 mile in length. </li>
</ul>
<p>Become a Wind Cave Junior Ranger</p>
<ul>
<li>Kids of all ages can become a Wind Cave Junior Ranger. Complete the activity book, learn about the park, and take the pledge to earn a Junior Ranger badge.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Natural Features</h2>
<p>Wind Cave National Park protects two very different worlds - one deep within the earth, the other a sunlit world of many resources. Bison, elk, and other wildlife roam the rolling prairie grasslands and forested hillsides of one of America's oldest national parks. </p>

<p>Visit Wind Cave's Natural Entrance</p>
<ul>
<li>You can still see the largest natural opening into Wind Cave without going on a tour. This small hole is one of the only known natural entrances into the cave. Lakota oral tradition speaks of how the first bison and humans emerged from this deeply spiritual place.</li>
</ul>





<h2>contact_info</h2>
This location is unstaffed. To speak with our main office for general information, please call: (605) 745-4600.

RV or tent rate when water and flush toilets are available (May - September
30th). Senior (Golden Age)/Access pass holders pay half price. Interagency
Annual Park Passes are not applicable for these fees.

$24.00

Campsite Fee - Off-season

RV or tent rate when water is not available (October 1st-May). Senior (Golden
Age)/Access pass holders pay half price. Interagency Annual Park Passes are
not applicable for these fees.

$12.00

The Elk Mountain Campground at Wind Cave National Park.

A view of a tent and an RV at Elk Mountain Campground

There are two group campsites available to reserve at Elk Mountain Campground.

Elk Mountain Campground Group Campsite

There is potable water access seasonally in the campground.

Elk Mountain Water Spigot

Each campsite comes with a picnic bench and a fire ring.

Elk Mountain Campsite

The Elk Mountain Campground is a first-come, first-served site. Campers can register the campsite of their choice the day of their stay, and drop their cash payment in the drop box.

Elk Mountain Campground Registration Board

The Elk Mountain Campground is a moderately strenuous, half mile hike through the campground. Leashed pets are welcome on this trail.

Cold Brook Lake

Directions

Reviews

Campgrounds

Cold Brook Campground

Nearby Parks

Cottonwood Springs Lake

Angostura Reservoir

Wind Cave National Park