By:
Submission
The Bismarck Lake Picnic Area has three picnic sites located near the campground boat launch. Restroom facilities are available.
In Custer, SD, at the intersection of State Rt. 89/US Rt.16A (Mt. Rushmore Rd) and US Rt. 16/US Rt. 385 (5th St.), take US Rt.16A east for 4.8 miles (past Custer State Park entrance) to Bismarck Lake campground sign. Turn left at sign into campground.
Truly gorgeous campground in the Black Hills. Definitely rivals the beauty of the northwest. The site was jekyll the definition of what campsites should be. High up on a hill descending to the lake in the woods with rock formations all around.
Pit toilets are very well-maintained and the water spigots are cold and fast. The only awkward part about site 5 was that it wasn't clear where the best spot was to put the tents as most of the site was on an incline.
The paths around the lake and to the waterfall were lovely and the wildlife was abundant. A perfect evening camping out.
it's beautiful on site 7! truly one of the best sites i've ever stayed at. wildflowers on the valley below and a small view of the lake on the other side. loads of trees to hang your hammock from.
upon entering, the camp host was very friendly and welcoming. the hosts did a great job at being attentive to the guests and the facilities every day.
exploring the campground and where the trails take you was so fun. along the lake and day use area, there's a bridge to enjoy the sounds of a small creek waterfall, informational signs about wildlife, and stairs to take you back up to camp.
about site 7: my partner and i stayed on the left side as much as possible. on the right is site 6, which may seem like a close fit especially if you're using the tent pad (6's picnic table and fire ring are just downhill from 7's tent pad). i'd recommend other sites for RV and campers, or anyone that needs that extra privacy. however, this spot does have a lot to offer and is conveniently close to the water valve, dumpster, and toilet.
Note that dogs are an extra $2/night! there are also a ton of flies near the picnic table that were annoying when trying to eat, but bugs will be bugs i guess.
We showed up on the spot and got a great campsite complete with picnic table and campfire pit. A clean vault toilet was close by, as was a hydrant. Couldn't beat the price. The place was beautiful!! A lake with a nice boardwalk and dock, nature, quiet... Couldn't ask for more!
Beautiful little lake tucked into the lovely black hills national forest. There is wooden path for walk around access to lots of fun fishing spots and beautiful sunsets around the area. Mainly trout are stocked in this lake there is small motor boat dock and it is also wonderful lake for Kayaking and hiking trails throughout the area. There is a daytime camping area and also another area for overnight camping as well 😀
