Sheridan Lake, South Dakota: Campgrounds, Cabins, Trails & Local Tips
Tucked between Hill City and Rapid City, Sheridan Lake is one of the most peaceful—and underrated—lakes in the Black Hills. It’s the kind of place where the breeze smells like pine, the water glimmers at golden hour, and adventure is just a trail away.
We recently spent the day exploring the lake firsthand, walking the trails, climbing the ridgelines, and even spotting vibrant wildflowers that were hidden just off the path. From soft sand under our feet to kayakers floating quietly across the water, Sheridan offers a kind of quiet joy that’s hard to put into words.
In this guide, we’ll share everything you need to know about Sheridan Lake campgrounds, hiking, cabins nearby, and how to plan your visit—whether it’s a day trip or part of a bigger move to the Hills.
Sheridan Lake Campgrounds
Camping at Sheridan Lake offers one of the most peaceful overnights in the entire Black Hills. Whether you’re a tent camper looking for trailside solitude or an RV traveler who wants quick lake access, both the South Shore and North Shore Campgrounds deliver fresh air, pine-covered views, and everything you need to enjoy the outdoors.
Sheridan Lake South Shore Campground
Located on the southern edge of the lake, this is the more popular and accessible of the two campgrounds. It’s especially great for families, swimmers, and paddlers who want to be close to the beach and boat ramp.
- 129 total sites (some walk-in, some RV-accessible)
- Vault toilets and potable water
- Fire rings, picnic tables, and shaded areas
- Easy access to the Sheridan Lake swimming beach, picnic areas, and paved parking
- Near the Flume Trail trailhead for hiking and biking
This campground fills up quickly, especially during peak summer weekends, so it’s best to plan ahead.
Sheridan Lake North Shore Campground
North Shore offers a quieter, more tucked-away setting, ideal for campers who prefer a little more solitude. It’s also closer to the Centennial Trail access point, making it a favorite with backpackers and hikers.
- 40+ sites, including standard tent pads and some pull-throughs
- Vault toilets, trash service, picnic areas
- Less foot traffic than South Shore
- Shaded by dense pines, giving an authentic forested vibe
- Short drive to the Sheridan Lake boat ramp and day-use areas
While both campgrounds have basic amenities, North Shore is often preferred by couples, solo campers, and hikers.
How to Reserve Your Site
You can make Sheridan Lake campground reservations for the south shore by clicking here and the north shore by clicking here. Be sure to use the Sheridan Lake Campground Map to preview site layout and proximity to lake access, restrooms, and trails.
Pro tip: If you’re coming for the weekend, reserve 2–3 weeks in advance. Weekdays often have better availability, especially at North Shore.
Things to Do at Sheridan Lake
Whether you’re casting a line from the shore, hiking the Flume Trail, or just floating in stillness, Sheridan Lake allows you to slow down. It’s not a party lake so much as it’s a peace lake. Here’s how you can soak it all in:
Kayaking & Paddleboarding
One of the most beautiful sights during our visit was watching people silently paddle across the water—no motors, no stress, just calm. Sheridan Lake is ideal for non-motorized watercraft, featuring glassy stretches of water surrounded by trees and a blue sky. If you’ve got a kayak or paddleboard, bring it. If not, rentals are often available nearby.
Fishing at Sheridan Lake
This lake is a favorite among local anglers and for good reason. Sheridan is stocked with rainbow trout, perch, and northern pike, offering plenty of action whether you’re casting from shore or launching from a small boat. We saw families fishing off the dock and individuals reeling in along the tree line, having a great time.
Reminder: Don’t forget your South Dakota fishing license and check current limits and regulations before heading out.
Hiking & Biking
Sheridan Lake connects directly to both the Flume Trail and the Centennial Trail, offering easy-to-moderate hikes that wind through forest, over creeks, and past stunning granite outcroppings.
We ventured off-trail ourselves and found wildflowers blooming in hidden pockets of pine and granite. Whether you stick to the path or do some safe exploring, you’re in for stunning views and quiet trails.
Swimming & Beach Relaxation
The Sheridan Lake swimming beach, located on the south side, features a sandy shoreline that’s perfect for relaxing or letting the kids splash around. While it’s no Hawaii (we said the same thing out loud!), it was still peaceful and beautiful, with soft sand pressing right up against the water. The beach area is accessible from the South Shore Campground and day-use area.
Picnicking Spots
There are numerous picnic areas scattered around both the North and South shores, many with shaded tables and views of the water. While we didn’t barbecue this time, it’s definitely on the list for our next visit. It’s the kind of place where burgers taste better and time seems to stretch.
Stargazing Potential
While we didn’t stay late enough to stargaze, we both talked about how incredible it would be. With minimal light pollution and wide open sky over the lake, Sheridan Lake is a prime stargazing spot—especially in the fall and early spring.
Cabins & Lodging Near Sheridan Lake
Whether you're planning a weekend escape or exploring the area as a future home base, Sheridan Lake offers several excellent options for overnight stays.
While there isn’t a large-scale Sheridan Lake resort, there are plenty of cabins, vacation rentals, and private lodges tucked into the surrounding hills. Many sit along Sheridan Lake Road and Highway 385, offering easy access to both the water and the nearby towns of Hill City, Rockerville, and Pactola.
These cabins range from simple, rustic one-bedroom retreats to larger, modern lodges with hot tubs, decks, and forest views. Some are lake-adjacent, while others sit quietly in the trees with just a short drive to the shoreline.
Looking to buy near Sheridan Lake?
If you’re considering a cabin not just for vacation—but as a full-time residence or legacy getaway—you’re not alone. The area is popular among buyers who want nature, seclusion, and proximity to both Rapid City and the southern Black Hills.
Browse Cabins for Sale in the Black Hills or click here for the closest homes to the lake in Hill City.
Many of the most popular listings in this region are located between Sheridan Lake and Hill City, offering a balance of mountain privacy and year-round access. We’ve even seen hidden gems just minutes from the water.
If you're dreaming of owning a place where lake mornings and pine-covered evenings are part of the routine, Sheridan Lake is worth a look.
Where Is Sheridan Lake?
Sheridan Lake sits in the heart of the Black Hills National Forest, about 15–20 minutes from both Hill City and Rapid City, South Dakota. That makes it one of the most accessible lakes in the region—perfect for both spontaneous day trips and longer lakefront getaways.
Directions to Sheridan Lake
- From Hill City: Take Deerfield Road east, then south on Sheridan Lake Road (FSR 231) — total drive time ~20 minutes.
- From Rapid City: Head west on Highway 44, then south on Sheridan Lake Road (or take Hwy 385 south and loop back) — drive time ~25 minutes depending on your route.
This central location makes Sheridan Lake, South Dakota, a local favorite for those who want the peace of the forest without giving up proximity to groceries, gas, or cell service.
View the Campground Map
To help you plan your visit, we created a custom map of Sheridan Lake’s campgrounds, beach access, picnic areas, and trails. Whether you're booking a site or just scouting the area, this is your go-to visual guide.
Local Tips from the Jabusch Team
We’ve visited Sheridan Lake enough to call it one of our favorite, quickly accessible reset spots in the Hills. It’s where we slow down, notice the wildflowers, and climb granite slopes just for the view. It’s also one of the few places where you can feel surrounded by nature—without being hours from the nearest town.
When friends or clients come to visit, this is one of our go-to places. It’s quiet, it’s clean, and it feels personal. You can kayak, hike, picnic, and breathe—without dodging crowds or traffic.
If you’re exploring the Black Hills for the first time and want a feel for the lifestyle out here, Sheridan Lake is the perfect preview.
Thinking About Living Near Sheridan Lake?
The peace of Sheridan doesn’t have to be a one-time visit.
If you’re dreaming of owning a cabin tucked into the pines—or building a legacy home just minutes from the lake—we can help. There are properties nearby with acreage, privacy, and year-round access, many of which go quickly due to their location between Hill City and Rapid City.
Whether you’re early in your search or ready to explore land in person, we’ll walk it with you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sheridan Lake, SD
Can you swim at Sheridan Lake?
Yes! Sheridan Lake features a designated swimming beach located on its south shore. The shoreline includes a soft, sandy area perfect for relaxing, wading, and letting kids play safely. There are no lifeguards on duty, so please exercise caution with your loved ones.
Do I need a reservation for Sheridan Lake campground?
Yes. While some sites may be available for walk-ins, it’s highly recommended to reserve your campsite through Recreation.gov—especially during summer weekends. You can check availability for both North Shore and South Shore Campgrounds.
Is there a map of the Sheridan Lake campground?
Yes! We’ve created a custom campground map, which you can find by scrolling up, that shows campsites, trails, picnic areas, and more.
What kind of fish are in Sheridan Lake?
Sheridan Lake is stocked with rainbow trout, yellow perch, and northern pike. It’s popular among shore fishers and small boat anglers alike. A valid South Dakota fishing license is required.
