The Black Hills National Forest is undergoing a forest-wide toilet replacement project funded by the Great American Outdoors Act (GAOA).
Over the next two weeks, the Black Hills National Forest Construction & Maintenance crew will install new toilets at various developed recreation sites, temporarily closing or restricting access to boat ramps and campgrounds.
On September 27, the Deerfield Cove boat ramp will have restricted access while the work is completed, but boaters can still access Custer Trails. The Pactola South Boat Ramp will also close on October 3 during the toilet installation, although boaters can use the North Boat Ramp for lake access. These closures are expected to be brief, but visitors are advised to plan accordingly.
According to a press release, several campgrounds will also be impacted during the construction period. Cook Lake Campground will see closures on September 25. On September 27, Sheridan Lake Woodsy Loop will close for construction, with additional closures on September 30 at both the Woodsy Loop and the Sheridan South Picnic Ground.
Further closures at Sheridan Lake’s Smokey and Chipper Loops are scheduled for October 2. Each installation is expected to take approximately 2-3 hours per toilet.
According to its website, the Black Hills National Forest offers 30 campgrounds with over 682 individual campsites, providing a range of outdoor experiences for visitors. Most of these campgrounds are managed by Forest Recreation Management.
Around half of the campgrounds feature on-site hosts, but amenities such as electricity, sewer, water hook-ups, and showers are not available. During the peak season, potable water is provided at most sites, and vault toilets are a standard facility.
Several campgrounds within the forest cater specifically to RV campers. Castle Peak Campground, with its nine campsites, offers a secluded location along Castle Creeks.
Ditch Creek Campground, located about five miles south of Deerfield Reservoir, is another tranquil option. Situated near Ditch Creek, the open area features a few spruce trees along the creek. Even in the off-season, several campsites remain open, and visitors are welcome to stay up to 14 days at any campground within the forest.
For those seeking a unique stay, the Summit Ridge Lookout Cabin, a former fire lookout, is the only cabin available for rent in the Black Hills National Forest. The cabin accommodates up to 10 guests and offers space for a camp trailer or tent, making it an option for both small and large groups.