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Bear Gulch Campground

Campground · National forest in Pennington County, South Dakota.

1Campsites
Pactola ReservoirRight on the shore of
40 ftLongest RV site

At a glance

Managed byUSDA Forest Service (Black Hills National Forest)
Campsites1
Site types1 group standard, area no electric
Longest RV/trailer site40 ft
Dogs allowedYes
Phone(605) 574-4402
ReservationsRecreation.gov

We only list amenities a source records. A missing item doesn't mean the campground lacks it, so check with Bear Gulch Campground before you go.

About Bear Gulch Campground

This private access group campsite is isolated among the forested Black Hills of South Dakota, overlooking a private bay on the Pactola Reservoir. Great for group events with up to 40 people, there are eight individual tent sites around a central parking area. The summers are pleasant, and the bay provides a great way to cool off on sunny days (summer temperatures range from highs in the mid-80s, to lows in the mid-50s). It can be reserved from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Recreation Pactola Reservoir is an 800-acre lake, great for water skiing, swimming, fishing and even scuba diving.

Description: Recreation.gov (U.S. federal government, public domain), shortened.

Lakes near Bear Gulch Campground

Lakes and ponds on LakeRipple within 10 miles, closest first (straight-line distance to the shoreline). Each page has boat launches, beaches, fishing and today's weather.

Location & directions

Bear Gulch Campground is in Pennington County.

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Sources: Recreation.gov (RIDB). Pulled Oct 12, 2026. Interactive map: Leaflet with © OpenStreetMap contributors. Seasons, rates and rules change; confirm with the campground.