Sylvan Lake

Sylvan Lake, known as the "crown jewel" of Custer State Park, is located in the Black Hills of South Dakota. Created in 1881 when Theodore Reder built a dam across Sunday Gulch, it offers picnic areas, rock climbing, small rental boats, swimming, and hiking trails. It is also popular as a starting point for excursions to Harney Peak and The Needles. A hotel was operated on the shore of the lake in the early 20th century.

The lake was featured in Disney's 2007 film National Treasure: Book of Secrets. The film made the lake appear to be located directly behind Mount Rushmore when in reality it is actually five miles southwest of Mount Rushmore.

This is my favorite spot in the Black Hills. Beautiful lake and hiking trails.

Visit Sylvan Lake

Activities

Custer travel guide

Popular places to visit

Black Elk Peak

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Black Elk Peak during your travels in Hill City. Discover the area's mountain views and seek out the horse riding.

Panoramic view of The Needles on Needles Highway, Black Hills, near Mount Rushmore National Memorial, South Dakota

The Black Hills

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at The Black Hills during your travels in Hill City. Discover the area's mountain views and shops.

Will it ever be completed? It’s quite an endeavour. I enjoyed walking around the visitors centre.

Crazy Horse Memorial

4.5/5(6 reviews)

Find out about the history of Custer with a stop at Crazy Horse Memorial. Discover the area's notable monuments or seek out its horse riding.

Needles Highway

Enjoy an outing to Needles Highway during your stay in Custer. Amble around the area's scenic parks or seek out the horse riding.

Horse Thief Lake

Explore the lovely green spaces of Horse Thief Lake and enjoy the horse riding in Hill City. While in this family-friendly area, find time to visit its notable monuments.

Mount Rushmore

4.5/5(14 reviews)

Explore the great outdoors at Mount Rushmore, a popular spot to commune with nature in Keystone. Discover the area's notable monuments or seek out its horse riding.

Top Hotel Deals

Check availability on hotels close to Sylvan Lake

Grandpa’s Place. Exclusive, Stunning, Private Log Home. Firepit & Pond.

Custer SD

The Haven-Rustic Secluded Cabin

Custer SD

Spring Creek Splendor. The Perfect Location. Private Lower Level Apartment. Fun!

Hill City SD

Tenderfoot Creek Cabin | 2 Bed, 1 Bath

Custer SD

Rustic Rock Haven - Horses Welcome

Custer SD

Granite Springs | 2 Bed, 2 Bath

Custer SD

Lodge at Palmer Gulch

12620 HWY 244 Hill City SD

The Hynes Cabin- 1925 Renovated Classic with Stunning Views

Hill City SD

Modern Lodge: Hottub + Huge Space + Views + Sauna

Custer SD

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Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.