Bismarck Lake
A tranquil gem in the Black Hills, Bismarck Lake offers serene fishing, abundant wildlife, and peaceful hiking amidst ponderosa pines and boulders.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Bismarck Lake
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil gem in the Black Hills, Bismarck Lake offers serene fishing, abundant wildlife, and peaceful hiking amidst ponderosa pines and boulders.
"Best accessible place in the Hills for solitude and a quiet fishing experience."
waterproof shoes needed
If it rained recently, expect damp trails. Waterproof shoes are a must to keep your feet dry. :athletic_shoe:
Day use fee waived with camping
Camping in the Black Hills National Forest waives the $5 day-use fee for Bismarck Lake. :moneybag:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Serene Lake Views
Bismarck Lake
A picturesque lake surrounded by ponderosa pines and rocks, perfect for quiet contemplation.
Abundant Wildlife
Bismarck Lake
Spot herons, bald eagles, turkey vultures, and turtles in their natural habitat around the lake.
Excellent Fishing Opportunities
Bismarck Lake
Stocked with trout, bluegill, crappie, bass, and northern pike, it's a haven for anglers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Tranquility
Day Use Fees & Camping
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
waterproof shoes needed
If it rained recently, expect damp trails. Waterproof shoes are a must to keep your feet dry. :athletic_shoe:
Day use fee waived with camping
Camping in the Black Hills National Forest waives the $5 day-use fee for Bismarck Lake. :moneybag:
Great for kayaking & paddleboarding
Non-motorized boats are permitted, making it ideal for a peaceful paddle. :kayak:
Kid and pet-friendly hike
The Bismarck Lake Trail is a good option for families and pets, offering lovely views. :dog:
Tips
from all over the internet
waterproof shoes needed
If it rained recently, expect damp trails. Waterproof shoes are a must to keep your feet dry. :athletic_shoe:
Day use fee waived with camping
Camping in the Black Hills National Forest waives the $5 day-use fee for Bismarck Lake. :moneybag:
Great for kayaking & paddleboarding
Non-motorized boats are permitted, making it ideal for a peaceful paddle. :kayak:
Kid and pet-friendly hike
The Bismarck Lake Trail is a good option for families and pets, offering lovely views. :dog:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Bismarck Lake is praised for its serene atmosphere, excellent fishing, and abundant wildlife, making it a peaceful escape in the Black Hills. While the trails can be wet and amenities are basic, the opportunity for solitude and natural beauty is a major draw for visitors.
"Hiked around it 07-14-25. Although there’s only partial trail, it’s still a great experience going thru boulders, forest, grass. About 3-4.5 hours hike.
It rained the night before, so there was a decent amount of edible mushrooms.
Will need waterproof shoes if you want to keep your feet dry.
Happy Trails!"
NF Videos
"Bismark lake is about 5 miles east of Custer, SD right along HWY 16A. This lake is set in the Black Hills National Forest, just outside Custer State Park. The lake is surrounded by ponderosa pines and rocks. This beautiful lake has a boardwalk with benches and a small area to fish off of. Non-morotized boats are permitted. There is a $5 fee for day use. Fishing is great. Stocked with trout (brown & rainbow), bluegill, crappie, bass, northern pike, and a few more. I've seen people kayak and paddleboarding as well. Bismarck offers primitive camping sites tucked in areas that make you feel you are by yourself. Generators are permitted with the run time from 8 to 8 and every two hours on and off. The camp host will explain the rules. If you are camping, the day use fee is waived. No Custer State Park pass is needed.
If you like what we posted, give us a thumbs up and follow our guide. Thank you for reading and looking at our pictures."
Cheryl “Midwest Squirrel Girl” Clark
"Great Lake for fishing, kayaking and bird watching. So many Herrons, Bald Eagle, Turkey Vultures and other little birds too. Turtles are all around the lake."
Marcelle Alvernaz
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bismarck Lake is located about 5 miles east of Custer, South Dakota, directly along Highway 16A. It's situated within the Black Hills National Forest, just outside Custer State Park.
No, Bismarck Lake is located within the Black Hills National Forest and is just outside of Custer State Park. A Custer State Park pass is not required to visit Bismarck Lake.
From Custer, SD, head east on Highway 16A for approximately 5 miles. The lake will be accessible from the highway.
Bismarck Lake is close to Custer, South Dakota, and within driving distance of other Black Hills attractions like Custer State Park and Mount Rushmore.
The primary access road, Highway 16A, is paved. The specific access points to the lake and campground are typically well-maintained Forest Service roads.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is a $5 day-use fee for Bismarck Lake. However, this fee is waived if you are camping at the primitive campsites nearby.
Bismarck Lake is generally accessible during daylight hours for day use. The campground operates on a typical Forest Service schedule.
Bismarck Lake offers primitive camping sites within the Black Hills National Forest. These are typically first-come, first-served, and the camp host can provide details on rules and availability.
No, a Custer State Park pass is not required for Bismarck Lake as it is located within the Black Hills National Forest.
Access is generally open, but it's always a good idea to check with the Black Hills National Forest for any temporary closures or advisories, especially during certain seasons or due to weather conditions.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Bismarck Lake is great for fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding, bird watching, and enjoying the scenic beauty. There's also a boardwalk with benches for relaxation.
While there isn't a complete, defined trail around the entire lake, you can hike through boulders, forest, and grass for about 3-4.5 hours, offering a great experience.
Visitors often spot herons, bald eagles, turkey vultures, and various other birds. Turtles are also commonly seen around the lake.
Yes, fishing is excellent at Bismarck Lake. It's stocked with rainbow trout, brown trout, bluegill, crappie, bass, and northern pike.
The Black Hills National Forest typically provides basic amenities at its recreation areas, which may include vault toilets and picnic tables. Specific facilities should be confirmed with the Forest Service.
📸 📸 Photography
The lake itself, surrounded by ponderosa pines and rock formations, offers beautiful scenic shots. Wildlife sightings, especially birds of prey, also make for great photography.
Absolutely. The combination of water, trees, and the unique rock formations in the Black Hills provides a stunning backdrop for landscape photography.
Early morning and late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Golden hour can be particularly magical.
The boardwalk offers a good vantage point. Exploring the surrounding forest and boulder areas can also lead to unique photographic perspectives.
Drone usage is subject to U.S. Forest Service regulations. It's essential to check current drone policies for the Black Hills National Forest before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
With opportunities for fishing and wildlife viewing (herons, turtles, and various birds are common sightings), there are plenty of ways to keep children entertained and engaged with nature. The primitive camping options also offer a chance for a more rustic family adventure.
🎣 Anglers Seeking Solitude
Bringing your own canoe or kayak is highly recommended to fully explore the lake and find your perfect fishing spot. The peaceful environment, away from the hustle and bustle, makes it a prime location for dedicated anglers.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
Nature lovers will be delighted by the abundant birdlife, including herons and bald eagles, as well as the common sightings of turtles. The lake's setting within the Black Hills National Forest provides a picturesque backdrop for photography and general appreciation of the outdoors.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Bismarck Lake Trail
Recent visitors noted that after rain, the area can be rich with edible mushrooms, adding an interesting element for foragers. However, this also means the trails can be quite wet. It's highly recommended to wear waterproof shoes to ensure comfort and dryness throughout your trek.
This trail is also highlighted as being suitable for kids and pets, making it a versatile option for families looking for an outdoor adventure. The views and the relatively gentle terrain make it accessible for those new to hiking or looking for a less strenuous outing.
Fishing Paradise in the Black Hills
The lake is well-suited for various fishing methods, including kayak fishing. Many visitors have reported catching impressive smallmouth bass, with some specimens reaching around 17 inches. The clear waters and abundant food sources contribute to the healthy fish population.
For those seeking a tranquil fishing experience, Bismarck Lake offers a sense of solitude. The surrounding Black Hills National Forest provides a peaceful backdrop, allowing for a truly relaxing day on the water. Non-motorized boats are permitted, so bringing a canoe or kayak is highly encouraged for the best experience.
Camping Amidst Nature's Grandeur
Campers should be aware of the generator policy, which permits their use during specific hours (8 AM to 8 PM) and with intermittent operation. The camp host is available to explain all rules and regulations to ensure a harmonious stay for everyone.
One of the significant perks of camping at Bismarck Lake is that the $5 day-use fee for the lake is waived. This makes it an even more attractive option for those looking to spend extended time enjoying the lake's activities and the surrounding forest.
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