Known as the crown jewel of Custer State Park, Sylvan Lake offers views of the Black Hills that showcase the sweeping pine forest as a backdrop for dramatic rocky outcroppings along the lakeshore. Created in 1881 when Theodore Reder built a dam across Sunday Gulch, the lake offers swimming, paddle boating, fishing, and picnicking, along with access to rock climbing and hiking trails. The lake sits at the base of Harney Peak, the highest point east of the Rocky Mountains; you can use it as a starting point for excursions to the peak and the park's drive along The Needles highway. Film fans may recognize the site, which was featured in the 2007 movie "National Treasure: Book of Secrets." Plan your visit to Sylvan Lake and a wealth of other attractions, well-known and undiscovered, using our Custer vacation planner.
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Sylvan Lake Reviews
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Great hike (#9) to Black Elk Peak from the dirt parking lot. Bring lots of water. It's not easy (7 miles round trip with a decent amount of elevation gain) but well worth it when you get to the top... more »
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While one of my boys went off for a hike the rest of us enjoyed an afternoon at the lake. Peaceful, quiet, and lovely. The other two boys rented Kayaks and enjoyed cruising around the lake. The... more »
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A beautiful setting. We had a great day climbing and hiking and swimming.
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Great lake for the family! Bathrooms, grills around the lake, great fishing from shore, and a clean beach.
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