Bear Butte Lake in South Dakota. Blue skies and wispy clouds overhead.

Bear Butte Lake

A 215-acre lake at the base of sacred Bear Butte near Sturgis, with fishing, boating, paddling, an ADA dock, lakeside camping, and a shoreline loop trail.

Sturgis, SD

About

Bear Butte Lake is a scenic reservoir located just north of Sturgis, South Dakota, at the base of the iconic Bear Butte State Park. Only about 10 minutes from downtown Sturgis and 25 minutes from Rapid City, it’s an easy and accessible destination for outdoor recreation in the northern Black Hills. The lake is popular for fishing, especially for bass, perch, and northern pike, as well as kayaking, canoeing, and non-motorized boating. A paved trail runs along portions of the shoreline, offering great opportunities for walking, biking, and enjoying views of Bear Butte rising in the background. Picnic areas and nearby camping options make it a great place to spend a relaxing day. With its mix of water, wildlife, and striking scenery, Bear Butte Lake is a favorite for both locals and visitors.