Stockade Lake

Overview

Stockade Lake is a serene and picturesque body of water nestled in the heart of the Black Hills. It's a popular spot for fishing, picnicking, and enjoying the great outdoors.

Stockade Lake is a significant recreational area in the Black Hills, known for its scenic beauty and excellent fishing opportunities.

Lake Recreation Area

Location

Address

Stockade Lake, Custer, South Dakota

Neighborhood: Black Hills

Coordinates

43.765200, -103.588900

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM

tuesday 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM

wednesday 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM

thursday 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM

friday 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM

saturday 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM

sunday 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Admission

Adults

$5

Children

$3 (ages 6-12)

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

May-September

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds and better fishing opportunities

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

1 hour

Recommended

3-4 hours

Full Experience

full day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

mild to warm

• wildflowers
• migratory birds

summer

warm to hot

• swimming
• boat rentals

autumn

cool to mild

• fall foliage
• hiking trails

winter

cold

• ice fishing
• snowshoeing

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Check weather conditions
Bring fishing license
Respect wildlife

What to Bring

essential

fishing license water tickets

seasonal

jacket umbrella ice cleats

not allowed

glass containers drones

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: moderate

• uneven terrain
• water hazards

Medical facilities: first aid available, nearest hospital 15 miles away

Payment Information

Accepted

cash, cards

Currency

USD

Typical Costs

entry $5

parking $5

fishing license $12

boat rental $20/hour

Dress Code

casual, outdoors-appropriate, comfortable shoes, layers, sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots, inappropriate clothing, unsafe footwear

Booking Tips

• 1-2 weeks for peak season
• official website or local visitor center
• 48 hours for refund
• online tickets

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Black Hills Visitor App

Size: 45 MB

Features: Map, Trail info, Events calendar

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center

Charging Stations: Visitor center

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Rapid City Regional Airport

Distance: 35 miles

Travel Time: 45 minutes

taxi

$60 45 min

car_rental

Variable 45 min

From City Center

Distance: 2 miles

walking

40 min

biking

15 min

driving

5 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Beautiful scenery, excellent fishing, peaceful atmosphere

Historical Significance: Area has been a popular recreation spot for over a century

Insider Tips

Best fishing spots are less known areas
Local cafe has great homemade pie

Local Recommendations

• Try local cafe in Custer
• Ask for guide John's tips

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Hello

thank_you Thank you

where_is Where is

how_much How much

beautiful Beautiful

ticket Ticket

Guide Languages: English, Spanish

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Lake overlook

Best Time: Golden hour

Tips: Wide angle for landscape

Result: Stunning lake and mountain views

#StockadeLake #BlackHills #SouthDakota

Photography Rules

allowed areas outdoor areas, trails

prohibited areas facilities, private property

flash photography allowed in most areas

commercial photography permit needed for commercial use

drone policy prohibited without special permit

tripod policy allowed in most areas

selfie sticks allowed

Nearby Attractions

Custer State Park

Distance: 5 miles

Walking: N/A

Type: State Park

Crazy Horse Memorial

Distance: 12 miles