Category: Camping

After a long day of driving west, there is something so soul-soothing about pulling into a pine-scented campsite and breathing in that crisp Black Hills air. We set up camp at Pactola Reservoir Campground and honestly, it felt like we stepped into a postcard. Towering trees, crystal-clear water, and a perfect mix of sunshine and breeze made this spot one of our favorite stops so far.

Pactola Reservoir itself has a fascinating backstory. Beneath the surface of this beautiful lake lies the ghost town of Pactola, once a bustling mining settlement during the Black Hills Gold Rush. Founded in the late 1800s, the town thrived for a time before eventually fading away. In the 1950s, the area was flooded during the construction of the Pactola Dam by the Bureau of Reclamation. The dam was built for flood control and water supply, and today the reservoir is the largest and deepest body of water in the Black Hills. It is incredible to swim or boat across a place that holds so much hidden history beneath its calm surface.

 

 

 

 

Once we unpacked and got settled, we jumped right into sightseeing mode. First up was Mount Rushmore. I have seen it before, but it still gives me chills every time. Watching the boys take in those massive faces carved into the granite was a moment I will not soon forget.

Just a short drive away, we visited the Crazy Horse Memorial, which is still being carved and just as awe-inspiring. While we were there, we were lucky enough to catch a Native American hoop dancing demonstration. It was mesmerizing, powerful, and a beautiful reminder of the rich history and culture that lives on in this region.

Back at the campground, we walked down the short path to cool off with a swim in the reservoir. The water was brisk but refreshing. The boys jumped off rocks and splashed each other while I stretched out in the sun, soaking in that pure summer energy. Pactola is one of the prettiest lakes we have ever camped next to and that is saying something.

Today’s big adventure was a UTV tour through the Black Hills.

We got extremely dusty, a little banged around, and we could not stop grinning the entire time. We zipped along backcountry trails, climbed ridgelines with panoramic views, and crossed shallow creeks. It was one of those experiences that perfectly blended the wilderness with just enough thrill to keep everyone wide-eyed and laughing.

But the fun is just getting started.

Tomorrow, we will take a scenic drive along Needles Highway. I have a feeling we will all be holding our breath as we squeeze through those tight granite tunnels. From there, we are heading into Custer State Park for a jeep tour. We have heard that the bison herds sometimes like to block the road, and I am secretly hoping that happens. Afterward, we are joining a chuckwagon ride into a canyon for a cowboy-style dinner under the open sky.

And then comes the part I am most excited about.

We are heading into Deadwood. I cannot wait to see the boys’ reactions to the old-time reenactments, especially the shootout in the saloon where Wild Bill Hickok met his end. The mix of history, drama, and the charm of a real western town is going to be unforgettable.

Stay tuned for the next post to see how it all unfolds. And in the meantime, make sure to check out the videos we have been posting on our YouTube channel and TikTok. From the hoop dance demonstration to our UTV adventure, there is a little bit of everything and plenty more to come.

Until next time, happy trails and tight lines