
Cold Brook Campground
12
Total Campsites
Campground
12
Reservable Sites
Check by phone
—
Accessible
ADA-compliant sites
—
Organization
Managing agency
Overview
About Cold Brook Campground
Overview Located less than 1 mile north of Hot Springs, South Dakota sits one of the area's most perferred campgrounds. At the south end of Cold Brook Campground sits Cold Brook Lake, a popular destination for those looking to take a swim at the beach, snorkel in the crystal clear water or wet a line while trying to catch a variety of fish species. At the north end of the campground sits a wildlife area with a two-track trail that is good for a morning stroll or a short bike ride with the possibility of seeing wildlife. Recreation Cold Brook Lake is about 33 acres in size and it provides a quiet opportunity to wet a line and possibly catch a large mouth bass, northern pike, catfish, carp, rainbow trout, or various pan fish. Canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, or any other small non-gas motorized boat can commonly be seen on the lake. As the summer heats up, the beach tends to be a popular hangout for both locals and tourists. The non-motorized two-track path in the wildlife area is a great spot for a short hike or letting pets enjoy being off a leash. Other popular outdoor recreational opportunities include picnicking, playing at the playground, wildlife viewing, photography, and archery hunting. Archery hunting is permitted in designated areas only and both hunting and fishing regulations are established and enforced by the State of South Dakota. Facilities Cold Brook Lake is about 33 acres in size and it provides a quiet opportunity to wet a line and possibly catch a large mouth bass, northern pike, catfish, carp, rainbow trout, or various pan fish. Canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, or any other small non-gas motorized boat can commonly be seen on the lake. As the summer heats up, the beach tends to be a popular hangout for both locals and tourists. The non-motorized two-track path in the wildlife area is a great spot for a short hike or letting pets enjoy being off a leash. Other popular outdoor recreational opportunities include picnicking, playing at the playground, wildlife viewing, photography, and archery hunting. Archery hunting is permitted in designated areas only and both hunting and fishing regulations are established and enforced by the State of South Dakota. Natural Features Located in the Southern Black Hills of South Dakota, construction of Cold Brook Dam began in 1949 and was completed in 1953, under the Flood Control Act of 1941. Although the dam was originally built for flood control, it has created a park with approximately 450 acres of public lands and water that provides a variety of benefits to both the public and wildlife. Once here you will see how the rugged hills, crystal clear water and evergreen trees create a picturesque site. contact_info For local information, please call (605) 745-5476 or call (605) 450-8000 for general information. Nearby Attractions Popular nearby attractions include: Black Hills National Forest Wind Cave National Park The Mammoth Site Evans Plunge Jewel Cave National Monument Charges & Cancellations Reservation changes and cancellations can be made on Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777. For more information on rules and policies regarding reservation cancellations and changes, please visit: https://www.recreation.gov/rules-reservation-policies .
- 12 total campsites listed.
- Most common site type: standard nonelectric (12).
- Map coordinates are available for trip planning.


Our Take
What makes Cold Brook Campground special
Cold Brook Campground sits less than a mile north of Hot Springs, South Dakota, making it one of the most conveniently located campgrounds in the southern Black Hills. Cold Brook Lake anchors the south end of the campground, drawing swimmers to its sandy beach, snorkelers into its remarkably clear water, and anglers casting for rainbow trout, largemouth bass, and panfish. The 12 sites are non-electric and spread through a mix of open and shaded areas. A wildlife area at the north end of the campground features a two-track trail ideal for morning walks and short bike rides. The campground serves as an excellent base for exploring the region''s major attractions: Wind Cave National Park is 15 minutes south, Custer State Park and its famous Wildlife Loop Road are a short drive west, and the Mammoth Site — one of the world''s most significant paleontological finds — is right in Hot Springs. The town itself offers restaurants, shops, and the natural warm mineral springs that gave it its name. Summer weekends fill up fast, so arrive early or visit midweek for the best site selection.
Campsite Inventory
12 sites to choose from
STANDARD NONELECTRIC
12
Reservable
0
Accessible
Amenities & Details
Everything you need to know
CAMPFIRE RINGS
Campfire Rings
Campfire Allowed
Yes
Site capacity
Single
Check-in time
04:00 PM
Check-out time
04:00 PM
Driveway entry
Back-in
Location Rating
Good
Max guests
8
Minimum guests
Yes
Pets allowed
Yes
Picnic Table
Picnic Table
Proximity to Water
Lakefront
RV PARKING
RV Parking
Shade
Shade
Site Access
Drive In
Site length (ft)
28, 30, 36
Reservations & Contact
Plan your stay
Phone
605-745-5476. FOR RESERVATIONS, CALL: 877-444-6777.
Getting There
From Rapid City, SD take US-79 South, turn right onto US-18 W/US-385N, follow US-385N through Hot Springs, shortly after the speed limit increases to 35mph turn left onto Badger Clark Road, at the T-intersection turn right onto Evans Street, follow that road as it takes a sharp curve to the left, then as the road splits stay to the right and go up the hill and lastly the road will turn to gravel, follow this to the campground and day use area. From Chadron, NE take US-385 North, turn left onto US-18 W/US-385N through Hot Springs, shortly after the speed limit increases to 35mph turn left onto Badger Clark Road, at the T-intersection turn right onto Evans Street, follow that road as it takes a sharp curve to the left, then as the road splits stay to the right and go up the hill and lastly the road will turn to gravel, follow this to the campground and day use area. 12814-12826 Cold Brook Road Hot Springs, SD 57747.
FAQ
Common questions
Everything you need to know before your trip to Cold Brook Campground.
How do reservations work for Cold Brook Campground?
Reservation availability for Cold Brook Campground can vary by season and campsite type. Check the contact and access section before booking.
What campsite types are available at Cold Brook Campground?
Cold Brook Campground currently lists STANDARD NONELECTRIC (12).
Where is Cold Brook Campground located?
See this page for location details and directions.
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