Sylvan Lake

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A gorgeous lake.
A gorgeous lake.
Do you see turtle rock?
Sylvan Lake, known as the "crown jewel" of Custer State Park, is located in the Black Hills of South Dakota. Created in 1881 when Theodore Reder built a dam across Sunday Gulch, it offers picnic areas, rock climbing, small rental boats, swimming, and hiking trails. It is also popular as a starting point for excursions to Harney Peak and The Needles. A hotel was operated on the shore of the lake in the early 20th century. The lake was featured in Disney's 2007 film National Treasure: Book of Secrets. The film made the lake appear to be located directly behind Mount Rushmore when in reality it is actually five miles southwest of Mount Rushmore.
This is my favorite spot in the Black Hills. Beautiful lake and hiking trails.

Lodging Near Sylvan Lake

Cozy cabin near all the attractions in the Heart of the Hills! Pet friendly!

Cozy cabin near all the attractions in the Heart of the Hills! Pet friendly!

Custer SD
When you stay at this vacation home in Custer, you'll be in the mountains, within a 15-minute drive of Custer State Park and Black Hills National Forest.
The house was so welcoming and very clean. We loved the hot tub and the kids enjoyed the loft. Lots of thoughtful touches that made for a comfortable stay. We would stay again if we are in the area!

Reviewed on 18 Jan 2026

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Opens in a new windowCozy cabin near all the attractions in the Heart of the Hills! Pet friendly!
Grandpa’s Place. Exclusive, Stunning, Private Log Home. Firepit & Pond.

Grandpa’s Place. Exclusive, Stunning, Private Log Home. Firepit & Pond.

Custer SD
When you stay at this vacation home in Custer, you'll be in the mountains, within a 15-minute drive of Custer State Park and Black Hills National Forest.
Close to everything

Reviewed on 28 Sept 2025

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Opens in a new windowGrandpa’s Place. Exclusive, Stunning, Private Log Home. Firepit & Pond.
The Haven-Rustic Secluded Cabin

The Haven-Rustic Secluded Cabin

Custer SD
With a stay at this apartment, you'll be centrally located in Custer, within a 10-minute drive of Custer State Park and Black Hills National Forest.
This was the perfect space for our adult children and family to stay with us for a wedding up in Sylvan Lake. The turn to Sylvan Lake is literally two minutes up the road. It was private and cozy. We especially loved the back porch with the babbling brook stream in the morning with coffee. The space ...

Reviewed on 21 Oct 2025

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Opens in a new windowThe Haven-Rustic Secluded Cabin
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Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.