Things to do in the Black Hills – Center Lake, Custer State Park
Nestled on the north end of Custer State Park is a small Black Hills Lake called Center Lake
. (I know. You’d think it would be in the center of the park, given its name, right?)
If you are looking for a quiet no-wake lake to check out your kayak, canoe or paddleboard, this is an awesome choice. Everything you need is here – swimming beach, restrooms, campgrounds, picnic areas. The park even has a theater area there for educational classes.
We once again borrowed my dad’s kayaks (we should really just get our own…) to enjoy the peace and quiet of the Hills and the lake. It was a chillier afternoon, so not as many people were out, but we enjoyed the afternoon with kayaking, picnicing and hiking.
There is a trail from the swimming beach to one end of the lake. Sarah’s parents tried to come along with us, but it was more of a hike with rocks and trees to climb over, so they decided to turn around.
While hiking, we discovered a waterfall behind the dam we hadn’t seen before. We spent some time back there taking pictures and listening to the cascade. Then Seth, Emily and I decided to continue walking around the lake. It was an interesting crawl over the dam and then a few larger rocks to climb than I was expecting! But we made it alive – however really thirsty and hungry…
Lake views, waterfall views, a few small meadows with flowers growing, plus the ever relaxing slap of the lake against the kayak as you drift across. (who wants to paddle? That’s work!)
If you go, remember that since it’s part of the State Park system, you’ll either need to buy a temporary pass or an annual one.
Yet another lake to enjoy while searching for even more things to do in the Black Hills!!