Cook Lake Rec Area
4.2227 reviewsForest Recreation Management, Inc, P.O. Box 1168, Hill City, SD 57745, USA
Quick Facts
Price
$28/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
33 campsites
Season
Open May 21, 2025, t...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
Price
$28/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
33 campsites
Season
Open May 21, 2025, t...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsCook Lake Rec Area
$28.00 - $28.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard nonelectric site fees in peak season are $28 per night, excluding discounts, taxes, or incremental charges. Additional fees apply for pets...
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Standard Site Fee$28.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$28.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider(605) 574-4402
What Campers Say
4.22
Satisfactory
Based on 27 reviews
36 Google reviews
Most mentioned
quietpeaceful
Some mention
noise
"User reviews provide a mixed picture of the Cook Lake Recreation Area. While many appreciate the serene setting and recreational opportunities, others mention issues like lack of cleanliness, noise from generators, and limited cell service."
Fees & Passes at Cook Lake Rec Area
$28/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: Maximum 14 nights consecutive stay allowed.
Cancellation: Modifications and cancellations are subject to fees: $10 change fee for date or site changes; $10 ca...
Prices verified December 7, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Forest Recreation Management, Inc website.
Best Time to Camp at Cook Lake Rec Area
The Black Hills reveal their ever-changing personality through the seasons at Cook Lake. Early summer mornings greet campers with crisp temperatures hovering in the high 40s to low 50s Fahrenheit, while nights invite cozy campfire gatherings as thermometers dip into the 30s. Spring arrives with dramatic flair, painting the landscape with occasional snow flurries and refreshing rain showers that awaken the forest floor. As summer fully blooms, the skies clear to brilliant blue, and the weather settles into a comfortable, dry pattern that beckons outdoor enthusiasts to explore every corner of this mountain paradise.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: May 21 - Sep 7, 2025. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open May 21, 2025, to Sep 7, 2025, with reservations starting from Jun 24, 2025.
- Current Alerts: Cook Lake Trail and Loop A are closed due to a landslide.
About Cook Lake Rec Area
Nestled within the enchanting Black Hills National Forest, Cook Lake Recreation Area offers a tranquil escape where nature's serenity takes center stage. Each campsite tells its own story—some perched on gentle hillsides, others blessed with stunning views of Cook Lake's mirror-like waters. While the sites are thoughtfully spaced for privacy rather than hidden behind thick vegetation, this open design creates a welcoming atmosphere where families can enjoy the forest's natural beauty. Modern comforts blend seamlessly with the wilderness experience, as each site comes equipped with sturdy picnic tables and campfire rings perfect for evening storytelling, while well-maintained vault toilets and fresh drinking water ensure your stay is both comfortable and convenient.
The campground accommodates tents, trailers, and RVs. Sites range from secluded to open, with a focus on natural surroundings rather than luxury amenities.
Historical SignificanceYou're camping on sacred ground when you pitch your tent at Cook Lake. The Lakota people first named these mountains 'Paha Sapa'—the Black Hills—for the dark cloak of pines that shroud their peaks in mystery. This land holds centuries of stories, from ancient indigenous ceremonies to the frontier adventures that shaped the American West. Just a scenic drive away stands the iconic Devil's Tower National Monument, America's first national monument since 1906, its columnar basalt formation rising like a natural cathedral against the Wyoming sky—a testament to the geological wonders that make this region truly extraordinary.
Weather and SeasonsThe Black Hills reveal their ever-changing personality through the seasons at Cook Lake. Early summer mornings greet campers with crisp temperatures hovering in the high 40s to low 50s Fahrenheit, while nights invite cozy campfire gatherings as thermometers dip into the 30s. Spring arrives with dramatic flair, painting the landscape with occasional snow flurries and refreshing rain showers that awaken the forest floor. As summer fully blooms, the skies clear to brilliant blue, and the weather settles into a comfortable, dry pattern that beckons outdoor enthusiasts to explore every corner of this mountain paradise.
Natural Features and SceneryCook Lake Recreation Area feels like nature's carefully tended garden, where towering mature pines create a natural cathedral overhead, their branches filtering sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. The understory of native grasses waves gently in the mountain breeze, maintaining a park-like appearance that invites exploration. At the heart of it all lies Cook Lake itself—a jewel nestled in the valley whose glassy surface perfectly mirrors the surrounding peaks and sky, creating double the beauty at sunrise and sunset. This pristine mountain lake serves as both a stunning backdrop for your camping adventure and a peaceful sanctuary for quiet reflection.
Geological RegionThe Black Hills National Forest showcases nature's architectural mastery across 1.2 million acres of geological wonder. Ancient granite spires pierce the sky while limestone canyons carve dramatic pathways through the earth, their walls echoing with the sound of tumbling mountain streams. Hidden throughout this rocky wonderland, mysterious caves invite exploration, their cool depths holding secrets millions of years in the making. Deep blue alpine lakes dot the landscape like sapphires, each one cradled by pine-covered peaks that rise thousands of feet above the surrounding prairie. This dramatic elevation change creates a unique ecosystem where mountain meadows meet prairie grasslands, offering campers an incredible diversity of landscapes to explore—all within reach of your Cook Lake campsite.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground offers accessible amenities, including an accessible fishing pier, picnic areas, and walkways. However, accessibility details, such as site-specific features, are limited.
Sites SizeSites can accommodate tents, trailers, and RVs but are not described in specific dimensions.
Sites PrivacyThe campground provides a mix of secluded and open campsites. Some sites are widely spaced, offering privacy through separation rather than vegetation, while others are snug along a hillside.
Total Campsites33 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCampsites above the lake are ideal for views; sites near the hillside provide improved privacy.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
12:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum 14 nights consecutive stay allowed.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum guests per site not explicitly stated.
Groups
Group sites are not explicitly mentioned in the authoritative sources or user reviews.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are spread out with some overlooking Cook Lake and others situated along a hillside. Separation rather than dense vegetation ensures privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 21, 2025, to Sep 7, 2025, with reservations starting from Jun 24, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available via Recreation.gov (online, app, and contact center).
Walk-in AvailabilityNon-reservable sites may be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Reservation highly recommended due to limited availability and remote location.
Cancellation PolicyModifications and cancellations are subject to fees: $10 change fee for date or site changes; $10 cancellation fee plus forfeiture of the first night’s fee for cancellations within one day of check-in. No refund for weather-related cancellations.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Cook Lake Recreation Area offers a diverse range of activities, including hiking, fishing, boating, mountain biking, and OHV riding on moderate terrain. The lake supports fishing for rainbow and brown trout, sunfish, and catfish. "The fishing was somewhat of a disappointment," noted one user, while others highlighted the experience as varied. Hiking trails, approximately 4 miles in length, are available but partially closed due to landslide damage. Wildlife viewing is a highlight, with bighorn sheep, elk, deer, and a variety of bird species.
Hiking
Approximately 4 miles of hiking and bicycling trails are available. However, one trail and part of Loop A were closed due to landslide damage. "There is a trail that takes you to the top of the ridges and around is a good brisk hike," noted one user. Another mentioned insufficient trail signage: "Cliff swallow trail needs signs posted around half point. Someone could get lost."Fishing
Fishing is available in Cook Lake, which supports populations of rainbow and brown trout, sunfish, and catfish. However, experiences vary: "Caught about 100 pan fish the size of a minnow," said one user, while others appreciated the fishing opportunities.Swimming
Swimming is limited, with no dedicated beach area. "The lake has wetland properties & not much of a beach," observed one reviewer.Biking
Moderate biking trails are available, though details about trail difficulty and terrain are sparse.Boating
Boating is allowed for non-motorized small boats. "There is a good boat launch on the lake, but I believe you cannot use gas motors," noted a user.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a highlight of the area, with species such as bighorn sheep, elk, deer, bald eagles, and hawks commonly sighted.Winter Activities
Winter recreation is not mentioned in the authoritative sources or user reviews.Water Sports
Activities such as kayaking and paddleboarding are available due to the non-motorized boating policy on Cook Lake.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Open fires allowed in designated fire pits; fires must be attended and fully extinguished before leaving.
- Quiet hours enforced from 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsTraveling to the campground involves gravel roads with abundant deer; precautions should be taken while navigating at night. Wildlife such as mountain lions, though rarely seen, inhabit the area.
Active alertsCook Lake Trail and Loop A are closed due to a landslide.
Weather at Cook Lake Rec Area
37
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 53%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 15 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Clear sky
Weather History
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Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
Nearest emergency services are in Sundance, WY, approximately 18 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 21 - Sep 7, 2025
Trash and recyclingOn-site trash collection is available, but no specific recycling facilities are mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is adjacent to Cook Lake, with walk-in access available for non-motorized boats. Limited swimming areas noted.
Common complaintsNoise from generators, difficulty in navigation to the campground due to poor road signage, limited swimming areas, and occasional maintenance issues with vault toilets.
HostCampground host availability varies. Hosts are noted as helpful and organized during certain seasons (e.g., Jim in 2021), but absence of hosts has been reported during others.
Campground Map
Forest Recreation Management, Inc, P.O. Box 1168, Hill City, SD 57745, USA
Driving directionsInterstate I-90 to exit 199 (Aladdin). North on Rt 111 for 4 miles, left on Farrall Road (Rt 843) for 10 miles to Cook Lake. OR From Sundance, WY, take US 14 west or exit 185 off Interstate 90 to US 14 west, for 1.4 miles to Cook Lake Recreation Area sign at Forest Route 838. Turn right onto FR 838 and go 12.9 miles to FR 843. Turn right and go 5.4 miles to another Cook Lake Recreation Area sign on FR 842. Turn left and go 1.1 miles to campground.
Mixed accessibility: The road from Aladdin is recommended and paved except for the final 5 miles, which are gravel/dirt but in good condition. Roads from other directions include long stretches of dirt/gravel roads (15+ miles) that can be rough and lack clear directional signage. Daylight travel is highly recommended due to abundant deer and challenging navigation.Nearby places
Sundance, WY (approx. 18 miles, ~30-minute drive)
Aladdin, WY (approx. 9 miles, ~20-minute drive)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies, including groceries and fuel, are available in Sundance, WY, approximately 18 miles away.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.2
27 reviews
Cook Lake Rec Area is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews provide a mixed picture of the Cook Lake Recreation Area. While many appreciate the serene setting and recreational opportunities, others mention issues like lack of cleanliness, noise from generators, and limited cell service.
Review Summaries
Based on 27 reviews
What Campers Love
Many users praise the natural beauty, peaceful atmosphere, and range of activities. "A hidden gem," said one reviewer. "Quiet area," mentioned another, while one noted, "Wonderful experience over...
Based on 27 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include noise from generators, cleanliness issues in the bathrooms, and challenges with the remote location. "So. Many. Generators. Running basically nonstop," said one user....
Based on 27 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Recommendations include bringing cash for fees, arriving during daylight due to difficult navigation, and using directions from the U.S. Forest Service rather than GPS.
Based on 27 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer months are popular, with many reviews highlighting outdoor activities like fishing, hiking, and kayaking. However, generator noise and flies are noted as seasonal nuisances.
Based on 27 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The campground was clean and nicely wooded." - Debra R. "No cell service. Very pretty area." - Kelly "The fishing was somewhat of a disappointment." - Christopher B.
Based on 27 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Sites near Loop Cook are mixed in reviews; for example, site 33 was praised for accommodating large trailers, while site 28 had complaints about loud generators.
Based on 27 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features like an accessible fishing pier and walkways are praised, but detailed user experiences are limited.
Based on 27 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but there is a $2 per pet per night fee. No specific user complaints or praises related to pets were found.
Based on 27 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated December 7, 2025
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