We usually plan fairly well when mapping out our day-to-day itineraries for a long trip. We know how much time to project for each stop so we can estimate where to spend the night, how long it will take to travel between sites, and what we’ll do when we get to where we’re going.
But we definitely shorted ourselves on time to spend at Sylvan Lake in Custer State Park.
On a map of South Dakota, Sylvan Lake appeared to us as other lakes do — a blue amoeba-like form. “Should we stop here?” we asked each other. When we looked at a different photo in a travel book, we saw not only the lake’s clear blue waters but also these unusual boulders looming large at water’s edge. “Worth a stop,” we said. “After all, where else would you see boulders of this magnitude in a lake? It’s would be worth an hour or so for a quick visit, for sure.”
But when we arrived, we realized how unprepared we were. Sylvan Lake is a haven for activities — from hiking to kayaking, or climbing rocks, fishing, and picnicking. We watched as families enjoyed the space to the fullest, taking long walks at water’s edge and then hiking in, around, and through the boulders that define this extraordinary area of Custer State Park.
Later, we learned that Sylvan Lake had been a star in its own right, serving as a featured area (albeit not behind Mount Rushmore as it was pictured) for the movie National Treasure: Book of Secrets.
But no matter the star status of Sylvan Lake — the real benefit is its outdoor space for couples or families, hikers or sitters, boaters or photographers. What you have to do is what we didn’t do well enough: allow extra time to enjoy this breathtaking natural space in your own way. So bring a lunch. Wear your hiking shoes. Rent a boat. Prepare to climb.
And by all means, schedule well. Sylvan Lake is a South Dakota treasure.
Rusha & Bert
Anonymous
I was gonna ask if those boulders were man-made. But I read on and looked closer at the pictures and I realised that they seemed natural. My family would enjoy spending time there too! — Amor
Oh, the Places We See
The boulders are absolutely real — and amazing. It’s quite the place to see since I can’t ever remember seeing a lake with boulders rising from it. Hope you get to go!
Terri
One of of our favorite places to visit!! Thank you for the pictures!
Oh, the Places We See
I can see why you love it. Great scenery and plenty to do there! Thanks for commenting.
journey-junkies.com
Looks great. Those rocks are amazing!
Oh, the Places We See
They truly are amazing. Just towering up from the lake!! Wish we had had time to rent a boat and paddle around.
Sue (Mac's Girl)
Lovely to see these pictures. We enjoyed our stop-over at Sylvan Lake a few years ago and also thought it was well worth the visit. Thanks, Rusha.
Coral Waight
What an unusual place. It just needs a dinosaur to trot out to complete the picture.
Oh, the Places We See
It does look a bit otherworldly! But it was a placid lad, a great place to relax or roam about. With so little noise, you could really immerse yourself in quiet reflection. Thanks for commenting. Stay safe out there!
CompassAndCamera
I never would have guessed this is South Dakota! What a beautiful spot!
Curt Mekemson
Peggy and I would have great fun kayaking around those boulders, Rusha. And Peggy is a fan of National Treasure! Lovely, inviting photos. –Curt
Oh, the Places We See
They are truly beautiful!!
travelgarb
Striking rock formations. It looks like somewhere I’d love to explore in a canoe!
Oh, the Places We See
It would be a great place to explore. Thanks for looking. Next time, we’ll have action shots!
travelgarb
Looking forward to seeing those 😄