Swim at This Iconic Mountain Swimming Hole in South Dakota for the Ultimate Outdoor Fun

Having spent many summers in the Black Hills of South Dakota, I’ve become intimately familiar with where to stay cool on a hot day. From paddleboarding in Sylvan Lake to cliff jumping at Hippie Hole, South Dakota is packed with a plethora of nearly-secret places to refresh. When I’m looking to escape the crowds and enjoy a relaxing day on the water, Legion Lake in Custer State Park always comes to mind.

One of my favorite memories is spending a crisp September afternoon in a canoe on Legion Lake with my college roommate. We had just finished watching Custer State Park’s annual Buffalo Roundup, and wanted to spend more time enjoying the weather. We rented a canoe and spent hours paddling around the small lake, taking in the rock formations that surrounded us and chatting. We may have even dipped our toes into the water, despite the cold air.

Those of us who live in cities like Chicago do not often experience the type of silence that this lake offers. Of course, you may find yourself surrounded by people on a busy summer day. However, this particular fall day on the lake was filled with scenic views and the peaceful quiet that Western dreams are made of.

Legion Lake makes a modest nine-acre footprint on the west side of the park. The lake effortlessly blends in with its backdrop, particularly the towering needle-like rock formations, so much so that you’d never guess it is a man-made creation. Along the short Legion Lake Loop you’ll find a beach for swimming, kayak and canoe rentals, paddle boarding, fishing spots, and the Legion Lake Lodge. 

The Legion Lake Lodge offers both traditional lodge rooms and modern cabins for those looking to stay the night. Both overnight and day trippers can enjoy a meal in the casual dining room. Alternatively, order from the picnic menu, and take your meal down to the swimming hole. Be sure to swing by the gift shop to pick up a souvenir to commemorate your adventure.

It’s not unusual to see bison relaxing in the grass around the lake. Remember to keep your distance and never approach these beautiful creatures. Keep your eyes peeled for smaller critters like turtles, butterflies, and wild turkeys. While they don’t typically hang out by Legion Lake, it's still possible to see prairie dogs, pronghorn, elk, bighorn sheep, and mountain goats. 

Custer State Park allows swimming at four of its lakes. Each offers its own unique charm and experience. Sylvan Lake serves as the setting for several scenes in National Treasure: Book of Secrets. Center Lake sits right next to a campground and is a stone’s throw away from the Black Hills Playhouse. Lastly, Stockade Lake is the only lake in the park that allows motorized boats. 

Every lake in Custer State Park is worth visiting for a swim. However, there’s something laid-back and special about Legion Lake that you can’t quite get anywhere else in South Dakota. Do you have another favorite swimming hole you'd like to share? Please tell us about it!