RAPID CITY, S.D. – Boaters and outdoor enthusiasts in the Rapid City area planning to visit Pactola Reservoir will need to adjust their travel plans starting next week due to an upcoming facility closure.

The Black Hills National Forest announced that the Pactola North Boat Ramp, located approximately 15 miles west of Rapid City, will temporarily close starting Oct. 5 at 5 p.m. The closure is scheduled to remain in effect through Jan. 31, 2027, at 11:59 p.m., unless officials lift the restriction earlier.

Construction crews will be working throughout the area, making the closure necessary to prevent injury or harm to visitors while heavy equipment and active work zones are present. Forest Service staff have already been educating visitors about the hazards, but officials determined a full closure is required to ensure public safety.

Signs and maps will be posted near the campground and trail during the closure to inform visitors.

Forest officials stated that the agency is committed to reopening the area as soon as construction is complete.

For more information, contact the Black Hills National Forest at (605) 673-9200 or visit https://www.fs.usda.gov/r02/blackhills.