Cold Brook Lake
RV Guide
Introduction
If you've got a camping adventure on your mind, you won't want to miss out on a trip to Cold Brook Lake. It's a wonderful place for your next outdoor getaway.
Cold Brook Lake is situated near the town of Hot Springs in Fall River County, South Dakota. This popular body of water is nestled within the well-renowned and beloved Black Hills. The lake was built in 1953 to act as a form of flood control for the region. The surface area of the lake measures 36 acres in total.
This recreational area has become a much-loved destination hotspot for families who enjoy outdoor adventures. Cold Brook Lake remains open throughout the year and offers such attractions as canoeing, fishing, swimming, the viewing of wildlife, ice fishing, skating, and cross-country skiing.
Cold Brook Lake is located quite near to another area dam known as the Cottonwood Springs Dam, which is also situated within close proximity of the town of Hot Springs. Both are manmade bodies of water that sit near to such major attractions as Wind Cave National Park, the Black Hills Wild Horse Sanctuary, and the Mammoth Site, leaving families spoiled for choice when it comes to interesting places to visit during a trip to Cold Brook Lake.
For a wonderful vacation you'll not soon forget, take your next camping adventure at Cold Brook Lake. It's a fantastic place for a relaxing holiday.
RV Rentals in Cold Brook Lake
Transportation
Driving
Travel to Cold Brook Lake proceeds on roads kept in excellent condition and that are comprised of two lane construction. Traffic moves along well with construction seen only on occasion. Wildlife does sometimes enter the road space, so do remain alert to avoid any accidents. Since this recreational area remains open year-round, the roads are kept free from snow during the winter months.
Parking
There are several locations where you can safely leave your vehicle at Cold Brook Lake, including the campground. It is important to note that RV camping is not permitted at Cold Brook Lake Campground itself, and thus RV parking is not possible there.
Public Transportation
There is no public transportation available to Cold Brook Lake.
Campgrounds and parking in Cold Brook Lake
Campsites in Cold Brook Lake
Reservations camping
Hot Springs/Black Hills KOA Campground
Hot Springs/Black Hills KOA Campground offers RV and tent campsites by reservation for year-round camping. Many of the campsites offer power hookups with some reserved for more rustic style overnight stays. There are also cabins for rent.
Among the on-site amenities are a pool, a mini-golf course, basketball and volleyball courts, a playground, a fire pit, a dog park, and a recreation room. The RV sites are also complete with cable TV hookups and free Wifi.
Generator use is not permitted. Leashed dogs are welcome.
First-come first-served
Cold Brook Campground
Cold Brook Campground is open from May through September yearly for tent camping only. Each campsite is available on a first-come, first-served basis, and there are 12 in total.
The main section of this camping facility offers drinking water for families to enjoy. Some of the campsites offer beautiful views of Cold Brook Lake.
The recreational area found close to the campground includes such amenities as a boat ramp, a beach, picnic shelters, toilets, an archery range, barbecues, fire pits, and a playground.
Gas motors of any type are strictly prohibited. Pets are welcome so long as they remain leashed.
Seasonal activities in Cold Brook Lake
In-Season
Wind Cave National Park
Wind Cave National Park is an extremely popular site for families to visit during their RV trip to Cold Brook Lake. The area is well renowned for its abundance of caves, and tours are conducted on a daily basis year-round. For an up to date schedule and any associated fees, check the park's website before your visit. The cave tours offer an excellent workout, and a lot of climbing is involved. To this end, it is important to wear comfortable clothing and appropriate footwear to prevent slipping or injury. Because it can get chilly in the caves; even during the summer months, it is best to dress in layers.
Swimming
Cold Brook Lake is the ideal spot to take a dip when the temperatures start to soar. This lake is well-known for its crystal clear waters that are crisp and refreshing on a hot summer's day. Bring along your bathing suit, a beach towel, and some sunscreen, and you've got a recipe for a day of fun in the sun!
Lifeguard service is not provided here, so do exercise caution when out in the water.
After your swim time, consider taking a walk along the coast in search of treasures from the sea to take home with you. If you are lucky, you just might find a few seashells or even some sea glass.
Picnicking
With such beautiful scenery abounding at Cold Brook Lake, you've got the perfect spot to enjoy a picnic lunch. Pack a basket with your favorite snacks and drinks and head out in search of the perfect spot from which to savor your meal. You'll find a picnic area with tables where you can feast on your lunch, or you can sit right down by the shore if a lake view is what you had in mind.
Be sure to wear good walking shoes to prevent any injury as you walk through the property in search of the ideal picnic locale.
Off-Season
Fishing
Fishing is an extremely popular activity at Cold Brook Lake, whether you plan to try your luck in spring, summer, winter, or fall. With an on-site boat ramp, you can take out your powerboat or launch out directly from the shore in your canoe. Fancy yourself more of a land lover? Pick a spot along the banks from which to cast in your line in your quest to capture the catch of the day.
A fishing license is required for angling in South Dakota waters. Be sure to check with park officials to see if fish filleting is permitted on the grounds or if you must prepare your haul at home.
The Mammoth Site
Located in Hot Springs is The Mammoth Site, a designated area which houses a vast array of mammoth remains which were excavated on-site and are now housed there. The museum offers tours of the excavation grounds which include an enclosed active dig site as well as prominent displays of fossils dating back to the Ice Age.
Guided tours are available throughout the year. Check the museum's website for an up to date schedule and any associated fees.
The Mammoth Site is open year-round for visitors to enjoy.
Photography
When the leaves begin to change their hue and the snow begins to fall, Cold Brook Lake is at its most beautiful, making it an excellent time to break out your camera lens and head out in search of the perfect shot. Many animals make this park their home, and the winter months offer the ideal opportunity to spot them in the woods.
Be sure to wear comfortable boots for hiking and to dress in layers to ward off any chill.
Your dog may join you on your expedition in search of the perfect photo op, but please keep them leashed at all times.
