Continuing the Crook County News Since 1884
U.S. Forest Service officials began closing seasonal gates and recreation sites on Tuesday to prepare for winter recreation across the Black Hills National Forest.
According to a press release, gates are closed to provide a seasonal refuge for wildlife, protect road and trail surfaces and other resources and provide for public safety as some of the roads are converted into part of the snowmobile trail system.
Seasonally closed roads and trails are identified on the current Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM). This can be accessed in multiple formats via the Forest Service website or a printed copy can be obtained free at your local District Office.
Seasonal closures also occur at many recreation sites, including some campgrounds and picnic areas. Sites in the Black Hills that will be closing for winter include Bear Gulch, Cook Lake, Dalton Lake, Grizzly Creek, Horsethief Lake, Iron Creek Horse Camp, Oreville, Pactola, Sheridan Lake, North Cove, Willow Creek Horse Camp, Strawberry and Steamboat Rock.
A number of campground sites will be staying open while the weather permits, though campground roads are not plowed or maintained in winter and the Forest Service recommends checking with local offices for current conditions.
Within Crook County, eight sites will remain open at the Bearlodge Campground. At Reuter Campground, 24 sites will remain open, while Sundance Horse Camp will have ten sites as well as the horse facility with corrals and stalls.
All three sites are self-pay with no services. Most restrooms facilities and trash collection are closed for the season, so the Forest Services urges visitors to use a “pack it in – pack it out” policy when camping.
The Forest Service reminds recreationists to use extreme caution when driving on forest system roads as the road ahead may become impassable or hazardous due to ice and snow cover.
Seasonal recreation sites and roads typically reopen in mid-May if conditions permit.