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Swimming Holes in Custer, South Dakota
4 natural swimming holes
Looking for water near Custer? The South Dakota directory holds 4 natural swimming holes in this area. Plan around summer — that's the best season named in most local listings. Worth a first look: Center Lake swim beach, plus Legion Lake swim beach nearby. The listings span Custer and Custer County. The local flavor is pure lake: every one of the 4 is a lake.
Swimming holes in Custer
- Center Lake swim beach
Inside Custer State Park, Center Lake has a small swim beach by the campground, ringed by ponderosa pine.
- Legion Lake swim beach
Legion Lake sits right off Highway 16A in Custer State Park, with a swim beach near the historic lodge.
- Stockade Lake swim beach
Just east of Custer on Highway 16A, Stockade Lake has a swim beach with a playground and picnic area alongside.
- Sylvan Lake
Sylvan Lake's granite-ringed waters in Custer State Park are one of the Black Hills' most photographed swims.
Frequently asked questions
How many swimming holes are in Custer, SD?
Our directory lists 4 natural swimming holes in and around Custer, South Dakota, across Custer, Custer County. New spots are added as they're verified.
What kinds of swimming holes are in Custer?
The 4 listings cover 4 lakes. See each listing for details on access and conditions.
Which swimming hole near Custer should I try first?
Center Lake swim beach is a well-documented local listing. Inside Custer State Park, Center Lake has a small swim beach by the campground, ringed by ponderosa pine. Full details, maps, and safety notes are on its page.
When is the best time to swim near Custer?
Local listings most often name summer as the best season. Spring runoff can make rivers and creeks dangerously high — check local conditions before you go.