Roughlock Falls Nature Area, Protected natural area in Lawrence County, South Dakota.
Roughlock Falls Nature Area is a protected site in the northern Black Hills where Little Spearfish Creek descends through multiple rock tiers, creating a series of waterfalls. The area is surrounded by dense forest and features different viewpoints where visitors can observe the cascading water.
The area was designated as a nature preserve in 2008 by the South Dakota Department of Game, Fish, and Parks to protect the ecological balance of this Black Hills region. This action helped safeguard the natural waterfall landscape and its forest habitat from further development.
The trails and observation points allow visitors to connect with nature while learning about the native wildlife species including elk, bald eagles, and mountain goats.
The site sits roughly 25 kilometers southwest of Spearfish and has designated parking with clearly marked trails and several viewpoints open year-round. Visitors should wear sturdy footwear since paths cross rocky terrain and rise through hilly ground.
The location marks where Little Spearfish Creek joins Spearfish Creek, with water flowing through different elevation levels within the canyon. This natural arrangement creates varying waterfall patterns that change with each level.
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