Pactola Lake, Reservoir in Black Hills, South Dakota
Pactola Lake stretches across 800 acres within Pennington County, featuring clear waters reaching depths of 150 feet near limestone cliffs and forest shores.
The construction of Pactola Dam in 1952 submerged the original mining settlement, requiring the relocation of residents and structures from the valley.
Local mining heritage remains visible through underwater artifacts from the 1870s gold rush period, attracting scuba divers to explore submerged structures.
The lake provides multiple access points for boats, with designated areas for swimming, fishing, and beach activities throughout the summer season.
Lake trout populations in Pactola Lake have adapted to the deep, cold waters, producing specimens weighing over 20 pounds in recent fishing records.
Location: Pennington County
GPS coordinates: 44.06951,-103.48389
Latest update: May 19, 2025 23:40
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