Orman Dam Sunset

During the long and hot days of summer, Belle Fourche locals head to the lake! Visitors don’t have to go all the way to Sheridan Lake to have a blast, as this reservoir has 8,000 acres of water surface and is open to plenty of activities, such as fishing, camping, swimming, and more!

Rocky Point Recreation Area was made by the creation of the Orman Dam. The damming also created the Belle Fourche Reservoir and the Belle Fourche National Wildlife Refuge. The recreation area is located eight miles east of Belle Fourche off Highway 212. It is open year round and has activities like ice skating and ice fishing in the winter.

The Orman Dam was completed in 1911 and soon became a Belle Fourche hotspot. It was constructed to store water for agricultural use, and at the time, it was the largest earthen dam in the world—considered an engineering marvel. In 1989, the dam was designated a National Historic Civil Engineering Landmark.

The reservoir has an average depth of 25 feet, with some areas as deep as 60 feet. There is a high density of walleye here, and several other species including bass, perch, catfish, and tigermuskie.

(Ice fishing is available in the winter. There is a fish cleaning station onsite. A fishing license is required.)

 

There is no better way to celebrate summer than swimming in a beautiful and refreshing reservoir. In addition to swimming, canoe and kayak rentals are offered. Canoeing and kayaking are both a great way to experience the clear and cool water and the scenic views of the shoreline from the reservoir!

Facilities include two boating ramps, one campground with over 60 campsites, and camping cabins for rent. These campsites can be reserved up to 90 days prior to arrival. Camping in the great outdoors is one of the best ways to experience Rocky Point Recreation Area!

A day entrance pass to the recreation area is $6 per vehicle. An annual pass is available for $30.