The Sunken City | Black Hills NF

Schedule

Sat Sep 19 2026 at 10:00 am to 12:00 pm

UTC-06:00
Location

Pactola Visitor Center | Rapid City, SD

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The story of the town flooded to build Pactola Reservoir, plus a build-a-boat activity. Free, drop in 10 a.m. to noon.
About this Event

Beneath Pactola Reservoir lies a town that disappeared underwater. The Sunken City tells the story of Pactola, the community that was flooded when the reservoir was built, and how that change rippled through life in the Rapid City area.


Drop in from 10 a.m. to noon, learn with a Forest Service presenter, and build a small boat to launch and watch float.


Getting there: the Pactola Visitor Center sits above Pactola Reservoir on US Highway 385, about 15 miles west of Rapid City.


About the Pactola Visitor Center summer programs: The Black Hills National Forest hosts free, family-friendly programs at the Pactola Visitor Center through the summer and early fall. Each session pairs a short hands-on activity with a Forest Service presenter, and all ages are welcome. No registration is required. The visitor center sits above Pactola Reservoir on US Highway 385, about 15 miles west of Rapid City. Programs are free, and schedules can shift with weather, so check ahead before you drive out. The Black Hills Parks and Forests Association is glad to help share these Forest Service programs.

No reservation or ticket is required to attend. Seating is first come, first served, and reserving a free ticket on Eventbrite does not hold or guarantee a seat. Please plan to arrive a few minutes early.

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Where is it happening?

Pactola Visitor Center, Pactola Reservoir, US Highway 385, Rapid City, United States

Event Location & Nearby Stays:

Tickets

USD 0.00

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.
Black Hills Parks & Forests Association
Host or PublisherBlack Hills Parks & Forests Association

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