Black Hills National Forest Cook Lake Campground, near Sundance, Wyoming, is a fantastic spot for those looking to immerse themselves in nature. With a beautiful lake nearby, it’s perfect for fishing, swimming, and kayaking, making it a popular choice for families and outdoor lovers alike.

The campground offers a laid-back vibe with sites that provide some shade during the day. Visitors have mentioned the Cliff Swallow Trail, which starts right next to the campground, as a great way to explore the area. While there are no electric hookups or showers, the camp host is available to assist with check-ins and camping fees, ensuring a smooth experience.

Campers appreciate the peacefulness of the area, with many noting the privacy and natural beauty surrounding the sites. One reviewer highlighted the homemade fire rings and the variety of camping options available, making it easy to find a spot that suits your needs. If you’re up for an adventure, the drive through the Black Hills National Forest is scenic and well worth it.

Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a longer stay, Cook Lake Campground offers a solid base for enjoying the great outdoors. Just remember to bring your own water and be ready for a bit of a trek down those dirt roads to reach this lovely spot.

## Overview

 Situated in a heavily forested area adjacent to Cook Lake, this campground is a peaceful setting for guests seeking recreation and relaxation in the Black Hills National Forest in Wyoming. Some sites in the campground are widely spaced and open up to views overlooking the lake, and others sit snugly along a hillside. Separation, rather than vegetation, provide visitors with a sense of privacy. Tall mature trees and grass underbrush give the campground a groomed character.
## Recreation

 The forest offers accessible recreation for all ages. Visitors can take advantage of opportunities for hiking, fishing, horseback riding, mountain biking, and riding off-highway vehicles (OHVs) on moderate terrain. Approximately 4 miles of hiking and bicycling trails are available at the recreation area. Adjacent to the campground is Cook Lake, an ideal spot for fishing and boating. The lake supports populations of rainbow and brown trout, a variety of sunfish, and catfish. The Cook Lake Trail, along with Loop A, has been closed due to a recent landslide. However there are still plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation of all types in the area.
## Natural Features

 Located in western South Dakota and northeastern Wyoming, Black Hills National Forest encompasses nearly 1.25 million acres of rugged rock formations, canyons and gulches, open grassland parks, tumbling streams, deep blue lakes, and unique caves. Derived from the Lakota language, the words \"Paha Sapa,\" meaning \"hills that are black,\" honor the dark, pine-covered hills rising several thousand feet above the surrounding prairie. Wildlife in the area abounds. Bighorn sheep navigate mountainous terrain, while elk, deer and pronghorn gather in forests and prairies. Bald eagles, hawks, osprey, peregrine falcon, and hundreds of other bird species can be found in the forest, especially along streams, lakes and rivers. Mountain lions, although rarely seen, also call this area home. 
## Contact Info

 For facility specific information, please call (605) 574-4402. 
## Nearby Attractions

 A hike to Warren Peak Lookout Tower makes a scenic day trip for guests. Devils Tower National Monument is also a great location to visit. Established as the first United States National Monument on September 24, 1906, by President Theodore Roosevelt, this unique geological formation is valued for its natural, cultural, and recreational significance.
## Charges & Cancellations

 No refunds will be given for weather or related events.

Black Hills National Forest Cook Lake Campground

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Sundance, WY is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Wyoming camping has to offer. Find the best campgrounds near Sundance, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Sundance

The Best Camping Near Sundance, Wyoming

This is one of the coolest places.

The drive down miles of gravel roads is beautiful. I certainly didn’t expect to find this though. A large lake is big enough to swim, kayak and fish. Many drove in just to picnic here. Only one camping loop was open. 

  

Curl around the lake and climb a bit to find the loop. The sites vary in makeup. One has a concrete pad for a perfect accessible site. Some are larger and some are more private, choices abound. This campground takes reservations and they are needed for weekends and holidays. 

  

Before you cool off in the lake, why not hike the trail that goes right out of camp. Plenty of picnic tables are in the day use area that will give you options for your picnic lunch. Swim or paddle and it makes a wonderful day in the Black Hills.

Lake and hiking miles down gravel roads

Many dispersed camping options. Fire rings (homemade) easily found.  Private. Options all over the mountain with Cook Lake Rec Area available for day use / grilling / swimming / fishing. 

Beautiful and close to Hulett / Devils Tower

Great little campground! You have to drive a looong way down dirt roads through the Black Hills Nat'l Forest. There is a camp host to check in with &amp; pay the camping fee. There is water, but the Forest Service does not really want campers using it. It is down by the camp host &amp; he has to get a handle to work the spigot. The toilets are vault &amp; they stink. 
My kids love to fish the lake. I love to do the Cliff Swallows Trail (3.7 mile loop). Beautiful scenery.

Fishing, hiking, & camping

I was here just before labor day weekend and almost had all to myself.
If you drive from Sundance, follow USFS directions; Google maps tried to direct me up a dead end road. Road from Aladdin side is better and easier.
Nice trail (Cliff Swallow trail) that I was able to start on right next to my site. Toilets were clean.  Take your own water; pump is down by the host site. 
Looked like most sites had some shade during the day.

Photos of Black Hills National Forest Cook Lake Campground

Real photos from real campers