Author: Kiara Poitra, Receptionist & Events Coordinator.
Sturgis has some wonderful things to offer that many may not know about. One of these unknown gems is Bear Butte State Park. Summertime is the perfect time to check it out. There are so many things to do in one area, it blows my mind!
These activities include:
-Camping
-Fishing
-Hiking
-Boating/Kayaking/Paddleboarding
-Horseback Riding
Many of these activities are included in your visit, with a daily cost of $8 per vehicle.
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Bear Butte also has a great historical meaning to the area. Bear Butte is also known as Mato Paha or Bear Mountain. Mato Paha is the Lakota given name to this amazing landmark. Bear Butte is one of several igneous rocks in the Black Hills that was formed millions of years ago. To many Native Indians, Bear Butte is sacred and used for religious ceremonies. Many of these worshippers see Mato Paha as a location where the creator communicates with them through visions and prayer. The park kindly asks that those who visit Bear Butte be respectful of worshippers and their practices. During your visit, you will see colorful pieces of cloth and small bundles or pouches hanging from the trees. These prayer cloths and tobacco ties represent the prayers offered by individuals during their worship. The park staff asks that you please respect these offerings and leave them undisturbed.
For more info about the park, Visit https://gfp.sd.gov/parks/detail/bear-butte-state-park/ for details on campground regulations and amenities.