Ghost Towns in South Dakota
11 documented ghost towns
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History
Explore the ghost towns of South Dakota.
All Ghost Towns
Deadwood
Deadwood was the Wild West's wildest town - Wild Bill Hickok was shot here while playing poker. It nearly died but gambling legalization revived it....
Fort Sully
Fort Sully was established in 1863 to protect settlers during the Dakota War. The fort and town that grew around it were abandoned in 1894. When the O...
Galena
Galena was founded in the chaotic early days of the Black Hills Gold Rush, just before nearby Deadwood became famous. At its peak, 1,500 people worked...
Igloo
Igloo was a WWII ammunition depot that housed 6,000 workers and soldiers. After the war, it became a storage depot. The 801 'igloo' shaped bunkers tha...
Keystone
Keystone was a gold mining town before becoming the gateway to Mount Rushmore. The Holy Terror Mine was one of the richest in the Black Hills. Today, ...
Lead
Lead (pronounced Leed) was built around the Homestake Mine, the deepest in North America. The mine closed in 2002; the town survives with about 3,000 ...
Mystic
Mystic was a Black Hills gold mining town that later served as a railroad stop. When mining declined, so did Mystic. Today the old railroad bed is the...
Rockerville
Rockerville was a Black Hills gold mining town. Miners built an 8-mile wooden flume to bring water for placer mining. When the gold ran out, the town ...
Scenic
Scenic was a small cattle town near the Badlands. By 2011, only two residents remained. A Philippine church bought the entire town at auction for $799...
Spokane
Spokane was a small mining camp often overshadowed by nearby Keystone. It produced silver, zinc, and graphite. The most notable remnant is the two-sto...
Wounded Knee
Wounded Knee is the site of the 1890 massacre where U.S. troops killed over 250 Lakota people. In 1973, it was the site of a 71-day occupation by the ...
Frequently Asked Questions
How many ghost towns are in South Dakota?
We have documented 11 ghost towns in South Dakota. These range from completely abandoned mining camps to semi-inhabited historic settlements.
Are ghost towns in South Dakota safe to visit?
Most ghost towns are safe to explore, but exercise caution. Watch for unstable structures, mine shafts, and wildlife. Some are on private property - always check access rules before visiting.
What should I bring when visiting ghost towns?
Bring water, snacks, sun protection, sturdy shoes, a flashlight, and a first aid kit. Many ghost towns are in remote areas without cell service, so download offline maps.
Can I take artifacts from ghost towns?
No. Removing artifacts, bottles, or debris is illegal and destroys historical sites. Take only photos and leave only footprints.
What's the best time to visit ghost towns in South Dakota?
Spring and fall offer the best weather for exploring. Summer can be extremely hot in desert locations, while winter may make roads impassable.