Iron Creek Lake sits at 6,200 feet in a granite bowl surrounded by ponderosa pine and spruce. About a dozen informal campsites ring the 15-acre lake, most with established fire rings and flat spots for tents or small rigs. The lake holds brook trout and the area stays relatively quiet even in summer. No facilities whatsoever — pack out everything and bring your own water.
Access requires 8 miles on Forest Road 231 from Rochford, then another 3 miles on rough Forest Road 345. High-clearance recommended, especially after rain when the clay gets slick. Snow closes access October through May. The road isn’t marked well — GPS coordinates help, but the area is popular enough that you’ll see tire tracks leading to established spots.
Alpine lake camping in the northern Black Hills
Place Details
| Type | Dispersed Camping |
|---|---|
| Nearest town | Lead, SD |
| Miles from pavement | 11 mi |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 2WD |
| Access road surface | Rough dirt |
| Cell service | None |
| Cost (USD/night, 0 = free) | Free |
| Reservation required | No |
| Stay limit (nights) | 14 nights |
| Best season | June-September |
| Land manager | USFS |
| Permit required | No |
| Amenities | Fire ring |
| Coordinates | Open directions |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |