The Black Hills are renowned for outdoor recreation, with Canyon Lake Park standing out as one of the region’s most versatile recreational spots, conveniently located steps away from Lake Park Campground. This 29-acre urban oasis has become a beloved destination, offering endless activities including fishing, paddle-boating, bird watching, and family gatherings, all accessible free of charge from 5:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily. While dogs are welcome at this city park, they must remain leashed during visits.
Paddle Boat Rentals
One of the most popular activities at Canyon Lake is renting paddle boats. Canyon Lake Resort offers paddle boat rentals that let you experience the lake from a different perspective. It’s a hit with families, especially those with younger children who love the novelty of pedaling across the water while taking in views of the surrounding park. Visit the Lake Park Campground office for more details.
Biking Adventures: Leonard Swanson Memorial Pathway
The bike path that begins near Lake Park Campground is one of Rapid City’s best-kept secrets, winding along beautiful Rapid Creek and connecting multiple city parks. This provides an excellent opportunity for families staying at Lake Park Campground to explore Rapid City on two wheels.
Safety Tips:
- Though not required by law, all riders, regardless of age, are encouraged to wear helmets. Even at slow speeds, a fall of 3 or 4 feet to the concrete path can cause serious injury.
- Cooling off in Rapid Creek on a hot day is popular. Take caution, there are deceptively deep pools and fast-moving stretches. Use common sense, especially with children.
The path’s accessibility makes it ideal for riders of all ages, and its proximity to Lake Park Campground means you can easily return to your tent, cabin or RV site to rest before your next adventure.
There are several bike and ebike rental options available throughout the Hills. Lake Park Campground rents pedal bikes. In Rapid City rentals are also available at Acme Bicycles | Rapid City, SD Bike Shop and Two Wheeler Dealer | Cycling & Fitness
Angler's Paradise: Fishing at Canyon Lake
Canyon Lake is considered a top-notch urban trout fishery that’s heavily stocked and conveniently located in the heart of Rapid City. The lake is regularly stocked with trout, and many anglers have success using simple setups with bobbers and worms, making Canyon Lake ideal for families teaching children to fish.
Types of fish the lake primarily contains:
- Rainbow trout (most common and readily catchable)
- Brown trout
- Brook trout
Important Tip:
Bird watching and Wildlife Viewing
- Great Blue Herons wading in shallow areas
- Osprey diving for fish (particularly exciting to witness)
- Various waterfowl species (Mallards, Canada Geese, Wood Ducks)
- Songbirds in the surrounding trees and brush, with American Robins, Cedar Waxwings, and Warbling Vireos commonly reported
- Greater Scaup
- Merlin
- Bald Eagles in the winter
Best Times for Bird watching
Perfect for Gatherings: Pavilions and Picnic Areas
Canyon Lake Park features excellent facilities for family gatherings, reunions, or group events – all just a short walk from Lake Park Campground. The shelters can accommodate groups of various sizes, making them perfect for family reunions, birthday celebrations, or casual get-togethers. The standard shelters have tables inside to accommodate approximately 36 people, with additional tables typically located nearby.
Shelter Options
- Canyon Lake Shelter #1 (4111 Jackson Boulevard) - Located by the Spillway
- Canyon Lake Shelter #2 (4021 Jackson Boulevard) - Second shelter on the left after entering
- Canyon Lake Park-Chimney Shelter (4515 Jackson Boulevard) - Near the intersection of Jackson Boulevard and Chapel Lane
Amenities and Reservations
Each shelter comes equipped with:
- Grills for cookouts
- Electricity access
- Restroom facilities
- Proximity to playground equipment (most shelters)
- Easy access to the lake and bike path
Family Food Truck Night at Canyon Lake
Looking for a culinary adventure without leaving the park? Family Food Truck Night brings a variety of flavors right to Canyon Lake every Tuesday from 5pm to 8pm, late May through September. Each week features different food trucks and live entertainment, creating a perfect evening atmosphere for families staying at Lake Park Campground. Check their Facebook page before visiting to see which vendors will be present during your stay.
Hidden Gems Near Canyon Lake
Braeburn Dog Park
Traveling with four-legged family members? Just down the road from Canyon Lake is a wooded dog park along Rapid Creek where your pets can run off-leash both on land and in water. The park also features a small, enclosed arena for smaller dogs. Located at 3324 Idlehurst Lane, this park offers a welcome off leash recreation option for pet owners staying at Lake Park Campground.
- Head west on Canyon Lake Drive
- Turn onto Jackson Boulevard (Highway 44) heading west
- Continue approximately 5 miles
- Look for the gravel parking area on the left side.
Canyon Lake Park offers a diverse array of activities and amenities, making it a prime destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. From fishing and paddle-boating to birdwatching and biking, the park provides numerous opportunities to connect with nature and enjoy recreational pursuits. The well-maintained facilities and convenient location near Lake Park Campground ensure that visitors have everything they need for a memorable and enjoyable experience in the Black Hills.