Spearfish, SD

Quick City Facts

County: Lawrence
Population (2019): 11,756
Population (2010): 10,494

Data provided by US Census Bureau (2019)

A Canyon Jewel

Known as the Queen City of South Dakota, Spearfish is a charming community nestled in the center of three major mountain summits: Crow Peak, Spearfish Mountain, and Lookout Mountain. The town is located in a scenic valley at the mouth of the visually spectacular Spearfish Canyon in Lawrence County. A Mecca for hikers and nature enthusiasts, the canyon is a breathtaking natural gorge along the northern stretch of the Black Hills, once heralded by Frank Lloyd Wright as among the most spectacular sights in the world. Gushing waterfalls, brilliantly hued foliage, and lush forests distinguish this attraction as a natural masterpiece. A local canyon favorite is the hike to the Devil’s Bathtub along one of the side gulches, culminating in a cascade of water tumbling from Sunshine Creek and feeding into a 10-foot-wide pool. Outdoor recreational activities abound in Spearfish, including mountain biking, horseback riding, fishing, hunting, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and more.

History

Spearfish is named after the frequent spearing of fish by the Native Americans who originally inhabited the area in the early 1800s. With the bustle of activity and development in the wake of the Black Hills Gold Rush of 1876, Spearfish quickly became a bountiful supplier to local gold mining camps and was incorporated as a city in 1888. The Federal Fish Hatchery (also known as the D.C. Booth Historic Fish Hatchery) was established in 1898. Throughout the 20th century, the city experienced continued growth and development with abundant mining and tourist activity. As of the 2005 census, the city was home to nearly 13,000 permanent residents.

Art & Culture

For those seeking a rich, cultural experience, Matthew’s Opera House has staged hundreds of dramatic productions since it opened in 1906. Spearfish is also home to the Black Hills Passion Play, an outdoor theatrical depiction of Christ’s final seven days. Higher learning is provided by the Black Hills State University, which specializes in education and business programs.

Area Attractions

Its close proximity to the Mount Rushmore memorial, the historic town of Deadwood, and the Black Hills National Forest make Spearfish a popular tourist destination. The city has long functioned as a thriving retail trade center. Downtown Spearfish is renowned for its historical architecture and hometown charm. Locals and tourists enjoy several specialty shops, such as the Dakota Quilt Company, Kathleen’s Unique Boutique, and Cellar Chics. A variety of dining establishments are available, including Bay Leaf Cafe, B & B Lounge, and an authentic English pub. Other area attractions include the whimsical Dolls at Home Museum, Termesphere Gallery, and the Spirit of the Hills Wildlife Sanctuary.

Popular Attractions

Gunsel Horse Adventures

Gunsel Horse Adventures

Rapid City

Lazy S-Y Lodge

Lazy S-Y Lodge

Glenham

Horatio’s Homemade Ice Cream

Horatio’s Homemade Ice Cream

Custer

Hanson-Larsen Memorial Park

Hanson-Larsen Memorial Park

Rapid City

Wagon Wheel Bar & Grill

Wagon Wheel Bar & Grill

Interior

Springs Inn Cafe and Lounge

Springs Inn Cafe and Lounge

Wessington Springs

Spearfish Canyon Lodge

Spearfish Canyon Lodge

Lead

Mad Mountain Adventures

Mad Mountain Adventures

Lead

Mexico Viejo Mexican Restaurant

Mexico Viejo Mexican Restaurant

Vermillion

Visit Rapid City

Visit Rapid City

Rapid City

State Theatre

State Theatre

Sioux Falls

The Ram Pub & O’Hares

The Ram Pub & O’Hares

Brookings

Storybook Island

Storybook Island

Rapid City

Quality Inn

Quality Inn

Brookings

Flags and Wheels Indoor Amusement Park

Flags and Wheels Indoor Amusement Park

Rapid City

DeadWheels Bike Rentals

DeadWheels Bike Rentals

Deadwood

The Cave Collective

The Cave Collective

Rapid City

The 1891 Steakhouse and Bistro

The 1891 Steakhouse and Bistro

Hot Springs

Great Faces. Great Places.

South Dakota is an incredibly unique state in that each region offers a completely different experience then the others. Check out each of the regions to see what each has to offer!

Badlands

Western South Dakota

Featuring the Black Hills, Badlands, the Sturgis Rally. This region tends to be the most popular.

CENTRAL REGION

This region of South Dakota offers some of the best hunting and fishing in the entire central US. 

Eastern Region

The eastern region is home to the largest city in the state and provides visitors with a true "prairie" experience.