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

Nonna’s Kitchen

Nonna’s Kitchen

Spearfish

Nick’s Hamburger Shop

Nick’s Hamburger Shop

Brookings

NFAA Easton Yankton Archery Center

NFAA Easton Yankton Archery Center

Yankton

World’s Largest Pheasant

World’s Largest Pheasant

Huron

Wine Cellar Restaurant

Wine Cellar Restaurant

Rapid City

Carnaval Brazilian Grill

Carnaval Brazilian Grill

Sioux Falls

Bridle Ridge Horse and RV Camp

Bridle Ridge Horse and RV Camp

Custer

Auld-Brokaw Trail

Auld-Brokaw Trail

Yankton

Yankton Convention & Visitors Bureau

Yankton Convention & Visitors Bureau

Yankton

Winner Drive-In

Winner Drive-In

Winner

Dakota Sioux Casino & Hotel

Dakota Sioux Casino & Hotel

Watertown

Caputa Alpacas

Caputa Alpacas

Rapid City

Bertz Sports Bar & Grill

Bertz Sports Bar & Grill

Beresford

Econo Lodge

Econo Lodge

Wall

Black Hills Dakota Distillery

Black Hills Dakota Distillery

Sturgis

Belle Fourche Country Club

Belle Fourche Country Club

Belle Fourche

Camp Custer Log Cabins

Camp Custer Log Cabins

Custer

Wobbly Bobby British Pub

Wobbly Bobby British Pub

Rapid City

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.