FRENCH CREEK NATURAL AREA

Lt Colonel George A Custer made French Creek famous during the summer of 1874. It was in this creek that gold was discovered by prospectors of the Custer Expedition. The specks of gold found in French Creek caused a fury of gold seekers into the Black Hills. French Creek is not only noted for its origins of gold. Today, it attracts other prospectors, those seeking the golden opportunities to observe and interact with the natural world of French Creek gorge.

The French Creek Natural Area is a 12 mile back country hiking trail. It was established to protect the abundant Natural Resources within the area while providing visitors the opportunity to experience the untouched beauty of the French Creek Gorge. Keep a sharp eye out for birds, mammals and wildflowers. There is always a chance that you may see Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep scaling the canyon walls, an eagle circling above, or trout darting about in the stream.

(Click thumbnail for larger view):

French Creek Natural Area East Trailhead and parking area.	French Creek Natural Area A look at entering the area near the East Trailhead.
French Creek Natural Area West Trailhead and parking area.	French Creek Natural Area A look at entering the area near the West Trailhead.

HIKING AND CAMPING GUIDELINES

Hiking  Custer State Park Trails

Basic Trails Map (PDF)

1. French Creek Natural Area can be accessed from either the east or west end. There are established parking areas for hikers and backpackers.
2. All users of the French Creek Natural Area must have a valid park entrance license. These can be purchased as you enter the park.
3. The 2007 camping fee for the French Creek Natural Area is $2.00 per person per night. Campers need to register at the self-registration station at the east or west trailhead. You will find a fee envelope in the iron ranger self-fee box. Separate the top portion from the fee envelope and place on the dashboard of your vehicle. Insert correct amount into the fee envelope. Deposit it in the appropriate container. Checks are made payable to Custer State Park.
4. Use low-impact camping methods. Do not dig trenches or build shelters.
5. Camping is only allowed within the canyon bottom. Campsites must be at least 50ft from the stream. OPEN FIRES ARE STRICTLY PROHIBITED.
6. Disposal of human wastes should be a minimum of 200 feet from the nearest water source. Human waste must be buried at least 8 inches deep.
7. Pack out your litter. Garbage receptacles are available at each of the natural areas.
8. Carry in your own drinking water. The water quality of French Creek and its springs is not suitable for drinking. Keep soaps and detergents out of the stream.
9. Wear appropriate footwear for ankle support and long pants for protection against the dense stands of poison ivy.
10. Follow the stream, as the trail is not marked or developed. Hikers generally cross French Creek about 42 times. The Narrows is where the creek pinches together and access is limited to climbing over the cliff (a steep embankment of 60 feet), or swimming (100 feet) through the creek.
11. Allow approximately 10 hours for a leisurely hike or 6 hours of straight walking.
12. Plan for unpredictable weather conditions. Heavy thunderstorms are common in the Black Hills. Rattle snakes live in the area and poison ivy is abundant. Also watch for bison. Temperatures can cool down in the low 50’s during the summer.
13. Pets must be on a leash in designated camping areas. Outside the campground, pets must be under the immediate control of the owner.
14. Firearms are not allowed in Custer State Park, except by licensed hunters during established hunting seasons.

Hiking and camping is encouraged. However, due to the natural state of the area, guidelines have been established for your safety, as well as for the preservation of resources. Enjoy the French Creek Natural Area, but please respect its beauty.