Fort Dummer State Park | Brattleboro

Black Hills National Cemetery is a United States National Cemetery located in Sturgis, South Dakota.

Visual Characteristics

The cemetery occupies approximately 100 acres. It features rolling terrain with a consistent arrangement of headstones. The landscape is characterized by short, manicured grass and scattered coniferous trees, primarily Ponderosa pines. The overall color palette is dominated by the grey of the granite headstones, the green of the grass and trees, and the blue of the sky.

Location & Access Logistics

Black Hills National Cemetery is situated approximately 3 miles east of Sturgis, South Dakota. Access is via State Highway 34. The cemetery entrance is clearly marked from the highway. Ample on-site parking is available for visitors. No public transportation routes directly serve the cemetery; personal vehicle or taxi service is required.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Established in 1947, Black Hills National Cemetery was created to provide a final resting place for veterans in the region. The land was acquired by the U.S. government for this purpose. The site is situated within the Black Hills region, an area characterized by its geological uplift and mixed coniferous forest ecosystem.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors typically come to pay respects to service members. The grounds are suitable for quiet contemplation and walking. Specific areas include the committal shelters and the Avenue of Flags. No organized tours are offered, but visitors may explore the grounds independently.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available near the administration building. Limited shaded areas are provided by trees. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available within the cemetery grounds. No food vendors are present on-site; visitors should plan to bring their own provisions.

Best Time to Visit

For optimal lighting for photography of the headstones and landscape, early morning or late afternoon hours are recommended. The months of May through October offer the most favorable weather conditions, with milder temperatures and less precipitation. Winter months can experience significant snowfall, potentially impacting accessibility.

Facts & Legends

A notable feature of Black Hills National Cemetery is its role in interring veterans from various conflicts, including World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and more recent operations. The cemetery is one of three national cemeteries in South Dakota.

Nearby Landmarks

• Fort Meade Museum (1.5km West)
• Bear Butte State Park (12km East)
• Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame (3km West)
• Black Hills National Forest (Access points vary, generally South)