Bears in South Dakota: Black Bears and Rare Grizzlies

Yes, bears inhabit South Dakota, primarily in the Black Hills region.

• Black Bears: The most common, found throughout the Black Hills and occasionally in the Missouri River Breaks. Population is small but growing.
• Grizzly Bears: Extremely rare. Historically extirpated, occasional wanderers from Wyoming/Montana may enter the northern Black Hills, but no established population exists.

Encounters are uncommon. Proper food storage and awareness are advised when recreating in bear country.