Pactola Visitor Center Cache Traditional Cache
Pactola Visitor Center Cache
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Difficulty:
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Terrain:
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Size: 
(small)
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The Pactola Visitor Center offers exhibits on local wildlife. firefighting, Black Hills geology and history. It is located 11 miles north of Hill City and 17 miles west of Rapid City on Highway 385.
*Re: closed restrooms at visitor center
At the end of the dam to the north along highway 385 there is an available restroom facility. Look for the Blue Star Highway sign and pull off, lakeside. There are beautiful lake views too.
* Please give a favorite point if you like this site! *
The former town of Pactola was first settled as “ Camp Crook” in 1875 by prospectors along Rapid Creek. General George Crook used the settlement as headquarters to chase miners out of the Black Hills. “Pactola” was later served by the Black Hills and Western Railroad (the Crouch Line) as a mining town and resort. Miners later renamed it “Pactola” referring to a river in Greek mythology. The sands of the “ Pactolus River” were a source of gold for the rulers in Asia Minor. (Read the story of King Midas if you want to know more).
The town of Pactola existed until 1952 when the earthfill dam was constructed to supply water for irrigation, recreation, fish and wildlife conservation and municipal uses. The reservoir filled in two years 1954-1956.
Follow the path (don’t jump the rail !) to a secluded personal viewing area away from the muggle crowd.
. *. Bring your own pencil.
Additional Hints
(Decrypt)
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