Volunteers Help Pinnacles Prairie Heal: Safer Camping, Stronger Grasslands

Once loved nearly to death, the Pinnacles dispersed camping area is alive again. The prairie is finally breathing.

A Week of Stewardship

From June 1–7, 2025, Wilderness Volunteers joined BHPFA and the U.S. Forest Service for a big fix. Crews built 10 designated campsites, closed unsafe rogue sites, created a picnic area, and strung 1,000 feet of fencing. They also planted native grasses and wildflowers, restoring space gouged by tire ruts and scattered fire rings.

“This project perfectly captures what meaningful stewardship looks like—the effort to create these campsites will have lasting impacts on the grassland ecosystem and offer a safer recreational experience,” said Andrea Fountain, BHPFA’s program and volunteer manager.

Funding came from the National Forest Foundation and Athletic Brewing’s Two for the Trails grant. Volunteers traveled from across the country.

Coming Back for More

The work didn’t stop in June. In late August, crews returned with more fencing, hitching posts, and signage. The goal: keep vehicles off fragile prairie and cliffside areas, while protecting views and safer camping access.

“The work done by the volunteers helps protect wildlife, gives the land a chance to heal, and improves the camping experience for everyone. We couldn’t have done it without them,” said Christy Bentley, Recreation Manager for Buffalo Gap National Grassland.

Impact That Lasts

The site now shows 98% compliance by campers. That means safer zones for families, wildlife, and fragile soils.Designated pads keep vehicles contained. Fencing keeps grass in the grasslands. And the prairie has room to recover.

Grassroots Stewardship in Action

These projects prove what’s possible when public lands, nonprofits, and everyday volunteers work side by side. With support from partners and donors, Pinnacles can remain a model for sustainable dispersed camping.

Want to lend a hand? Join us on future projects or support BHPFA’s stewardship mission at blackhillsparks.org/volunteering.