South Dakota's 'Friendliest Ghost Town In The Black Hills' Is A Once-Thriving Mining Town With Old West Charm

Hidden within a pine forest in the rugged retreat of South Dakota's Black Hills National Forest is a ghost town known for its Old West charm and welcoming atmosphere. Rochford was a once-thriving 19th-century mining town whose inhabitants have dwindled from the hundreds down to around 10, but this small population keeps the spirit alive in this place known as the "friendliest ghost town in the Black Hills."

Gold was discovered in Rochford in 1876, and it faced a boom with over 500 people settling in the town by the end of 1878 (and another 500 setting up camp in tents and temporary shelters in the surrounding area). Saloons, stores, and a church all popped up to serve this growing mining town, and stamp mills were constructed around the area to meet the demands of developing mining operations. Unlike many Old West towns in the U.S., this one had very little violence, but it was a lively place, with miners ending their days at the local dance hall or Irish pub.

As with most mining towns, Rochford's fate hinged upon the area's resources; when the mines ran out, so did the town, and less than 50 people remained by 1900. But the character of Rochford has remained, as a handful of historic buildings still stand, like an old schoolhouse and community center, and some — like the saloon — are even still in service. Besides that, Rochford has kept its humor and friendliness that make it a favorite stop for bikers and hikers exploring the area.

Part of Rochford's appeal can be found at the Moonshine Gulch Saloon, whose old timey western sign beckons folks into this 1910 building for a cold brew and hot burger. Former iterations of this building included a livery stable, pool hall, and barber shop, but now it's a pub known for its friendly service and lively jam sessions, listed on its Facebook and Instagram. Moonshine Gulch Saloon has many reviewers noting how warm the staff and atmosphere are.

One other business in town is the general store, otherwise known as the "Rochford Mall." Actually, a sign outside advertises it as the "Small of America," which technically it is, compared to the 5.6 million square feet of America's largest mall and massive entertainment destination. Located in a converted 1940s gas station, the Rochford Mall is the stop for snacks, supplies, root beer floats, and "Rochford Gold Dust," a special seasoning rub. This business also has a reputation for being friendly, as highlighted in many Google reviews.

A handful of historic buildings dot Rochford. Next to the saloon is the old dance hall, whose green-painted sign with "Irish Gulch" and three-leaf clovers is a time capsule of the 19th century (it's a private cabin now). Just down the street is the wooden clapboard schoolhouse, marked by a cheeky sign denoting it as "Rochford University." Some say it's a seasonal business that rents bikes, while others claim it's a private residence, but what is known is the first documented white woman in the Black Hills, Annie Tallent, taught here.

While there isn't anywhere to stay in Rochford itself, there are campgrounds and bed and breakfasts within an hour, which offer a great base to explore other parts of the Black Hills, like Custer, with its iconic state park and unlimited outdoor thrills. One of the highest-rated nearby options is the Black Forest Inn Bed & Breakfast, about 40 minutes away, whose lovely hosts, tasty breakfast, and private hot tubs and patios have gotten it high ratings on Google. About 50 minutes from Rochford is the Horse Creek Resort, three-star accommodations with cozy and modernized cabins and RV sites situated on a peaceful creek in a secluded location that still offers convenient access to Black Hills sites.

Those interested in camping can reserve a spot during the open season at the Pactola Reservoir Campground 40 minutes away, which has primitive camping for tents, trailers, and RVs on the south shore of the Pactola Reservoir. Alternatively, the Whispering Pines Campground is only 30 minutes away and includes amenities like a pool, laundry, and camp store, all run by helpful hosts.

At this time, there aren't any international airports in South Dakota. The closest major international hub is Denver International Airport, a 6-hour drive from Rochford. Instead, you can reach Rochford conveniently from the artsy and charming Rapid City, whose regional airport is just an hour and 15 minutes from this historic mining town.