South Dakota Lost Treasure

South Dakota lost treasure sites are listed on this page. However, I cannot promise that this information is completely accurate. As treasure tales go, because they have been passed down through many years, certain elements of the lost treasure story may have been altered, either intentionally or otherwise.

This information should be researched through other means as well. Never rely on one piece of information about a treasure story you are researching. Use multiple research tools.

Good luck! And have fun in your search for South Dakota lost treasure.

South Dakota Lost Treasure Sites

 
The Broken Boot Gold Mine

Located west and just outside the town of Deadwood. This gold mine was in operation from 1878 to 1904. Using a metal detector around the area may result in finding some dropped gold nuggets.

Homestake Gold Mine

Located on routes 14A and 85, near Lead. This old mine dates back to the era of the first gold discovery in the area. Again, if you have a metal detector, it's a good place to try searching.

The Ghost Town of Bloomington.

Located approximately north of Vermillion on route 77. There are rumors of several caches buried here.

The Ghost Town of Bugtown

Located approximately three miles north of Custer on route 385. Bugtown was at one time a wealthy gold mining town. Supposedly there are also several buried treasures here as well.

The Nelson Roadhouse Ghost Town

Located on the Canyon River approximately five miles west of Custer. It is now called, Custer Farmhouse. In 1875, during his trip to the Black Hills, Custer used this roadhouse. The town was once a military outpost, and later a town which prospered during the gold rush. Using a metal detector around the area may produce some interesting finds, or even treasures.

The Ghost Town of Rockerville

Located at the base of Storm Mountain, in the Black Hills, near route 16, approximately twenty miles southwest of Rapid City. An old gold miner, Carl Bufford supposedly buried a large cache of gold bullion in the old cemetary.

The Bear Mountain Treasure

Somewhere on the west side of this mountain may be a treasure in gold worth more than $1 million. In 1879 two prospectors buried their gold strike near their cabin. However, outlaws heard of the strike and killed the two men before the whereabouts of the treasure was disclosed.

Understand The Laws Regarding Digging On State Lands

The Antiquities Act of 1906 and the ARPA  (Archaeology Resources Protection Act)laws explain why you cannot remove artifacts from State or Federal lands that are more than 100 years old.

Digging for a treasure that is more than 100 years old comes under the protection of these two laws. But remember, the laws only pertain to State and Federal lands. Know the law before you dig.
 
5 Ways to Earn Money with a Metal Detector

South Dakota lost treasure may be located in ghost towns.

Thanks for visiting!