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Fun Historic Cabin with the Best Swimming Hole on Spring Creek

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Right on the creek with amazing swimming hole!
Spectacular and Fun!
Kids love the swimming hole! Kayaks included.
A calm evening at the swimming hole.
Lots of options to relax.

Reviews

10 out of 10, Loved by Guests
Top 10% of guest reviews in this area

Highlights

  • Family fun awaits
    Top-rated for families.
  • Arcade/game room
    A rare find - fun for all ages with on-site arcade and game room.
  • Centrally-located
    You're never far from where you need to be with this convenient location.
3 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 6

Popular amenities

  • Garage parking available
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Air-conditioning
  • Barbecue
  • Deck or patio

Explore the area

View map
Rapid City, SD
  • Place, Putz n Glo - Black Light Mini Golf
    ‪3 min drive‬
  • Place, Bear Country USA
    ‪6 min drive‬
  • Place, Reptile Gardens
    ‪7 min drive‬
  • Airport, Rapid City, SD (RAP-Rapid City Regional)
    ‪26 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Art Room Bedroom w/ Creek View

1 Queen Bed

Creekside Bedroom 1

1 King Bed

Heritage Room

1 King Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Fun Historic Cabin with the Best Swimming Hole on Spring Creek

Located in the historic Stratobowl near Rockerville, this classic Black Hills ranch style home is right on Spring Creek in a rugged canyon. The back windows and deck look out onto the best swimming hole on all of Spring Creek. Surrounded by hiking trails along the creek and in the National Forest, this is the perfect location for families searching for adventure in the great outdoors or couples who want to get away from it all in an incredibly peaceful setting.

The house has been fully updated with all of today's conveniences including climate control, updated electrical system, and DSL internet. Located near Rockerville, this home is secluded, yet only 20 minutes from Rapid City or Mount Rushmore.

Sleeps 6. The master bedroom has a king size bed with large windows looking down to the creek. A second bedroom has a queen size bed also with views of the creek. The third bedroom is the heritage room with a king size bed built into the room. The home has a deck on the creek side where guests can enjoy their morning coffee or grill out later in the day. There is a well-equipped kitchen and a very comfortable living room with a 42" television. The bathroom has a walk-in shower with grab bars. The single level and attached garage make it ideal for anyone with mobility difficulties.

Enjoy the natural beauty of the Black Hills secluded in this classic home along Spring Creek. The home is located in a very unique and historic area, the Stratobowl - birthplace of the Space Age where the Army Air Corps and National Geographic Society launched manned balloon flights into the stratosphere to a record 72,395 feet in 1934-35.
Note: New driveway concrete construction planned for May. You are still welcome to stay!
Note: Between the hours of ~Noon and 6:00pm there is a chance that the swimming hole might be shared by the owner's grandson and one other adjacent vacation home.

In order to access the surrounding property (Stratobowl, trails along the creek, etc.), a hold harmless waiver will be available to sign at check in.

Check in time is 4:00 PM and check out is 11:00 AM.

Add dates for prices

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

Events allowed: family gatherings, birthday parties, weddings
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Strip any used beds and gather used towels
Remove personal items and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

Important information

You need to know

Property # 3782667vb
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Parties and events (including family gatherings, birthday parties and weddings) are allowed on site. Maximum attendees: 20
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock

About the area

Rapid City

Located in Rapid City, this holiday home is in a rural area and on the waterfront. Shoppers can check out Rushmore Mall, while everyone can enjoy the natural beauty of Mount Rushmore National Memorial and Mount Rushmore. Travelling with kids? Consider Putz n Glo - Black Light Mini Golf and Reptile Gardens. Discover the area's water adventures with kayaking and water tubing nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with hiking/biking trails and rock climbing.
View more Holiday homes in Rapid CityOpens in a new window
Map
Rapid City, SD

What's nearby

  • Putz n Glo - Black Light Mini Golf - 3 min drive - 3.5 km
  • Bear Country USA - 6 min drive - 7.0 km
  • Reptile Gardens - 7 min drive - 10.9 km
  • Fort Hays Old West Town & Dinner Show - 8 min drive - 13.3 km
  • Hart Ranch Golf Course - 10 min drive - 15.1 km

Getting around

  • Rapid City, SD (RAP-Rapid City Regional) - 34 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Wild Sage - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪Starbucks - ‬16 min drive
  • ‪Wings and Rings - ‬17 min drive
  • ‪Salt Block Burgers & Brews - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪Shipwrecks Bar & Grill - ‬12 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Fun Historic Cabin with the Best Swimming Hole on Spring Creek pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at Fun Historic Cabin with the Best Swimming Hole on Spring Creek?

As of 21 June 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Fun Historic Cabin with the Best Swimming Hole on Spring Creek on 13 September 2026 start from NZ$1,015, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking at Fun Historic Cabin with the Best Swimming Hole on Spring Creek?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Fun Historic Cabin with the Best Swimming Hole on Spring Creek?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Fun Historic Cabin with the Best Swimming Hole on Spring Creek?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Fun Historic Cabin with the Best Swimming Hole on Spring Creek located?

This family-friendly Rapid City holiday home is located on the waterfront, 2.3 mi (3.6 km) from Putz n Glo - Black Light Mini Golf, and within 9 mi (15 km) of Reptile Gardens and Cosmos Mystery Area. Fort Hays Old West Town & Dinner Show and Hart Ranch Golf Course are also within 9 miles (15 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 119 out of 124 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 4 out of 124 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 124 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 124 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 124 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Amanda C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Fantastic property with equally great host! It is a destination location without even needing to leave the property. Hiking, kayaking, swimming, fishing, and playing games--we were very happy.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Nick E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful place. Just as listed. Close enough to all of the attractions, but far enough off the grid to feel like we were alone.
Stayed 5 nights in May 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Carolyn L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The view is great, the hiking is good, and the location is excellent.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 29 September 2025
Thank you! Glad you enjoyed your stay! Would rent to you again too - unsure why the thumbs down - won’t let me fix it)
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Brandon C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great relaxing property with lots of hiking in a convenient are in the Black Hills. Really enjoyed Kayaking in the river and just sitting outside relaxing to the sounds.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Erin W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great experience! Did have to check in personally with host to sign waivers, which was unexpected, but helpful to get info about the property and area. Was such a great property to stay at with the swimming hole and trails. Location to all of the things to explore in the area was also good.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Stephanie P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Property was amazing!! The house was clean and the swimming hole was so much fun for my kids! It was very centrally located to all the attractions we wanted to see and the trails accessible right from the house were beautiful!! An amazing spot!!!
Stayed 8 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Erica S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family Vacation

Close to all the tourist attractions, but could have totally spent the whole weekend on this gorgeous property without leaving! Exceeded our expectations!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Johanna B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family trip

We enjoyed the accommodations, meeting the host, and the beautiful hiking trails.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jacob L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great place to get away

This is a great place to get away and enjoy the outdoors all while being close to South Dakota’s attractions.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mary N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This property is such a hidden gem! It was immaculately clean and we could have stayed on the property for our entire stay. The kids loved swimming, diving, and fishing in the creek. We explored the cave, hiked, and enjoyed evenings on the deck. Ken and his family were such great hosts - we were treated like family. We would love to be able to stay again next time we're in the area!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

Courtney W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This is such a lovely home, we really enjoyed being there. The water is very nice to swim in, make sure to watch for the snapping turtle but it should swim away from you. Just keep an eye out. The house did smell a little musty but I assume it was the previous people or just because it is an older home. We loved the wood and was wondering about the history of it which I saw online normally the host will greet you but they were on vacation themselves. We actually liked being left alone more but wish there was a history binder of the area and home. Loved all the hot air balloons. The location is amazing, you will be able to jump right on the highway and go either direction to a lot of tourist spots making it so easy and convenient. The only thing that we wish was a sign up time for the swimming hole so we could plan better around of vacation. A couple times when we came back from exploring either the host or others that vacation the other homes where there and we prefer more privacy on vacation which is why we picked the location. I didnt realize others could use the swimming hole until we got there from 1pm to 6pm. Its at the very bottom of the listing which I feel like that should be brought up to the top. If I did know I might have not booked it. Otherwise its a really great place, I really recommend it if your not planning on swimming or dont mind others. We just wanted to be more secluded. I do think the rating should be a 4.7 overall and not a 4 but I am unable to do so.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Megan E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Our stay

It was fantastic! Great location. Kids had fun swimming/using kayaks at the swimming hole. Cabin accommodations were great!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lesley F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

The Best South Dakota Trip!

My boys and I had the trip of a lifetime! The property was absolutely stunning—far beyond what we imagined. We highly recommend it for anyone looking for a relaxing outdoor getaway. Ken and his family were incredible hosts, and the space was spotless and perfect for the whole family. We’ll definitely be back for more!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 14 June 2025
Wonderful to hear! Thank you!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kristin P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful family getaway

Loved this location. Property was beautiful with the swimming hole and stream. Hiking trails to overlook the area was amazing. Close to places we wanted to visit. Would stay there again!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Nikki T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing and Beautiful

Our family stayed here in early July. It was beautiful! The kids had an amazing time in the swimming hole. Every small detail planned by the host was appreciated. There were games for adults, toys for children, beach towels and extra toiletries if you forget something! Great host, great house, great history!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

What a neat place!

We had a great time! The host was absolutely delightful and very helpful with our questions.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Joseph M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Property!

The property was everything it was promised to be. It was very clean, and the river was fantastic. The entire family loved our stay.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Bob J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Outstanding home stocked full of all the necessary household items and supplies to make my stay with four grandsons (one 17 yrs old, three 16 yr old) in an idyllic stream-runs-through-it wooded property in the StratoBowl historic and scenic area just outside of Rapid City. We enjoyed hiking, fishing, swimming, and panning for gold. Great proximity to local ATV trail rentals and to Mt. Rushmore, Custer State Park, and The Badlands National Park.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Natalie W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful

Words can’t describe this cabin/location. It was breath taking and peaceful. My boys spent hours upon hours fishing and kayaking in the swimming hole. The hikes were beautiful. The cabin fit us all perfectly. We will be back. Thank you for an unforgettable experience.
Stayed 9 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

R. D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Stay in the Stratobowl

We had a wonderful stay at the Creekside House. The house is charming, very well cared for, and hands down the cleanest vacation rental I've stayed at. The hosts are quick to respond to any questions. Great location for relaxing or seeing the sights. seeingsights.requeiries.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mark B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Exceeds Expectations

Our family loved this location so much it was hard to get the kids to want to leave the cabin to see nearby attractions. Canyon, creek, swimming hole, and hiking trails were simply amazing.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 8 June 2023
Thank you Mark! Come back again soon!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Stefanie H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Worthwhile

Property is beautiful. House well stocked, clean, comfortable, cozy. Wonderful location - able to enjoy so much the Black Hills has to offer.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Doug F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Pre school getaway

Enjoyed the greenhouse, perfectly between Rapid City and Mt Rushmore
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Heather S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Paradise!!

Hands down BEST place I have ever stayed!!! Will hopefully be going back!!!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kristin F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful

Our family of 4 loved the stay. The location is very private and the pictures don’t do it justice. It exceeded our expectations.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2023

About the host

Hosted by Ken Tomovick

Host profile image
About the owner: We live in the Black Hills of South Dakota in a place known as the Stratobowl. This geological wonder is carved from the combined effects of water erosion and the uplift of a fault line in the rugged Spring Creek canyon. Secluded and idyllic, the property is reminiscent of another era. Maybe it is the silence, the old limestone cliffs, or the song of the creek meandering through the seasons. As these ancient voices surround us, we breathe in all the natural beauty. Peace melts into our being and comes out as creative expressions. When the moon is full, the canyon becomes an illuminated, mystical experience. That is why, at one time, this place was named 'Moon Valley'. Then, in 1934 and 1935, the Army Air corps and National Geographic Society launched manned balloon flights into the stratosphere from here. It was then, that the family field acquired its new name of 'The Stratobowl' while becoming the birth place for the space age.

Why they chose this property

This specific home was built by our grandparents, Lawrence and Betty Jacobson in 1950. It has recently been renovated. With great pleasure, we share this property with guests from around the world.

What makes this property unique

This home is one level. It has an attached garage to protect your vehicle, and the swimming hole in the backyard is one of a kind. This is truly THE Black Hills experience.

Languages:

English

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