Supporting interpretive programs, educational activities, and research in an effort to protect and preserve the cultural and natural resources of the Black Hills.

The Black Hills Parks & Forests Association is a non-profit organization that began 65 years ago as the Wind Cave Natural History Association. Today, BHPFA has expanded our reach to include the National Park Service, National Forest Service, National Grasslands, and South Dakota State Parks. We operate bookstores in 14 outlet locations throughout the Black Hills including:

We also supply bookstore materials to the 1881 Custer County Courthouse Museum in Custer, SD and the Hudson Meng Bison Kill in Crawford, NE.

As a non-profit cooperating association, our mission is to partner with state and federal agencies to promote public understanding, appreciation, and stewardship of the Black Hills natural and cultural heritage.

Sales outlets provide a variety of interpretive materials and products to visitors wishing to learn more about the rich history and natural scenery of the beautiful Black Hills, western South Dakota, eastern Wyoming, and the Nebraska panhandle. The Association uses the proceeds from its sales to provide financial aid to its partner agencies. The monetary donations are used to print interpretive publications, fund internship positions, purchase educational supplies and equipment, serve as matching funds for grant requests, and provide assistance toward research projects.

As stated in the Articles of Incorporation of the Black Hills Parks and Forests Association:

 Articles of Incorporation: "...purposes for which said corporation is formed are: 

Publications:  Our ongoing publication program

Board of Directors: Board members serve terms of three years with a limit of three consecutive terms.

The Association has funded:

• ·    Summer interpretive interns at Wind Cave, Jewel Cave, and Custer State Park
• ·    Cave management interns at Jewel Cave
• ·    Various research projects at Wind Cave and Jewel Cave
• ·    Visitor Center exhibits at Wind Cave, Jewel Cave, Custer State Park, and Pactola Visitor Center
• ·    Free publications and  brochures for visitor use at the parks
• ·    Hiking trail guides for Wind Cave and the Forest Service
• ·    Professional training for personnel at Wind Cave, Jewel Cave, and Custer State Park
• ·    Exhibits and interpretive materials at the park visitor centers