Bear Butte, called Mato Paha by the Lakota and Noahvose by the Cheyenne, is an igneous intrusion that formed in the Black Hills millions of years ago. The mountain is sacred to many American Indian tribes who hold ceremonies here, and visitors are asked to be respectful of worshippers. The state park near Sturgis has hiking, fishing at the lake, horseback riding, picnicking and a visitor center with a museum. Camping is limited to 15 non-electric campsites and four non-electric horse campsites, with a middle camp area; sites are first-come, first-served. The park is open year-round, with some water systems closed from October through April.