Student Activities & Things to Do

Where You'll Play at BHSU

Join the fun at BHSU through residence hall events, Club Buzz's game room, and Yellow Jacket athletics. Off campus, explore Spearfish's hiking trails, local shops, restaurants, and seasonal attractions like corn mazes and pumpkin patches. Your Yellow Jacket adventure starts here!

Play on Campus

BHSU Athletic Events

Experience the thrill of Yellow Jacket pride at BHSU's NCAA Division II sporting events! Join fellow students in cheering on our 14 competitive teams in the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference, including football, men's and women's basketball, volleyball, cross country, track and field, golf, softball, soccer, and triathlon. Our nationally recognized rodeo team also competes through the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association. From football games at Lyle Hare Stadium to basketball in the Donald E. Young Center, our student-athletes deliver exciting performances that unite our campus community in green and gold spirit.

Find out more about BHSU Athletics

Residence Hall Events

Sturgis Rally & Jacket Ride

Residence Hall Events

Your BHSU experience starts with where you live through our vibrant residence hall community. In your residence hall, dedicated RAs organize movie nights, game tournaments, study breaks, and cultural celebrations that transform your living space into a supportive home.

3 students holding up valentines lips on sticks to their mouths for a little fun at an All Hall event in the residence halls.

Student Orgs

Your BHSU experience also comes alive through our vibrant student organization community. With over 80 student clubs—ranging from Campus Activities Board to academic clubs to cultural organizations like Lakota Omniciye—there's something for every interest. These groups collaborate to host campus-wide events, service projects, and engaging activities that help you build connections beyond the classroom and develop leadership skills that last a lifetime.

Find your Student Org

3 students holding up valentines lips on sticks to their mouths for a little fun at an All Hall event in the residence halls.

BHSU Theatre

Step into the spotlight with BHSU's dynamic theatre program, where students and community members alike can experience the magic of live performance. Throughout the academic year, catch captivating productions in the Black Box Theatre on the third floor of Woodburn Hall, where talented students bring diverse works to life—from Shakespearean classics to contemporary comedies and thought-provoking dramas. Join Props & Liners, BHSU's oldest student organization founded in 1921, or participate in Theatre Society, open to anyone with theatrical interests regardless of major. During summer, don't miss the popular Summer Stage series featuring professional-quality shows. Whether you're center stage or working behind the scenes, BHSU theatre offers authentic experiences that have launched graduates into successful careers in professional theatre, film, television, and education across the region and beyond.

Two BHSU Student theatre majors leaning and singing as part of a dance routine.

Club Buzz Game Room

Located in the lower level of the Student Union, Club Buzz Game Room offers the perfect study break destination. Challenge friends to pool on one of three tables, show off your skills at ping-pong, or engage in friendly foosball competitions. With comfortable seating areas and televisions, it's an ideal spot to unwind between classes or meet up with friends.

Student working behind the counter at Union Coffee.

Green & Gold Days

Begin your BHSU journey with Green & Gold Days, our dynamic orientation program designed to welcome new students to campus. Through team-building activities, campus tours, academic sessions, and social events, you'll make your first Yellow Jacket connections before classes even begin, ensuring a smooth transition to college life.

Swarm Days

Experience BHSU's most cherished tradition during Swarm Days homecoming week! Join the campus-wide celebration featuring themed competitions between student organizations, the magical Burning of the BH ceremony, coronation of homecoming royalty, a spectacular downtown parade, and the action-packed football game that brings together students, alumni, and community members in Yellow Jacket pride.

Find out more about Swarm Days

The BHSU homecoming king and queen setting a giant BH on fire as is the tradition during Swarm Days.

Sturgis Rally & Jacket Ride

Join us for the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, a world-renowned event that draws riders and enthusiasts to the Black Hills each August. At BHSU, we embrace the spirit of the rally with our annual Jacket Ride, bringing together the campus community and alumni for a memorable group ride through the scenic Black Hills. Whether you're a seasoned rider or simply enjoy the excitement, come for the camaraderie, breathtaking views, and a taste of this iconic local tradition.

Find out more about Sturgis Rally & Jacket Ride

A group of motorcyclists on their bikes in a parking lot with rolling hills in the background; the lead rider gives a peace sign to the camera.

Playing off Campus

Places to Play in Spearfish

Discover the natural wonders of Spearfish Canyon, where limestone cliffs and flowing waterfalls create a spectacular backdrop for hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing. The 19-mile Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway offers breathtaking views, while trails to Devil's Bathtub and Roughlock Falls provide unforgettable adventures. Experience the artistic side of Spearfish at the unique Termesphere Gallery—with a preview of Dick Termes' mesmerizing 360-degree spherical paintings right in BHSU's own library. Downtown, explore the Matthews Opera House, D.C. Booth Historic Fish Hatchery, and local boutiques. In autumn, don't miss the Spearfish Corn Maze & Pumpkin Patch, offering over 40 varieties of pumpkins, hay rides, and family activities with live music and local brews. Whether climbing Lookout Mountain or relaxing at one of three local craft breweries, your Black Hills adventure awaits just minutes from campus.

Student Life Quick Links

Where You'll Live Where You'll Eat