Our story

A little resort with a whole lot of heart.

Family-owned and made for the way people really explore the Black Hills.

Reserve Now

Welcome to our place

A family project. A shared adventure.

The Ponderosa Pines family with Herman and Louie
The family behind Ponderosa Pines—and the Pondo Pups

Ponderosa Pines Inn and Cabins is more than a place to stay—it’s a family project, a shared adventure, and a cozy basecamp for discovering the Black Hills. We’re genuinely family-owned and operated, and the care behind this place comes from the people you’ll read about here.

Jeff and Molly live in Omaha, Nebraska, where they’re raising six kids and two dogs. Jeff is a home builder, Molly works in marketing, and together they love taking adventures and trying new challenges—the kind of spirit that feels right at home in the Black Hills.

Several times a year, they make their way to Lead with Herman and Louie, their much-loved “Pondo Pups,” along for the ride. While they’re here, Jeff and Molly roll up their sleeves and keep working to update and renovate this rustic resort to the best of their abilities, always with the goal of making it a little more welcoming for the next guest.

Ponderosa Pines is also co-owned by Jackie—Jeff’s mom—and her partner, Dale. They may be retired, but they haven’t slowed down for a minute. Their energy, care, and willingness to jump in are a big part of what keeps the resort moving forward.

And then there are Herman and Louie. They only come up once in a while, so if your stay overlaps with one of their visits, there’s a good chance you’ll spot the Pondo Pups around the property. They love people, so come say hello—and take a selfie if you see them.

While the family isn’t on-site every day, day-to-day care is in good hands with Bear Property Management, a local Black Hills team who look after the property and are just a phone call away for anything you need during your stay.

That’s the heart of Ponderosa Pines: a whole family working together, taking on improvements and challenges, sharing plenty of laughs, and always looking forward to what’s next. We’re glad you found us, and we hope this little corner of Lead feels like a warm, relaxing home base for your own Black Hills adventure.

Come stay with us