2021 Map of Big Bend Dam

About this map

Fort Thompson sits at a critical bend in the Missouri River, where the massive infrastructure of the Big Bend Dam separates two distinct reservoir environments. This modern survey illustrates the dramatic impact of the Pick-Sloan Plan on the landscape, with the impounded waters of Lake Sharpe to the northwest and Lake Francis Case stretching to the southeast. The settlement's layout is defined by its proximity to the dam and a network of Bureau of Indian Affairs routes, including Bia RD 8 and Bia HWY 4. Local history and genealogy are anchored by several notable burial grounds, such as Saint Joseph Cem, Lake View Cem, and the Christ Episcopal Cem. The surrounding terrain is deeply dissected by drainage systems like Soldier Cr, Good Soldier Cr, and Campbell Cr, which carve through the high ground above the river valley.