The Custer State Park East Entrance is a strategic access point that offers visitors a seamless and convenient way to explore the wonders of this stunning South Dakota destination. Located near the park’s visitor center on Highway 16A, this entrance provides easy access to some of the park’s most iconic attractions, making it an ideal starting point for your Custer State Park adventure.
The Address of the Custer State Park East Entrance
The address of the Custer State Park East Entrance is:
13329 US Highway 16A
Custer, SD 57730
This location places the entrance in close proximity to the Mount Rushmore National Memorial, allowing visitors to easily combine their Custer State Park experience with a visit to this renowned national landmark.
Benefits of Entering Custer State Park Through the East Entrance
Choosing the Custer State Park East Entrance as your point of entry offers several key advantages:
- Proximity to Mount Rushmore: The East Entrance is the closest access point to Mount Rushmore, making it an ideal starting point for visitors who want to explore both attractions.
- Easy Accessibility: Located on the major Highway 16A, the East Entrance is easily accessible by car, providing a convenient entry point for travelers.
- Visitor Center: The East Entrance is situated near the Custer State Park Visitor Center, which serves as a valuable resource for visitors, offering information, interactive displays, and restroom facilities.
- Family-Friendly Experience: The Visitor Center at the East Entrance features engaging, interactive exhibits that are particularly appealing to families and children, making it a great starting point for a family-oriented visit.
Other Entrances and Directions
Custer State Park offers four main entrances, each with its own unique advantages:
| Entrance | Location | Closest Attractions |
|---|---|---|
| East Entrance | Near the Visitor Center on Highway 16A | Mount Rushmore, Iron Mountain Road |
| West Entrance | Near the town of Custer, also on Highway 16A | – |
| Sylvan Lake Entrance | Northwest entrance | Needles Highway, Crazy Horse Monument |
| Blue Bell Entrance | Southwest entrance | Jewel Cave National Park, Wildlife Loop |
Regardless of which entrance you choose, the park’s diverse offerings and stunning natural beauty await you.
The Wildlife Loop Road
One of the must-see attractions within Custer State Park is the 18-mile Wildlife Loop Road, which can be accessed directly from the East Entrance near the Visitor Center. This scenic drive takes visitors through the heart of the park, offering the chance to spot a variety of wildlife, including the park’s famous bison herd.
Visitors should plan to spend at least half a day exploring the Wildlife Loop Road, as it offers a minimum of 1.5 hours of driving time without stops. However, the true joy of this experience lies in taking the time to observe the park’s diverse flora and fauna, making it a truly immersive and unforgettable adventure.
Park Information
- Park Size: 71,000 acres
- Open: Year-round, with some facilities closed between October 1 and April 30
- Nearest Towns: Custer, Rapid City, Hill City, Keystone, Hermosa
- Contact: 605.394.2693 or [email protected]
Activities and Programs
Custer State Park offers a wide range of activities and programs for visitors to enjoy, including:
- Educational programs and interpretive exhibits
- The annual Buffalo Roundup and Arts Festival
- Hunting opportunities (with proper licenses and permits)
- Nine campgrounds, horse campsites, and modernized cabins or hotel rooms as part of the Custer State Park Resort
Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure, cultural experiences, or simply a peaceful escape, Custer State Park has something to offer everyone.
Conclusion
The Custer State Park East Entrance is a strategic and convenient access point that allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in the park’s natural wonders. With its proximity to Mount Rushmore, easy accessibility, and family-friendly Visitor Center, the East Entrance is an ideal starting point for your Custer State Park exploration. By taking advantage of this entrance, you’ll be able to maximize your time and experience the best that this remarkable South Dakota destination has to offer.
Reference:
- https://gfp.sd.gov/parks/detail/custer-state-park/
- https://wereintherockies.com/wildlife-loop-custer-state-park/
- https://www.custerresorts.com/map-directions
- https://www.custerresorts.com/activities/scenic-drives/wildlife-loop