Custer State Park in South Dakota is a popular destination for camping and outdoor adventures. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors, the park has established a set of camping rules and regulations. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the details of these rules, so you can plan your Custer State Park camping trip with confidence.
Designated Camping Areas
Camping in Custer State Park is only permitted in designated areas, which include nine campgrounds with a total of 338 campsites and 50 camping cabins. These campsites are designed to accommodate a variety of camping units, from tents to RVs.
Electrical Hook-Ups
If you’re planning to use electrical appliances or devices during your stay, you’ll need to register for an electrical site. It’s important to note that extension cords cannot be run from one campsite to another, as this can pose a safety hazard.
Generator Use
Generators are allowed in Custer State Park, but their use is restricted to specific hours. Campers can operate their generators from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., but for no more than two hours at a time. This rule helps to maintain a peaceful and quiet atmosphere in the park.
Campsite Occupancy
The maximum occupancy for a single campsite in Custer State Park is six people. This includes both adults and children. If you have a larger group, you may need to reserve multiple campsites.
Maximum Stay
Campers are limited to a maximum of 14 consecutive nights at any one state park area, unless they receive written consent from the park manager. This rule helps to ensure that all visitors have an opportunity to enjoy the park.
Quiet Hours
To maintain a peaceful environment, Custer State Park has established quiet hours from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. During this time, campers are expected to keep noise to a minimum, respecting the needs of other visitors.
Fire Regulations
Open fires are prohibited in Custer State Park, unless they are in approved fire grates located in campgrounds or picnic areas. Campers must ensure that any campfires are fully extinguished before leaving or turning in for the night.
Pets
Pets are allowed in Custer State Park, but they must be on a leash no longer than 10 feet. Pets are not permitted in any park buildings or on designated swim beaches. Owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets and ensuring they are not left unattended.
Vehicle Speed Limits
The speed limit in Custer State Park is 20 mph, unless otherwise posted. On highways and interior gravel roads, the speed limit is 35 mph, while in campgrounds, lakes, and day-use areas, the limit is 15 mph.
ATVs and Scooters
Only licensed ATVs are permitted in Custer State Park, and they must stay on established designated roadways. Off-road, unlicensed ATV use is not allowed, except for licensed hunters during established hunting seasons.
Check-In and Check-Out Times
Campers in Custer State Park have specific check-in and check-out times. Check-in is at 4 p.m. (12 p.m. for Custer campsites), and check-out is at 4 p.m. (11 a.m. for Custer campsites).
Daily Entrance License Expiration
Daily park entrance licenses in Custer State Park expire at the start of quiet hours on the day they are issued, or at 4 p.m. the following day for registered campers.
Seven-Day Temporary Licenses
At Custer State Park, seven-day temporary licenses expire at 6 p.m. on the seventh day of the visitor’s stay.
By understanding and following these Custer State Park camping rules, you can ensure a safe, enjoyable, and sustainable experience for yourself and other visitors. Remember to always respect the natural environment and the needs of your fellow campers. Happy camping!