Custer State Park in South Dakota has specific rules and regulations regarding firearms within the park. This comprehensive guide will provide you with the necessary information to navigate the firearm policies and ensure a safe and enjoyable visit to the park.
Custer State Park Firearm Rules: The Essentials
Custer State Park has a set of rules and exceptions when it comes to the use of firearms, air guns, crossbows, and bows within the park boundaries. Here are the key details:
General Restrictions
- Uncased firearms, air guns, crossbows, and bows are prohibited in the state park system, with certain exceptions.
Exceptions
- Designated Ranges: Uncased firearms, air guns, crossbows, and bows are permitted on designated rifle and archery ranges year-round and may be transported or carried uncased to and from ranges and boat ramps from designated parking areas.
- Licensed Hunters: Hunters licensed for special Custer State Park hunting seasons may have uncased firearms, crossbows, and bows in Custer State Park during the season for which they are licensed.
- Specific Areas and Seasons: From September 1 to May 31, uncased firearms, air guns, crossbows, and bows are authorized for licensed hunters in lakeside use areas, Shadehill Recreation Area, and other designated areas.
Concealed Carry
- Any person who is legally allowed to carry a concealed pistol may carry a concealed pistol at any time in Custer State Park.
Hunting Seasons and Areas
- There are specific hunting seasons and areas where uncased firearms are allowed, including designated rifle and archery ranges, lakeside use areas, and other designated areas during established hunting seasons.
Prohibited Firearms
- Uncased .22-caliber firearms, air guns, BB guns, slingshots, and paintball guns are not allowed in the parks, except on designated shooting ranges.
Additional Considerations
Recreational Spotlighting
- Recreational spotlighting is allowed in Custer State Park, with the exception that it is prohibited from 10 p.m. to sunrise from September 1 to January 31.
Archery and Firearm Hunting
- Archery and firearm hunting are allowed in some state parks and recreation areas during the state’s established seasons.
Contact Information
For more information or to plan your visit to Custer State Park, you can contact the following:
- Camping Reservations: CAMPSD.COM or 1.800.710.2267
- Park Information: 605.255.4515 or CUSTERSTATEPARK.COM
References
- South Dakota Administrative Rules, Title 41, Department of Game, Fish, and Parks, Article 41:03, Chapter 41:03:01, Section 41:03:01:16. (Effective until 11/21/2022). Retrieved from https://casetext.com/regulation/south-dakota-administrative-rules/title-41-department-of-game-fish-and-parks/article-4103-parks-and-public-lands/chapter-410301-uses-of-parks-and-public-lands/section-41030116-effective-until-11212022-restrictions-on-use-of-firearms-air-guns-crossbows-and-bows-in-the-state-park-system-exceptions
- Mount Rushmore National Memorial. (2022). Firearms. Retrieved from https://www.nps.gov/moru/planyourvisit/firearms.htm
- South Dakota Legislature. Administrative Rule 41:03. Retrieved from https://sdlegislature.gov/Rules/Administrative/41:03
- South Dakota Game, Fish, and Parks. (2022). CUSTER STATE PARK. Retrieved from https://gfp.sd.gov/userdocs/docs/tatanka_2022.pdf
- South Dakota Game, Fish, and Parks. Regulations. Retrieved from https://gfp.sd.gov/camping-regulations/.
As a state park touring enthusiast or tour planner, it’s essential to be aware of the specific firearm rules and regulations in Custer State Park. By understanding the exceptions, concealed carry policies, and hunting seasons, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for yourself and your guests. Remember to always check the latest updates and regulations before your visit to Custer State Park.