Custer State Park in South Dakota is home to one of the largest publicly-owned bison herds in the United States. Each year, the park hosts the renowned Buffalo Roundup, where visitors can witness the spectacle of cowboys and cowgirls herding the majestic bison into the park’s corrals. These corrals play a crucial role in the event, serving as the hub for various activities and management practices. Let’s explore the Custer State Park Buffalo Corrals and uncover the fascinating details surrounding this annual tradition.
The Bison Roundup and Corrals
The Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup is an iconic event that takes place every September. During this event, the park’s bison herd, numbering around 1,300 animals, is rounded up and driven into the park’s corrals. This process is a remarkable display of horsemanship, skill, and teamwork, as the cowboys and cowgirls work together to guide the bison safely into the corrals.
What Happens to the Bison in the Corrals?
Once the bison are in the corrals, the real work begins. The park’s staff and volunteers undertake a series of important tasks to manage the herd:
- Testing: The bison are tested for various health conditions, ensuring the overall well-being of the herd.
- Branding: The bison are branded with the park’s distinctive brand, a process that helps with identification and herd management.
- Sorting: The bison are sorted based on various factors, such as age, gender, and overall condition. This sorting process helps the park’s staff make informed decisions about the herd’s management.
This entire process, from the roundup to the completion of the testing, branding, and sorting, typically takes until around noon on the day of the event.
How Long Does the Herd Management Process Take?
The Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup is a well-orchestrated event, with the park’s staff and volunteers working efficiently to manage the entire herd. The roundup, testing, branding, and sorting process generally takes until around noon on the day of the event. However, the park’s staff continues to work with the remainder of the herd in the following weeks, ensuring the overall health and well-being of the bison population.
Visitor Activities Near the Corrals
While the bison management activities are the main draw of the Buffalo Roundup, there are plenty of other activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy near the corrals:
Breakfast and Lunch
Visitors can start their day with a hearty breakfast, served at 6:15 a.m. in both the North and South viewing areas. Once the bison are in the corrals, a delicious lunch is served at the corral site, allowing visitors to refuel and continue their experience.
Gift Shop
The newly opened Custer State Park Bison Center, located along the Wildlife Loop Road near the Buffalo Corrals, offers a wide selection of bison-inspired gifts and souvenirs, as well as snacks, drinks, and ice cream novelties.
Arts Festival
Coinciding with the Buffalo Roundup, the park hosts the Buffalo Roundup Arts Festival, featuring up to 150 vendors selling fine arts, crafts, and many South Dakota-made products. The festival takes place Thursday through Saturday near the Peter Norbeck Outdoor Education Center.
Accessing the Corrals and Viewing Areas
Visitors have two main options for accessing the corrals and viewing the Buffalo Roundup:
- North Parking and Viewing: Head south from the State Game Lodge area on the Wildlife Loop Road.
- South Parking and Viewing: Head east on the Wildlife Loop Road near the Blue Bell campground.
Accessible parking is available, and visitors should clearly display their parking emblem to be directed to the appropriate area. Shuttles are also available after the Roundup for those who wish to visit the corral area.
Conclusion
The Custer State Park Buffalo Corrals are the epicenter of the annual Buffalo Roundup, a captivating event that showcases the park’s dedication to the management and preservation of its bison herd. Visitors can witness the bison being tested, branded, and sorted, while also enjoying a range of activities and attractions near the corrals. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a photography buff, or simply seeking a unique and memorable experience, the Custer State Park Buffalo Corrals are a must-visit destination.
References
- https://www.travelsouthdakota.com/trip-ideas/article/custer-state-park-buffalo-roundup
- https://gfp.sd.gov/buffalo-roundup/
- https://www.custerresorts.com/news/new-csp-bison-center
- https://www.custerresorts.com/activities/buffalo-roundup
- https://gfp.sd.gov/csp-bison-center/