Custer State Park’s Grace Coolidge Campground is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a peaceful and scenic camping experience in the heart of the Black Hills of South Dakota. With its convenient location, diverse amenities, and array of recreational activities, this campground offers the perfect base for exploring the natural beauty of the region.
Location and Accessibility
The Grace Coolidge Campground is situated on US Highway 16A, just a short distance from the Visitor Center, Peter Norbeck Outdoor Education Center, Tatanka Barn, and State Game Lodge. This strategic location allows campers to easily access the park’s main attractions and facilities. The campground also offers accessible campsites with electric hookups (sites 3E and 26E) and accessible facilities, including flush toilets and showers, making it a welcoming destination for visitors of all abilities.
Campsites and Accommodations
The Grace Coolidge Campground boasts a total of 59 campsites, including 20 tent-only sites and 39 sites with electric hookups (30 and 50 amp). The cost for a standard site is $26 per night, while sites with electric hookups are $30 per night. In addition to the campsites, the campground also offers 11 camping cabins available for rent at $55 per night, providing a more comfortable option for those seeking a bit more amenity.
Amenities and Facilities
The Grace Coolidge Campground is well-equipped to cater to the needs of its visitors. The campground features flush toilets, showers, a dump station, and drinking water, ensuring a comfortable and convenient camping experience. Vault toilets are also available for those seeking a more rustic option.
Activities and Attractions
Campers at the Grace Coolidge Campground can enjoy a variety of recreational activities right on-site. The nearby Coolidge Walk-in Fishing Area offers excellent opportunities for anglers, while the campground’s beach provides a refreshing spot for swimming. Visitors can also explore the nearby Creekside Trail and French Creek Trail, offering scenic hikes and opportunities to connect with the natural surroundings.
Reservations and Fees
Reservations for the Grace Coolidge Campground can be made online, and a separate entry fee is required to access Custer State Park. The seven-day pass costs $20. Camping fees range from $15 per night for tent-only sites to $30 per night for sites with electric hookups, while the camping cabins are $55 per night.
Additional Information
The Grace Coolidge Campground is open from April 1 to November 15 with full facilities, and from November 16 to March 31 with limited facilities. Group camping is available near the Stockade Lake and Game Lodge Campgrounds, with a minimum fee of $140 for up to 40 people.
It’s important to note that cellular service can be limited in the area, with no connectivity for Verizon and T-Mobile, and poor service for AT&T. The campground also has a host who will check in with visitors at their campsites.
Overall, the Grace Coolidge Campground in Custer State Park offers a well-rounded camping experience, with a range of amenities, activities, and natural beauty to explore. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a first-time visitor, this campground is sure to provide a memorable and enjoyable stay in the heart of the Black Hills.
References:
1. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xjITusV8vX8
2. https://gfp.sd.gov/csp-campgrounds/
3. https://gfp.sd.gov/userdocs/grace-coolidge-campground.pdf
4. https://gfp.sd.gov/userdocs/grace_coolidge.pdf
5. https://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g60865-d2098056-Reviews-Grace_Coolidge_Campground-Custer_South_Dakota.html