Custer State Park, a 71,000-acre wildlife preserve located in the Black Hills of South Dakota, offers a diverse range of activities and attractions for visitors. From scenic drives and hiking trails to camping and wildlife viewing, this comprehensive guide will help you plan your visit and make the most of your time in this stunning natural wonder.
Camping Options in Custer State Park
Custer State Park boasts ten campgrounds, each with its unique features and amenities. Whether you prefer electric hookups and modern restrooms or primitive sites with vault toilets, the park has something to suit every camping preference.
| Campground Name | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Blue Bell Campground | Electric hookups, modern restrooms |
| Center Lake Campground | Electric hookups, modern restrooms |
| Creekside Campground | Electric hookups, modern restrooms |
| French Creek Campground | Primitive sites, vault toilets |
| Game Lodge Campground | Electric hookups, modern restrooms |
| Legion Lake Campground | Electric hookups, modern restrooms |
| Stockade Lake Campground | Electric hookups, modern restrooms |
| Sylvan Lake Campground | Electric hookups, modern restrooms |
| Willow Creek Campground | Primitive sites, vault toilets |
| Wooded Acres Campground | Primitive sites, vault toilets |
Scenic Drives and Hiking Trails in Custer State Park
Custer State Park offers several scenic drives and hiking trails that allow visitors to explore the park’s stunning natural beauty.
Scenic Drives
- Wildlife Loop Road: An 18-mile road that takes you through the park’s wildlife areas, offering opportunities to see bison, elk, and other wildlife.
- Needles Highway: A 14-mile road that takes you through the park’s scenic Needles area, offering stunning views of the Black Hills.
- Iron Mountain Road: A 17-mile road that takes you through the park’s scenic Iron Mountain area, offering breathtaking views of the Black Hills.
Hiking Trails
Custer State Park has over 50 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy to challenging, that offer stunning views of the Black Hills and surrounding wildlife.
Rules and Regulations for Visitors in Custer State Park
To ensure a safe and enjoyable visit, Custer State Park has several rules and regulations in place:
- Do not approach the buffalo: Keep a safe distance from wildlife, especially bison, as they can be aggressive.
- Do not feed or disturb wildlife: Feeding wildlife can cause them to become aggressive and lose their natural fear of humans.
- Stay on designated roads and trails: To protect both visitors and wildlife, stay on designated roads and trails.
- No open fires: Open fires are prohibited unless in an approved fire grate located in campgrounds or picnic areas.
- Pets must be on a leash: Pets must be kept on a leash no longer than 10 feet and are not allowed in any park buildings or on designated swimming beaches.
Additional Information
- Park Hours: The park is open year-round, but some facilities may be closed during the winter months.
- Admission: A park entrance license is required for all visitors.
- Accommodations: The park offers several lodging options, including cabins, lodges, and campgrounds.
- Dining: The park has several dining options, including restaurants and snack bars.
- Activities: The park offers a range of activities, including fishing, boating, swimming, and wildlife viewing.
Contact Information
- Park Office: 605.255.4515
- Camping Reservations: 1.800.710.2267
- Lodging Reservations: 1.888.875.0001
- Website: www.custerstatepark.com
References
- Custer State Park Official Guide: www.gfp.sd.gov/userdocs/docs/2023tatanka-web.pdf
- Travel South Dakota: www.travelsouthdakota.com/explore-with-us/great-8/custer-state-park
- We’re in the Rockies: wereintherockies.com/quick-guide-to-custer-state-park