Yes, Custer State Park is located within the Black Hills National Forest in South Dakota. The park spans 71,000 acres and offers a variety of activities such as camping, hiking, biking, swimming, fishing, and wildlife viewing. It is known for its abundant wildlife, including free-roaming bison, and its scenic landscapes featuring granite peaks and rolling plains.
Location and Size of Custer State Park
Custer State Park is situated in the southern Black Hills region of South Dakota, covering an impressive 71,000 acres of land. This vast expanse of natural beauty is a true gem within the larger Black Hills National Forest, offering visitors a unique and immersive outdoor experience.
Key Features of Custer State Park
Custer State Park is renowned for its diverse array of features and attractions. Some of the park’s highlights include:
- Roaming Bison: The park is home to a thriving herd of free-roaming bison, which is one of the largest public herds in the United States.
- Mountain Lakes: The park boasts four picturesque mountain lakes, including Sylvan Lake, Stockade Lake, Center Lake, and Legion Lake.
- Hiking and Biking Trails: Custer State Park offers an extensive network of hiking and biking trails, allowing visitors to explore the stunning landscapes.
- Horse Camp: The park features a dedicated horse camp, catering to equestrian enthusiasts.
- Scenic Drives: Visitors can enjoy scenic drives through the park, including the famous Wildlife Loop Road and the Needles Highway.
- Historic Buildings: The park is home to several historic buildings, including the Peter Norbeck Visitor Center and the State Game Lodge.
Wildlife and Visitor Centers
Custer State Park is renowned for its abundant wildlife, which includes not only the iconic bison but also elk, pronghorn, bighorn sheep, and a variety of other species. Visitors can explore the park’s diverse ecosystems and observe these animals in their natural habitats.
The park also features several visitor centers, including the Custer State Park Visitor Center, the Wildlife Station Visitor Center, and the Peter Norbeck Outdoor Education Center. These facilities provide information, exhibits, and educational programs to enhance the visitor experience.
Camping and Accessibility
Custer State Park offers a range of camping options, with 9 campgrounds and 338 campsites, as well as 50 camping cabins. The park is also designed to be accessible, with ADA-compliant facilities such as camping cabins, campsites, fishing piers, flush toilets, group picnic shelters, paved trails, playgrounds, showers, and visitor centers.
Planning Your Visit
Custer State Park is open year-round, although some facilities like showers and flush toilets may be closed between October 1 and April 30. It’s recommended to make reservations for campgrounds, which can be done through Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.
Nearby Attractions
In addition to the natural wonders of Custer State Park, the surrounding Black Hills region offers a wealth of other attractions and destinations for visitors to explore, including:
- National Parks: Badlands National Park and Wind Cave National Park
- Monuments and Memorials: Mount Rushmore National Memorial, Jewel Cave National Monument, and Crazy Horse Memorial
- Other State Parks: Angostura State Recreation Area, George S. Mickelson Trail, Bear Butte State Park, Rocky Point State Recreation Area, Sheps Canyon State Recreation Area, and Roughlock Falls State Recreation Area
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a wildlife lover, or simply seeking a scenic and peaceful outdoor adventure, Custer State Park within the Black Hills National Forest is a must-visit destination in South Dakota.
References:
- https://www.blackhillsvacations.com/things-to-do/national-state-parks/
- https://gfp.sd.gov/parks/detail/custer-state-park/
- https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g60865-d146968-Reviews-Black_Hills_National_Forest-Custer_South_Dakota.html
- https://www.blackhillsbadlands.com/parks-monuments/custer-state-park
- https://www.fs.usda.gov/recmain/blackhills/recreation