Custer State Park — 25 Things to do!
Custer State Park, located in the Black Hills of South Dakota, is a natural paradise known for its scenic landscapes, abundant wildlife, and outdoor recreation opportunities. The park covers over 71,000 acres, offering visitors a chance to experience everything from serene lakes to rugged mountain terrain. Whether you’re into hiking, camping, or simply enjoying nature, Custer State Park is a must visit destination that provides a peaceful escape from city life in South Dakota.
In this Article
1. Must-See Attractions
Custer State Park Visitor Center
The Custer State Park Visitor Center is a perfect starting point to explore this beautiful park. Located near the entrance, it offers information about the park’s history, wildlife, and attractions. Visitors can enjoy interactive exhibits that showcase the diverse ecosystems and famous bison herds that roam the area. A short film is available to provide an engaging introduction to the park’s natural wonders and heritage. Maps and brochures are available to plan hikes, scenic drives, or wildlife spotting adventures. Families with kids will enjoy the hands-on learning opportunities at the center.
Sylvan Lake
Sylvan Lake is known for its peaceful waters and scenic surroundings. Often called the “Crown Jewel” of the park, this lake is a favorite spot for outdoor fun and relaxation. Its clear waters are surrounded by granite rocks and tall pines. The easy lakeside trail provides a relaxing walk with photo opportunities, making it a popular choice for families and those seeking gentle outdoor activities. For adventure seekers, kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding are perfect for paddlers of all skill levels. Fishing enthusiasts can enjoy casting a line in the lake, which is home to a variety of fish.
Gordon Stockade Historical Landmark
The Gordon Stockade is a historical site that provides a glimpse into the Black Hills Gold Rush era. This reconstructed log fort represents the original structure built in 1874 by a group of gold prospectors seeking shelter and protection while illegally mining on land belonging to the Lakota people under the Fort Laramie Treaty. Visitors can explore the log buildings and discover stories about the settlers and their challenging lives during that time. Informational panels around the site share details about the gold rush and its impact on the region, offering valuable context.
Cold Springs Historic Schoolhouse
The Cold Springs Historic Schoolhouse is a one-room schoolhouse that provides a glimpse into rural education in the early 1900s. Originally built to serve children from local ranching families, the schoolhouse has been preserved to reflect its original condition, complete with desks, a blackboard, and a wood-burning stove. Informational signs around the site share details about the students and teachers who made this building a hub of their community. Visitors can peek inside the schoolhouse, walk around the site and imagine the challenges and joys of learning in such a setting.
Wildlife Loop Road
Wildlife Loop Road is a 18 mile scenic drive that allow visitors to see the region’s diverse wildlife in their natural habitat. This picturesque route take you through open grasslands and pine forests, offering stunning views and opportunities to spot animals like bison, pronghorn antelope, deer, elk, wild turkeys, and prairie dogs. The road is easy to navigate, and several pull-off areas provide spots to stop, take photos, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Suitable for all types of vehicles, the road ensures a safe drive, but caution is necessary as animals often wander onto the road.
Harney Peak
Harney Peak is now called Black Elk Peak, is a top destination for hikers seeking both adventure and stunning views. Standing as the highest point in the state, the peak offers a moderately challenging hike with trails that take you through pine forests, meadows, and granite formations. The most common route starts at Sylvan Lake and takes about 3 to 4 hours for a round trip. Along the way, hikers are treated to the natural beauty of the Black Hills. At the summit, visitors can enjoy panoramic views and explore a historic stone fire tower, which adds a unique touch to the experience.
Stockade Lake
Stockade Lake is the largest lake in the park and a wonderful destination for visitors to enjoy outdoor activities. The lake offers opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced adventurers. In warmer months, the small beach area is popular for swimming and offers a refreshing way to cool off while enjoying the sunshine. The lake is surrounded by picnic areas and shaded spots, ideal for families or groups looking to spend quality time together. Wildlife sightings are common in this area, adding extra excitement to your visit.
2. Outdoor Adventures
Bison Safari Jeep Tours
Bison Safari Jeep Tours provide an exciting way to see the park’s wildlife up close while exploring its scenic landscapes. These guided tours take you through areas where animals like bison, deer, and pronghorn antelope roam freely in their natural habitats. The guides share interesting facts about the park’s wildlife, history, and ecosystems. Morning and evening tours are especially popular as these times offer the best chance to see active wildlife and enjoy the scenery. The tours typically last between 1.5 to 2 hours, giving visitors plenty of time to take in the sights.
https://www.viator.com/orion/partner/widget.jsHiking Trails
In Custer State Park, hiking trails offer an excellent way to explore the diverse beauty of the Black Hills, with options for all skill levels. Easy trails like the Sylvan Lake Shore Trail provide stunning views of the lake and surrounding granite formations, while more challenging routes like the Black Elk Peak Trail lead to breathtaking panoramic views from the highest point in the state. Along the way, hikers can enjoy peaceful forests, open meadows, and unique rock formations.
For a relaxing walk, the Grace Coolidge Walk-In Fishing Area follows a gentle stream and offers chances to spot wildlife, while the Lovers Leap Trail gives hikers moderate challenges with rewarding views of the rugged landscape. All trails are well-marked and maintained, ensuring a smooth experience for visitors. Comfortable shoes, plenty of water, and checking the weather beforehand are essential for an enjoyable hike.
Fishing and Boating
The Custer State Park has several lakes, including Sylvan Lake, Stockade Lake, and Legion Lake, which are perfect spots for fishing and boating activities. Fishing enthusiasts can try their luck catching trout, bass, perch, or bluegill, with each lake offering its own unique fishing experience. Fishing licenses are required and can be easily obtained before your trip. Boating is another popular activity, with options for kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding. Stockade Lake, being the largest in the park, provides plenty of space to explore the lake and enjoy the scenic surroundings.
Campgrounds
Custer State Park offers a variety of campgrounds that allow visitors to fully enjoy the park’s natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere. Sylvan Lake Campground, located near the famous lake, is a popular choice for those wanting easy access to hiking trails and stunning views. Stockade Lake Campground, nestled near the park’s largest lake, offers plenty of space and opportunities for fishing and water activities. For a more secluded experience, Grace Coolidge Campground provides a quieter atmosphere with nearby fishing spots.
Center Lake Campground is another great option, especially for families, with its cozy setting and access to the small but charming Center Lake. Game Lodge Campground, located near the Wildlife Loop Road, is ideal for those wanting to spot wildlife during their stay. All campgrounds are equipped with basic amenities like restrooms, fire pits, and picnic tables, and some also accommodate RVs with electric hookups. Reservations are highly recommended, especially during the summer months when the park gets busy.
Scenic Drives
Custer State Park is home to three well-known routes for scenic drives: Needles Highway, Wildlife Loop Road, and Iron Mountain Road, each offering a unique experience. Needles Highway is famous for its granite spires, narrow tunnels, and stunning landscapes, while Wildlife Loop Road takes you through open grasslands, offering chances to spot bison, pronghorn antelope, and other wildlife. Iron Mountain Road is a combination of engineering and scenery, with winding curves, pigtail bridges, and tunnels framing views of Mount Rushmore with several pull-offs for taking photos.
3. Iconic Landmarks
Needles Highway
The Needles Highway is a 14 mile drive that reveals the beauty of the Black Hills through its unique landscapes. The road take you through dense pine forests, sprawling meadows, and granite rock formations, including the towering spires known as “needles” that inspired the highway’s name. One of the most exciting features of this drive is the Needle’s Eye Tunnel, a narrow passage carved through solid granite that requires careful navigation. Several pull-offs along the route allow visitors to stop, take some photos, or simply admire the stunning views and peaceful surroundings.
Mount Coolidge Lookout and Fire Tower
Perched at the top of Mount Coolidge, the Mount Coolidge Lookout and Fire Tower offers panoramic views of the Black Hills, including iconic landmarks like the Needles, Black Elk Peak, and even Mount Rushmore on clear days. The drive to the summit is a memorable experience. Once at the top, visitors can enjoy not only the scenery but also learn about the fire tower’s role in monitoring and managing wildfires in the area. During fire season, the tower is staffed by rangers who work to protect the park, and visitors may get the chance to speak with them about their important work.
Bison Center
The Bison Center in Custer State Park, is a place to learn about the park’s iconic bison herd and the conservation efforts that protect them. This engaging center offers interactive exhibits and displays that share history, behavior, and importance of bison in the ecosystem. Visitors can gain insight into the annual Buffalo Roundup, an event designed to maintain the health and balance of the herd, as well as learn about the historical significance of bison on American plains. Inside, the displays are designed to be informative and easy to understand, appealing to visitors of all ages.
Cathedral Spires
The Cathedral Spires is known for its towering granite formations that create a breathtaking landscape. The 1.6 mile round-trip Cathedral Spires Trail offers a journey through forests before reaching these unique rock formations. Though the hike is almost short, it has some rocky sections, making it moderately challenging. The trail is well-marked and easy to navigate, but wearing sturdy shoes is important to handle the uneven terrain. Early mornings are ideal for this hike, with cooler weather that highlights beauty of the spires, as well as a chance to encounter wildlife along the way.
Mickelson Trail
The Mickelson Trail offers visitors to explore the natural beauty of the Black Hills. Part of the longer George S. Mickelson Trail, this section is ideal for walking, biking, or horseback riding due to its smooth surfaces and gentle slopes. Following the path of an old railroad bed, the trail weaves through a mix of pine forests, open meadows, and rocky hillsides, presenting a variety of scenic landscapes. Access points within the park make it easy to plan a visit, whether for a short walk or a longer ride. Along the way, informational signs provide details about the area’s history and wildlife.
https://www.viator.com/orion/partner/widget.jsPrairie Dog Town
Prairie Dog Town is a lively spot where visitors can observe prairie dogs in their natural habitat. These small burrowing animals are fun to watch as they pop in and out of their tunnels and chirp to communicate. Visitors often pull over to enjoy the sight of these active creatures and take photos of their playful interactions. The best time to visit is during the day when the prairie dogs are most active, and bringing binoculars can enhance the viewing experience. It’s important to remember not to feed or disturb the animals, as they are wild and need to be respected in their environment.
4. Family-Friendly Activities
Black Hills Playhouse
Established in 1946, Black Hills Playhouse has a long history of delighting audiences with a mix of classic plays, musicals, and performances. The skilled cast and crew bring every story to life with passion, drawing theater lovers and casual attendees. Visitors can purchase tickets online or at the venue, but booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during the summer season when performances are most frequent. The playhouse’s atmosphere makes it a perfect stop for families, couples, and solo travelers looking to enjoy a bit of culture during their visit to the park.
Horseback Riding
In Custer State Park, guided horseback tours like Blue Bell Stables or Hollingsworth Horses take you through scenic trails lined with pine forests and open meadows, offering a closer connection to the landscape. These rides are perfect for both beginners and experienced riders, with guides ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. Along the trails, you may spot wildlife such as deer, pronghorn antelope, or even bison in the distance. For those who prefer to ride independently, the park also provides designated equestrian trails and facilities for visitors with their own horses.
Day Trip to Mount Rushmore
From Custer State Park, driving to Mount Rushmore takes about 30 minutes, with scenic routes like Iron Mountain Road offering unique tunnels that frame the monument. Once at Mount Rushmore, check out visitor center to learn about its history and admire the massive sculptures of four U.S. presidents. The Presidential Trail provides different perspectives of the carvings, while the Sculptor’s Studio offers insight into how the monument was created. On the return trip, you could make a stop at the Crazy Horse Memorial if time allows, adding another fascinating experience to your day.
https://www.viator.com/orion/partner/widget.jsBlue Bell Lodge
The Blue Bell Lodge provides a cozy retreat for visitors seeking comfort and adventure in the Black Hills. With its rustic cabins, the lodge offers a blend of modern amenities and a peaceful natural setting, making it ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers. Guests can enjoy horseback riding directly from the lodge, exploring scenic trails that showcase the park’s stunning landscapes. The dining room is a favorite spot, serving meals and local dishes like buffalo burgers. Evenings often feature campfires and music, where guests can relax and share stories under the stars.
State Game Lodge
Built in 1920, the State Game Lodge served as the “Summer White House” for President Calvin Coolidge and later hosted President Dwight Eisenhower, adding a historical element to its charm. The lodge provides various accommodations, including cozy cabins and comfortable rooms, catering to diverse needs. Its location near the Wildlife Loop Road makes it an excellent base for spotting bison, deer, and other wildlife in the park. Guests can dine at the on-site restaurant, enjoying hearty meals like buffalo stew and trout while soaking in the lodge’s welcoming atmosphere.
Wildlife Station Visitor Center
The Wildlife Station Visitor Center provides a convenient stop where visitors can explore exhibits showcasing animals like bison, deer, and pronghorn antelope. Informational displays inside the center offer insights into these creatures’ habits, habitats, and role in the ecosystem, making it an enjoyable visit for people of all ages. Outside the center, the nearby areas are often active with wildlife, allowing visitors to observe animals in their natural habitat. A small gift shop inside offers souvenirs and educational materials for those who want to take home a memento of their visit.
How to Reach Custer State Park
For visitors flying in, the nearest airport is Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP), about 50 minutes from the park. From the airport, car rentals are the most convenient option, as the park is best explored with your own vehicle. If you’re driving, major highways like US-16 and US-385 lead to the park, and the routes are scenic, especially as you get closer to the Black Hills. For those coming from Rapid City, follow US-16 south to SD-79, and then take SD-36 west to enter the park’s boundaries. It’s a straightforward drive with clear signs leading to the park’s entrances.
The park’s main access points are through its five well-marked entrances, including the east entrance on SD-36 and the south entrance on SD-87. GPS and map apps are reliable for navigation, but keeping a physical map handy is always a smart idea in case of spotty signal in the area. Visitors planning to travel by RV or camper can easily find nearby campgrounds with parking options. For travelers coming from nearby attractions like Mount Rushmore or Wind Cave National Park, the drive to Custer State Park is short and filled with scenic views.
Local Transportation
Getting around Custer State Park is best done by car, as the park’s scenic roads and vast area make driving the most convenient option. Many visitors explore the park using their own vehicles or rental cars, which allow them to navigate routes like the Wildlife Loop Road, Needles Highway, and Iron Mountain Road at their own pace. For those without access to a car, seasonal guided tours are a great alternative. These tours operate during the summer and provide transportation while highlighting the park’s wildlife, landmarks, and history.
Inside the park, there are no public transportation options, so planning ahead is essential for a smooth trip. Motorcycles are also a popular choice, especially for enjoying the winding curves and scenic views of the park’s iconic drives. It’s important to note that parking is available near most attractions and trailheads, making it easy to stop and explore on foot. Visitors should ensure their vehicles have enough fuel, as gas stations are not located directly within the park.
FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. What is the optimal time of the year to visit Custer State Park?
The best time to visit Custer State Park is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is mild and the park is less crowded. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and active wildlife, while fall offers beautiful autumn foliage and cooler temperatures. Summer (July and August) is also popular, but it can be quite busy with more tourists and warmer temperatures. Winter (November to March) is less frequented, but it provides a peaceful, snow-covered landscape for those who enjoy winter activities.
2. What are some popular activities in Custer State Park?
Custer State Park offers a variety of activities for everyone. Enjoy wildlife viewing on the Wildlife Loop Road, where you might see bison, elk, deer, and pronghorn antelope. There are hiking trails for all skill levels, including Harney Peak and Cathedral Spires. For a relaxing day, fish or boat at Sylvan Lake or Stockade Lake. The park also has scenic drives like Needles Highway and Iron Mountain Road, featuring stunning views and unique rock formations.
3. Are there guided tours available in the park?
Yes, Custer State Park offers guided tours and ranger-led programs. These tours provide valuable insights into the park’s history, wildlife, and natural features. You can often find information about these programs at the park visitor centers or on the official park website. It’s a good idea to check the schedule in advance and make reservations if necessary.
4. Is there camping available in the park?
Yes, Custer State Park offers several campgrounds with a range of amenities. Campgrounds like the Blue Bell Campground and the Stockade Lake Campground provide both primitive and more developed sites with amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings, and access to restrooms. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak seasons, and can be made through the park’s reservation system or by contacting the park directly.
5. What should I bring when visiting Custer State Park?
When visiting Custer State Park, pack comfortable clothing and sturdy footwear for outdoor activities. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for sun protection, and a camera or smartphone to capture the scenery. Don’t forget a reusable water bottle, maps or a GPS device for navigation, and binoculars for wildlife viewing. A first-aid kit is also a good idea for emergencies.
