Overview
Custer State Park is a stunning natural park located in the Black Hills of South Dakota. It's known for its scenic drives, wildlife viewing, and outdoor recreation opportunities.
The park is home to a large herd of bison and offers a unique wildlife experience. It's also a significant geological area with unique rock formations.
Location
Address
12172 US-16A
Neighborhood: Black Hills
Coordinates
43.713900, -103.621000
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
June-August
Best Time of Day
Early morning
Wildlife is most active, fewer crowds
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
Mild to warm
- • Wildflowers
- • Waterfalls
summer
Warm to hot
- • Wildlife Loop Scenic Byway
- • Swimming
autumn
Cool to mild
- • Fall colors
- • Hunting
winter
Cold to very cold
- • Snowshoeing
- • Snowmobiling
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Check weather conditions
- Book accommodations in advance
- Carry bear spray for hiking trails
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: Moderate to high for hiking trails
- • Stay on marked trails
- • Be aware of wildlife
- • Carry water
Medical facilities: First aid available at visitor centers
Payment Information
Accepted
Cash, Credit cards
Currency
USD
Typical Costs
Dress Code
Casual, comfortable clothing, Layered clothing, hiking shoes, Sturdy, comfortable shoes, Inappropriate attire for guided tours
Booking Tips
- • At least 3 months for peak season
- • Official Custer State Park website
- • Varies by accommodation
- • Online tickets for scenic byway
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Custer State Park Official App
Size: 45 MB
Features: Park map, Event calendar, Wildlife sightings, Ticket purchase
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor centers, Lodge areas
Charging Stations: Visitor centers, lodge areas
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Rapid City Regional Airport
Distance: 45 miles
Travel Time: 1 hour
From City Center
Distance: 1 mile
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Diverse wildlife, stunning landscapes, rich history
Historical Significance: Home to Native American history, gold rush, and significant geological formations
Insider Tips
- Best wildlife viewing is early morning or late evening
- Visit the visitor center for up-to-date information
- Check for ranger-led programs
Local Recommendations
- • Try local South Dakota chislic
- • Visit the Black Hills Institute for fossil exhibits
- • Ask rangers for current wildlife sightings
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, Spanish, French, German
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Wildlife Loop Road
Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon
Tips: Use a telephoto lens for wildlife, capture landscapes with a wide-angle lens
Result: Stunning wildlife and landscape shots
Sylvan Lake
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Capture reflections, use a polarizing filter
Result: Breathtaking lake and mountain reflections
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Mount Rushmore National Memorial
Distance: 17 miles
Walking: Not walkable
Type: Monument
Badlands National Park
Distance: 65 miles
Walking: Not walkable
Type: National Park
Jewel Cave National Monument
Distance: 25 miles
Walking: Not walkable
Type: Cave
Reviews
Based on 2,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Visit early for wildlife"
- "Book scenic byway in advance"
- "Check for ranger programs"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities
Search Term: "Custer State Park ,south dakota"
Products Found: 0
No related products found for this search term. Try searching manually:
Search for "Custer State Park ,south dakota"Quick Info
Available Tours
18
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
2,000
Adult Entry
$20 per vehicle