Discover the Natural Splendor of Custer State Park
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Custer State Park in South Dakota, where stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife await every adventurer.
Custer State Park, located in the heart of South Dakota, is a breathtaking paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. With stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and a variety of recreational activities, it invites tourists to explore its rugged beauty and vibrant ecosystems.
A brief summary to Custer State Park
- South Dakota, US
- +1605-255-4515
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the park's scenic overlooks or designated picnic areas.
- Check the park’s calendar for special events like the buffalo roundup for a unique experience.
- Dress in layers, as weather can change quickly in the Black Hills.
- Don't forget your camera; the views are spectacular, especially at sunrise and sunset.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car from any location within Black Hills National Forest, head south towards Custer State Park. Use SD-87 S (also known as Needles Highway) or US-16A S. The most direct route from the center of the forest (e.g., from Hill City) is to take SD-87 S, which is about a 30-minute drive. Follow the signs for Custer State Park as you approach the entrance. Be prepared for potential fees at the entrance, with a daily vehicle entrance fee typically around $20.
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Public Transportation
Public transportation options are limited in the Black Hills area, but you can use the local bus services that operate from Rapid City to Custer, which is approximately 45 miles from Black Hills National Forest. Check the schedule ahead of time as buses may not run frequently. Once in Custer, you may need to use a taxi or rideshare service to reach the park entrance, which is about 7 miles from the town center. Budget for the bus fare (around $10) and any additional transportation costs in Custer.
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Bicycle
For the more adventurous, biking to Custer State Park is an option if you are in good physical condition. From nearby towns like Hill City or Custer, take the scenic routes along the highways. The distance from Hill City to the park is about 20 miles, and you will encounter some hilly terrain. Ensure you have a map and plenty of water, and be cautious of traffic. There are no fees for biking into the park, but you will still need to pay for parking if you decide to leave your bike at the entrance.
Discover more about Custer State Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Hazelrodt Picnic Area
7.6 km
Discover tranquility at Hazelrodt Picnic Area, your ultimate picnic destination in the stunning Black Hills of South Dakota, surrounded by nature's beauty.
Glen Erin School Historic Site
9.2 km
Experience the charm of the Glen Erin School Historic Site, a captivating glimpse into South Dakota's educational heritage surrounded by stunning Black Hills scenery.
Iron Mtn Rd Visitor Center Keystone, SD
11.8 km
Experience breathtaking views and stunning landscapes at the Iron Mountain Road Visitor Center in South Dakota's Black Hills.
Iron Mountain Picnic Area
13.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Iron Mountain Picnic Area, a serene retreat for picnicking and outdoor adventures in the heart of South Dakota's Black Hills.
Meeker Ranch
13.9 km
Experience the rich heritage of Meeker Ranch in Custer, South Dakota, where history and nature unite in a stunning landscape.
Norbeck Overlook
14.1 km
Experience breathtaking views of Mount Rushmore and the Black Hills at Norbeck Overlook, a scenic spot for nature lovers and photographers.
Scovel Johnson Tunnel
14.2 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Scovel Johnson Tunnel, a historical landmark offering stunning views of South Dakota's Black Hills and Mount Rushmore.
Dakota Dream Bed & Breakfast & Horse Hotel
14.4 km
Experience comfort and nature at Dakota Dream Bed & Breakfast & Horse Hotel, a serene retreat in Custer, South Dakota, perfect for relaxation and outdoor adventure.
Ken's Minerals & Trading Post
14.5 km
Explore Ken's Minerals & Trading Post in Custer SD for a unique journey through geology and natural beauty with stunning minerals and fossils.
CC Gideon Tunnel
14.5 km
Discover the CC Gideon Tunnel, a historical landmark in South Dakota's Black Hills, where nature meets history in a stunning scenic setting.
Turtle Rock
14.7 km
Explore Turtle Rock, a stunning park in Custer, South Dakota, known for its unique rock formations and breathtaking views amidst serene natural surroundings.
Custer Bark Park
14.7 km
Discover the joy of outdoor play at Custer Bark Park, a serene haven for dogs and their owners in the heart of South Dakota.
Pageant Hill
14.7 km
Discover the breathtaking views and serene surroundings at Pageant Hill, the perfect event venue in Custer, South Dakota.
Dave's Rock Shop
14.9 km
Explore the captivating world of rocks and minerals at Dave's Rock Shop in Custer, South Dakota - a treasure trove for enthusiasts and tourists alike.
Jaron Miner, D.O.
14.9 km
Experience quality healthcare in Custer with Jaron Miner, D.O. – your trusted family practice physician in the heart of South Dakota.
Unmissable attractions to see
Lovers Leap Trailhead
4.3 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Lovers Leap Trailhead in Custer, South Dakota, a premier hiking area offering stunning trails and views.
Buffalo Safari Jeep Tours
4.3 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and majestic wildlife of the Black Hills with Buffalo Safari Jeep Tours, an unforgettable outdoor adventure in Custer, SD.
Custer State Park - Norbeck Wildlife Preserve
4.3 km
Discover the stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife of Custer State Park - Norbeck Wildlife Preserve in South Dakota.
Norbeck Wildlife Preserve
4.3 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife at Norbeck Wildlife Preserve, a premier natural refuge in South Dakota's Black Hills.
Custer State Park Resort
4.4 km
Experience the beauty of Custer State Park Resort, an outdoor paradise with breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife in South Dakota.
Peter Norbeck Outdoor Education Center
4.4 km
Explore the beauty of South Dakota's wildlife and natural wonders at the Peter Norbeck Outdoor Education Center, a must-visit for nature lovers and families.
Badger Hole Historical Site
4.5 km
Discover the serene beauty and historical significance of Badger Hole Historical Site, the home of poet Badger Clark in Custer State Park, South Dakota.
Custer State Park Wildlife Loop Road
4.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich wildlife of Custer State Park Wildlife Loop Road, a scenic drive in South Dakota perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
Custer State Park Visitor Center
4.9 km
Discover the beauty of nature at Custer State Park Visitor Center, your gateway to South Dakota's stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife.
Lenker Rock
5.0 km
Discover the breathtaking Lenker Rock, a historical landmark in Custer, SD, surrounded by stunning natural beauty and rich geological history.
Legion Lake
5.0 km
Explore the tranquil beauty of Legion Lake in East Custer, SD - a perfect destination for swimming, fishing, and enjoying nature's serenity.
Heddy Draw Overlook - s
5.1 km
Discover the stunning vistas of Heddy Draw Overlook in Custer, South Dakota, a must-visit scenic spot for nature lovers and photographers.
Mount Coolidge Lookout and Fire Tower
5.6 km
Discover breathtaking views and rich history at Mount Coolidge Lookout and Fire Tower in Custer, South Dakota. An essential stop for nature lovers.
Custer State Park Mt Coolidge
5.6 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Custer State Park Mt Coolidge, a natural paradise in South Dakota, where adventure and serenity await.
Blue Bell Stables
5.8 km
Discover the beauty of Custer State Park through unforgettable horseback riding adventures at Blue Bell Stables, where nature meets equestrian bliss.
Essential places to dine
State Game Lodge Restaurant Custer State Park
4.4 km
Experience exquisite American cuisine in the heart of Custer State Park at the State Game Lodge Restaurant—where nature meets culinary delight.
Dockside Grill
5.1 km
Experience authentic American cuisine in Custer's scenic beauty at Dockside Grill – where every meal is a celebration of flavor and nature.
Subway
15.0 km
Discover deliciously fresh sandwiches at Subway in Custer—your perfect pit stop during South Dakota adventures.
Sage Creek Grille - Closed for the Season - Reopening Spring 2024
15.4 km
Experience delightful American cuisine at Sage Creek Grille in Custer, SD – where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
Sage Creek Grille - Now Open!
15.4 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at Sage Creek Grille in Custer, South Dakota – where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
Hot Dog Man
15.4 km
Experience gourmet hot dogs at Hot Dog Man in Custer - perfect for tourists seeking delicious bites amidst stunning Black Hills scenery.
Maria's Mexican Restaurant
15.4 km
Savor authentic Mexican flavors at Maria's Mexican Restaurant in Custer – where every meal is a festive celebration!
Pizza Hut
15.4 km
Enjoy delicious pizzas and chicken wings at Pizza Hut in Custer - a family-friendly dining spot amidst South Dakota's scenic beauty.
Baker's Bakery & Cafe
15.4 km
Experience the delightful flavors of Baker's Bakery & Cafe in Custer – where fresh ingredients meet warm hospitality.
Begging Burro Mexican Bistro
15.4 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Begging Burro Mexican Bistro in Custer - a perfect blend of flavor and culture awaits!
The Custer Wolf - Food & Drink
15.4 km
Experience the best of American cuisine and vibrant bar culture at The Custer Wolf in South Dakota's scenic town of Custer.
Buglin' Bull Restaurant and Sports Bar
15.5 km
Discover hearty American cuisine and lively sports entertainment at Buglin' Bull Restaurant in Custer, SD – perfect for families and adventurers alike.
Black Hills Sauce & Dough Co.
15.5 km
Discover Black Hills Sauce & Dough Co., where delicious pizza and gourmet sandwiches meet the charm of Custer, South Dakota.
Black Hills Sauce & Dough
15.5 km
Experience the best local flavors at Black Hills Sauce & Dough in Custer, SD – perfect after exploring Mount Rushmore and Custer State Park.
Custer Deli
15.5 km
Discover the flavors of South Dakota at Custer Deli – where fresh ingredients meet delightful deli classics.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Coolidge General Store
4.2 km
Explore Coolidge General Store in Custer, SD, for unique local goods, souvenirs, and a delightful shopping experience in the heart of the Black Hills.
Legion Lake Convenience Store
5.1 km
Discover local goods and snacks at Legion Lake Convenience Store, your gateway to exploring the beautiful Black Hills and Custer State Park.
Blue Bell General Store
6.0 km
Explore the essence of South Dakota at Blue Bell General Store, where local charm meets adventure in Custer State Park.
Needles View Emporium
13.9 km
Explore unique clothing, antiques, and costume jewelry at Needles View Emporium in Custer, South Dakota, a treasure trove for every tourist.
Smokey The Bear wood carvings
14.7 km
Explore the unique Smokey The Bear wood carvings in Custer, South Dakota – a celebration of artistry and conservation in handcrafted wooden sculptures.
Black Hills Power Bikes Rentals & Boutique
14.9 km
Discover the beauty of South Dakota's Black Hills with top-notch bike rentals and expert advice from Black Hills Power Bikes Rentals & Boutique.
Dollar General
15.0 km
Explore an array of affordable items at Dollar General in Custer, SD - your one-stop shop for essentials, beauty supplies, and unique finds.
Lynns Dakotamart
15.1 km
Experience the convenience and local charm of Lynns Dakotamart, your essential grocery stop in Custer, South Dakota.
Custer Ace Hardware
15.1 km
Explore Custer Ace Hardware for all your home improvement needs in the heart of South Dakota, where quality and community meet.
South Dakota Outdoor Shop
15.3 km
Explore the great outdoors with top-quality gear from South Dakota Outdoor Shop, your local adventure hub in Custer.
Fluffy Cow Outlet
15.3 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Fluffy Cow Outlet, a charming gift shop in Custer, South Dakota, perfect for memorable souvenirs.
Quilted Buffalo
15.3 km
Discover Quilted Buffalo in Custer, South Dakota - a vibrant quilt shop offering fabrics, yarns, and a community for creative crafters.
Deep Creek Gallery
15.3 km
Explore Deep Creek Gallery in Custer, SD for unique gifts, local art, and exquisite photography, perfect for creating lasting memories.
The Hills Finest
15.4 km
Discover The Hills Finest, a charming wine bar in Custer, SD, where exquisite wines, delicious food, and live music come together for an unforgettable experience.
Horatio's Homemade Ice Cream
15.4 km
Discover the sweet side of Custer, South Dakota at Horatio's Homemade Ice Cream, where every scoop is a burst of flavor.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Gold Pan Saloon Custer
15.4 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Gold Pan Saloon, a charming bar in Custer, South Dakota, perfect for unwinding after exploring the Black Hills.
Needles
15.9 km
Explore the stunning Needles of South Dakota, a breathtaking mountain peak known for its unique rock formations and rich wildlife, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
Needles Eye Tunnel
16.1 km
Explore the breathtaking Needles Eye Tunnel, a stunning natural landmark in South Dakota's Black Hills, perfect for photography and outdoor adventures.
