Discover the Natural Beauty of Blue Bell Entrance Station in Custer State Park
Explore the scenic wonders of Custer State Park at Blue Bell Entrance Station, your gateway to adventure and wildlife encounters in South Dakota.
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of Custer State Park at the Blue Bell Entrance Station, where nature and adventure await every visitor.
A brief summary to Blue Bell Entrance Station (Custer State Park)
- 12904 Wildlife Loop Road, Custer, SD, 57730, US
- +1605-255-4515
- Visit website
Local tips
- Arrive early in the day for the best chance to see wildlife, particularly bison, along the Wildlife Loop Road.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, especially if you plan to hike the trails, as facilities may be limited in the park.
- Dress in layers, as temperatures can vary greatly throughout the day in the Black Hills region.
- Consider visiting during the fall to experience the stunning foliage, or in spring for wildflower blooms.
Getting There
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Walking
From downtown Custer, start at the intersection of Mt Rushmore Rd and 5th St. Head south on Mt Rushmore Rd for about 0.2 miles until you reach the junction with Hwy 16A. Turn left onto Hwy 16A and continue for about 0.5 miles. You will see signs for Custer State Park. Follow the signs, and after about 3 miles, you will reach the entrance of Custer State Park. Once inside, continue on Wildlife Loop Road for approximately 3 miles, and you will find the Blue Bell Entrance Station on your left.
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Biking
If you're biking, start from the Custer County Courthouse located at 420 Mt Rushmore Rd. Head south on Mt Rushmore Rd for about 0.2 miles, then take a left onto Hwy 16A. Follow this road for approximately 3 miles. You will pass the entrance to Custer State Park, and shortly after entering the park, keep going straight on Wildlife Loop Road for another 3 miles to reach Blue Bell Entrance Station.
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Public Transportation
Currently, there are no direct public transportation options from downtown Custer to the Blue Bell Entrance Station. However, you can take a taxi or rideshare service to the entrance of Custer State Park. Ask the driver to take you to the entrance at 12904 Wildlife Loop Road, and from there, you can walk or bike to the Blue Bell Entrance Station, which is about 3 miles inside the park on Wildlife Loop Road.
Discover more about Blue Bell Entrance Station (Custer State Park)
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Hazelrodt Picnic Area
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Glen Erin School Historic Site
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Dakota Dream Bed & Breakfast & Horse Hotel
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Custer State Park Visitor Center
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Ken's Minerals & Trading Post
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Pageant Hill
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Miner's Cup
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Pizza Mill
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Joy Falkenburg, M.D.
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Unmissable attractions to see
Hayride & Chuckwagon Cookout at Blue Bell Lodge
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Blue Bell Stables
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Prairie Dog Town
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Wildlife Loop Road
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Wildlife Loop Rd
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Custer State Park Mt Coolidge
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Mount Coolidge Lookout and Fire Tower
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Heddy Draw Overlook - s
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Custer State Park
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Badger Hole Historical Site
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Lenker Rock
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Legion Lake
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Sanctuary Trail
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Gordon Stockade Historical Landmark
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Essential places to dine
Dockside Grill
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State Game Lodge Restaurant Custer State Park
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Subway
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Sage Creek Grille - Closed for the Season - Reopening Spring 2024
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Hot Dog Man
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Maria's Mexican Restaurant
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Pizza Hut
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Baker's Bakery & Cafe
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Custer Deli
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Custer's Last Stop
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Yesway
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Dairy Queen Grill & Chill
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Dakota Broasted, LLC
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Captain's Table
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BreakFaster
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Blue Bell General Store
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Legion Lake Convenience Store
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Coolidge General Store
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Needles View Emporium
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Smokey The Bear wood carvings
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Black Hills Power Bikes Rentals & Boutique
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Dollar General
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Lynns Dakotamart
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Custer Ace Hardware
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South Dakota Outdoor Shop
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Quilted Buffalo
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Deep Creek Gallery
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Fluffy Cow Outlet
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Brass Rail Lounge
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Juniper at Vertex Sky Bar
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Oasis Lounge
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Aby's Rapid City
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Sally O'Malley's Pub & Casino
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