Discover the Natural Beauty of Custer State Park
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich wildlife of Custer State Park, a must-visit destination in South Dakota's Black Hills region.
Custer State Park, a stunning expanse of South Dakota’s natural beauty, offers tourists a chance to explore diverse landscapes, rich wildlife, and historical landmarks. With scenic drives and numerous outdoor activities, it's a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
A brief summary to Welcome to Custer State Park Sign
- US-16A, Custer, South Dakota, 57730, US
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Don't miss the scenic drives; they provide stunning views and access to various picnic areas.
- Check the park's official website for seasonal activities and events before your visit.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching and wildlife spotting, especially in the prairie areas.
- Pack plenty of water and snacks, as amenities can be spread out within the park.
Getting There
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Walking
Start at the Custer County Courthouse located at 420 Mt Rushmore Rd, Custer, SD 57730. Head south on Mt Rushmore Rd toward E 5th St. After about 0.2 miles, turn left onto E 5th St and continue walking for about 0.1 miles. At the intersection, turn right onto S 7th St. Follow S 7th St as it curves into the US-16A (also known as the Needles Highway). Continue walking along US-16A for approximately 1 mile. You will see the 'Welcome to Custer State Park' sign on your right-hand side. The walk should take around 20-25 minutes.
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Bicycling
If you prefer to bike, begin at your location in Custer. Head towards the Custer County Courthouse at 420 Mt Rushmore Rd, then head south on Mt Rushmore Rd. After 0.2 miles, turn left onto E 5th St. After 0.1 miles, take a right onto S 7th St. Continue onto US-16A. The route is mostly flat and will take you about 10-15 minutes to reach the 'Welcome to Custer State Park' sign, which will be on your right after about 1 mile.
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Public Transport
Custer may not have extensive public transportation options, but if available, you can check with local shuttle services or inquire at your hotel for any seasonal shuttles that may take you towards Custer State Park. Ask them to drop you off near the US-16A highway, where the 'Welcome to Custer State Park' sign is located. Ensure to confirm the pick-up and drop-off locations for your return trip.
Discover more about Welcome to Custer State Park Sign
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Iron Mtn Rd Visitor Center Keystone, SD
7.6 km
Discover the stunning views and rich history at the Iron Mountain Road Visitor Center, a scenic highlight of South Dakota's Black Hills.
Scovel Johnson Tunnel
12.2 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Scovel Johnson Tunnel, a historical landmark offering stunning views of South Dakota's Black Hills and Mount Rushmore.
CC Gideon Tunnel
12.7 km
Explore the CC Gideon Tunnel, a historic landmark in South Dakota's Black Hills, where nature meets history in breathtaking scenery.
Under Canvas Mount Rushmore
12.8 km
Discover the magic of Under Canvas Mount Rushmore, where luxury meets nature in the heart of South Dakota's stunning Black Hills.
Turtle Rock
13.0 km
Discover the beauty of Turtle Rock in Custer, SD – a stunning natural landmark perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
Doane Robinson Tunnel (Tunnel view of Mount Rushmore)
13.1 km
Experience the breathtaking views of Mount Rushmore from the Doane Robinson Tunnel, a historical landmark in South Dakota's stunning Black Hills.
The Pig Tails
13.2 km
Discover the whimsical charm of The Pig Tails Bridge in Keystone, South Dakota, a picturesque spot perfect for photography and relaxation amidst stunning natural landscapes.
Hayride & Chuckwagon Cookout at Blue Bell Lodge
13.2 km
Discover the charm of the Old West with a delightful hayride and chuckwagon cookout at Blue Bell Lodge, perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
Blue Bell Entrance Station (Custer State Park)
13.3 km
Explore the scenic wonders of Custer State Park at Blue Bell Entrance Station, your gateway to adventure and wildlife encounters in South Dakota.
Hippie Hole
13.6 km
Explore the tranquil beauty of Hippie Hole, a serene lake in South Dakota, perfect for relaxation, outdoor activities, and breathtaking sunsets.
Bison Center
13.8 km
Explore the Bison Center in South Dakota for an unforgettable adventure with America's iconic bison, featuring engaging exhibits and stunning natural scenery.
Rushmore Tramway Adventures
14.5 km
Discover the thrill of Rushmore Tramway Adventures, where breathtaking views meet exhilarating outdoor activities in the heart of South Dakota.
The National Presidential Wax Museum
14.6 km
Explore the lifelike world of U.S. presidents at The National Presidential Wax Museum in Keystone, SD, where history comes to life in wax.
Hazelrodt Picnic Area
14.7 km
Discover the tranquility of Hazelrodt Picnic Area in Custer, SD, where nature meets relaxation for an unforgettable outdoor experience.
Mt Rushmore Information
14.7 km
Explore the iconic Mount Rushmore, where history, artistry, and breathtaking views come together in the stunning Black Hills of South Dakota.
Unmissable attractions to see
Custer State Park Visitor Center
2.6 km
Explore the stunning natural beauty and rich wildlife at Custer State Park Visitor Center - your gateway to adventure in South Dakota.
Custer State Park
2.8 km
Explore the natural wonders of Custer State Park, a vast wilderness filled with stunning landscapes, abundant wildlife, and unforgettable outdoor adventures.
Buffalo Safari Jeep Tours
3.3 km
Discover the untamed beauty of South Dakota with Buffalo Safari Jeep Tours, an exhilarating journey into the wild.
Custer State Park Resort
3.4 km
Experience the enchanting beauty of Custer State Park Resort, where nature meets adventure in the stunning Black Hills of South Dakota.
Lovers Leap Trailhead
3.6 km
Explore the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife at Lovers Leap Trailhead, a premier hiking destination in Custer, South Dakota.
Peter Norbeck Outdoor Education Center
3.6 km
Discover the wonders of nature and education at the Peter Norbeck Outdoor Education Center in Custer State Park, South Dakota.
Custer State Park - Norbeck Wildlife Preserve
3.7 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife of Custer State Park - Norbeck Wildlife Preserve, a captivating destination for all nature lovers.
Norbeck Wildlife Preserve
3.7 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife of Norbeck Wildlife Preserve, a serene escape in South Dakota's Black Hills.
Custer State Park Wildlife Loop Road
4.5 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Custer State Park Wildlife Loop Road, a scenic drive showcasing South Dakota's stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife.
Black Hills Playhouse
8.0 km
Discover the enchanting Black Hills Playhouse, a premier performing arts theater in South Dakota, where captivating shows meet stunning natural beauty.
Badger Hole Historical Site
9.6 km
Explore the enchanting Badger Hole Historical Site, a tribute to poet Badger Clark amid the stunning landscapes of South Dakota's Black Hills.
Legion Lake
9.9 km
Discover Legion Lake in East Custer, South Dakota – a perfect retreat for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, featuring swimming, fishing, and scenic hiking trails.
Lenker Rock
10.0 km
Explore Lenker Rock, a captivating historical landmark in beautiful Custer, South Dakota, where nature and heritage intertwine.
Heddy Draw Overlook - s
11.0 km
Experience the stunning landscapes and vibrant wildlife at Heddy Draw Overlook in Custer, South Dakota, a scenic gem in the Black Hills.
Rush Mountain Adventure Park
11.3 km
Experience the thrill of Rush Mountain Adventure Park, where adventure meets the stunning beauty of South Dakota's Black Hills, perfect for families and thrill-seekers alike.
Essential places to dine
State Game Lodge Restaurant Custer State Park
3.4 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
9.9 km
Experience authentic American cuisine in Custer's scenic beauty at Dockside Grill – where every meal is a celebration of flavor and nature.
Lazy R Bar & Grill
13.8 km
Experience hearty comfort food in the heart of South Dakota at Lazy R Bar & Grill - where every meal feels like home.
Halleys West
14.6 km
Discover Halley's West in Keystone, SD - a family-friendly grill serving delicious local cuisine at affordable prices.
Dairy Queen Grill & Chill
14.6 km
Experience delicious fast food and irresistible ice cream at Dairy Queen Grill & Chill in Keystone, South Dakota - perfect for family outings.
Grapes & Grinds
14.6 km
Experience the best of Keystone at Grapes & Grinds - your go-to coffee shop with unique gifts and delicious treats.
Red's Chicken House & BBQ
14.6 km
Experience mouthwatering barbecue delights at Red's Chicken House & BBQ in Keystone, South Dakota – a must-visit culinary gem.
Peggy's Place
14.7 km
Experience family-friendly dining at Peggy's Place in Keystone, SD – where comfort food meets warm hospitality.
DAKOTA KITCHEN
14.8 km
Experience authentic South Dakota flavors at Dakota Kitchen near Mount Rushmore – where delicious meals meet stunning scenery.
Carvers' Café
14.8 km
Experience delightful dining with local flavors at Carvers' Café near Mount Rushmore National Memorial.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Mt Rushmore/Keystone, an IHG Hotel
14.9 km
Experience comfort and convenience at Holiday Inn Express & Suites Mt Rushmore/Keystone - your ideal base for exploring South Dakota's natural wonders.
Sirloin Steak Tips
14.9 km
Discover delicious steak dishes at Sirloin Steak Tips in Keystone, SD – an unforgettable dining experience surrounded by natural beauty.
Boss' Burgers and Cheesesteaks
15.0 km
Experience delicious burgers and cheesesteaks at Boss' Burgers and Cheesesteaks in Keystone, SD - where flavor meets friendly service.
Keystone Pub Grub
15.0 km
Discover hearty American cuisine in Keystone, SD at Keystone Pub Grub - where great taste meets warm hospitality.
Boss' Pizza & Chicken Keystone
15.0 km
Discover delicious pizza and chicken dishes at Boss' Pizza & Chicken in Keystone - a culinary delight amidst South Dakota's scenic beauty.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Coolidge General Store
4.0 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
9.9 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
13.2 km
Explore the essence of South Dakota at Blue Bell General Store, where local charm meets adventure in Custer State Park.
Farmhouse Vintage & Designs
13.6 km
Explore Farmhouse Vintage & Designs for unique gifts, vintage finds, and charming home goods in the heart of Hermosa, South Dakota.
SoDak CLOTHING OUTLET
14.6 km
Explore SoDak Clothing Outlet in Keystone, SD for unique fashion treasures that capture the essence of local style and affordability.
Mt Rushmore T-Shirts & Co
14.6 km
Shop unique Mount Rushmore-themed apparel and souvenirs at Mt Rushmore T-Shirts & Co in Keystone, South Dakota.
SD Gifts and Knives
14.6 km
Explore SD Gifts and Knives in Keystone, SD for unique souvenirs and local craftsmanship that capture the spirit of South Dakota.
J&L Knives
14.6 km
Discover the art of knife making at J&L Knives in Keystone, SD – an essential stop for enthusiasts and travelers alike.
Rattlesnake Jake's
14.6 km
Explore Rattlesnake Jake's in Keystone, South Dakota, for unique souvenirs and local treasures that capture the essence of the Black Hills.
Genuine Black Hills Gold-Knife and Survival Supplies
14.6 km
Explore Genuine Black Hills Gold-Knife and Survival Supplies in Keystone, SD – your ultimate destination for survival gear and exquisite jewelry.
Whispering PinesT-Shirts
14.6 km
Discover unique customizable t-shirts and apparel reflecting the spirit of South Dakota at Whispering Pines T-Shirts in Keystone.
Usa Shop
14.6 km
Explore the unique treasures of Usa Shop in Keystone, South Dakota, where American culture and local craftsmanship come together.
South Dakota gifts and souvenirs
14.6 km
Explore the charm of South Dakota through unique gifts and souvenirs that reflect the rich culture and heritage of the Black Hills region.
Dahl's Chainsaw Art
14.8 km
Explore the artistry of Dahl's Chainsaw Art in Keystone, SD, where unique wooden sculptures and memorable gifts await every visitor.
Maverick Trading Post
14.9 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at Maverick Trading Post in Keystone, SD, your perfect stop for memorable gifts.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
79 Lounge & Casino
13.5 km
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Needles Eye Tunnel
18.1 km
Explore the breathtaking Needles Eye Tunnel, a stunning natural landmark in South Dakota's Black Hills, perfect for photography and outdoor adventures.
Needles
18.3 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.
Old Pine Social
20.6 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Old Pine Social, Custer's top amusement center, offering endless fun and relaxation for all ages.
Calamity Jane Coffee Shop and Grill
20.9 km
Discover the charm of Calamity Jane Coffee Shop and Grill in Custer, South Dakota—a perfect blend of coffee, cuisine, and local souvenirs.
Gold Pan Saloon Custer
20.9 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Gold Pan Saloon, a charming bar in Custer, South Dakota, perfect for unwinding after exploring the Black Hills.
