Explore the Wonders of Custer State Park at the Wildlife Station Visitor Center
Uncover the beauty of Custer State Park at the Wildlife Station Visitor Center, your gateway to South Dakota's rich wildlife and breathtaking landscapes.
The Wildlife Station Visitor Center is the perfect gateway to Custer State Park, offering insights into the park’s incredible wildlife and stunning landscapes. With engaging exhibits and knowledgeable staff, this center is a must-visit for tourists eager to explore South Dakota's natural beauty.
A brief summary to Wildlife Station Visitor Center
- 13479 Wildlife Loop Rd, Custer, South Dakota, 57730, US
- +1605-394-2693
- Visit website
- Monday 8 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-4 pm
- Thursday 8 am-4 pm
- Friday 8 am-4 pm
- Saturday 8 am-4 pm
- Sunday 8 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Arrive early to avoid crowds and have more opportunities for wildlife sighting along the trails.
- Check the visitor center's schedule for ranger-led programs that offer unique insights into the park's ecology.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic spots within the park after visiting the center.
- Make sure to bring binoculars for birdwatching and wildlife spotting throughout your visit.
Getting There
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Public Bus
From downtown Rapid City, head to the nearest bus stop on 5th St or Main St. Take the Black Hills Stagecoach Bus, which operates in the summer and fall months, towards Custer. Enjoy the scenic ride for approximately 1.5 hours, and disembark at the Custer Visitor Center stop. From there, you can either walk or take a local taxi to the Wildlife Station Visitor Center located at 13479 Wildlife Loop Rd, Custer, SD 57730, which is about a 5-minute taxi ride or a 30-minute scenic walk through the park.
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Ride-sharing Service
Open your preferred ride-sharing app (like Uber or Lyft) and request a ride from your current location in Rapid City to the Wildlife Station Visitor Center. The ride will take approximately 1 hour, depending on traffic. Ensure you provide the address: 13479 Wildlife Loop Rd, Custer, SD 57730, for the driver. The fare may vary, so check the app for an estimate before confirming your ride.
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Guided Tour
Consider booking a guided tour from Rapid City that includes transportation to Custer State Park, where the Wildlife Station Visitor Center is located. Many local tour companies offer packages that provide transportation, a guide, and sometimes even lunch. Look for tours that specifically mention visits to Custer State Park, and make sure to check their schedule and availability.
Discover more about Wildlife Station Visitor Center
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Hazelrodt Picnic Area
12.7 km
Discover the tranquility of Hazelrodt Picnic Area in Custer, SD, where nature meets relaxation for an unforgettable outdoor experience.
Custer State Park Mt Coolidge
12.8 km
Experience breathtaking views and diverse wildlife at Custer State Park Mt Coolidge, a must-visit destination for nature lovers in South Dakota.
Wind Cave Canyon
13.8 km
Explore the stunning ravines and natural beauty of Wind Cave Canyon in South Dakota, a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Wind Cave National Park Visitor Center
15.4 km
Discover the stunning landscapes and unique geological features at Wind Cave National Park Visitor Center in South Dakota.
Glen Erin School Historic Site
16.2 km
Explore the Glen Erin School Historic Site in Custer, South Dakota, a charming glimpse into the educational past surrounded by stunning Black Hills scenery.
Gordon Stockade Historical Landmark
17.6 km
Uncover the rich history and natural beauty of Gordon Stockade, a must-visit historical landmark and state park in Custer, South Dakota.
Iron Mtn Rd Visitor Center Keystone, SD
18.7 km
Discover the stunning views and rich history at the Iron Mountain Road Visitor Center, a scenic highlight of South Dakota's Black Hills.
Dakota Dream Bed & Breakfast & Horse Hotel
20.6 km
Experience the Ultimate Comfort at Dakota Dream Bed & Breakfast in Custer, SD – Your Gateway to the Scenic Black Hills and Outdoor Adventures.
Ken's Minerals & Trading Post
21.2 km
Explore nature's hidden gems at Ken's Minerals & Trading Post in Custer, South Dakota, where rock enthusiasts find extraordinary specimens and unique treasures.
Pageant Hill
21.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Pageant Hill in Custer, South Dakota, a perfect venue for events and a scenic retreat for nature lovers.
Custer Bark Park
21.4 km
Explore the pet-friendly Custer Bark Park in South Dakota, where dogs can run free and socialize in a welcoming natural landscape.
Big Rock Park
21.5 km
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Dave's Rock Shop
21.5 km
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Miner's Cup
21.6 km
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Custer Lighted Sign
21.6 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Bison Center
2.0 km
Discover the Bison Center in Fairburn, SD, where immersive exhibits meet the breathtaking beauty of America's iconic bison in their natural habitat.
Wildlife Loop Road
6.6 km
Experience the breathtaking Wildlife Loop Road in South Dakota, a scenic drive through Custer State Park showcasing stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife.
Wildlife Loop Rd
6.6 km
Experience the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife of Wildlife Loop Road in Custer State Park, South Dakota, a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.
Custer State Park Wildlife Loop Road
7.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Custer State Park Wildlife Loop Road, a scenic drive showcasing South Dakota's stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife.
Prairie Dog Town
7.4 km
Explore the lively ecosystem of Prairie Dog Town in Custer, SD, and enjoy a unique wildlife experience amidst stunning Black Hills scenery.
Custer State Park
8.3 km
Explore the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife of Custer State Park in South Dakota, a must-visit destination for nature lovers.
Boland Ridge
8.6 km
Explore the breathtaking views and rich natural beauty of Boland Ridge, a premier hiking area in South Dakota's Black Hills region.
Blue Bell Entrance Station (Custer State Park)
10.1 km
Explore the stunning landscapes and wildlife at Custer State Park's Blue Bell Entrance Station, a must-visit destination in South Dakota.
Sanctuary Trail
10.3 km
Explore the breathtaking trails of Sanctuary Trail, a serene hiking paradise nestled in the stunning landscapes of Custer, South Dakota.
Custer State Park Visitor Center
10.5 km
Explore the stunning natural beauty and rich wildlife at Custer State Park Visitor Center - your gateway to adventure in South Dakota.
Buffalo Safari Jeep Tours
10.7 km
Discover the untamed beauty of South Dakota with Buffalo Safari Jeep Tours, an exhilarating journey into the wild.
Lovers Leap Trailhead
10.9 km
Explore the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife at Lovers Leap Trailhead, a premier hiking destination in Custer, South Dakota.
Custer State Park Resort
10.9 km
Experience the enchanting beauty of Custer State Park Resort, where nature meets adventure in the stunning Black Hills of South Dakota.
Rankin Ridge Trail
11.0 km
Discover the breathtaking vistas and serene landscapes of Rankin Ridge Trail, a must-visit hiking destination in Custer, South Dakota.
Blue Bell Stables
11.0 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Custer State Park on horseback at Blue Bell Stables, where adventure and nature come together.
Essential places to dine
State Game Lodge Restaurant Custer State Park
10.9 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
13.2 km
Experience authentic American cuisine in Custer's scenic beauty at Dockside Grill – where every meal is a celebration of flavor and nature.
Subway
21.6 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
21.9 km
Experience delightful American cuisine at Sage Creek Grille in Custer, SD – where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
Sage Creek Grille - Now Open!
21.9 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at Sage Creek Grille in Custer, South Dakota – where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
Hot Dog Man
21.9 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
21.9 km
Savor authentic Mexican flavors at Maria's Mexican Restaurant in Custer – where every meal is a festive celebration!
Pizza Hut
22.0 km
Enjoy delicious pizzas and chicken wings at Pizza Hut in Custer - a family-friendly dining spot amidst South Dakota's scenic beauty.
The Custer Wolf - Food & Drink
22.0 km
Experience the best of American cuisine and vibrant bar culture at The Custer Wolf in South Dakota's scenic town of Custer.
Baker's Bakery & Cafe
22.0 km
Experience the delightful flavors of Baker's Bakery & Cafe in Custer – where fresh ingredients meet warm hospitality.
Begging Burro Mexican Bistro
22.0 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Begging Burro Mexican Bistro in Custer - a perfect blend of flavor and culture awaits!
Buglin' Bull Restaurant and Sports Bar
22.0 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.
22.0 km
Discover Black Hills Sauce & Dough Co., where delicious pizza and gourmet sandwiches meet the charm of Custer, South Dakota.
Black Hills Sauce & Dough
22.0 km
Experience the best local flavors at Black Hills Sauce & Dough in Custer, SD – perfect after exploring Mount Rushmore and Custer State Park.
The Custer Beacon
22.1 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Coolidge General Store
11.1 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.
Blue Bell General Store
11.2 km
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Exposing The Past
12.9 km
Explore the Crazy Horse Memorial, a monumental tribute to Native American culture in South Dakota, blending art, history, and breathtaking landscapes.
Legion Lake Convenience Store
13.2 km
Discover local goods and snacks at Legion Lake Convenience Store, your gateway to exploring the beautiful Black Hills and Custer State Park.
Buffalo Gap Trading Post
20.0 km
Discover local crafts and unique souvenirs at Buffalo Gap Trading Post, a charming variety store in the heart of South Dakota.
Needles View Emporium
20.3 km
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Smokey The Bear wood carvings
21.4 km
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Black Hills Power Bikes Rentals & Boutique
21.6 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
21.7 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
21.7 km
Experience the convenience and local charm of Lynns Dakotamart, your essential grocery stop in Custer, South Dakota.
Custer Ace Hardware
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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
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Explore the great outdoors with top-quality gear from South Dakota Outdoor Shop, your local adventure hub in Custer.
Quilted Buffalo
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Discover Quilted Buffalo in Custer, South Dakota - a vibrant quilt shop offering fabrics, yarns, and a community for creative crafters.
Fluffy Cow Outlet
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Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Fluffy Cow Outlet, a charming gift shop in Custer, South Dakota, perfect for memorable souvenirs.
Deep Creek Gallery
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Hitchrail Bar & Restaurant
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LAST CHANCE SALOON
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Gold Pan Saloon Custer
22.0 km
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