When visiting South Dakota, Julie and I were excited to see Mount Rushmore and Badlands National Park. Both are excellent. However, Custer State Park is the place that blew us away. If you love outdoor adventures, it is a must. Here are seven reasons to visit Custer State Park.
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Scenic Drives
The Black Hills of South Dakota features glassy lakes, fragrant pines, vast prairies, and craggy spires. You can experience the epic scenery on some of America’s best scenic drives.
The legendary Iron Mountain Road takes you through 3 tunnels within its 17 miles and 314 curves. The road connects Custer State Park and Mount Rushmore. When driving north, you glimpse the presidential monument from two of the tunnels. Admittedly, Julie and I got a big adrenaline rush from these unique views of Mount Rushmore.
Wildlife Loop Road takes you through the park’s southern region, where you gain sweeping views of sprawling prairies and rolling hills dotted with pines. The road lives up to its name. Julie and I encountered more wildlife on this 18-mile stretch than in any national park we have visited.
Needles Highway is a skinny 14-mile road with many curves and tunnels. The drive features stunning views of towering spires and rugged granite mountains. We also spotted deer and bison during our time on the Needles Highway.
These three iconic drives leave an unforgettable impression. We can’t wait to return.
Wildlife Viewing
Custer State Park offers unparalleled exotic wildlife viewing, including a nearly 1,400-strong free-roaming bison herd. You genuinely have opportunities to spot wildlife around every bend.
Julie and I observed bison, bighorn sheep, pronghorns, mountain goats, prairie dogs, deer, wild turkeys, and burros. Coyotes, elk, and mountain lions inhabit the park as well, but visitors rarely spot them.
We had no idea what a bison jam was until we drove Wildlife Loop Road. A massive herd of bison slowly crossed the road, halting all cars. To say you get close views of bison is an understatement. One literally rubbed against our vehicle. For a few seconds, I feared he might push us off the road.
Pronghorns regularly graze in the meadows, and occasionally sprint past cars, showcasing their speed. Cute prairie dogs dig and chatter. “Begging burros” will stick their heads inside your car hoping for a handout. Please note that park rangers ask all visitors not to feed the animals.
Outdoor Recreation
Custer State Park offers many recreational opportunities, including hiking, biking, birdwatching, paddling, and fishing. Its tranquil lakes, rolling plains, and granite peaks provide a stunning backdrop. Popular hikes include Black Elk Peak, the highest point east of the Rocky Mountains, and Cathedral Spires.
Our favorite is Cathedral Spires. The 3-mile round-trip hike features a cathedral of towering granite spires. During our hike, we saw mountain goats and many birds.
The trail offers junctions for those who prefer to extend their hike. Julie and I took the Little Devils Tower junction, which has a fun rock scrambling section that yields sweeping views over the mountains.
Picturesque Lakes
Custer State Park boasts five beautiful lakes. Sylvan Lake is the most famous and is framed by towering spires, tall pines, and massive boulders along the water’s edge. With such natural beauty, it is a popular place for swimming, paddling, and photography. Julie and I enjoyed hiking its perimeter to savor the jaw-dropping views.
The park’s other lakes offer many opportunities for recreation and basking in the natural landscapes. We were mesmerized by the glassy lakes and unique granite rock formations. Due to the wildlife and scenic drives grabbing the headlines, visitors often overlook the park’s lakes. Please make no mistake; they are an absolute treasure.
Historic Lodges and Campgrounds
Custer State Park offers scenic camping spots, from primitive camping to cabins. The park also harbors four charming historic lodges with modern accommodations, restaurants, and guided activities. President Calvin Coolidge and his wife spent so much time at the State Game Lodge that it was called their “Summer White House.”
While Julie and I did not stay at the lodges, we had breakfast at the Blue Bell Lodge and lunch at the Legion Lake Lodge’s Dockside Grill. The Blue Bell Lodge offers hearty food in a cozy cabin ambiance, and the Dockside Grill features tasty fare with a view of the beautiful Legion Lake.
It is rare for a park to achieve the trifecta of excellent lodgings, tasty food, and surreal views. Walking in the footsteps of history is the icing on the cake.
Proximity to Other Attractions
Custer State Park provides quick access to several popular attractions. The 17-mile scenic drive on Iron Mountain Road spills out at Mount Rushmore. The Crazy Horse Memorial is a 45-minute drive northwest. Wind Cave is a half hour to the south, and Badlands National Park is 1.5 hours to the east.
All of these attractions offer unique recreational or educational opportunities. Due to their proximity, you can easily plan a trip encompassing all these destinations. The scenic drives between each point of interest alone make the trip worthwhile.
Ready to turn inspiration into action? Our complete trip planning guide to Mount Rushmore and Custer State Park offers everything you need to plan your adventure with confidence.
Annual Buffalo Roundup
Each year in late September, Custer State Park holds its annual Buffalo Roundup near the corrals on Wildlife Loop Road. The fall event draws thousands of visitors to watch cowboys and park staff round up the bison, a thrilling and unique experience.
For those who may wonder about the event’s purpose, the park’s grasslands can adequately support about 1,400 bison. So, all bison get corralled, checked for diseases, and vaccinated before the park sells the surplus at an auction.
Tips for Visiting Custer State Park
We suggest taking scenic drives early in the morning. Traffic is minimal, and you improve your chances of seeing wildlife.
It is essential to note the roads are narrow and winding. Julie and I found the tunnels especially tight. Take it slow, and you will be fine.
Drive Wildlife Loop Road near dawn and dusk, when animals are most active. When you encounter bison, give them plenty of space. Exercise patience and enjoy the bison jam. You have never seen anything like this, and it is worth the wait.
Do not make the mistake of assuming Wildlife Loop Road is the only scenic drive for wildlife. Julie and I found plenty of wildlife on Iron Mountain Road and Needles Highway. We also had more sightings near dawn and dusk along these roads.
Even if you do not plan to swim, fish, or paddle, do not miss Sylvan Lake. The breathtaking spot is worth a stop to bask in the glorious view. Try to visit early in the morning or late in the day for smaller crowds.
Reserve your lodging early. Places regularly book months in advance. If in-park options are full, consider nearby towns like Custer and Keystone.
Plan a multi-day trip to see the other nearby attractions. We loved South Dakota and found each destination well worth our time.
Featured image credit: Miles with McConkey
