South Dakota is a standout destination for national and state parks, boasting attractions like Mount Rushmore National Memorial, Wind Cave National Park, Badlands National Park, and 17 state parks. One of the most cherished is Custer State Park, the state’s largest and first state park, famous for its granite peaks, open grasslands, rolling plains, and mountain waters. This ultimate guide will help you discover the best hikes, drives, swimming spots, and wildlife viewing opportunities in this 71,000-acre haven in the Black Hills.
Sylvan Lake, a popular man-made lake in the park, is a must-see. Many visitors tend to drive by it along the Needles Highway or don’t allocate enough time to fully enjoy a swim or hike around the lake. Be sure to rent a kayak or paddleboard and spend a few hours soaking it all in, especially when the weather is nice.
In addition to Sylvan Lake, you can also fish (with a state license) and swim at Center, Legion, and Stockade Lakes. The park offers plenty of other activities like mountain biking, horseback riding, rock climbing, and fishing. You can book experiences such as the Buffalo Safari Jeep Tour, Hayride and Chuckwagon Cookout, Guided Trail Rides, and non-motorized water sport rentals through Custer State Park Resort.
The best way to enjoy the park is to explore it on foot, taking in its stunning scenery. Most hiking trails are short enough to complete in a day, although some are more challenging. Before setting out, it’s a smart idea to visit the visitor center. There, you can chat with a park ranger to find out which trails are ideal for your visit day and the latest wildlife sightings. You can also pick up gear, food, or water and learn about special ranger talks or presentations.
Custer State Park is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts, home to bison, elk, deer, coyotes, mountain goats, prairie dogs, bighorn sheep, river otters, pronghorns, cougars, and even some feral burros. A scenic drive is a great way to spot wildlife; both the 14-mile Needles Highway and the 18-mile Wildlife Loop Road offer amazing views and wildlife encounters. The roads are exciting to drive, featuring hairpin turns, steep inclines, and rocky tunnels. Expect to see the striking granite formations known as “The Needles” and abundant wildlife along the way.
On the Wildlife Loop, you might encounter the “Begging Burros” who approach vehicles. Remember not to feed them as they are wild animals. If you visit during September, don’t miss the Buffalo Roundup and Arts Festival. This annual event features cowboys and cowgirls herding over 1,300 bison. Enjoy a pancake breakfast and lunch at the corrals, and watch as the herd is sorted, branded, and tested. Afterward, explore over 150 vendor stalls and enjoy Native American music and dance performances under a tent at the festival grounds near the Peter Norbeck Outdoor Education Center.
For accommodations, you have nine different campgrounds or RV sites to choose from, mostly located on the park’s north end. Alternatively, you can stay at Custer State Park Resort, which offers various lodging options such as Blue Bell Lodge, State Game Lodge, Sylvan Lake Lodge, Legion Lake Lodge, Creekside Lodge, and Specialty Cabins, along with casual dining. There are also plenty of activities at the campgrounds and lodges to enjoy.
Conveniently nestled in the Black Hills of South Dakota, Custer State Park is easily reachable. It’s about a 30-minute drive (25 miles) southwest of Rapid City. If you’re flying in, Rapid City Regional Airport is the nearest airport. Renting a car is recommended to effectively explore and get around the park.
