Custer State Park

A natural reserve stretching across some 73,000 acres, Custer State Park holds some of the best scenery and wildlife in the Black Hills. ‘This is where the Bison roam free, where granite spires tower over pristine lakes and where clear mountain streams flow through unspoiled forests’. The park has something for everybody, whether it be fishing, hiking, rock climbing, swimming, horseback riding, mountain biking, wildlife viewing or photography.

Buffalo in Custer State Park

Buffalo in Custer State Park

Wildlife Loop
This 18 mile drive passes over rolling pine hills and open prairie grasslands and takes visitors on a tour of some of the park’s best wildlife. Expect to see bison, buffalo, deer, pronghorn, prairie dogs, eagles and wild burrows among others. Early morning or late evening when the light is less intense is usually best.

Needles Highway
This 14 mile scenic drive takes you on a twisting scenic tour of the park’s granite spires and rocky outcrops. It passes through narrow tunnels, hairpin turns and introduces you to some really spectacular views from on high. Bring your camera!

Iron Mountain Road
Undoubtedly the most interesting route between the park and Mount Rushmore, this scenic road takes in some awesome scenery as it twists it’s way over pigtail bridges and through narrow granite tunnels that perfectly frame the figures of Mount Rushmore. Bring your camera!

Harney Peak
Rising high above the Black Hills, Harney Peak is one of the most popular hiking destinations in the area and at 7,242 feet above sea level, is the highest point in the United States east of the Rocky Mountains. An old lookout tower adorns the summit, the views from which, make the hike every bit worthwhile. On clear days you can get a panoramic view of four states; (South Dakota, Nebraska, Wyoming, and Montana) as well as the multitude of granite formations and cliffs within the park. About 17 miles of Forest Service hiking trails lead to the top from almost all directions. For more information click HERE.

Mount Coolidge
At 6,023 feet, Mount Coolidge offers a spectacular panoramic view a of the entire park - Harney Peak, the Needles and the buffalo on the plains below. You can get a vantage point few experience and view Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial and on a clear day even the Badlands some 60 miles away! For more information click HERE.

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Sylvan Lake

Sylvan Lake
Custer State Park has many beautiful lakes, but Sylvan Lake takes the prize for probably being the most beautiful. Ideal for fishing, boating, swimming, diving from the rocks or just for a pleasant picnic or BBQ.

The Black Hills Playhouse
Hidden away in the back of the park this little theater is open during summer evenings and puts on comedy, drama, music and entertainment for all the family. Call 1-605-255-4141 for ticket information and reservations. For more information click HERE.


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