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South Dakota
12

South Dakota State Parks

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USA Parks
South Dakota
Black Hills & Badlands Region
Custer State Park
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Custer State Park © Dawne Olson
Custer State Park © Kelly Harvey
may 2009
Custer State Park © Alexis J. Williams
Custer State Park © Dewese Milstead
Custer State Park © Alexis J. Williams
Custer State Park Mt. Rushmore © Kelly Harvey
This is the view from Iron Mountain Road
Custer State Park © Alexis J. Williams
Custer State Park © Dewese Milstead
Custer State Park Sylvan Lake © Nancy Bauer
Custer State Park © Kelly Harvey
Ol Glory with Mt. Rushmore
Custer State Park © Dewese Milstead
Custer State Park The Storm © Kelly Harvey
Custer State Park © Dewese Milstead
Custer State Park © Dewese Milstead
Custer State Park © Ben Prepelka
Custer State Park © Dewese Milstead
Custer State Park © Dewese Milstead
Custer State Park © Dewese Milstead
Custer State Park © Dewese Milstead
Custer State Park © Dewese Milstead
Custer State Park © Dewese Milstead
Custer State Park © Dewese Milstead
Custer State Park © Dewese Milstead
Custer State Park © Darren Good
Custer State Park © Dewese Milstead
Custer State Park © Dewese Milstead
Custer State Park © Dewese Milstead
Custer State Park © Dewese Milstead
Custer State Park © Dewese Milstead
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CUSTER STATE PARK
CUSTER STATE PARK
13329 US Hwy 16a
Custer, South Dakota   57730

Phone: 605-255-4515
Reservations: 800-710-2267
Email: park email button icon
Custer State Park in the Black Hills encompasses 71,000 acres of spectacular terrain and an abundance of wildlife.Within the park, you?ll discover a world of adventure!

Favorite outdoor activities include hiking 7,242-foot Harney Peak, mountain biking, horseback riding, rock climbing, fishing, chuckwagon suppers and jeep rides to see the bison.

The park boasts scenic drives such as the Needles Highway (SD 87), which twists and turns its way past towering rock formations and through narrow tunnels. At the end of one tunnel stands the Needles Eye, a granite spire with a slit only 3 to 4 feet wide but reaching 30 to 40 feet in the air.

History and culture also abound. Walk the banks of French Creek, where Custer?s expedition first discovered gold in 1874. Take in a theater performance at the Black Hills Playhouse. Or, visit the log cabin that was home to Badger Clark, South Dakota?s first poet laureate.
Cabins
Custer State Park does not have the basic one-room camping cabins that are available in some of the other state parks. Other types of cabins, historic lodge rooms and motel units are available.
Camping
campgrounds offer a variety of scenic sites. Set up camp along a flowing stream, in the midst of pine forest, or near a mountain lake. The choice is yours! Camping fees range from $13-18 per unit. None have hookups.
Lodge
Custer State Park can serve as the headquarters for your Black Hills stay. You?ll find Resorts at Sylvan Lake, Legion Lake, Blue Bell and the State Game Lodge, all located within the park. Each resort has its own flavor, ranging from the stately Game Lodge, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, to the mini dude ranch at Blue Bell. (See Black Hills section and Statewide Services Directory for details.)
Swimming
1. Custer State Park offers several swimming options in its clear, refreshing lakes.
2. Sylvan Lake is a popular spot for swimmers with stunning views and cool waters.
3. Center Lake provides an excellent beach area perfect for families to swim and relax.
4. Legion Lake has calm water suitable for both beginner and experienced swimmers alike.
5. Stockade lake's north side features a designated swimming area away from boating activities ensuring safety of the visitors.
6. The park also allows wild swimming but it's recommended only for skilled swimmers due to unpredictable currents.

Fishing
Enjoy fishing in several lakes and streams, home to trout species like rainbow, brown and brook. Also find largemouth bass.

Four mountainous reservoirs offer excellent opportunities for anglers seeking northern pike or yellow perch.

Fly fishers can explore French Creek for a challenging catch of wild brown trout.

Grace Coolidge Walk-In Fishing Area is ideal for families with stocked ponds containing rainbow trout.

Remember that special regulations apply at certain locations within the park boundaries; always check local rules before casting out!



Picnicking
1. Custer State Park offers numerous picnic areas with tables and grills.
2. Picnic sites are available near lakes, streams, or wooded areas.
3. Some picnic spots offer stunning views of the park's wildlife.
4. You can enjoy a packed lunch at Sylvan Lake's picturesque setting.
5. Stockade Lake North has accessible picnicking options for disabled visitors.

Bicycling
Biking enthusiasts can explore 71,000 acres of wilderness on two wheels. Be cautious; the terrain varies greatly.

The park offers a variety of trails for different skill levels. Always wear protective gear and stay hydrated.

Consider biking along Wildlife Loop Road to spot buffalo or antelope but maintain safe distances from wildlife at all times.

For more challenging rides, try Needles Highway with its steep climbs and sharp turns - not recommended for beginners!

Sylvan Lake Shore Trail is perfect if you prefer leisurely cycling near water bodies while enjoying picturesque views around every bend.

Remember that some roads may be closed due to weather conditions so always check before setting out!

Also note: motor traffic is common in certain areas - remain vigilant when sharing roadways!

Lastly, don't forget your helmet as safety should never take a backseat during these adventurous outings!
Trails
Custer State Park?s 71,000 acres offer a lifetime of hiking opportunities. Besides the designated trails described in this information, hiking is allowed anywhere in Custer State Park. Some areas may be posted closed due to resource management concerns.

Other Trail Activities:Mountain biking is allowed in Custer State Park, some areas may be posted closed for resource management concerns. A brochure describing biking opportunities may be found at the Visitor Centers.

Horseback riding is allowed in most areas of Custer State Park, except in those areas posted which include the Sylvan Lake watershed and the Grace Coolidge Walk-in Fishing Area. Other areas may be posted closed due to resource management concerns. A map of marked horse trails may be found at the Visitor Centers.
Birding
Birdwatchers can spot over 200 species, including eagles and falcons. Guided bird walks are offered during summer months. The park's diverse habitats attract a variety of birds year-round.
Nature Programs
The park offers many educational programs and family activities. For example, park rangers lead guided nature walks and gold-panning excursions. Living-history demonstrations, such as candle making and woodworking, take place at the Gordon Stockade. Evening campfire programs feature slide shows, outdoor-cooking demonstrations and films. For the kids, the Junior Naturalist Program teaches them about the outdoors through hands-on activities.

Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
September 1 Great Visit by Carla_a_A_A
park review stars; one to five We especially wanted to thank the camphost, Pam, and the gentleman, Mike, who replaced our screen in the cabin VERY promptly as being especially helpful.
July 29 Sheps by Kent_B
park review stars; one to five
July 3 wildlife loop
park review stars; one to five Recently on my way back to Minnesota I drove to Custer State Park because I wanted to go on the wildlife loop. I had to pay $20 just to drive thru because they do not have 1 day passes, only 7 day passes. I am a senior, they should have a senior discount or a 1 day pass. Just saying...
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South Dakota
12

South Dakota State Parks

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