Custer State Park is located in South Dakota, USA. It lies between the towns of Custer and Hill City and is situated in the Black Hills region of the state. The park is famous for its bison herds, scenic drives, wildlife, and outdoor activities like hiking and fishing.
Custer State Park Location Map,Custer, South Dakota

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Top Attractions Inside Custer State Park
- Wildlife Loop Road – Scenic drive for spotting bison, pronghorn, deer, and other native wildlife.
- Needles Highway – Iconic route featuring granite spires, narrow tunnels, and breathtaking views.
- Sylvan Lake – Popular area for swimming, kayaking, picnicking, and hiking trails.
- Iron Mountain Road – Scenic drive with hairpin turns, tunnels, and panoramic overlooks.
- Cathedral Spires – Stunning granite formations ideal for hiking and photography.
- Blue Bell Lodge & Visitor Center – Provides information, lodging, and access to park trails and attractions.
- Wildlife Viewing & Photography – Numerous spots throughout the park to observe and photograph animals and natural scenery.
Custer State Park Facts
| Official Name | Custer State Park |
| Location | Custer, Custer County, South Dakota, USA — Black Hills region |
| Latitude & Longitude | 43.7541° N, 103.5940° W |
| Total Area | 71,000 acres (≈287 km²) |
| Established / Opened | 1912 |
| Managed By | South Dakota Game, Fish & Parks |
| Region | Black Hills, South Dakota |
| Address | 13329 US-16A, Custer, SD 57730, USA |
| Zip Code | 57730 |
| Area Code | 605 |
| Currency | United States Dollar (USD, $) |
| Time Zone | Mountain Time (MT) – UTC−7 Standard / UTC−6 Daylight Saving |
| Theme / Concept | Wildlife viewing, scenic drives, hiking, camping, lakes, historic sites |
| Main Sections / Areas | Wildlife Loop Road, Needles Highway, Sylvan Lake, Legion Lake, Blue Bell Lodge, Camping & Picnic Areas |
| Famous Attractions | Buffalo herds, Bison Roundup (annual), Sylvan Lake, Needles Highway, Scenic drives, Wildlife Loop |
| Annual Visitors | Approx. 1 million visitors |
| Entry Fee Type | Paid Vehicle/Day Pass |
| Ticket Price Range | $20 per vehicle for day use; $15 motorcycle; annual pass $50 |
| Ticket Options | Daily vehicle pass, motorcycle pass, annual park pass, guided tours (optional) |
| Best Time to Visit | May–October for wildlife, scenic drives, and outdoor recreation |
| Nearby Airport | Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP) – 60 miles (97 km) |
| Transportation | Car / Parking, Hiking trails, Biking, Guided tours, Campgrounds |
| Official Website | https://gfp.sd.gov/parks/detail/custer-state-park/ |
Distances from Custer State Park to Nearby Landmarks
- Custer State Park Visitor Center – 0 km (0 mi)
- Needles Highway – 10 km (6.2 mi)
- Mount Rushmore National Memorial – 30 km (18.6 mi)
- Crazy Horse Memorial – 25 km (15.5 mi)
- Sylvan Lake – 15 km (9.3 mi)
- Iron Mountain Road – 12 km (7.5 mi)
- Black Hills National Forest – 5 km (3.1 mi)
- Wind Cave National Park – 40 km (24.9 mi)
- Hot Springs, SD – 45 km (28 mi)
- Rapid City, SD – 50 km (31 mi)
- Badlands National Park – 150 km (93 mi)
- Jewel Cave National Monument – 35 km (21.7 mi)
- Hill City, SD – 20 km (12.4 mi)
- Keystone, SD – 30 km (18.6 mi)
- Black Elk Peak – 25 km (15.5 mi)
- Reptile Gardens – 30 km (18.6 mi)
- Bear Butte State Park – 60 km (37 mi)
- Crazy Horse Memorial Visitors Center – 25 km (15.5 mi)
- Pringle, SD – 15 km (9.3 mi)
- Mickelson Trail – 20 km (12.4 mi)
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