Where is Custer State Park,Custer, South Dakota?

Written by | Updated On: December 03, 2025, 14:30 ET

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

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 NameCuster State Park
LocationCuster, Custer County, South Dakota, USA — Black Hills region
Latitude & Longitude43.7541° N, 103.5940° W
Total Area71,000 acres (≈287 km²)
Established / Opened1912
Managed BySouth Dakota Game, Fish & Parks
RegionBlack Hills, South Dakota
Address13329 US-16A, Custer, SD 57730, USA
Zip Code57730
Area Code605
CurrencyUnited States Dollar (USD, $)
Time ZoneMountain Time (MT) – UTC−7 Standard / UTC−6 Daylight Saving
Theme / ConceptWildlife viewing, scenic drives, hiking, camping, lakes, historic sites
Main Sections / AreasWildlife Loop Road, Needles Highway, Sylvan Lake, Legion Lake, Blue Bell Lodge, Camping & Picnic Areas
Famous AttractionsBuffalo herds, Bison Roundup (annual), Sylvan Lake, Needles Highway, Scenic drives, Wildlife Loop
Annual VisitorsApprox. 1 million visitors
Entry Fee TypePaid Vehicle/Day Pass
Ticket Price Range$20 per vehicle for day use; $15 motorcycle; annual pass $50
Ticket OptionsDaily vehicle pass, motorcycle pass, annual park pass, guided tours (optional)
Best Time to VisitMay–October for wildlife, scenic drives, and outdoor recreation
Nearby AirportRapid City Regional Airport (RAP) – 60 miles (97 km)
TransportationCar / Parking, Hiking trails, Biking, Guided tours, Campgrounds
Official Websitehttps://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)