Nestled in the scenic Black Hills of South Dakota, Custer State Park spans over 71,000 acres of rolling plains, granite peaks, pine forests, and pristine lakes — making it one of the largest and most spectacular state parks in the country. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or planning a longer stay, the park offers a rich mix of outdoor adventure, wildlife encounters, scenic drives, and educational opportunities that will leave lasting memories for the whole family.

Find Your Basecamp: Campgrounds at Custer State Park

Planning your stay is easy — and highly recommended, especially during the busy summer months. Custer State Park offers nine unique campgrounds that include camper cabins, tent sites, electric RV sites, and even a dedicated horse camp. Reservations can be made up to a year in advance online at Go Outdoors South Dakota or by calling 1-800-710-2267. While Game Lodge campground is open year-round, be aware that from October 1 to April 30, showers, flush toilets, and other water systems may be closed for the season. Vault toilets typically remain available, making shoulder-season visits still very manageable for those seeking a quieter escape.

Blue Bell Campground

Surrounded by tall ponderosa pines and nestled near French Creek, Blue Bell Campground offers a peaceful, woodsy setting with all the charm of the Old West — plus modern conveniences. Located next to the Blue Bell Lodge and horse stables, it’s the perfect choice for families, couples, or equestrian campers looking for a central yet quiet base to relax, ride, or roast marshmallows.

Sites: Electric Only Sites that accommodate medium sized rigs, trailers and tents.

Cabins: Camping cabins available, including ADA-accessible cabins BB14 and BB15

Amenities:  Flush toilets, hot showers, drinking water, vault toilets and dump station.

Nearby Activities: Horseback rides, departing daily from the nearby stables. The famous Blue Bell Chuck Wagon Dinner — a family-friendly wagon ride and cowboy cookout under the stars. Trout fishing at French Creek. Nearby hiking and equestrian trails.

Operating Season: May 1 through November 1 (may vary with weather conditions)

With its rustic lodge atmosphere, shaded campsites, and evening activities just steps away, Blue Bell is a great pick for those wanting a blend of nature, convenience, and western flair.

Center Lake Campground

Tucked in a forested valley above Center Lake, Center Lake Campground offers a peaceful and scenic escape for tent campers and small RV travelers. Shaded by tall ponderosa pines, this campground feels secluded and tranquil. What makes this campground unique? It’s the only one in the park that’s reserved on a same-day basis, making it a great option for spontaneous adventurers or last-minute planners.

Sites: Dry camping only, no electricity, that accommodate mid-size RVs, trailers and tents.

Cabins: None

Amenities:  Vault toilets, hot showers, and drinking water.

Nearby Activities: it’s just a short walk from a swimming beach, boat dock, and some of the best no-wake paddling and fishing in the park.

Operating Season: Opening weekend through September 30.

If you’re looking for a quiet, scenic retreat with easy lake access and a flexible booking window, Center Lake is the perfect fit. Just remember: first come, first served — even with reservations, so arrive early in the day for your best chance at securing a spot during peak season.

Game Lodge Campground

Centrally located and surrounded by some of the park’s most popular attractions, Game Lodge Campground offers a well-rounded experience for campers of all types. Nestled along Grace Coolidge Creek, this campground sits just off US Highway 16A this campground is a favorite for families and anyone who wants to be in the heart of it all.

Sites: Electric only sites that accommodate big rigs, trailers and tents. Some tent only sites.

Cabins: Camper cabins are available.

Amenities:  Flush toilets, hot showers, drinking water, vault toilets, cold water laundry house and dump station.

Nearby Activities: within walking distance of the Visitor Center, Peter Norbeck Outdoor Education Center, the Tatanka Barn, and the historic State Game Lodge. On site playground and creekside access.

Operating Season: May 1 - November 1 full amenities. November 1 - April 30 vault toilets and potable water only.

If you’re visiting with family, planning to participate in evening programs, or looking for a central home base near all the park’s amenities, Game Lodge Campground is hard to beat. Plus, it’s the only campground open year-round, making it a rare option for winter RV travelers or off-season adventurers.

Grace Coolidge Campground

Grace Coolidge Campground is a peaceful retreat tucked along Grace Coolidge Creek, offering a serene, shaded setting that’s perfect for anglers, nature lovers, and anyone looking for a quieter camping experience. This campground is split into two distinct areas: the north side of the highway is designated tent-only, while the south side accommodates RVs, trailers, and other camping units — giving campers options to suit their style.

Sites: Electric Only Sites that accommodate mid-size RVs, trailers and tents. There is an additional tent only area.

Cabins: None

Amenities:  Flush toilets, hot showers, drinking water, and vault toilets.

Nearby Activities: Grace Coolidge Walk-in Fishing Area, a beautiful 3-mile stretch of trout-filled stream great for hiking, biking or fishing. Close proximity to Needles Highway.

Operating Season: Open House Weekend through October 10. (subject to weather conditions.

If you’re looking for a quiet, shady spot with easy access to one of the best fishing streams in the park, Grace Coolidge Campground is a fantastic choice. The tent-only section offers a back-to-nature vibe without sacrificing proximity to amenities just across the road.

Legion Lake Campground

Located just across the highway from the sparkling waters and sheer rock walls of Legion Lake, Legion Lake Campground is a favorite among families and lake lovers. With close access to Legion Lake Lodge, picnic areas, a beach, and recreational rentals, this campground is ideal for those who want a convenient and activity-filled camping experience. It can accommodate everything from large RVs to tents, making it one of the park’s most flexible options.

Sites: Electric Only Sites that accommodate large RVs, trailers and tents.

Cabins: None

Amenities:  Flush toilets, hot showers, drinking water, and vault toilets.

Nearby Activities: Legion Lake Lodge, general store and ice cream. Also fishing dock. Canoe, Kayak and paddleboard rentals are available right at the lake. Swimming beach and shaded picnic areas.

Operating Season: Open House Weekend through October 10. (subject to weather conditions.

For families with kids or those who love being close to the action, Legion Lake Campground offers unbeatable access to the water, lodge, and recreational amenities — all within walking distance of your site. Be sure to catch a sunset from the dock or picnic tables for a picture-perfect end to the day.

French Creek Horse Camp

Specifically designed for equestrian campers, French Creek Horse Camp is a peaceful, backcountry-style campground located right on the banks of French Creek, about 2.5 miles east of Blue Bell Lodge along North Lame Johnny Road (CSP 4). This rustic gem is a must for anyone exploring Custer State Park on horseback, offering direct access to scenic trails and a well-equipped setting to care for your animals while enjoying the great outdoors.

Sites: Electric Only Sites that accommodate big rigs, trailers and tents. Must have horses.

Cabins: Camping cabins available (close November 1)

Amenities:  Flush toilets, hot showers, drinking water, vault toilets and dump station.

Operating Season: May 1 - October 31 Full amenities. November 1 - April 29 no water, limited facilities.

Each campsite is set up to accommodate 2 horses, with two on-site corrals provided per site, No additional corrals available. Horse water is available via French Creek. Portable Corrals is not allowed.

Horse Health Requirements (for out-of-state horses):

• Health certificate within the last 30 days (EECVI not accepted)
• Negative Coggins or ELISA EIA test within the past 12 months
• Brand inspection papers required per SD law (contact SD Brand Board: 605-773-3324)

Forage Rules: Only certified weed-free hay with official tags or seals from the SD Department of Agriculture (or another state certifying it) may be brought into the park.

Stockade North Campground

Located on the western side of Custer State Park, just off US Highway 16A, Stockade North is perfectly situated four miles east of the town of Custer and just minutes from Stockade Lake. It’s also a short walk to the Gordon Stockade, the historic site where gold was discovered by the Custer Expedition in 1874 — an ideal basecamp for history lovers and outdoor explorers alike.

Sites: Electric only that accommodates big rigs, trailers, and tents.

Cabins:  None

Amenities:  Flush toilets, hot showers, drinking water, and vault toilets

Nearby Activities: Swimming, boating, and fishing at Stockade Lake; historical sightseeing at Gordon Stockade; easy access to Custer

Operating Season: Open House Weekend (the weekend before Memorial Day) through October 1 (may vary with weather conditions)

Stockade North tends to be quieter than the lakeside campgrounds but is still close enough to enjoy the water and town amenities.

Stockade South Campground

Tucked away on the southern side of Stockade Lake, Stockade South Campground offers a peaceful, shaded setting that’s ideal for mid-sized RVs and families looking for a quieter stay with easy access to lake recreation and history. Just a short distance from Stockade North, this campground also puts you close to the historic Gordon Stockade, where gold was first discovered in the Black Hills by the Custer Expedition in 1874. Plus, it’s only four miles from downtown Custer — perfect for a grocery run or a bite to eat.

Sites: Electric only that accommodate mid-sized RVs, trailers, and tent.

Cabins: Several camping cabins available

Amenities:  Flush toilets, hot showers, and drinking water

Nearby Activities: Stockade Lake fishing and kayaking, hiking, history at Gordon Stockade, dining and shopping in Custer

Operating Season: Open House Weekend (the weekend before Memorial Day) through October 1 (may vary with weather conditions)

With cabin rentals and shady campsites near the lake, this is a great base for families or couples looking to enjoy a mix of relaxation and recreation.

Extra Info for Campers

Dump Station: There’s a conveniently located dump station at the east end of the park, right at the start of the Wildlife Loop Road — a helpful stop whether you’re coming or going.

No matter your camping style — RV, tent, cabin, or even with a horse — Custer State Park has a spot that fits your adventure. Each campground offers its own blend of scenery, amenities, and access to the park’s many attractions, making it easy to find your perfect basecamp. With breathtaking views, wildlife right outside your door, and everything from lakes to lodges just minutes away, staying inside the park turns a great trip into an unforgettable one. Reservations can be made up to one year in advance, and sites fill quickly — especially for summer and holiday weekends. Book your stay online at the official South Dakota reservation system.

A Gateway to Discovery: Visitor Centers & Learning Opportunities

Start your journey at one of the park’s four incredible centers:

From interactive exhibits to wildlife education, Custer State Park offers multiple ways to dive deeper into the story of the Black Hills. Whether you're traveling with kids, eager to spot bison, or simply curious about the region’s past, each stop adds its own layer of discovery. Make time for one - or better yet, visit them all - and let the park's stories come alive.

Dine with a View: The Lodges of Custer State Park & the Famous Chuck Wagon Dinner

Between scenic hikes and wildlife sightings, you’re going to work up an appetite — and Custer State Park doesn’t disappoint when it comes to memorable dining experiences. From cowboy cookouts to cozy lodge restaurants, you’ll find plenty of places to grab a bite while soaking up the views.

Blue Bell Lodge & Chuck Wagon Cookout

Step into the old west at Blue Bell Lodge, known for its warm log cabin feel and hearty comfort food. Their on-site pub-style restaurant serves up bison burgers, sizzling steaks, and local fare in a relaxed, rustic setting.

But the real star here? The Blue Bell Chuck Wagon Dinner. Climb aboard a horse-drawn or hayride wagon, sing along with the wranglers, and head into the hills for an unforgettable cowboy dinner under the open sky. You'll choose your meat (steak or burger), and it’s served up hot with baked beans, cornbread, apple crisp, and more — all while surrounded by nature and campfire stories.

State Game Lodge

Often called the “Summer White House,” this historic lodge once hosted Presidents Calvin Coolidge and Dwight Eisenhower.

The State Game Lodge Restaurant offers fine dining with a rustic twist — featuring locally sourced ingredients and elevated dishes like elk medallions, trout, and wild game options. With an upscale lodge vibe and scenic outdoor patio, this is a great place for a romantic evening or special occasion meal.

Creekside Lodge

Located right next to the State Game Lodge, Creekside Lodge offers modern accommodations with a peaceful, creekside atmosphere.

While it doesn’t have its own restaurant, it’s just a short walk to the State Game Lodge for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Ideal for families or travelers looking for a quieter place to stay without sacrificing convenience.

Legion Lake Lodge

Tucked beside a peaceful lake, Legion Lake Lodge is a charming and casual stop for breakfast, burgers, and ice cream with a view.

The Legion Lake Grill is perfect for a relaxed lakeside meal — enjoy a bison brat or pulled pork sandwich on the outdoor patio just steps from the water. Don’t forget to pop into the general store for souvenirs or a scoop of locally made ice cream.

Sylvan Lake Lodge

Set high above the sparkling waters of Sylvan Lake, this lodge feels like a mountain retreat.

The Sylvan Lake Dining Room serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner with unbeatable views and menu options ranging from casual bites to upscale entrees. Whether you’re fueling up for a hike up Black Elk Peak or unwinding after a day of exploring, the dining room here is worth the visit.

Pro Tip: Make reservations during peak season — this spot is popular and fills fast!

No matter where you choose to stay or dine, the lodges of Custer State Park offer a blend of history, hospitality, and spectacular scenery. Whether you’re indulging in a cowboy cookout, sipping coffee by the lake, or dining where presidents once dined, you’ll find meals here are just as memorable as the landscapes that surround them.

Scenic Drives & Overlooks That Take Your Breath Away

If you're looking for jaw-dropping views without lacing up your hiking boots, Custer State Park delivers with some of the most iconic scenic drives in the country. From towering granite spires and lush forests to rolling grasslands filled with wildlife, these drives turn your windshield into a window into nature — with a bit of genius engineering along the way.

Wildlife Loop Road

This 18-mile loop is one of the park’s most popular attractions. It winds through wide-open prairie and gently rolling hills, offering your best chance to spot:

• Bison, often in massive herds
• Pronghorn antelope, elk, deer, coyotes, and begging burros
• Smaller critters like prairie dogs and 13-lined ground squirrels
• And a variety of raptors and songbirds for birdwatching enthusiasts
  
  

Best time to go: Early morning or evening.

Tip: Go slow, pull over at turnouts, and bring binoculars!

Unpopular Opinion: As fun as it is to feed the burros it is best if you don't. Learn more about not feeding wildlife from these trusted sources:

Needles Highway (SD 87)

Stretching about 14 miles, Needles Highway takes you through some of the most striking granite formations in the Black Hills, including the famous Needle’s Eye Tunnel, a slender passage just 8 feet 4 inches wide and 12 feet high — a tight squeeze for larger vehicles. If you are unsure be sure to go through the gate at the start of Needles Highway located right off of 16A in the center of the park, they have measuring sticks to ensure you will fit through the tunnel

Fun Fact: The Needles Highway gets its name from the striking Needle’s Eye rock formation, located just beyond the famous Needle’s Eye Tunnel. This tall, slender spire of granite has a narrow hole eroded through its center, giving it the appearance of a needle’s eye — and inspiring the name of the entire highway. It’s one of the most photographed spots in the park and a favorite stop for visitors traveling this scenic, winding route through the Black Hills.

Don’t Miss: Pullouts near Cathedral Spires and Little Devil’s Tower Trailheads for epic views and photo ops.

Iron Mountain Road (US 16A)

An engineering marvel, Iron Mountain Road was deliberately crafted to slow you down — and it works. Iron Mountain Road (U.S. 16A) features three narrow, scenic tunnels, each intentionally aligned to frame Mount Rushmore in the distance when traveling northbound. These tunnels are part of the road’s carefully engineered charm — but they’re also quite tight!

Here are the tunnel dimensions for Iron Mountain Road:

Doane Robinson Tunnel

• Width: 12 feet
• Height: 11 feet 4 inches

C.C. Gideon Tunnel

• Width: 11 feet 6 inches
• Height: 10 feet 9 inches

Scovel Johnson Tunnel

• Width: 10 feet 9 inches
• Height: 11 feet

This drive is also known for its:

• 3 “pigtail bridges”, or spiral timber trestle bridges that loop under themselves, allowing you to gain elevation in a small footprint
• Each one is roughly 100–150 feet long
• Roadway width is about 16–18 feet, just enough for two small vehicles to pass
• Vertical clearance under the loops is around 12–14 feet

• Scenic pull offs for taking in the pine-covered hills, rock outcrops, and distant peaks

Pro Tip: Drive northbound for the best tunnel views of Mount Rushmore — and have your camera ready!

Mount Coolidge Lookout Tower

Drive up a short, steep side road to reach the Mount Coolidge Fire Tower, perched at 6,023 feet above sea level.



• Enjoy 360° views of the Black Hills, including the Badlands, Wyoming, and Nebraska on clear days.
• A ranger is often on-site during peak season to share the lookout’s history and fire-watch function.

Sunset Favorite: Bring a blanket and some snacks for a spectacular end-of-day view.

Other Scenic Routes

• Sylvan Lake Road offers a peaceful forest drive leading to one of the most beautiful lakes in the park, framed by granite formations.

• North Lame Johnny Road is a quiet connector between Wildlife Loop Road and the park’s interior — great for a scenic shortcut with fewer crowds.

The Roads That Tell A Story

What makes these drives truly special isn’t just the scenery — it’s the thoughtful design that went into every curve, tunnel, and bridge. Built to enhance rather than disrupt the natural beauty, each road invites you to slow down, pull over, and be present in the moment.

Whether you’re navigating the granite corridors of Needles Highway, looping through Iron Mountain’s wooden spirals, or cruising the wildlife-rich prairie, every mile in Custer State Park is part of the adventure.

Hike, Fish, and Paddle Your Way Through the Park

What makes these drives truly special isn’t just the scenery — it’s the thoughtful design that went into every curve, tunnel, and bridge. Built to enhance rather than disrupt the natural beauty, each road invites you to slow down, pull over, and be present in the moment.



Whether you’re navigating the granite corridors of Needles Highway, looping through Iron Mountain’s wooden spirals, or cruising the wildlife-rich prairie, every mile in Custer State Park is part of the adventure.

Top Hiking Trails You Won’t Want to Miss

This 4-mile loop trail starts behind Sylvan Lake and is known for its dramatic boulder-filled gulch, footbridges, and metal railings to assist with the climb. Expect slick rock scrambles and stream crossings — perfect for experienced hikers looking for a unique challenge.

The tallest point east of the Rockies at 7,242 feet and west of Franch, this iconic hike begins at Sylvan Lake and takes you up through pine forests, granite outcrops, and sweeping vistas. The summit offers 360° panoramic views and features a historic stone fire tower built by the CCC.
Distance: ~7 miles round-trip via Trail #9

A 1.5-mile trail (one-way) that leads you to the base of soaring granite spires — a favorite for rock climbers and those seeking a dramatic yet moderate hike. It connects with Little Devil’s Tower Trail and Black Elk Peak for those wanting a longer trek.

A short but steep 3-mile round-trip trail offering jaw-dropping views from the summit. Less crowded than Black Elk, it’s a fantastic alternative for big views with less mileage — and a rock scramble at the top that’s both fun and rewarding.

A beautiful 4-mile loop near the Game Lodge area, this moderately strenuous hike offers panoramic views of the valley below and takes you through forest, meadows, and ridgelines. Legend has it the leap was named after a tragic tale of star-crossed lovers — keep an eye out for the signpost at the top.

This gentle 3-mile (one-way) trail runs along a scenic stream stocked with trout. Cross multiple footbridges and cast a line along the way — a peaceful option for anglers and families. This trail is also great for mountain bikes.

Tucked away near Center Lake, these lesser-known trails offer a peaceful retreat into quiet pine forests and rocky overlooks. With shorter loop options and access to water, this area is ideal for both short strolls and quiet exploration off the beaten path.

This moderate 1.5-mile loop offers wooded views, gentle inclines, and occasional glimpses of Stockade Lake through the trees. It’s a great choice for a quiet morning hike or a short afternoon adventure, with chances to spot deer and wild turkeys along the way. The trailhead is located on the north side of Stockade Lake.

A short but scenic 1-mile loop, the Legion Lake Trail offers big views with minimal effort. The trail climbs briefly through pine forest to a rocky overlook above Legion Lake, perfect for photos and a quiet rest. It’s easily accessible from the Legion Lake Lodge area and is a great option for beginner hikers or those short on time.

With trails ranging from peaceful lakeside loops to summit climbs and rocky scrambles, Custer State Park offers hikes for every skill level and season. Whether you're out spotting wildlife, chasing views, or just enjoying a quiet walk in the pines, the park’s trail system invites you to explore at your own pace. For an added adventure, take part in the park’s Seasonal Trail Challenges — complete a set of designated hikes during the summer or winter, turn in your log sheet, and earn a custom commemorative pin. It’s a fun, free way to stay active and experience new parts of the park all year long!

Fishing the Park's Hidden Gems

Custer State Park is a fishing paradise for beginners and seasoned anglers alike. In addition to the main lakes, there are many small ponds and hidden waterholes scattered throughout the park, some accessible by trail, others just a short drive away.

Cast for:

• Rainbow trout in stocked streams like Grace Coolidge
• Bass, perch, and bluegill in the park's lakes
• Quiet solitude in tucked-away ponds where the only sound is your line hitting the water

Pro Tip: South Dakota fishing licenses are required (except during Opening Weekend, when fishing is free for everyone).

Lakes to Paddle, Swim & Relax

Bring your gear or rent on-site at several of the lakes. Don't forget sunscreen and a waterproof bag for your phone — you’ll want to snap a few photos while you float!

Whether you’re scaling granite peaks, fishing a quiet stream, or paddling across a still lake at sunset, Custer State Park offers an unforgettable way to experience the great outdoors — at your own pace. With trails and waterways for every skill level, this is the place to stretch your legs, breathe in the mountain air, and create lasting memories with every step (or stroke).

Step Into History at Custer State Park

While Custer State Park is best known for its natural beauty and wildlife, it also holds a deep and diverse history that adds an extra layer of meaning to every visit. From frontier tales and poetic inspiration to live performances in the pines, the park’s cultural landmarks tell the story of the people who helped shape this remarkable landscape.

Whether you're stepping into the life of a poet, reliving gold rush history, or catching a live show under the stars, Custer State Park offers more than scenic views — it’s a place where South Dakota’s history comes alive.

Beyond the Park: Day Trips & Nearby Adventures

While Custer State Park could easily fill your entire itinerary, it’s also surrounded by some of the most iconic and unique destinations in the Black Hills region. If you're staying a few days (and you absolutely should), be sure to carve out time to explore these nearby gems — each one adding its own flavor to your South Dakota adventure.

Mount Rushmore National Memorial

Crazy Horse Memorial