Custer State Park Wildlife Loop and Bison Safaris

Plan your visit

Plan your drive

Prepare for a slow, 18-mile drive with unpredictable wildlife traffic. Here is how to plan your day.

Custer State Park Wildlife Loop and Bison Safaris

US Hwy 16A, Custer State Park, Custer

GPS 43.7618, -103.3688

Open directions

Getting there

You can self-drive the paved route or join a guided tour for off-road access.

How	Time	Cost	Notes
Car: Self-driving the 18-mile Wildlife Loop Road. Enter via the East Entrance (Hwy 16A) or West/Blue Bell Entrance.	1.5 to 2 hours	$20 park entry per vehicle	Drive slowly (max 25 mph) and be prepared to stop for animals crossing or standing in the road.
Tour: Guided Buffalo Safari Jeep Tour departing from the State Game Lodge.	1.5 to 2 hours	Varies by season (must book via Custer State Park Resort)	Takes visitors on private dirt and gravel backcountry roads for a higher chance of seeing the bison herds off the main loop.

When to go

QuietModerateBusyPeak

The park is open year-round. May through September offers the best weather. Visit in September to see the famous Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup. For daily wildlife viewing, plan to drive the loop at sunrise or dusk.

What to bring

Binoculars for safely viewing distant wildlife
Camera with a telephoto lens for safe photography
Snacks and drinking water for the drive
Layers of clothing (weather in the Black Hills can fluctuate rapidly)
Sunscreen and sunglasses
A printed or downloaded offline map of the park (cell service is spotty)
South Dakota State Park pass or credit card for the entry fee
Patience for inevitable 'bison traffic jams'

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Bison are deceptively fast and dangerous.

Never approach them on foot. Stay in your vehicle or maintain a 100-yard distance.

How the day runs

Suggested ways to structure your time.

A typical morning spent driving the paved loop.

07:00
Enter the Park
Arrive early to beat the crowds and pay the $20 fee.
07:15
Visitor Center
Check the whiteboard map at the main Visitor Center for bison locations.
07:30
Start the Loop
Begin the 18-mile drive. Keep your speed under 25 mph.
08:30
Begging Burros
Look for the feral burro herd on the southeastern stretch.
09:30
Wildlife Station
Stop for a restroom break and ranger updates before exiting.

Practical Driving Advice

Always pull completely off the road and to the right of the white line when stopping. This prevents traffic jams. Cell service is spotty in the Black Hills. Download your maps and any audio tours before you arrive. Bring binoculars, water, and plenty of patience for 'bison jams'.

Pets are allowed but must be on a leash no longer than 10 feet. They cannot enter park buildings. Read our Packing Guide guide for a full packing list.

Easiest way to do it

Herd of bison crossing a paved road with cars waiting

Discover Custer State Park A Self Guided Audio Driving Tour

2 h to 3 h 4.7 (6)

Just bring your car and phone; the app guides your tour.
Support is available via chat, email, or phone if you need help.
Planning tools, route maps, scenic stops, and area previews included.
Private tour experience for your family, in your own car.

From$14per person

Viator$14 GetYourGuideCompare

Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.

Planning questions

How long does it take?

The drive typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours. Bison blocking the road can increase this time significantly.

Where does it start?

You can start at the East Entrance off Hwy 16A or the West/Blue Bell Entrance. It is an 18-mile semi-circle.

Can you hike near the loop?

Yes, there are trails nearby. However, you must stay 100 yards away from bison and elk at all times.