There’s never really a bad time to visit Custer State Park! It’s practically guaranteed that upon entering this state park located in the Black Hills of South Dakota, you will likely see roaming buffalo, a variety of deer, coyote, and more!
My family and I visited the park in the evening just as the sun was beginning to set. We weren’t prepared for what sights awaited us!
Upon reaching the entrance of the park, I could hear the loud yip and howl of a lone coyote in a field of tall yellow grass. If it weren’t for his loud song, we would have missed him entirely!
He appeared less than concerned of the attention he was receiving and continued his evening ballad for about 5 more minutes before retreating to the woods nearby.
We drove on through the windy one way road dotted with wildflowers in between the Aspen forests… Before long came another site! Whitetail deer grazing near the roadside!
These deer, like the coyote, are also unphased by their popularity as people stop to take a photo and enjoy their presence.
As much as I love the deer and coyote though… The real celebrities of Custer State Park are the Buffalo and Begging Burro’s!!! Although the Burro’s weren’t feeling all that social this evening, they could be seen afar huddling up with their herd for the night.
The Buffalo however, were still lumbering about the fields grazing before they themselves huddled down for the night. These massive creatures are a majestic sight! A true sentiment to the old west!
While they themselves too were unconcerned of our presence I maintained a safe and respectful distance as to ensure I wouldn’t cause them to feel threatened.
My husband and kids absolutely loved the sight!
Custer State Park is busier during the day and even more crowded in the summer months. We visited in September and in the evening to avoid the large crowds so we could take in the scenery and wildlife without feeling like we were holding up traffic in the one way loop of the state park.
Custer State Park is located near Rapid City S.D. and is within reasonable distance to the Badlands National Park, Mt. Rushmore, Crazy Horse monument, along with other great historically interesting attractions! It is a must see when visiting the area!
Have you visited Custer State Park? If so, what was your most memorable moments there?
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