South Dakota Vacation Guide - 2026 South Dakota Vacation Guide
Custer
2025-12-13 10:42:06
A base camp for adventure, history, and nature
HERITAGE
Established during the 1800s Gold Rush, Custer is one of the oldest communities in the region.
Custer’s 1881 Courthouse Museum takes you back in time to the Dakota Territory. Original courtrooms and exhibits showcase Native American heritage, wildlife, pioneering days, and the 1874 Custer Expedition.
Walk along the downtown district to find historic buildings and painted bison sculptures on display, reflecting the culture of the area.
Gold Discovery Days, an annual celebration in July, commemorating the expedition that discovered gold near Custer and sparked a regional gold rush.
MONUMENTS CLOSE BY
Custer is near the towering, in-progress Crazy Horse Memorial® honoring the legacy of Native American cultures.
Jewel Cave National Monument and Wind Cave National Park invite you to explore intricate cave systems and spanning prairies with wildlife and natural wonders.
TRAILBLAZING & LODGING
The George S. Mickelson Trail runs right through Custer, with stops for picnicking or parking the bike while you explore downtown a block away.
Throughout the year, bike and foot races are held along the Mickelson Trail. They include the Mickelson Trail Trek each June and September, as well as the Run Crazy Horse Marathon. Custer makes a great stay for event participants.
Located near Custer State Park, you can explore wildlife and hiking trails or relax at the Park’s lakes.
Enjoy the outdoors with camping and cabin stays at Custer’s Gulch RV Park & Campground or Rock Crest Lodge & Cabins.
GEAR UP
Before setting out in the Black Hills for a day of adventure, grab what you need at the South Dakota Outdoor Shop, offering active wear for all your adventures.
Rental companies like Black Hills Power Bikes, Rentals, & Boutique offer bicycle rentals to cruise the Mickelson Trail.
FOODIE HAVEN
Love local flavors? Custer is a hot spot for cuisine. The community is filled with unique dining establishments that range from burgers and sandwiches at Buglin’ Bull Restaurant & Sports Bar to a Baja twist at The Beggin’ Burro Mexican Bistro. Coffee shops, sweet treats, casual dining, and upscale dining are also offered in Custer.
EXPERIENCE THE OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
The Custer Skywalk Trail is a short, yet rewarding hike right next to Harbach Park and the Mickelson Trail. The 0.6-mile hike takes you to Big Rock Observation Point where you can see Black Elk Peak, Needles Highway, Buckhorn Mountain, Calamity Peak, and Mount Coolidge Lookout & Fire Tower.
Custer State Park and Black Hills National Forest include leisurely lake loops and heart-pumping panoramic views. See the Black Hills from a new perspective by booking a guided climb with Sylvan Rocks Climbing School & Guide Service. Other outdoor adventures include horseback riding, biking, off-road adventures, kayaking, canoeing, and fishing.
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Custer
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