Custer State Park is a natural paradise located in the heart of the Black Hills in South Dakota. This stunning park is a haven for wildlife, offering visitors the chance to see a diverse range of species in their natural habitats. One of the best ways to experience the park’s natural beauty and wildlife is by camping and driving along the Eye of the Needle Road.

Camping in Custer State Park

Custer State Park is home to nine campgrounds, offering a total of over 330 campsites. These campgrounds vary in size and location, from the sprawling Game Lodge Campground to the more remote Sylvan Lake Campground. Each campsite has a picnic table and fire pit, and many have electrical hookups for RVs. There are also several backcountry campsites available for visitors who want to experience a more secluded camping experience.

One of the most popular campgrounds in Custer State Park is the Stockade North Campground, which is located near the park’s Wildlife Loop Road. This campground offers easy access to some of the park’s best wildlife viewing areas, making it an ideal base for visitors who want to see the park’s animals up close.

Wildlife Viewing in Custer State Park

Custer State Park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including bison, elk, pronghorns, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and more. The park’s Wildlife Loop Road is a 18-mile scenic drive that takes visitors through some of the park’s best wildlife viewing areas. Along the route, visitors may see herds of bison grazing in the fields, pronghorns darting across the road, or even a coyote hunting in the grasslands.

For an even more thrilling wildlife experience, visitors can take a drive along the Eye of the Needle Road. This winding road takes visitors through some of the park’s most rugged terrain, offering stunning views of the Black Hills and the park’s wildlife. The road is narrow in places and has several sharp turns, so visitors should drive carefully and be prepared for a bumpy ride.

The Eye of the Needle Road also offers several opportunities for hiking and exploring. Visitors can take a short hike to the Needle’s Eye, a natural rock formation that is a popular spot for photos. There are also several other hiking trails in the area, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging hikes.

Conclusion

Custer State Park is a must-see destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. Whether you’re camping in one of the park’s nine campgrounds or driving along the Eye of the Needle Road, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience. So pack your camping gear, grab your camera, and head to Custer State Park for a truly wild adventure!