Ashlyn Hayes
Nestled within the gorgeous Black Hills of South Dakota, Custer State Park is an incredible collection of natural beauty and wildlife habitat. At the center of this outdoor paradise lies the Custer State Park Wildlife Loop, an 18-mile scenic drive that offers visitors a chance to experience the park’s diverse ecosystem and abundant animal life up close.
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Map of Custer State Park Wildlife Loop
Custer State Park Wildlife Loop
The Custer State Park Wildlife Loop is more than just a road; it’s a gateway to adventure. Winding through pine-covered hills, rolling prairies, and red-walled canyons, this scenic byway offers samples of everything Custer has to offer. The Wildlife Loop is a necessary addition to any Custer State Park itinerary. When my family visited Custer State Park we drove the Wildlife Loop twice! That’s how awesome it is.
When to Visit the Wildlife Loop
Timing is important when planning your experience on the Custer State Park Wildlife Loop. For the best chance to see animals in action, plan your drive for early morning or evening. These are the times when wildlife is most active, increasing your chances of spotting the park’s diverse array of critters.
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Wildlife Encounters on the Loop
The most common animal to see on the Custer State Park Wildlife Loop is undoubtedly some of the park’s herd of approximately 1,300 bison. These majestic creatures roam freely throughout the park, and you’re almost guaranteed to spot at least a portion of the herd during your drive. Remember, while bison may appear gentle, they’re surprisingly fast and can be dangerous. Always stay in your vehicle when bison are nearby. As you’ll see printed on many shirts and hats on your South Dakota vacation, “Do Not Pet The Fluffy Cows.”
But bison aren’t the only animals you might encounter on the Custer State Park Wildlife Loop. Keep your eyes open for bighorn sheep, pronghorn, deer, elk, coyotes, and prairie dogs. Bird enthusiasts will be delighted by the variety of bird species, including wild turkeys, that call the park home.
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The Famous Begging Burros
Okay, now onto one of my favorite things to talk about in regards to Custer State Park. One of the most unique and entertaining experiences on the Custer State Park Wildlife Loop is an encounter with the park’s famous “begging burros.”
These friendly donkeys are descendants of a herd that once provided trail rides in the park. It is a thrill driving the Custer State Park Wildlife Loop and looking for this pack. They can often be found near the southeastern tip of the loop road, but can be seen roaming anywhere along the loop.
I must disclose that park rules prohibit feeding wildlife. Okay, but if you happen to have a healthy snack like an apple or a banana in your vehicle I can’t tell you what to do or what not to do with it. And if you encounter a friendly group of beggin’ burros, these wild donkeys will come right up to you and allow you to feed them and pet them. It’s thrilling! This was our favorite part of our Custer State Park trip.
In all seriousness, remember to use good judgment in these interactions and understand the potential risks. We enjoyed walking in the field and feeding them snacks, however, they did start to crowd us and get pushy. It got to a point where I felt uncomfortable, and the burros got a bit food-aggressive. Just use your best judgment and keep a close eye on your kiddos.
Beyond Wildlife: Scenic Beauty of the Loop
The Custer State Park Wildlife Loop isn’t just about animal encounters. The drive itself offers really nice views of the park’s diverse landscapes. From expansive grasslands to rolling hills and dramatic rock formations, every turn of the road presents a new vista to admire. It’s a very peaceful drive, and I recommend timing the drive for sunset. It was stunning.
Hiking Opportunities Along the Loop
For those looking to stretch their legs, the Custer State Park Wildlife Loop offers access to hiking trails. The Prairie Trail, a moderate three-mile loop, takes you into the grasslands where wildflowers bloom throughout spring and summer. The Centennial Trail also intersects the Wildlife Loop near its western end, offering more extensive hiking options for the adventurous. In my opinion, there are much better hikes in other parts of the park, but I want you to know these options are available.
How Much Time Does it Take to Drive The Custer State Park Wildlife Loop?
Plan to spend at least an hour driving the route. The speed limits are on the lower side, you may get stuck behind traffic, and you’ll likely need to pause to let wildlife cross the road. However, if you want to stop frequently to observe wildlife or take in the scenery, you might want to allow for two hours or more (especially if you find the begging burros!).
How to Get to The Custer State Park Wildlife Loop
The Custer State Park Wildlife Loop is a loop road literally called “Wildlife Loop Road.” You can enter from either highway 16A near Game Lodge Campground or highway 87 at the Blue Bell Entrance Station. There are some smaller gravel roads you can take to enter the loop at other points, but you’ll have to rely on your map for those.
Should I Drive The Loop Clockwise or Counterclockwise?
It doesn’t matter! There is no “better” way to do the loop.
The Annual Buffalo Roundup
If you’re planning a fall visit, your trip may coincide with the Annual Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup. Held at the end of September, this event is when ranchers herd the park’s bison into corrals for health checks and herd management. This event draws thousands of visitors each year, so keep that in mind if you would like a more peaceful drive around the Custer State Park Wildlife Loop.
Planning a Trip to Custer State Park?
The Custer State Park Wildlife Loop is a peaceful, scenic drive that immerses you into the heart of South Dakota’s natural beauty. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply someone looking for a unique adventure, this 18-mile loop offers an unforgettable experience.
Does exploring the wonders of Custer State Park’s Wildlife Loop sound like your kind of adventure? I’d love to help you craft a personalized itinerary that captures the magic of the Black Hills, and as your travel advisor, I can book your accommodations for free! Submit an inquiry and let’s chat about making your dream trip a reality!
Are you wanting to camp on your trip to Custer State Park? Check out my article Camping With Kids Checklist: Must Have Outdoor Camping Gear for Kids
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