“Our primary goal is to facilitate a deep, personal connection between our guests and the park,” said Custer State Park visitor services supervisor Lydia Austin. “Whether that’s through an exhibit at a visitor center, a trek on a secluded trail, or just a well-told story from a ranger, we want every person to leave with a sense of wonder that makes them want to return again and again.”
Austin has worked at the infamous park for 11 years and grew up vacationing at the attraction as a child. Along with constantly being mesmerized by the 71,000 acres of scenery, she says she’s fueled by the deep, personal mission to have her children experience the same park with the same sense of wonderment that she did.
“I’m surrounded by a dedicated team who shares that passion, and together, we work to ensure this place remains just as special for the next generation,” said Austin. “I feel incredibly grateful to work in a place this magnificent; it’s a unique privilege to have a workplace where bison graze right outside my office window.”
None of it would be possible without the vision of former South Dakota Governor Peter Norbeck. He established the park as governor in 1919, and it was said he “could count his supporters upon the fingers of one hand.”
A bold undertaking, Norbeck built Custer State Park by swapping state school lands with the Forest Service and buying out homesteaders. This unique history is actually why the park has its distinct rectangular shape—roughly eight miles wide by 12 miles tall—creating a massive sanctuary that has stood the test of time.
Now visitors from all over the world can explore granite peaks, rolling plains, and clear mountain waters to “let yourself run wild.” Along with being known for activities like camping, hiking, biking, swimming, and fishing, Custer State Park is most famous for guests to have the opportunity to get close up to abundant wildlife like bison, elk, burros, bighorn sheep, and more.
Austin says it’s the vast array of options at the park that truly make it unique.
Reminder:
Always, and that means always, stay at least 100 yards away from bison, elk, and other animals.
“While we are world-famous for our bison herd, it’s the sheer diversity that makes us special,” said Austin. “The landscape transforms from rolling southern prairies to jagged northern granite spires, with lush ponderosa forests and alpine lakes tucked in between.”
That diversity extends to how you “stay and play,” too.
“You can backpack into the French Creek Natural Area for a rugged experience, or retreat to a Presidential Suite at Custer State Park Resort,” said Austin. “You can roast hot dogs over a campfire or enjoy a five-star, chef-prepared dinner at the State Game Lodge. There truly is a little something for every type of soul here.”
The park has nine campgrounds that offer a wide range of experiences. Reservations are required, but the Center Lake Campground offers same-day reservations for those who live on the edge. Custer State Park also caters to specific groups, including the French Creek Horse Camp for equestrian visitors, as well as dedicated group camping areas and non-profit youth sites that can accommodate up to 40 people.
For a more “refined” stay, guests can book a room at the State Game Lodge.
“The Lodge remains a cornerstone of the park; it’s a beautiful resort surrounded by iconic scenery and incredible trails like Lover’s Leap, which is a local and visitor favorite,” said Austin.
Find Your Campsite
Find your camping vibe and reserve a spot at gfp.sd.gov/cspcampgrounds.
Custer State Park has a diverse range of ecosystems, including its trails. Near Stockade Lake there are two newer additions: the Osprey Trail and the Doran Trail. Austin recommends Grace Coolidge for a beautiful forested trek, the Prairie Trail to see the vast grasslands, or Sunday Gulch to experience the dramatic granite “rock trail” scenery.
“Whether you want a gentle, meditative hike along a babbling creek or a technical rock scramble that tests your limits, it’s all here,” said Austin.
Sylvan Lake is the park’s “crown jewel,” but its popularity means it fills up fast. If guests aren’t there by 9 a.m., Austin suggests exploring some of the alternative hidden gems for the day.
“Down in the southern portion of the park, the Bison Center is an absolute must-stop to learn about the magnificent herds that call this land home,” she said.
The views are breathtaking, whether visitors are behind the wheel or on their feet. For driving, Needles Highway is iconic for its vistas of the southern Black Hills, and a trip up to the Mt. Coolidge Fire Tower is “a must” for a 360-degree perspective.
“For hikers, I always point people toward Little Devil’s Tower or Lover’s Leap—the payoff at the top is worth every step,” said Austin.
“Even after working here for over a decade and spending time here as a child, I still manage to discover something new and wonderful every single year.”
Lydia Austin
As the team is proud to share the treasures of Custer State Park with visitors from across the globe, Austin says the public lands are ultimately a reflection of them.
“We have a responsibility to lead by example—treating the land with respect and ensuring we leave it even better than we found it for the generations to come,” she stated.
This mantra carries over into the nation’s 250th anniversary. South Dakota State Parks launched Adventure 250, which is a program all about encouraging South Dakotans to become explorers in their own backyard, while also being good stewards of the land.
“We want people to visit their state parks, discover our shared heritage, and start making their own memories right here,” said Austin. No two days are the same at the park, which makes it such an unforgettable experience.
“There is never a dull day here, and that unpredictable energy is exactly what makes it so special,” said Austin. “It’s a place where history meets adventure; one moment you’re standing in the footsteps of presidents, and the next you’re watching a newborn bison calf take its first steps.”
Save the date for events at the park like the Star Party September 4 in partnership with the Black Hills Astronomical Society, Elk Bugling Week September 14-19, and the world-famous Buffalo Roundup and Arts Festival from September 24-26.
When it comes to her extended background and passion for Custer State Park, Austin says her favorite part of her job is connecting people to the attraction.
“At the end of the day, we are in the ‘memory-making business,’” she said. “Knowing the work we do helps a family create a story they’ll tell for decades is the most fulfilling part of my career.”
FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT GFP.SD.GOV/PARKS/DETAIL/CUSTERSTATE-PARK+
