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Custer State Park

Custer State Park offers 71,000 acres of amazing views and dog-friendly outdoor experiences in Custer, SD. Leashed dogs are welcome throughout the park. The 18-mile Wildlife Loop allows pets and humans to explore the park and view the indigenous wildlife from the comfort of the car. There are also many dog-friendly hiking trails where pets are welcome to join the fun. Set out on a hike along Black Elk Peak Loop, a seven-mile route with stunning views of the cathedral spires and Black Hills wilderness. Visitors should note that dogs are not allowed at designated swimming beaches or in any park buildings (including camping cabins, lodges and comfort stations). Visit Website

Or call +1 6052554515 for more information.

Reviews

BringFido Guest Rating
TripAdvisor Traveller Rating

Custer State Park has received a rating of 5.0 out of 5 bones by 14 canine critics on BringFido and 5.0 out of 5 by 6,088 guests on TripAdvisor.

  • Amy
    Aug 27, 2023
    Legion Lake

    SOOOOO AMAZING! We will definitely be back. So peaceful, super well stocked and great space to walk the dogs. Pet friendly dining available at the Lakeside Grille (which was also well-priced and had excellent food).

  • Stephanie
    Sep 14, 2022
    Super dog friendly and lots to do

    We had a great time driving the wildlife loop and hiking the trails

  • Beth
    Sep 4, 2022
    Great day

    Custer state is beautiful and a great way to spend the day with your pets. the drives are spectacular. Our family went after a pretty long hike and it was a perfect time for the dogs to rest and recover while driving the park.

  • Scott
    Jul 15, 2022
    Must see if visiting black hills

    Wildlife Loop was sort of a letdown as many of the animals were no-shows. But that could’ve just been a bad day or bad timing. Sylvan Lake is absolutely gorgeous. Dogs are not welcomed in their gift shop though so keep in mind. A must see area.

  • Billy
    Jul 30, 2021
    Natural Beauty to Enjoy with your Pooch

    The highlight of this incredible park was Sylvan Lake. Take a walk around the water and then dive into the water - it's incredible. Driving the Wildlife Loop was an experience, especially when Bagel first saw the bison.

  • R
    Jun 19, 2021
    Took grandma hiking

    As we drove ever so slowly through a herd of bison, traveling shortbread stuck just the end of her nose out to sniff. The bison on the other hand, didn't concern themselves with a pamper dog. We hiked a few trails and visited a prairie dog village. Easy trails.

  • Michele
    Sep 25, 2020
    Great! only get out at certain areas

    This was a perfect stop to get out for a little bit. Terrain is a mis of grassy and rocky but it doesn't take any significant skill to mosey around. MOST of the park is for driving through unless you are doing something specific like kayaking.

  • Melissa
    Aug 20, 2020
    Lots To See And Do

    this park was absolutely beautiful and there were so many different things that you could do plus my dog loves being able to see the donkeys in the Buffalo

  • Jason
    Jul 1, 2020
    Great Adventure For Dogs

    Custer State Park offers several days’ worth of adventures for you and your pup. Hiking, canoeing on Sylvan lake, and wildlife viewing on the scenic drives are all great options.

  • Kim
    Jun 14, 2020
    What My Dog Did on Summer Vacation

    Sylvan Lake Lodge cabins are dog friendly. (with a few exceptions) Our dogs had the best time, enjoying walks every day! Dogs are permitted on all trails, but some are more challenging than others. Sylvan Lake Trail and Cathedral Spires were the easiest with big dogs. Most of Devil’s Tower was okay but use judgement on whether you proceed up to the tower, you will know the section when you get there...Sunday Gulch was challenging as well but possible for a fit and bold pup. The dogs loved driving the wildlife loop and seeing bison. Highly recommend for those wanting to enjoy great scenery and drives/hikes with their best buddy.

  • Ian
    Sep 22, 2019
    Tons to do with your dog

    Get hold of the free BHT trails booklet - there are tons of walks to do with your dog, from short and easy through to strenuous half day hikes. And my dog enjoyed the Wildlife Drive as well, spotting the bison through the car window.

  • Jes
    Jul 8, 2019
    Awe Inspiring Experience

    We drove wildlife loop with our well behaved, low prey drive (okay no prey drive) pooch. Towards the end hundreds of buffalo were blocking the road grazing with their young. Some came within a foot of the traffic that had stopped to allow them to cross. It was amazing! I think as long as you don’t have a pup that would bark or disturb the Buffalo this is a must do!

  • Corinne
    Jul 1, 2019
    Dogs loved exploring park!

    Lots of great places to stop and let pups out for a break and hike. Our Hope loved wading in creeks!

  • Tiffany
    Sep 13, 2018
    Dog loved it!

    Sylvan lake and nearby trails were awesome! Part of the beach is not dog friendly. Lots of wildlife! Doggo loved it!

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Custer State Park