Best Hotels in Custer, SD Near Custer State Park
Lodges, cabins, and boutique stays near Custer State Park and Crazy Horse Memorial
Updated: May 22, 2026 | Prices from $99/night
Top Tours Near Custer
Custer is the gateway to Custer State Park's Wildlife Loop and Crazy Horse Memorial — book guided tours and wildlife safaris through Viator.
Discover Custer State Park A Self Guided Audio Driving Tour
Drive the Custer State Park Wildlife Loop Road, where bison roam freely and sweeping landscapes stretch before you. At the Wildlife Station Visitor Center, explore the park’s history and wildlife. The Needles Highway offers a winding route through jagged granite spires, showcasing the rugged beauty of the Black Hills. Mount Coolidge provides panoramic views of the entire park, revealing the diverse terrain that defines this stunning natural haven. Purchase one tour per car, not per person. Everyone listens together! After booking, check your email/text to download the separate Audio Tour Guide App by Action while connected to WiFi or mobile data. Enter the password, download the tour, and enjoy it offline. Follow the audio instructions and route from the designated starting point. New, Lifetime access, no expiry. Use it anytime, on any trip, as many times as you want. This is not an entrance ticket to attractions along the route. Check opening hours before your visit.
Hot Air Balloon Flight Over Black Hills
Experience the untamed beauty of the Black Hills from a hot air balloon! Located in Custer, SD, near Custer State Park, our launch sites are just miles from iconic landmarks like Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse, and Wind Cave National Park. Soar over rugged granite peaks, sweeping valleys, and serene lakes, enjoying a bird's-eye view of abundant wildlife like roaming buffalo, elk, and antelope. There is nowhere else in the world where you can witness this historic, wild landscape from such an incredible vantage point. Established in 1984, our pilots' unmatched expertise in navigating the region's unique microclimates makes us the premier ballooning company in the Black Hills, consistently recognized as a Top 10 U.S. flight. Our daily sunrise flights (weather permitting) feature approximately one hour in the air, culminating in a traditional champagne celebration, light snacks, and a souvenir certificate. Phone hours: 8am - 8pm daily.
The Only Full Day - Jeep Bison Safari at Custer State Park - FUN!
TWO NEW LOCATIONS - Safe parking. Custer - 615 Washington St. 8:00am Depart Keystone - 519 1st St. 8:30am Depart Custer State Park in the one of the largest State Parks in the nation. Encompassing 71,000 acres in the Black Hills, home to abundant wildlife and adventures. Open-Top-Tours is the only company to offer 6 hour Jeep Bison Safaris to ALL of the Park. Including - seldom toured Mt Coolidge Fire Lookout - spectacular views of the Southern Hills from 6,020 ft. We tour in our unique modified Jeep Gladiators and Wranglers, with seating from 2 to 14 with great panoramic viewing. Perfect vehicles to travel the back country roads searching for roaming bison and wildlife. Our guides are professional, well informed and a 'hoot' to tour with. They will explain local history, wildlife and answer your questions. included: fees, bottled water and snacks. Tours depart Rapid City 8am - Custer 8am - Keystone 8:30am. Lots of restroom stops and extra wildlife/landscape photo ops.
Wind Cave National Park Self-Guided Audio Tour
Discover the wonders of Wind Cave National Park with our immersive self-guided audio tour! Wander through one of the world's longest and most intricate cave systems and explore the park’s unique prairie and forest landscapes—all at your own pace. With GPS-triggered narration, our expert guides bring the park’s geology and rich cultural history to life, sharing intriguing stories about the cave’s discovery, the lives of native people, and the scientific marvels hidden beneath your feet. Skip the crowds and rigid schedules—enjoy total freedom, offline maps, and compelling insights without the cost of traditional guided tours. Join thousands who’ve enriched their park adventures with our audio guides—download now and let the magic of Wind Cave unfold! *Download the Shaka Guide app to access the purchased tours*
Prices and availability provided by Viator. We earn a commission on bookings — at no extra cost to you.
Plan Your Tours From Custer
Custer is the gateway to Custer State Park's Wildlife Loop and 17 miles from Mount Rushmore. The right tour guides for your trip:
Best Custer State Park Wildlife Tours →
Bison safaris, Needles Highway drives, and biologist-led tours.
Best Jeep Tours in Custer State Park →
Open-air safaris into the backcountry — plus chuckwagon dinners.
Best Mount Rushmore Combo Tours →
Rushmore + Crazy Horse + Custer SP in a single guided day.
Mount Rushmore Tours: Complete Guide →
Every tour format covered — guided, private, self-guided.
We've ranked the best hotels in Custer for 2026. Custer is the ultimate gatekeeper to Custer State Park and just 5 miles from Crazy Horse Memorial, including legendary historic lodges located directly inside the state park. Staying in Custer provides a quieter, more nature-focused Black Hills experience compared to the larger hubs. For official lodging information, visit Travel South Dakota's official guide.
Table of Contents
Expert Ranking Methodology
Our Custer rankings prioritize wildlife access, historic significance, and local charm. We weigh the benefit of staying inside the state park against the convenience of staying in town near restaurants and shops.
Park Access
Immediate access to wildlife loops and scenic needles.
Guest Sentiment
Aggregated satisfaction scores from verified travelers.
History
Historic value of lodges like the State Game Lodge.
Local Charm
Independent character vs generic chain experiences.
Best Hotels & Lodges in Custer (2026)
From luxury state park lodges to vintage mid-century motels, here are the absolute best places to stay in or near Custer, South Dakota.
State Game Lodge (Custer State Park)
Inside Custer State Park
Exceptional
(1,542 reviews)
Historical lodge served as the "Summer White House" for Presidents Coolidge and Eisenhower. Nestled deep within the park, it offers authentic rustic elegance, a full-service restaurant, and the famous Buffalo Safari Jeep Tours starting right outside.
Bavarian Inn, Black Hills
#1 of 2 small hotels in Custer
Exceptional
(1,265 reviews)
A European-inspired hotel built in 1973 that maintains its character while offering modern amenities. Standout features include both indoor and outdoor pools, plus an on-site pickleball court.
Sylvan Lake Lodge (Custer State Park)
Near Sylvan Lake, CSP
Exceptional
(876 reviews)
The "Crown Jewel" of Custer State Park. Perched on a hillside overlooking one of the most beautiful lakes in the country. This lodge is the gateway to Black Elk Peak and the Cathedral Spires.
Rocket Motel
#1 of 8 motels in Custer
Excellent
(450 reviews)
Perfectly preserved Mid-Century Modern motel. It features classic neon signs, excellent maintenance, and highly-rated service from the owners. It provides a unique boutique motel experience right in downtown Custer.
Comfort Inn & Suites Custer
#4 of 17 hotels in Custer
Very Good
(655 reviews)
Conveniently located minutes from Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial, and Custer State Park. Offers large family suites, a 24-hour fitness center, and adult-only swim times for a relaxing stay.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Custer By IHG
#3 of 17 hotels in Custer
Very Good
(704 reviews)
Modern hotel in the heart of Custer featuring spacious suites, a heated indoor pool, and signature complimentary breakfast. Excellent location within walking distance to top-rated local dining.
Legion Lake Lodge (Custer State Park)
Legion Lake, CSP
Very Good
(420 reviews)
Classic lakeside cabins and rooms. Offers watercraft rentals, a casual restaurant with great views, and a family-friendly vibe. Perfectly situated on the scenic Needles Highway.
Best Western Buffalo Ridge Inn
#7 of 17 hotels in Custer
Good
(697 reviews)
Reliable Best Western featuring an indoor pool, free breakfast, and modern business amenities. Located at the edge of Custer with quick access to the park entrance.
Chalet Motel
#6 of 8 motels in Custer
Very Good
(60 reviews)
Vintage motel operating in Custer since 1938. Locally owned property providing basic rooms with modern updates. It includes a continental breakfast and is well-regarded for its nostalgic atmosphere and value.
Staying Inside Custer State Park
Custer State Park features several distinct, high-quality full-service lodges. Staying inside the park borders ($20 entrance fee applies) puts you steps away from bison, elk, and wild burros. The park offers 30 campgrounds with over 682 individual campsites, plus luxury lodges and rustic cabins.
Note: Park lodges are seasonal (May-October). Book 6-9 months in advance for summer stays. All lodges require a $20 Custer State Park entrance license per vehicle.
Why Choose Custer Over Rapid City?
The Wildlife Loop
Being in Custer means you can hit the Wildlife Loop Road at dawn or dusk (the best times) without an hour drive. See bison, pronghorn, and wild burros right from your hotel doorstep.
Mickelson Trail
Custer is a major hub for the George S. Mickelson Trail, a 109-mile rail trail perfect for cycling and walking. Many hotels offer direct trail access.
Needles Highway Access
Stay in Custer to easily access the famous Needles Highway with its dramatic granite spires and tunnels. Perfect for scenic drives and photography.
Buffalo Roundup
Custer is the best base for the annual Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup (late September). Book early as hotels sell out months in advance for this event.
Top Custer Lodges & Campgrounds
Beyond the state park lodges, Custer offers excellent town lodging options. Here are some of the most popular choices:
Bavarian Inn
#1 of 2 small hotels in Custer
Wonderful scenic family resort with 64 spacious rooms and suites, on-site restaurant/bar, indoor and outdoor pools, tennis court, and playground. Close to all major Black Hills attractions.
Amenities: Indoor & outdoor pools, pickleball court, coffee shop, game room, hiking trails
Rock Crest Lodge & Cabins
10 acres bordering Black Hills National Forest
Located on 10 acres that border the Black Hills National Forest, providing guests with a peaceful forest location and the convenience of being in town. Features newly-remodeled lodge rooms and beautiful cabins with fireplaces and hot tubs.
Amenities: Outdoor pool, picnic area, playground, free continental breakfast, family cabins
Custer Super 8
Award-winning, pet-friendly hotel
Award-winning, pet-friendly hotel with SuperStart breakfast, indoor pool, hot tub, Wi-Fi, HBO, guest laundry, refrigerators and microwaves. Enjoy spectacular mountain views from convenient location on U.S. Highway 16.
Amenities: Indoor pool, hot tub, free breakfast, pet-friendly, mountain views
Campgrounds Near Custer
Custer offers excellent camping options including Beaver Lake Campground (19 acres, cabins available), Fort Welikit Family Campground, and Bridle Ridge Horse and RV Camp (18 full hook-up sites, horse stables).
Best For: RV travelers, families, horse enthusiasts, budget-conscious visitors
Frequently Asked Questions
When do Custer State Park lodges open?
Most lodges operate seasonally from early May through mid-October. However, some rooms at the State Game Lodge may be available year-round. Always book at least 6-9 months in advance for peak summer months.
Is there an entrance fee to stay at park lodges?
Yes, even if you have a hotel reservation, you must purchase a Custer State Park entrance license ($20 per vehicle for 7 days).
What is the best budget hotel in Custer?
Dakota Dream Bed & Breakfast and Calamity Peak Lodge offer affordable options. Rocket Motel provides excellent value with vintage charm.
Plan Your 2026 Custer Adventure
Whether you want to wake up to bison grazing outside your cabin or enjoy a vintage motel in town, Custer is the heart of the Black Hills. Top-rated lodges include Bavarian Inn (64 rooms, pools, restaurant), Rock Crest Lodge & Cabins (10 acres, forest location), and Custer Super 8 (pet-friendly, indoor pool).