As we gear up for another spectacular season of sunrise flights over the southern Black Hills, we are honored to be recognized by one of the world’s leading travel platforms. For over 40 years, we’ve had the privilege of showing guests the magic of Custer State Park, the granite spires of the Needles, and the sprawling beauty of the Black Hills from the best seat in the house – the sky.
Whether you’re visiting us for a quiet romantic escape or a family adventure, being featured on Kayak makes it easier than ever for travelers to find us while planning their perfect South Dakota getaway. We love seeing our local Custer community thrive, and we can’t wait to welcome a new wave of Kayak explorers to the Black Hills this summer!
Planning Made Easy: Why Use Kayak?
Planning a trip to a destination as vast as the Black Hills can be overwhelming, but Kayak simplifies the process by bringing everything into one place. From comparing the best rates on local lodging to discovering top-rated activities like our sunrise flights, Kayak’s travel guides offer a curated look at the “must-dos” in the area. It’s an essential tool for the modern adventurer who wants to spend less time on logistics and more time soaking in the views.
Comments Off on Why Stay in Custer When Visiting the Black Hills?
Planning a trip to the Black Hills can be a bit like trying to choose your favorite child—there is just so much to love. But if you’re looking for the perfect “basecamp” that balances convenience, charm, and world-class adventure, Custer, South Dakota, is the undisputed winner.
Here are our answers to some Frequently Asked Questions – to help you understand why Custer should be your home away from home during your Black Hills vacation.
Is Custer close to the main attractions?
Absolutely. Custer is often called the “Gateway to the Black Hills” for a reason. You are minutes, not miles, from the heavy hitters. Crazy Horse Memorial is just 5 miles away, and the entrance to Custer State Park is a quick 6-mile drive. Even Mount Rushmore is a scenic 30-minute commute. Choosing Custer means you spend more time exploring and less time in the car.
Can I see wildlife?
Yes! Staying in Custer puts you right on the doorstep of Custer State Park and Wildlife Loop Road. Within minutes of leaving your hotel or cabin, you can be surrounded by 1,300 free-roaming bison, elk, pronghorn, and the world-famous “begging burros.” Pro tip: dawn and dusk are the best times to see the animals, and being based in Custer makes those early-morning sights much easier.
What is the dining scene like in such a small town?
Surprisingly sophisticated. Custer pairs its wild, western charm with a surprisingly sophisticated dining scene. You can find everything from world-class creative cuisine at Skogen Kitchen and Hjem A.M., to the elevated comfort food and local craft taps at The Custer Wolf. If you’re looking for an authentic Western atmosphere, Calamity Jane’s Kitchen and The Gold Pan Saloon are local staples. Whether you want a high-end dining experience or a cold beer and a scratch-made meal after a long hike, Custer delivers.
Is it a good spot for outdoor enthusiasts?
It’s paradise. Custer is surrounded by the 1.2 million-acre Black Hills National Forest. You have immediate access to the George S. Mickelson Trail, a 109-mile path perfect for biking and hiking. Plus, the most iconic hikes in the state—like the trek to Black Elk Peak start right here. Fun Fact: They say Black Elk Peak is the highest point between the Rockies and the Pyrenees.
If you’d rather spend your day at one of our many surrounding lakes, stop by On the Water. This local fly shop and fishing/paddleboard outfitter is the go-to spot for gear, fly-tying supplies, water sports, and expert advice on the best water in the Hills. Whether you’re cruising the trail, hiking a granite peak, or casting a line into a mountain stream, Custer puts you at the center of the action.
Can I see the “Needles” from here?
Yes, and you should. The spectacular Needles Highway (SD Highway 87) begins just outside of Custer. This 14-mile National Scenic Byway is famous for its granite spires that look like needles reaching for the sky, as well as the “Needle’s Eye” tunnel. It is widely considered one of the most beautiful drives in America.
What about the “Bucket List” adventures?
Custer is the absolute hub for them. If you’re looking for that once-in-a-lifetime experience, like a sunrise hot air balloon flight, Custer isn’t just a launch point—it’s the place to fly. While you can find flat-land flights elsewhere, Black Hills Balloons offers the only mountain flying in the region.
Seeing the Black Hills from the air is a completely different world than seeing them from the ground; you’ll drift over the iconic granite spires, hidden valleys, and jagged peaks that are simply inaccessible by car. Staying right in Custer ensures you’re on time for those crisp, early-morning lift-offs, putting you in the basket and over the best views in the state before the rest of the world is even awake.
Is there anything to do in the town itself?
Plenty. Custer’s historic downtown area is incredibly walkable. You can explore the 1881 Courthouse Museum, shop the many locally owned boutiques and gift shops (we recommend A Walk In The Woods or Petals and Pages), or take photos with the Custer Stampede Buffalo Art – a series of life-sized, artistically painted buffalo sculptures scattered throughout the city.
For the ultimate “basecamp” experience, don’t miss the South Dakota Outdoor Shop. It’s a favorite local hangout where you can browse premium adventure gear and then grab a local craft beer or kombucha to enjoy in their cozy community space. It’s the perfect spot to swap trail stories with fellow explorers.
Is Custer family-friendly?
Very. Between the surrounding parks and the quirky town history and activities, there is plenty to keep kids engaged.
Check out the Junior Ranger & Naturalist Programs. Both Custer State Park and the nearby National Parks (Mount Rushmore, Wind Cave, and Jewel Cave) offer interactive workbooks and programs where kids can earn badges while learning about nature and history. In addition to all the outdoor fun, the area is bursting with
Visit the Peter Norbeck Outdoor Education Center and the Bison Center in Custer State Park. It is specifically designed for unscripted, tactile play with exhibits like the Bison Olympics: A program where they try to jump, run, and eat like a buffalo to see how they compare, or Pups Prowl: Nature exploration for younger kids (ages 3-6) that focuses on animal camouflage and spider webs.
Unlike many parks where you stay on a strict path, areas like the Sylvan Lake Shore Trail encourage rock scrambling. The massive granite boulders around the lake are perfect for kids to climb, jump on, and explore.
The nature in and around Custer is essentially a giant, 71,000-acre interactive playground that tends to make tablets a secondary thought. It’s hard to stay glued to a screen when there is a real-life “begging burro” poking its head through your car window or a 2,000-pound bison grazing 20 feet away.
The town has a relaxed, safe, and welcoming vibe that makes it perfect for families of all sizes.
Are there good places to explore underground?
You’re surrounded by them. Custer is located between two of the world’s most significant cave systems. Jewel Cave National Monument (the third-longest cave in the world) is just 13 miles west, and Wind Cave National Parkis a short drive south. You can literally spend the morning on a mountain peak and the afternoon hundreds of feet below the earth.
Does Custer have a “tourist trap” feel?
Not at all. Unlike some of the more high-traffic areas in the hills, Custer has managed to maintain its authentic, small-town South Dakota soul. It’s a community of locals who love the outdoors just as much as the visitors do, and you’ll find that the people here are genuinely friendly – always ready to share a “local’s only” recommendation for a hidden trailhead or the best spot for a post-hike beer. You get the amenities of a world-class destination with the heart and hospitality of a mountain village.
What kind of lodging can I find in Custer?
Something for every style of traveler. Custer is unique because it offers a massive variety of “home bases.” You can go high-end at the historic State Game Lodge, treehouse or unique cabin at Buffalo Ridge Camp Resort, stay in a retro-cool spot like the Bavarian Inn, van camp in town at Nomad, or choose from modern brands like Holiday Inn Express and Best Western Buffalo Ridge Inn.
Whether you want a sleeping bag under the stars or a 400-thread-count sheet in a luxury suite, Custer has a pillow with your name on it.
At Black Hills Balloons, we believe that every great adventure begins and ends with a comfortable place to rest. Nestled in the heart of the Black Hills, Custer, South Dakota, offers a delightful array of lodging options to suit every traveler’s needs. Whether you’re here to fly with us or to explore parks, here’s a curated list of accommodations that promise a restful stay.
*Please note, the below may or may not be up to date. Always confirm accommodation details and amenities with each specific location. The below is just a quick rundown of available lodging locations so you can narrow your search and reach out directly. If one of the links is broken, please visit our Chamber’s website www.custersd.com for more information. Enjoy your visit!
HOTELS & INNS
Comfort Inn & Suites
Experience modern comforts with amenities like complimentary breakfast, indoor pool, fitness center, and free Wi-Fi. Its central location provides easy access to local attractions.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites
A contemporary hotel offering free breakfast, Wi-Fi, business center, indoor pool, and fitness center. Enjoy balcony rooms with mountain views and Tesla charging stations.
EconoLodge
Simplify your travel with this award-winning hotel featuring complimentary breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and a seasonal operation from May 1st to October 1st.
Super 8 Custer/Crazy Horse Area
A pet-friendly hotel with amenities like an indoor pool, hot tub, free Wi-Fi, and Tesla charging station. Located minutes from major attractions.
Best Western Buffalo Ridge Inn
Experience hospitality at its finest with comfortable rooms and convenient access to the Black Hills’ attractions.
Americas Best Value Inn
Family-friendly lodging featuring an outdoor pool, playground, miniature golf, and an on-site restaurant. Enjoy cool mountain air and deer sightings right from your doorstep.
MOTELS & CABINS
Chief Motel
Located near the Black Hills National Forest, this motel offers air-conditioned rooms, free Wi-Fi, and a garden setting.
Chalet Motel
A cozy option for travelers seeking a comfortable stay with easy access to Custer’s main attractions.
Rock Crest Lodge & Cabins
Offers a peaceful escape with amenities like a spa tub, seasonal outdoor pool, and barbecue facilities. Ideal for families and groups.
Rocket Motel
A classic motel providing clean, comfortable rooms and a nostalgic ambiance. We’ve heard great things about this quaint motel!
Shady Rest Motel & Cabins
Highly recommended for its great location and well-kept facilities. Perfect for families and those seeking a tranquil retreat.
Days Inn of Custer
Conveniently located with amenities that cater to both business and leisure travelers.
Bavarian Inn
Experience European charm in the Black Hills with this unique lodging option. Featuring a cute cafe on site – the Feel Good Cafe. They have great in-town cabins too! Check out the EO Bungalows when visiting their website. A very unique boutique stay!
CAMPGROUNDS & RV
Beaver Lake Campground
Just outside Custer, this family-friendly campground offers spacious RV sites, tent camping, and cabins. Amenities include a large pool, dog park, and various recreational activities.
Big Pine Campground
Nestled under whispering pines, this campground provides 90 spacious, shaded sites. It’s a Good Sam Park and has received the Tripadvisor Certificate of Excellence Award for five consecutive years.
Buffalo Ridge Camp Resort
Offering RV parks, camping cabins, and tent sites, this resort is perfect for families seeking amenities like electricity, pools, fire pits, and outdoor activities.
Fort Welikit Family Campground
Situated among tall pines, this campground offers 100 unique sites ranging from full-service to rustic, catering to both private and group campers.
Nomad Van Camp and RV Park
Located in town, near all the fun – walking distance to all the shops, restaurants and bars. This site is perfect for a smaller camper or vanlifer to stay while exploring the town of Custer, and all the surrounding outdoor adventures.
Custer Crazy Horse Campground
Located near major attractions, this campground provides a variety of sites, including basic tent sites, water and electric tent sites, and RV sites. They also offer sleeper cabins and a unique Deck House rental.
Custer/Mt. Rushmore KOA
Centrally located for visiting all major Black Hills attractions, this KOA offers a range of accommodations and amenities suitable for families and groups.
CUSTER STATE PARK LODGING
For those looking to immerse themselves in nature, Custer State Park offers nine campgrounds, each with its unique charm:
Blue Bell Campground: Nestled in a ponderosa pine forest, it accommodates large RVs and tents. Enjoy horseback riding, trout fishing, and relaxing under the pines.
Center Lake Campground: Located just above Center Lake, this campground offers shaded sites and access to a swimming beach and excellent fishing opportunities.
French Creek Horse Camp: Designed for campers with horses, each site includes two corrals. Enjoy the serene setting along French Creek.
Game Lodge Campground: Centrally located along US Highway 16A, this campground offers a mix of tent and RV sites, with Grace Coolidge Creek flowing through.
Grace Coolidge Campground: Tucked into the trees next to Grace Coolidge Creek, this campground offers both tent-only and RV sites.
Legion Lake Campground: Located across from Legion Lake, it accommodates large RVs and tents, with nearby fishing, swimming, and hiking opportunities.
Stockade North & South Campgrounds: Near the historic Gordon Stockade and Stockade Lake, these campgrounds offer modern amenities and are close to the town of Custer.
Sylvan Lake Campground: Just a short stroll from Sylvan Lake, this campground is the highest within Custer State Park and offers a unique camping experience.
French Creek Natural Area: For the adventurous, this back-country hiking trail offers primitive camping along a 12-mile trail through French Creek Gorge.
Each campground provides a unique experience, allowing you to connect with nature and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Black Hills.
PLAN YOUR STAY
No matter where you choose to stay, Custer’s accommodations offer the perfect base for your Black Hills adventure. After a day of soaring above the landscape with Black Hills Balloons, unwind in comfort and prepare for another day of exploration.
Ready to book your stay? Visit our local Chamber website CusterSD.com for more information on these and other lodging options.
LET’S FLY!
At Black Hills Balloons, we’re excited to be part of your unforgettable journey through the skies and the scenic beauty of Custer, South Dakota. We look forward to welcoming you aboard and ensuring your adventure is as comfortable as it is exhilarating.
Comments Off on Top 10 reasons to stay in Custer SD
While there are several locations to choose from in the Black Hills, staying in Custer ensures not only a diverse range of accommodation options but also the unique advantage of being at the heart of it all. With a blend of cozy bed and breakfasts, comfortable hotels, and rustic cabins, Custer stands out as the best choice for a memorable stay, providing easy access to the region’s wonders and a charming atmosphere that makes your experience truly special.
Staying in Custer, South Dakota, offers a unique and enriching experience, making it an excellent choice for various types of travelers. Here are the TOP 10 reasons why someone should consider staying in Custer:
Gateway to Natural Wonders: Custer is strategically located near some of the most breathtaking natural attractions in the Black Hills. From the iconic Mount Rushmore and Wind Cave National Park, to Jewel Cave National Monument, and the scenic Needles Highway, the town serves as a central hub for exploring the region’s natural beauty.
Proximity to Custer State Park:Custer State Park is a wildlife lover’s paradise, and staying in Custer provides convenient access to this expansive park. Visitors can embark on the Wildlife Loop Road for a chance to see bison herds, pronghorn, elk, and other wildlife roaming in their natural habitat.
Historical Significance: Immerse yourself in the history of the area by exploring Custer’s historic downtown. Walk along Mount Rushmore Road to discover well-preserved buildings that tell the story of the town’s gold rush, and make sure you pay a visit to the 1881 courthouse museum for a window into Custer’s past.
Crazy Horse Memorial: While Mount Rushmore often takes the spotlight, the nearby Crazy Horse Memorial is a must-see. Staying in Custer allows you to visit this monumental tribute to the Lakota leader Crazy Horse, witness ongoing construction, and learn about Native American culture.
Community Events and Festivals: Throughout the year, Custer hosts a variety of community events and festivals. Whether it’s the lively Gold Discovery Days, or quirky Burning Beetle event, staying in Custer provides an opportunity to engage with the local community and experience the town’s vibrant spirit.
Quaint Downtown Atmosphere: Custer’s downtown area exudes a charming atmosphere with its quaint shops, art galleries, and local eateries. Choosing to stay in Custer allows you to immerse yourself in the town’s unique culture and enjoy a relaxed pace of exploration.
The Eateries: In Custer, dining is not just about the food; it’s also about experiencing the town’s unique hospitality and charm. Whether you’re exploring local eateries after a day of adventure or seeking a quiet spot for a relaxing meal, Custer’s restaurants add a flavorful touch to your visit. Unique, locally owned, and one-of-a-kind, Custer restaurants are giving this small town a big name.
Peaceful Retreat: Unlike larger and busier tourist destinations, Custer offers a more peaceful and intimate setting. Visitors seeking a serene retreat with a genuine small-town feel will find Custer to be a welcoming and relaxed destination.
The locals: The locals in Custer, South Dakota, are a community deeply connected to the town’s history, natural surroundings, and a shared sense of community spirit. Their connection to the land, commitment to preserving the past, and welcoming nature contribute to the authentic and inviting atmosphere that makes Custer a standout destination in the Black Hills.
In the heart of the Black Hills, Custer, South Dakota, emerges as more than just a picturesque town; it’s a vibrant community with a rich tapestry woven from the threads of history, natural splendor, and the warm hospitality of its residents.
As you wander through downtown, you’ll encounter locals who wear their love for Custer like a badge of honor. A friendly “hello” is never far away, and conversations often veer toward shared tales of outdoor adventures, community events, and a genuine appreciation for the beauty that surrounds them.
The community’s outdoor spirit is reflected in their active lifestyles, with many embracing the call of the Black Hills for hiking, biking, and reveling in the untamed wonders of Custer State Park. Preserving the region’s charm and protecting its natural treasures is a shared commitment among locals, who actively contribute to conservation efforts and celebrate the cultural heritage that makes Custer unique.
Custer’s downtown, adorned with quaint shops, cozy cafes, and vibrant boutiques, is a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit of its residents. Each establishment tells a story of passion and creativity, adding to the town’s distinct character.
The welcoming atmosphere extends beyond mere neighborliness; it’s a way of life. Whether you’re savoring a slice of huckleberry pie at a The Purple Pie Place, chatting with an artist about their latest creation at The Quilted Buffalo, or exploring the town’s history through the eyes of its residents, you’re sure to feel a part of something special.
In Custer, the people are more than just locals; they are stewards of a legacy, keepers of the Black Hills’ secrets, and ambassadors of a lifestyle that cherishes simplicity, community, and connection to the land. So, whether you’re a first-time visitor or a regular in these parts, the genuine warmth of Custer’s residents ensures that every moment spent here is not just a journey through a beautiful town but a heartwarming experience woven into the very fabric of the Black Hills.