Search for bison and more on an open-air Jeep tour in Custer State Park
1.5 - 2 Hours
Guide, Open-air Jeep, Wildlife loop
Explore the Wildlife Loop Road in Custer State Park in a custom stretch open-air Jeep with a driver-guide. Travel paved sections and, when conditions allow, take interior dirt roads to look for free-roaming wildlife.
This is a shared tour (up to 7 guests per Jeep) and you may ride with other parties. You must be able to step into and out of the Jeep; bring any required car seats. Driver cash gratuity is customary and not included.
Full refund or credit with 48 hours notice of cancellation. Full credit if the operator cancels due to unforeseen circumstances, including severe inclement weather that prevents the tour from departing. No-shows or cancellations within 48 hours are charged the full price.
A: The tour typically lasts about 2.5 to 3.5 hours.
A: The Buffalo Safari Jeep Tour uses open-air Jeeps. Interior dirt roads may be used to reach wildlife when conditions allow, so please be prepared for some bumpy roads.
A: Please dress for the weather and bring layers, since it can feel chilly in the valleys even on mild days. Bottled water is welcome, as long as it has a lid.
Creekside Lodge, 13389 US-16 Scenic, Custer, SD 57730
This historic 1920s lodge sits in a spectacular location within Custer State Park, offering an ideal home base for exploring the Wildlife Loop, Iron Mountain Road, and Needles Highway. Guests consistently praise the impeccably clean rooms and cabins, with accommodations ranging from the main lodge to creekside units and cozy private cabins. The deluxe rooms with outdoor patios are particularly popular for wildlife watching right from your door. The restaurant earns high marks for its buffet and bison steak, with friendly service and generous portions at reasonable prices. Staff throughout the property get plenty of mentions for being welcoming and helpful. The setting is genuinely stunning, with that peaceful, tucked-into-the-hills feeling that makes for a memorable stay. Keep in mind this is a place to unplug and enjoy nature rather than catch up on streaming. Visitors from near and far seem genuinely charmed by the combination of historical character, natural beauty, and convenient park access.
If you want to see wild buffalo, this is the place. If you're lucky, you might find yourself surrounded by buffalo and unable to get out of your car.
S Yoshioka
March 16, 2026
If you want to see wild buffalo, this is the place. If you're lucky, you might find yourself surrounded by buffalo and unable to get out of your car.
S Yoshioka
March 16, 2026