JEEP Bison Safari at Custer State Park

When you’re visiting the Black Hills, a trip to Custer State Park is a must. One of the best ways to see its vast landscapes, abundant wildlife, and iconic sights like Mt. Rushmore is on an all-day Jeep tour offered by Black Hills Open-Top-Tours. For just $329 per person, you get approximately 6 hours and 15 minutes of adventure through some of the most picturesque areas in South Dakota. The tour includes a convenient hotel pickup from Rapid City, a delicious picnic lunch, and visits to sites like Iron Mountain Road and Sylvan Lake.

What we love about this experience is how it combines personalized guided attention with a chance to see free-roaming bison and other wildlife up close — all from the comfort of an open-top Jeep. The second highlight is the scenic drives—particularly the Needles Highway and Iron Mountain Road—that showcase the rugged beauty of the Black Hills.

A possible consideration is that this tour tends to book about 35 days in advance, so last-minute plans might be tricky. Also, the $329 price tag is reasonable for a full-day guided experience with included meals, but it’s worth comparing to other options if you’re seeking a shorter or different type of tour.

This experience suits families, nature enthusiasts, and anyone eager to explore the Black Hills with minimal hassle, especially those who enjoy wildlife viewing and scenic drives. If you appreciate knowledgeable guides and a well-organized itinerary packed with iconic sights, this tour could be a highlight of your trip.

Key Points

Comprehensive itinerary covering Custer State Park, wildlife, scenic drives, and mountain views.
Small-group experience ensures personalized attention and fewer crowds.
Included picnic lunch adds value and convenience for a full-day adventure.
Expert guides (like Cheryl Lee and Mike) provide engaging and informative commentary.
Convenient hotel pickup simplifies logistics and makes the day stress-free.
Booking 35 days in advance suggests this is a popular experience.

A Detailed Look at the Jeep Bison Safari

When we first read about this tour, what caught our eye was the combination of scenic beauty, wildlife viewing, and historical sites. It’s a well-rounded way to spend a day in Custer State Park, especially if you prefer guided tours instead of self-driving.

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Starting Point and Duration

The tour begins early at 8:00 am with a pick-up at your Rapid City hotel. This timing means you’ll start the day with plenty of daylight ahead for exploring. At just over 6 hours long, it’s a robust itinerary that packs in a lot but avoids feeling rushed. The group size is capped at 14 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and allows for tailored commentary from your guide.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Custer State Park Visitor Center –
The tour kicks off at the State Game Lodge, famously called the Summer White House for Presidents Coolidge and Eisenhower. Here, you’ll get a quick overview of the lodge’s history before heading into the park’s visitor center. It’s a good starting point for understanding the park’s background and what to expect.

Stop 2: Wildlife Loop Road –
This 18-mile loop is a highlight; it takes you through open grasslands and pine hills where wildlife such as bison, pronghorn, deer, elk, coyotes, and donkeys roam freely. Several reviews mention how impressive it is to see large herds of bison up-close — a rare treat. One reviewer notes, “Our guide Cheryl Lee was outstanding. Very knowledgeable and entertaining. We saw so much in this 8-hour adventure.” Expect plenty of photo opportunities and chances to spot wildlife from the Jeep’s open-air roof.

Stop 3: Mount Coolidge Fire Lookout Tower –
Perched atop a 6,023-foot peak, this historic stone tower offers panoramic views of Mt. Rushmore and the surrounding Black Hills. The tower is still used today as a fire lookout, which adds a layer of authenticity to the experience. It’s a quick stop, but the vistas are worth it.

Stop 4: Stockade Lake –
Here, a picnic lunch awaits amid serene surroundings. The lake is the largest in the park, and the calm waters and pine-sheltered setting provide a perfect backdrop for a leisurely break. Reviewers rave about the included lunch, describing it as a substantial and tasty meal that takes the hassle out of packing your own.

Stop 5: Needle Eye Tunnel and Needles Highway –
This spectacular drive through granite spires and pine forests features the famous Needle Eye Tunnel, carved through solid rock. The roads are narrow and winding, making this a fun but driver-intense part of the tour. Expect stunning close-up views of jagged granite formations, ideal for photography.

Stop 6: Sylvan Lake –
Created in 1891, this small mountain lake is surrounded by granite spires and big pines. Its calm waters and mountain backdrop make it one of the most recognizable and photographed spots in the park. The reviews note how picturesque it is; some call it “the most popular of the lakes in the Park.”

Stop 7: Iron Mountain Road –
Known for its pigtail bridges and 314 curves, this scenic route is a marvel of engineering designed to maximize views of Mt. Rushmore and the Black Hills. It’s a fitting end to the day, offering spectacular vistas and winding roads that showcase the area’s rugged terrain.

What the Tour Provides

Transportation is in an open-top Jeep, which enhances the feeling of freedom and allows unobstructed views of the scenery. The small group size makes for more engaging conversations and easier photo stops. The tour includes bottled water, snacks, and special treats to feed the begging burros—a fun detail that kids especially love. The picnic lunch is substantial and thoughtfully included, saving you money and time during your busy sightseeing day.

Authentic Experiences and Real-World Feedback

Multiple reviews highlight the knowledge and friendliness of guides like Cheryl Lee and Mike. One said, “Our guide Mike was friendly, informative, and picked up on what we wanted to see or learn about.” The guides seem to excel at balancing storytelling with wildlife spotting, making each moment feel personalized.

Wildlife viewing is consistently praised, with viewers especially excited about seeing bison herds that number second only to Yellowstone. One reviewer noted, “We saw so much wildlife (bison, prairie dogs, deer, donkeys, antelope), beautiful scenery.” This suggests the tour is particularly good for nature lovers eager to witness animals in their natural habitat.

Scenic drives like Iron Mountain Road and Needles Highway often get rave reviews for their engineering marvels and breathtaking views. Travelers mention how the roads are “fun and winding,” which adds a bit of adventure to the day.

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What Could Be Improved

While generally praised, some reviews point out minor issues. For example, a reviewer experienced a delayed start due to a dead Jeep battery, though they appreciated the guide’s professionalism once underway. Others mention the cost as being on the higher side — but many agree that the value for the comprehensive experience and included meals justifies it.

A couple of reviews about other tours mentioned miscommunications or less-than-expected experiences, but these are not typical for this specific Jeep Safari, which consistently earns praise for organization and guide quality.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a traveler who values expert guides, enjoys wildlife, and desires a comprehensive look at the Black Hills without the hassle of self-driving, this Jeep safari is a smart pick. The small-group setting and personalized commentary make it perfect for families, couples, or solo explorers wanting a rich, relaxed experience. The included meals and snacks add value, especially if you’re spending the whole day out.

However, be prepared for some winding roads and early start times. The $329 price reflects the full-day scope, making it a good value for those seeking an immersive, guided exploration of Custer State Park and beyond.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
You get hotel pickup and drop-off, a guided 6+ hour Jeep experience, bottled water, snacks, treats for feeding the burros, and a picnic lunch.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours and 15 minutes, including all stops and sightseeing.

What sights will we see?
You’ll visit the Custer State Park Visitor Center, wildlife on the Wildlife Loop Road, Mount Coolidge Lookout, Stockade Lake for lunch, Needle Eye Tunnel, Sylvan Lake, and Iron Mountain Road.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly and small group sizes make it suitable for kids, especially with the feeding treats and scenic stops.

What should I bring?
Layered clothing, sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses, hat), and camera are recommended. The tour provides snacks and water, but you might want personal extras.

How far in advance should I book?
It’s best to reserve about 35 days ahead, as the tour is popular and books out in advance.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour operates in all weather conditions, so dress appropriately. The open-top Jeep offers a unique experience, rain or shine.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s advisable to check with the provider if you have specific concerns, especially for very young children.

Final Word

The Jeep Bison Safari in Custer State Park offers a well-rounded, engaging way to see South Dakota’s most iconic sights. From wildlife encounters and panoramic mountain views to scenic drives through rugged terrain, it’s a day packed with memorable moments. The inclusion of a picnic lunch and the small-group format add to its appeal, especially for those who prefer guided insight and outside-the-car adventure.

While the cost might seem steep, the value of the guided experience, wildlife sightings, and scenic beauty makes it worthwhile for most travelers. If you’re after a detailed, authentic Black Hills adventure that combines nature, history, and breathtaking vistas, this tour will serve you well.

Happy travels, and may your Black Hills adventure be filled with wildlife, wonder, and plenty of great photos!