With four lodges, nine campgrounds and a little over 300 campsites, Custer State Park is also a great place for extended excursions or weekend adventures.
“ At Custer State Park, there’ s something for everybody. You can go tent camping with the family all the way up to a five-star lodge,” said Lydia Austin, visitor services supervisor. It just depends on what you want to find in the park. Each of the four lodges has a unique flair. The State Game Lodge has a 1920s-elegant feel, Blue Bell Lodge has an old-west feel, Sylvan Lake Lodge has a 1940s-elegant feel and Legion Lake Lodge has dockside feel. Each lodge features a dining room and immersive events for guests.
Meanwhile, campsites vary from rustic tent camping sites and RV sites to camper cabins outfitted with bunk beds.
One of the largest campgrounds is the State Game Lodge Campground located near the visitor center.
“ That’ s kind of the central hub. So if you want to be part of the action, have access to trails or the visitor center, that’ s the one to be at,” said Lydia.
The Center Lake and Blue Bell Lodge Campgrounds are off the beaten path and tucked amongst the trees. Center Lake is the only campground with same-day reservations available. It is one of the more rustic campgrounds in the park with no electricity available, but campers are right off the lake.
“ A lot of people enjoy that experience,” said Lydia.“ It’ s the one where you’ re going to get the truest camping experience.”
Also tucked away in the park is the Sylvan Lake Campground, which features a unique feel near the lake. Meanwhile, Legion Lake Campground and Grace Coolidge Campground have a cute community to feel, according to Lydia.
In Custer State Park, there’ s always fun to be had on the water, whether swimming, fishing or canoeing. myblackshillscountry. com Down Country Roads
7