--- title: Wildlife Loop Road date: 2022-10-18T09:44:00-05:00 author: Click Rain Inc canonical_url: "https://www.custerresorts.com/activities/scenic-drives/wildlife-loop" section: Pages --- ![Woman sticking out her hand to feed wildlife](https://d1y6vw2yu4dxpf.cloudfront.net/generalUploads/Featured/22-CSPR-Activities_WildlifeLoop-2400x1400.jpg?mode=crop&pos=center-center&w=60&h=35&c=2bc6f996&v=ec1530ecc91e2657b873f3fd0300bcb96041e0013f3c6b99199b55da71048aa9) # Wildlife Loop Road Keep eyes peeled for bison, pronghorn, whitetail and mule deer, elk, coyotes, burros, prairie dogs, and more! ### A Major Wildlife Hotspot Travel through 18 miles of open grasslands and pine-speckled hills that much of Custer State Park's wildlife calls home. Keep eyes peeled for bison, pronghorn, whitetail and mule deer, elk, coyotes, burros, prairie dogs, eagles, hawks, and a variety of birds that are rarely found together in one location. A medley of colorful wildflowers and prairie grasses surround the road, making for a picturesque drive; and the landscape changes throughout your trip, keeping you on your toes. ![Map of the Wildlife Loop in Custer State Park in South Dakota](https://d1y6vw2yu4dxpf.cloudfront.net/generalUploads/Wildlife-Loop-Road-Map.jpg?mode=crop&pos=center-center&w=60&h=35&c=a75a48f5&v=75aebf07068914415a6df1b82649c134072de5a9e37027e6d983de3d407843ac) ## How long is the Wildlife Loop? The Wildlife Loop itself is 18 miles long from the east entrance near the [Custer State Park](https://gfp.sd.gov/csp-scenic-drives/) Visitor Center around to the Blue Bell entrance on the western side of the Park. Expect a minimum travel time of anywhere between 1.5 and 2 hours to complete the loop that creates a "U" from one end to the other. **Important Note:** Anyone wishing to **complete the full circle** of the loop, continuing on from Blue Bell's entrance station back around to your starting point at the east entrance/Visitor Center (continuing north on Hwy 87 and then east on US 16A Scenic) should plan for an additional 12 miles (estimated 30 minutes) travel time. But careful...you may run into a few scenic overlooks, historic sites, [restaurants](https://www.custerresorts.com/dining), [lodges](https://www.custerresorts.com/plan-your-trip) & more along the way that beg for more time to explore. [Download Map](https://com-custerresorts-cdn.s3.amazonaws.com/general-uploads/Wildlife-Loop-Road-Map.jpg) ![Buffalo in the grasslands eating](https://d1y6vw2yu4dxpf.cloudfront.net/generalUploads/Rich-Content/22-CSPR-HomepageBuffaloRoundUp1-1600x1040.jpg?mode=fit&pos=center-center&w=50&c=ad5795ca&v=3f119774eefc1d3fda8e6c413225b06b5efaab94521ecca0dabe095d5bfb0fc1) ## When Is the Best Time to Go? Anytime! The Wildlife Loop State Scenic Byway is open year-round to visitors with a [South Dakota State Park Entrance License](https://gfp.sd.gov/pel/). (Temporary Custer State Park passes also available). The wildlife tend to be more active before the afternoon sun; but varied weather conditions and the extremely diverse topography of the Wildlife Loop keep both visitors and creatures alike on their toes 24-7. After all, it's the bison's Park, and all animals are wild and free-roaming. The annual [Tatanka Guide](https://com-custerresorts-cdn.s3.amazonaws.com/general-uploads/2023tatanka-reduced.pdf) is Custer State Park's primary publication that is handed out at all Entrance Stations and available at all Lodges, Restaurants, and Stores. [Download the Tatanka](https://com-custerresorts-cdn.s3.amazonaws.com/general-uploads/2023tatanka-reduced.pdf) ![](https://d1y6vw2yu4dxpf.cloudfront.net/generalUploads/Burros1600x1040.jpg?mode=fit&pos=center-center&w=50&c=1d70cec3&v=bfa6512d6ef5b17c3747374a32924c90e64ac2b3ff923f247cb007938ce058ed) ## Book a Jeep Tour of the Wildlife Loop Our [Buffalo Safari Jeep Tours](https://www.custerresorts.com/activities/activities-experiences/buffalo-safari-jeep-tour) are ranked in the Top 10 Safaris in the US. Why? Success rate! Our Jeeps have exclusive access right*s* to take you on private dirt & gravel roads across the *interior* acres of the Wildlife Loop. This adds available routes that nearly *double* the accessible miles that run through nearly 1/4 of Custer State Park's 71,000 acres. The Wildlife Loop is a wonderful self-guided tour that is open to everyone! Our Buffalo Safaris help ensure that you not only get a guided tour to the animals; but but also get as close as possible to them, no matter where they are that day. [Book a Buffalo Safari Jeep Tour](https://fareharbor.com/embeds/book/custerresorts/?ref=CSPR%20Website&full-items=yes&flow=830365) ![](https://d1y6vw2yu4dxpf.cloudfront.net/generalUploads/ExperiencesJeepSafariHeader.jpg?mode=fit&pos=center-center&w=50&c=007993b6&v=e1416f81269f74480da0013e5c5f19acd138c3a5ca25e16f8a62e4b136e5c40c) ## Do you have to pay to drive through Custer State Park and the Wildlife Loop? The Wildlife Loop State Scenic Byway is open year-round to visitors with a [South Dakota State Park Entrance License](https://gfp.sd.gov/pel/). (Temporary Custer State Park passes also available). Drive the Loop yourself, or [book a guided Jeep tour](https://www.custerresorts.com/activities/activities-experiences/buffalo-safari-jeep-tour) to get access to exclusive trails inside the Loop. ## How Do I See the Burros and the Elk on the Wildlife Loop? As with all animals in the Park, the burros roam freely. Elk can be especially elusive, so getting to them is a real treat. For any specific animal requests, we suggest you book a [Private Jeep Safari](https://www.custerresorts.com/activities/activities-experiences/buffalo-safari-jeep-tour) so that you can tell your driver which animals, scenic stops, and other experiences top your list. Requests are not guaranteed; but our tours are your best possible chance, as we have exclusive access to private Park roads to try and spot them. ## What is the Best Way to See the Animals in Custer State Park? Choose your own adventure! Many visitors prefer to drive the Wildlife Loop in their own private vehicle; others enjoy taking our [Buffalo Safari Jeep Tours](https://www.custerresorts.com/activities/activities-experiences/sunrise-safari) so they know they will have access to even the private roads to get to the animals. We even offer a guided [Jeep Tour followed by our Hayride & Chuckwagon Cookout](https://www.custerresorts.com/activities/activities-experiences/buffalo-safari-chuckwagon-cookout-combo) every evening that visitors rave about. No matter what you decide, the Wildlife Loop State Scenic Byway is a peaceful, welcoming and awe-inspiring experience. ## Are There Any Restrooms Along the Way? Modernized Restrooms can be found at: **East Entrance of the Loop:** - Custer State Park Visitor Center - [Coolidge General Store](https://www.custerresorts.com/activities/activities-experiences/shopping) - [State Game Lodge](https://www.custerresorts.com/lodging/cabins?lodge=state-game) (Creekside Lodge, Historic Restaurant) **South end of the Loop:** - Custer State Park Bison Center **West End (Blue Bell Entrance):** - [Blue Bell Lodge](https://www.custerresorts.com/plan-your-trip/blue-bell-lodge) (Restaurant) - [Blue Bell Store](https://www.custerresorts.com/activities/activities-experiences/shopping) Other porta-johns are available along US 16A Scenic and at the Wildlife Station. ## Where Can I Stop for Food Along the Way? At one end of the Wildlife Loop, discover [Blue Bell Lodge](https://www.custerresorts.com/plan-your-trip/blue-bell-lodge). A mile down the road from the other end is the [Historic State Game Lodge](https://www.custerresorts.com/groups-events/banquet-spaces/state-game-lodge-interior). And if you decide to make the full circle along US 16A Scenic, you will run into [Legion Lake Lodge](https://www.custerresorts.com/plan-your-trip/legion-lake-lodge). (And if that's not enough, continue on to take Needles Highway from there up to [Sylvan Lake Lodge](https://www.custerresorts.com/plan-your-trip/sylvan-lake-lodge)!) [Gift Shops & Stores](https://www.custerresorts.com/activities/activities-experiences/shopping) with convenience items & snacks: - Coolidge General Store (gas & groceries found here) - State Game Lode Gift Shop - Bison Center Gift Shop - Blue Bell Store - Legion Lake Store (in the Lodge) ## Where Should I Stay Near the Wildlife Loop? The [State Game Lodge](https://www.custerresorts.com/plan-your-trip/state-game-lodge) and [Blue Bell Lodge ](https://www.custerresorts.com/plan-your-trip/blue-bell-lodge)are both less than one mile from either entrance of the Wildlife Loop. The "U" of the Wildlife Loop does not have any lodging along it; but US 16A Scenic takes you to The State Game Lodge, [Legion Lake Lodge](https://www.custerresorts.com/plan-your-trip/legion-lake-lodge), and even on up [Needles Highway](https://www.custerresorts.com/activities/scenic-drives/needles-highway) to [Sylvan Lake Lodge](https://www.custerresorts.com/plan-your-trip/sylvan-lake-lodge). ![](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==)## Along the Way ![](https://d1y6vw2yu4dxpf.cloudfront.net/generalUploads/Custer-Resorts-20221002-ByronBanasiak-38a.jpg?mode=crop&pos=center-center&w=75&h=65&c=dd3ab349&v=f5ee0aca6347cb864c41e51e51efd852fc23dd776816b3f27caba32fee40b152) ### [Shopping](https://www.custerresorts.com/activities/activities-experiences/shopping) ![](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==) In Custer State Park No matter which lodge you find yourself drawn to exploring, our Custer State Park Resort stores have you covered. ![](https://d1y6vw2yu4dxpf.cloudfront.net/generalUploads/Chuckwagon-BBL-2024-2400x1400.jpg?mode=crop&pos=center-center&w=75&h=65&c=aa657f62&v=cc26039183bde5cba5c66a0a6c5a718e577c5ca0154a043a26f920b65f138b6c) ### [Hayride & Chuck Wagon Cookout](https://www.custerresorts.com/activities/activities-experiences/hayride-chuck-wagon-cookout) ![](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==) In Custer State Park Evening scenic wildlife hayride followed by a steak dinner and live entertainment in the CSP backcountry. ![Front of the Blue Bell Lodge at Custer State Park Resort](https://d1y6vw2yu4dxpf.cloudfront.net/generalUploads/Featured/22-CRSP_BlueBellLodge-new-2400x1400.jpg?mode=crop&pos=center-center&w=75&h=65&c=9a7bf58f&v=349693ae3764ee9015ca06049c1e2f47cc71bfd9022ec34e8c853938a87282fc) ### [Blue Bell Lodge](https://www.custerresorts.com/plan-your-trip/blue-bell-lodge) Blue Bell Lodge offers some of the finest cabin rooms in Custer State Park, plus loads of home-spun western fun. ![Drone shot of Custer State Park Resort](https://d1y6vw2yu4dxpf.cloudfront.net/generalUploads/CSP-20221001-ByronBanasiak-15-large.jpg?mode=crop&pos=center-center&w=75&h=65&c=c001aa7e&v=b58164c455f79fec6f59405537266cc6a201a762af4b787e85819828aa89a9aa) ### [State Game Lodge](https://www.custerresorts.com/plan-your-trip/state-game-lodge) The State Game Lodge is a gracious native stone and wood lodge est. in 1920 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. ![Visitors riding horses during a guided trail ride](https://d1y6vw2yu4dxpf.cloudfront.net/generalUploads/Featured/22-CSPR-Activities_GuidedTrailRides-2400x1400.jpg?mode=crop&pos=center-center&w=75&h=65&c=df681f0e&v=47af0dae4e40a72bbb4f6648ad9deb28cc61abb4299815d34f27162fb33fa013) ### [Guided Trail Rides](https://www.custerresorts.com/activities/activities-experiences/guided-trail-rides) ![](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==) In Custer State Park One of the most peaceful ways to explore the park's prettiest spots. ![Close-up shot of the Legion Lake Lodge entrance](https://d1y6vw2yu4dxpf.cloudfront.net/generalUploads/Featured/22-CRSP_LegionLake-2400x1400.jpg?mode=crop&pos=center-center&w=75&h=65&c=662f1f1a&v=73bbf9b62251f73df4581f4cef03f1e10ca30ec3dfa837ffb2bd71991252d624) ### [Legion Lake Lodge](https://www.custerresorts.com/plan-your-trip/legion-lake-lodge) Legion Lake Lodge features a collection of cabins and a newly-expanded dining room seating with water views and lakeside patio dining. Don't miss these stops, activities and lodging experiences! ![](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==)## Where to Stay ![Drone shot of Custer State Park Resort](https://d1y6vw2yu4dxpf.cloudfront.net/generalUploads/CSP-20221001-ByronBanasiak-15-large.jpg?mode=crop&pos=center-center&w=75&h=65&c=c001aa7e&v=b58164c455f79fec6f59405537266cc6a201a762af4b787e85819828aa89a9aa) ### [State Game Lodge Rooms](https://www.custerresorts.com/lodging/lodge-rooms/state-game-lodge-rooms) Welcome to the regal State Game Lodge, home to historic lodge rooms, convenient amenities, and limitless adventure. ![Entrance of Creekside Lodge](https://d1y6vw2yu4dxpf.cloudfront.net/generalUploads/Featured/LodgeRooms-CreeksideLodge-2400x1400.jpg?mode=crop&pos=center-center&w=75&h=65&c=079205f2&v=36c02efa5b62e03fd6fc3c12f0f0203b1a218c6be35006a25143b88900fd35c6) ### [Creekside Lodge Rooms](https://www.custerresorts.com/lodging/lodge-rooms/creekside-lodge-rooms) Tucked along Grace Coolidge Creek, just 200 yards from the State Game Lodge. Creekside Lodge is open year-round. ![](https://d1y6vw2yu4dxpf.cloudfront.net/generalUploads/CSP-RC11-5349.jpg?mode=crop&pos=center-center&w=75&h=65&c=785ad1f8&v=1d21629e0db04e11301be68b6162863ed4ef8478f68abce6a6661a3833bdc601) ### [Reunion Cabin](https://www.custerresorts.com/lodging/cabins/state-game/reunion) Water feature: Grace Coolidge Creek | 4,000-sq ft | 4-bed, 5-bath, huge loft | State Game Lodge | Call for Availability : 888-875-0001 ![](https://d1y6vw2yu4dxpf.cloudfront.net/generalUploads/CSP2018-192Final.jpg?mode=crop&pos=center-center&w=75&h=65&c=34eb9333&v=afeab8189eda93fdde50d9505b2336751dc35c2d2008ab751647dab70ff9b481) ### [Creekside Cabin and Bunkhouse](https://www.custerresorts.com/lodging/cabins/state-game/creekside-cabin-and-bunkhouse) Two for one rental! The Creekside Cabin and Bunkhouse is a great option when you need a place for a few extra heads in beds. Tucked privately along Grace Coolidge Creek. ![](https://d1y6vw2yu4dxpf.cloudfront.net/generalUploads/CSP2018-164Final.jpg?mode=crop&pos=center-center&w=75&h=65&c=da1021d9&v=6c67972ff02df13996644d6bf6d2e0c826393487c7d96cd2e47beae94d720bb0) ### [Gamekeeper's Cabin](https://www.custerresorts.com/lodging/cabins/state-game/gamekeepers) A five-bedroom private cabin tucked along Coolidge Creek. True to its name, this cabin was once the private residence for the Custer State Park Gamekeeper. ![](https://d1y6vw2yu4dxpf.cloudfront.net/generalUploads/CSP-6.02.23-020.jpg?mode=crop&pos=center-center&w=75&h=65&c=ccd21df0&v=38d3df44cf6fa60f2e000777fde11a9339fa90a697e9476a1d2ba506087c3db5) ### [Scovel Johnson Cabin](https://www.custerresorts.com/lodging/cabins/state-game/sleeping-cabin-s2q-scovel-johnson-cabin) Charming one-room cabin along the edge of the Arts Festival Lawn, where wildlife are more easily spotted. ![Front of the Blue Bell Lodge at Custer State Park Resort](https://d1y6vw2yu4dxpf.cloudfront.net/generalUploads/Featured/22-CRSP_BlueBellLodge-new-2400x1400.jpg?mode=crop&pos=center-center&w=75&h=65&c=9a7bf58f&v=349693ae3764ee9015ca06049c1e2f47cc71bfd9022ec34e8c853938a87282fc) ### [Blue Bell Lodge](https://www.custerresorts.com/plan-your-trip/blue-bell-lodge) Blue Bell Lodge offers some of the finest cabin rooms in Custer State Park, plus loads of home-spun western fun. ![](https://d1y6vw2yu4dxpf.cloudfront.net/generalUploads/CSP2018-128Final_PONDa.jpg?mode=crop&pos=center-center&w=75&h=65&c=7449a2ed&v=98776a8dfe9b67928ee1f5455fce899204b9e2dabc1cdd7801a3a630aae2e65d) ### [Ponderosa Cabin](https://www.custerresorts.com/lodging/cabins/blue-bell/ponderosa) Log style luxury cabin with four (4) private bedrooms with en-suite baths, (5) total baths, oversized loft, designer kitchen, great room, fireplace, and peaceful forest-facing back patio. 3,150-sq. ft. ![Cabin sits under pine trees in Blue Bell Lodge area at Custer State Park](https://d1y6vw2yu4dxpf.cloudfront.net/generalUploads/CSP-BlueBell-Oct2022-14.jpg?mode=crop&pos=center-center&w=75&h=65&c=62fcdaa5&v=3175fbf66796f8da7aa1198f8647e0bf15725f3e95a76568d7ccbbf039401478) ### [Rose Quartz Cabin](https://www.custerresorts.com/lodging/cabins/blue-bell/log-cabin-s2d-rose-quartz-cabin) Tucked in the trees near French Creek Nature Area and the Wildlife Loop, these spacious chinked log cabins with private decks at peaceful Blue Bell Lodge can't be beat. Stay on-site and less than 1 mile from the Wildlife Loop Road. ![](https://d1y6vw2yu4dxpf.cloudfront.net/generalUploads/WatchingBuffalo2400x1400.jpg?mode=crop&pos=center-center&w=50&h=34&c=48b010d4&v=3e1ab3d2de8504bfb502520fb2057af36b1ef98ce5b4c0caf80855f762f23e89) Wildlife Watching Visitors stopping for photos along the Wildlife Loop. ![](https://d1y6vw2yu4dxpf.cloudfront.net/generalUploads/SturgisRally00202.jpg?mode=crop&pos=center-center&w=50&h=34&c=8b2296ae&v=264ae4ca506b209ab19e77a32d2cd1820e121b006734e493d4831a25e8149d8c) Wildlife Watching Bikers along the Wildlife Loop. ![](https://d1y6vw2yu4dxpf.cloudfront.net/generalUploads/DSC01919.jpg?mode=crop&pos=center-center&w=50&h=34&c=5efd8120&v=7e0c8d29127d991dacfd68805176f41218830ccffb440de532159a3960e84742) Elk Photo taken from the Wildlife Loop ![](https://d1y6vw2yu4dxpf.cloudfront.net/generalUploads/IMG_2135.jpg?mode=crop&pos=center-center&w=50&h=34&c=5dfc2445&v=e1e4362feb1a9e77ec8eedb711f0416be60f0390c32da875cc10d79badc52173) Buffalo Safari Jeep Tour Taking you to exclusive private dirt trails within the Loop to get to the animals. ![](https://d1y6vw2yu4dxpf.cloudfront.net/generalUploads/BeggingBurros00016.jpg?mode=crop&pos=center-center&w=50&h=34&c=89258cd7&v=6d902c3f1e471cd55d88f6579c288dd227fe50b9e6f53dedb8d50dbfd8a79841) ![](https://d1y6vw2yu4dxpf.cloudfront.net/generalUploads/CSP-10-8647.jpg?mode=crop&pos=center-center&w=50&h=34&c=aec04cd9&v=2d7fbf15ea0f5dc1d745125459e8b256a564e78582827ab64d608f466c159d17) Scenic Drive The Wildlife Loop Road showcases tremendously diverse topography. ![](https://d1y6vw2yu4dxpf.cloudfront.net/generalUploads/CSPRoundup00153.jpg?mode=crop&pos=center-center&w=50&h=34&c=048463a1&v=34927d51ee239d47f41372035dd79469c6f635af7a14997399764c8e5c498722) Buffalo Roundup The annual Buffalo Roundup takes place along the Wildife Loop. ![](https://d1y6vw2yu4dxpf.cloudfront.net/generalUploads/CSP-10-8723.jpg?mode=crop&pos=center-center&w=50&h=34&c=c5260df9&v=d9559acf4004261af5942f62eae1b943ea582c20de24814166cedbfc328c4c75) Buffalo Jam If the herd is along the road, you never know what may happen! ![](https://d1y6vw2yu4dxpf.cloudfront.net/generalUploads/DSC01987.jpg?mode=crop&pos=center-center&w=50&h=34&c=eea0840f&v=478232f5dd5b8348991639b16b59a47805693b41726e32143b20674e3fe6acb9) Beautiful Scenery The Wildlife Loop Road showcases tremendously diverse topography. ![](https://d1y6vw2yu4dxpf.cloudfront.net/generalUploads/DSC02006.jpg?mode=crop&pos=center-center&w=50&h=34&c=575bc367&v=3ed134d655e9c82f73ff72063e608ca9a043e193e87f772817e38f573fcebca4) Wildlife Station The Wildlife Station Visitor Center offers visitors a quaint and fun stop along the way, just before the Bison Center. ![](https://d1y6vw2yu4dxpf.cloudfront.net/generalUploads/DSC06961BlueBellLodgeExterior_a.jpg?mode=crop&pos=center-center&w=50&h=34&c=fa148e65&v=26785ebff7d3cd0d0a356b3a07af5c329505b9b6ebab1d1e5df5e0d472525050) Blue Bell Lodge Found at the Western end of the Wildlife Loop ![Front of the Summer White House](https://d1y6vw2yu4dxpf.cloudfront.net/generalUploads/Homepage/22CSPR-PhotoCollage-1200x940.jpg?mode=crop&pos=center-center&w=50&h=34&c=7f536afd&v=48f5409f9fcdd79aa03b17142f9c98cc6576ae46d68ab282fd79b848ae418d7c) The State Game Lodge Located just one mile from the East entrance of the Wildlife Loop. ![Aerial shot of a road with trees and hills surrounding](https://d1y6vw2yu4dxpf.cloudfront.net/generalUploads/Homepage/22CSPR-PhotoCollage-1700x1120.jpg?mode=crop&pos=center-center&w=50&h=34&c=bda54bc0&v=306363218f23f2f7a41438a9ccf920a1b8ae7075b08d32528c4e8d0fd3eed519) Beautiful Scenery Custer State Park's scenic drives are some of the best in the nation.