Ranger-Led Programs

There’s nothing like an expert to make any experience more rewarding. From May to September, Custer State Park [1] offers several ranger programs for visitors. Programs include a guided tour through the Wildlife Loop (Memorial Day–mid-Aug. daily 9 a.m. and 6 p.m.). On this tour, visitors will create a car caravan, led by one of the park naturalists, who will speak at various locations along the route.

The gold panning demonstrations (Peter Norbeck Visitor Center, Memorial Day–Labor Day 1 p.m.) include a talk about the gold rush of the 1870s and provide participants with the opportunity to try panning for gold in one of the park’s creeks.

Guided nature walks (June–mid-Aug. daily) are held throughout the day and provide visitors with information about the park’s geology, history, birds, and wildflowers.

Park naturalists also provide hands-on tips on trout fishing in the Black Hills [2] through the Hook ’Em & Cook ’Em fishing program (June–Aug. Mon. and Fri. 9 a.m.). The number of participants in the fishing program is limited and space and equipment are provided on a first-come, first-served basis.

The living history program (June–mid-Aug. Sat.–Mon. 10 a.m.–4 p.m.) is a theatrical experience as park interpreters, garbed in period clothing, re-enact life on the frontier.

Evening programs are presented by naturalists at each of the four campgrounds [3] in the park. Topics vary but generally include information about the wildlife, plants, astronomy, park history or outdoor recreation activities in the park. Schedules are available at the two visitors centers [4] in the park.