Discover Custer State Park A Self Guided Audio Driving Tour

If you’re planning a trip to the Black Hills of South Dakota, this self-guided audio tour of Custer State Park offers an engaging and flexible way to experience one of America’s most scenic wilderness areas. Designed for travelers who prefer to go at their own pace, this tour combines the ease of a smartphone app with the beauty of the park’s landscapes and wildlife.

What we like most about this experience is its affordability and flexibility — you pay once per car, not per person, and can use it for a whole year. Plus, the audio guide’s storytelling is engaging, making the drive both educational and entertaining. A potential downside is that this isn’t a guided tour with a live person, so you’ll need to be comfortable navigating on your own. This makes it particularly suitable for independent travelers, families, or small groups who enjoy taking control of their travel experience.

If you’re someone who loves scenic drives, wildlife viewing, and learning local stories without the pressure of a scheduled group, this tour could be just the ticket. It’s also perfect for repeat visits or those who want to revisit certain spots at their leisure.

Key Points

• Self-guided flexibility allows you to explore at your own pace with an app that works offline.
• Engaging narration adds a layer of storytelling that enriches your understanding of the park.
• Affordable price per car makes it an economical option for small groups or families.
• Multiple stops cover wildlife viewing, panoramic views, and historical insights.
• Downloadable app means no signal issues during the drive.
• Long-term use — purchase once, enjoy for a year.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

This audio-guided tour of Custer State Park kicks off at the Welcome to Custer State Park sign, setting the tone for a scenic adventure. The first stop at the Wildlife Station Visitor Center is a practical starting point. Not only is it a charming cabin-like building with wooden fences, but it also offers necessary amenities — restrooms, good parking, and a chance to stretch your legs. We appreciate that it’s a free stop and a good spot to download your app if you haven’t already done so, plus a convenient place to gather your thoughts before hitting the open road.

From here, the route takes you along the Wildlife Loop Road — a true highlight of the park. This 18-mile scenic drive is renowned for its chance to see bison, burros, deer, elk, coyotes, prairie dogs, and bighorn sheep. The real magic is watching these animals in their natural habitat, often grazing peacefully just off the roadside. The narration in the app points out interesting facts and stories about the animals and the park’s ecosystem, boosting your wildlife sightings with insightful context.

One guest review highlighted how much more they learned with the narration: “It was interesting & learned much more than just driving through the park without a guide.” The ability to listen and learn as you go makes this a more meaningful experience than just a casual drive.

Next, you’ll reach the Blue Bell Stables, the only riding stables within Custer State Park. Open from mid-May to September, it offers trail rides suitable for both beginners and experienced riders. While this stop isn’t part of the core driving experience, it adds a nice touch of adventure if you’re into horseback riding — a fun way to explore the park on four legs instead of four wheels.

The route then continues to Mount Coolidge, where the panoramic views are truly breathtaking. Sitting at 6,023 feet, the Mount Coolidge Lookout and Fire Tower provide sweeping vistas of the Black Hills, Mount Rushmore, and even the Badlands on clear days. The narration here emphasizes why this is a favorite spot for photographers and nature lovers alike. We loved the way the guide describes the rugged landscape, helping us appreciate the extraordinary geology and scale of the region.

A brief stop at Legion Lake offers a peaceful setting with a beach, picnic areas, and a short, half-mile hike around the lake. The app provides context about the lake’s history, including its wildfire in 2017, which reminds visitors of the area’s resilience and ongoing natural cycles. Many travelers enjoy this spot for a quiet picnic or a quick stretch after hours of driving.

What the Tour Offers in Practical Terms

The app itself is straightforward and user-friendly. Once you purchase the tour for $16.99 per group (up to four people), you’ll receive a download link and a password sent via email or text, which works offline once downloaded. This is a significant advantage, as mobile signals can be spotty in remote areas. The app includes audio stories, images, videos, and travel tips, making it a multimedia experience that keeps you engaged.

You can start the tour at any time, pause it whenever you want, and revisit specific stops later. This makes it ideal for travelers who like to take their time or combine the drive with other activities. The narration activates automatically as you reach each stop thanks to GPS, so you don’t have to fiddle with your phone constantly. And, if you prefer to listen through your car’s stereo, the app supports Bluetooth, USB, or AUX connections.

From a value standpoint, paying once for your entire group and having the ability to use the tour over a year is impressive. It’s a far more economical alternative to guided bus tours or hiring a private guide — especially given the high-quality narration and comprehensive route coverage.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

One reviewer shared, “My husband and I thoroughly enjoyed the commentary. It was interesting & learned much more than just driving through the park without a guide. It works off-line as long as the app has been downloaded beforehand. It was easy to use & easy to find the starting point. Highly recommend!” This feedback echoes what many others appreciate: the ease of use, the offline capability, and the added value of storytelling.

Another traveler mentioned the stunning views at Mount Coolidge, emphasizing how the panoramic scenery enhanced their visit: “You’ll love the views of the Black Hills and beyond.” The combination of natural beauty and informative narration makes for a memorable experience that goes beyond just looking out the window.

While the tour doesn’t include entry tickets to attractions along the route, the stops are well worth exploring at your own pace. Just be aware of park hours (9 am to 5 pm) and check opening times for specific sites like the stables or the visitor center.

Practical Considerations

• Duration: The drive takes approximately 2 to 3 hours, making it perfect for a half-day outing.
• Price: $16.99 per group, a good deal considering you can share the experience with up to four people.
• Timing: Best booked in advance, typically 5 days ahead, to ensure download and setup.
• Start Point: The tour begins at the Welcome to Custer State Park sign; easy to find with Google Maps.
• What’s Included: Narrated stories, route maps, images, videos, and travel tips.
• What’s Not Included: Food and drinks, so plan for a picnic or stop at local eateries.
• Accessibility: The app supports audio autoplay via GPS, and the tour is suitable for most travelers, though those with mobility issues should consider additional stops.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for independent travelers who want control over their schedule and enjoy storytelling. Families with kids who love animals and scenic views will find it engaging and educational. Small groups or couples can enjoy this as a cost-effective alternative to guided tours, with plenty of time for photos and side explorations. It’s also ideal for repeat visitors to the Black Hills who want to revisit the park’s highlights without paying for multiple guided tours.

The Sum Up

This self-guided audio tour of Custer State Park offers a compelling blend of flexibility, affordability, and engaging storytelling. For less than the price of a meal out, a small group can enjoy a wealth of information, stunning views, and a wildlife-rich drive through one of South Dakota’s most iconic landscapes.

It’s a smart choice for travelers who prefer to go at their own pace, want a richer experience than just the scenery, and value the ability to revisit the tour over a year. Whether you’re a nature lover, photography enthusiast, or simply seeking a memorable day in the Black Hills, this tour stands out as a practical, insightful, and enjoyable way to discover Custer State Park.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s family-friendly. Kids who enjoy animals and scenic drives will find the narration engaging and the stops interesting.

Do I need internet access during the tour?
No, once you’ve downloaded the app and tour, it works offline, which is perfect for remote areas with limited signal.

How many people can join the tour on one booking?
Up to four people per group — the fee covers your entire vehicle, making it economical for families or small groups.

Can I start the tour at any time?
Yes, you can begin whenever you arrive at the park. The app allows you to start, pause, and revisit the tour as needed.

Are there any additional fees for park entrances?
The tour does not include park entry fees. You’ll need to pay any entrance fees separately, and be sure to check park hours before your visit.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring a phone or tablet with the app downloaded, a car charger, and possibly headphones for optimal listening. Pack snacks, water, and your camera for the stops.

This self-guided tour of Custer State Park provides a well-rounded, flexible way to experience the area’s natural beauty, wildlife, and scenic views. It’s an excellent choice for travelers wanting an educational and enjoyable adventure—without the hassle or expense of guided tours.