Custer Day 2

Our second day in Custer State Park started early with a private Jeep tour through the Wildlife Loop—something I can’t recommend enough. We booked the first tour of the day at 9 a.m., and our guide warned us that finding bison might be tricky. The roar of thousands of motorcycles from the Sturgis Rally often drives them away.

His concerns turned out to be unfounded. Within minutes, we came across a herd of a few hundred bison—and they were right next to the road. It was the closest we’ve ever been to them. At one point, one walked so close past our Jeep that Marley had to lean back in his seat!

For the next few hours, we spotted wildlife, learned about the park’s history, and explored the loop’s scenic stretches. Afterwards, we returned to the cabin, where the kids played in the giant field out front.  It was nostalgic seeing Marley run through the field with a boomerang—just like I had done in that very spot 30 years earlier. It was one of those full-circle moments that made the trip even more special.

We wrapped up the day with a quick trip to Keystone for dinner (not my top pick) and then headed back to the cabin for a campfire under the stars (something I’d definitely recommend).