The Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup: a visitor’s guide

On the last Friday of September, the ground shakes in Custer State Park. Riders on horseback and park staff in trucks drive the park’s entire bison herd, well over a thousand animals, across the prairie to the corrals. The Buffalo Roundup has been held since 1966, and it is one of the great wildlife spectacles in America.

Why the roundup happens

The park rounds up the herd once a year to check the animals’ health, vaccinate the calves and keep the herd at a size the grassland can support. Some bison are later sold at auction.

Where to watch

The park opens public viewing areas on the hills above the corrals, near the Wildlife Loop Road. The viewing areas open early in the morning, and the roundup itself usually starts mid-morning. Parking is in designated lots, and roads close once the drive begins, so plan to stay until it ends. Check the exact times and arrangements on the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks website.

What to bring

• Warm layers: early mornings in late September can be close to freezing.
• Binoculars and a camera with a zoom lens.
• Something to sit on, water and snacks.
• Your Custer State Park license.

The arts festival

In the days before the roundup, the Buffalo Roundup Arts Festival brings artists, food and entertainment to the park. Pancakes and a chuckwagon breakfast are part of the tradition on roundup morning.

Where to stay

Rooms in the park lodges and in Custer book up months ahead for roundup weekend. See where to stay, and read our guide to the Wildlife Loop to see the bison on any other day.