From Rapid City: Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup Tour

Exploring the untamed wilderness of Custer State Park is a thrilling prospect, and the annual Buffalo Roundup is an event that captivates visitors from around the world. This guided tour from Rapid City promises an unforgettable experience, offering a front-row seat to the thunderous stampede of these majestic beasts. With a carefully curated itinerary and attentive service, participants can enjoy the rich cultural heritage and natural wonders that make this destination so unique. What awaits beyond the initial glimpse, however, is a day filled with remarkable discoveries.

Contents show

Key Points

Guided tour of the annual Buffalo Roundup at Custer State Park from Rapid City.
10-hour tour on September 26, 2025, with hotel pickup/drop-off, hot breakfast, and ranger interactions.
Buffalo stampede viewing, BBQ lunch, and afternoon activities included in the tour.
Suitable for most participants, but not recommended for those with back problems, wheelchair users, or animal allergies.
Flexible booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and hassle-free planning.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The tour offers visitors a chance to experience the annual Buffalo Roundup at Custer State Park in South Dakota.

It’s a guided tour from Rapid City, lasting 10 hours on September 26, 2025. Guests will witness the buffalo stampede into corrals, enjoy a hot breakfast, and observe rangers working with the animals post-lunch.

The tour includes hotel pickup/drop-off, a guide, bottled water, and gratuities, though food and refreshments (except water) require an additional cost.

Participants should dress comfortably and be aware it’s not suitable for those with back problems, wheelchair users, or animal allergies.

Want to see more of Rapid City? Here are other city tours we've reviewed

Booking and Cancellation

Customers can reserve their spot on the tour without making any upfront payment. Simply book now and pay later.

Reserve your spot now and pay later – no upfront cost required.

Plus, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour offers convenient pickup and drop-off service from hotels or Airbnbs in Rapid City. This flexibility makes it easy for participants to plan their trip.

Whether you’re staying in Rapid City or just passing through, the Buffalo Roundup tour is an unmissable experience that can be booked hassle-free.

Itinerary Highlights

The day begins with hotel pickup around 6:00 AM, setting out for the iconic Custer State Park.

After a scenic drive, guests enjoy a hot breakfast around 8:00 AM, featuring a delicious spread of egg-buffalo sausage-vegetable dish, muffins, fresh fruit, coffee, tea, and hot chocolate.

The main event, the buffalo stampede into the corrals, is expected between 10-11 AM.

Afterward, guests have lunch around noon, savoring BBQ sandwiches, chips, beans, and a refreshing drink.

In the afternoon, guests watch rangers work with the buffalo before returning to Rapid City around 3 PM.

Included in Tour

The tour package includes hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a seamless start and end to the day.

Plus, a knowledgeable tour guide accompanies the group throughout the experience. Guests will also receive:

Cold bottled water to stay hydrated
Gratuities for the guides, so there’s no need to worry about tipping
All food and refreshments, including a hot breakfast and a BBQ lunch, included in the price

This comprehensive offering allows participants to fully immerse themselves in the Buffalo Roundup without the hassle of coordinating logistics or expenses.

More Great Tours Nearby

Participant Information

Although the Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup Tour is a unique and exciting experience, it may not be suitable for everyone. Participants should be aware of certain limitations and requirements to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

| Consideration | Recommendation |

| — | — |

| Physical Ability | Not suitable for people with back problems or wheelchair users |

| Allergies | Avoid if you have animal allergies |

| Recommended Items | Hat, camera, snacks, sunscreen, comfortable clothes |

| Restrictions | No pets or smoking allowed |

Attendees should come prepared with the necessary gear and be mindful of any physical or medical conditions that may affect their participation. By adhering to these guidelines, visitors can fully appreciate the thrilling buffalo roundup event.

There's plenty more to explore in Rapid City

Getting to Custer State Park

To reach Custer State Park, the tour departs from Rapid City, the nearest major city. The drive from Rapid City takes approximately 30 minutes, as the park is located about 30 miles southwest of the city.

The tour includes:

Early morning pickup at accommodations in Rapid City, ensuring arrival at Custer State Park before the buffalo roundup events begin.
Scenic drive through the Black Hills region, providing glimpses of the area’s natural beauty.
Guaranteed access to the park during the buffalo roundup, as the roads close early to facilitate the event.

The Buffalo Roundup Experience

As visitors arrive at Custer State Park, they’ll witness the iconic annual Buffalo Roundup, a captivating spectacle that showcases the park’s majestic bison herd. Rangers on horseback expertly guide the 1,300-strong herd into corrals, where the animals are sorted, branded, and examined. Visitors can observe this thrilling event from designated viewing areas, marveling at the power and grace of the thundering beasts.

| When | Where | What |

|——|——-|——|

| 10-11 AM | Corrals | Buffalo stampede |

| Noon | Lunch Area | BBQ lunch |

| Afternoon | Corrals | Ranger work with buffalo |

The Buffalo Roundup is a unique opportunity to experience the Wild West, as this annual event celebrates the park’s rich heritage and the enduring spirit of the American frontier.

Tips for Enjoying the Tour

To make the most of the Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup Tour, visitors should dress in comfortable, weather-appropriate attire.

The tour involves walking and standing for extended periods, so sturdy shoes are a must.

The tour also recommends bringing the following:

A camera to capture the impressive buffalo stampede and other scenic views
Snacks and a refillable water bottle to stay fueled and hydrated
Sun protection such as a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to shield from the elements

With the right preparation, visitors can fully enjoy the awe-inspiring Buffalo Roundup experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Discount for Seniors or Children?

The tour does not offer any discounts for seniors or children. The price of $158.55 per person is the same regardless of age. There are no special rates available.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Yes, participants can bring their own food and drinks on the tour, except for the provided breakfast and lunch. Participants are advised to pack any additional snacks or beverages they may want during the day.

How Fit Do I Need to Be for This Tour?

The tour isn’t suitable for those with back problems, wheelchair users, or people with animal allergies. However, participants should be reasonably fit as there’ll be some walking. Comfortable clothes and a hat are recommended to enjoy the day.

What Is the Weather Typically Like in Late September?

In late September, the weather in Custer State Park is typically mild and sunny, with average highs around 70°F (21°C) and lows near 45°F (7°C). Visitors should prepare for cooler temperatures, especially in the early morning and evening hours.

Are There Any Options for Vegetarian or Gluten-Free Meals?

The tour offers a vegetarian breakfast option and can accommodate gluten-free dietary requirements. Guests should notify the tour operator of any special dietary needs when booking to ensure appropriate meals are provided.

The Sum Up

Experience the annual Buffalo Roundup at Custer State Park with this guided tour from Rapid City. Witness the thrilling stampede, enjoy a BBQ lunch, and interact with knowledgeable rangers. This immersive tour offers a unique opportunity to see wildlife in action while ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free journey. Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime experience.