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Buffalo Safari & Chuckwagon Cookout in Custer, SD - Rapid City

Buffalo Safari & Chuckwagon Cookout in Custer, SD

Custereasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

3–4 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for most fitness levels; activity mostly involves sitting in the jeep and light walking around the cookout area.

Overview

Discover the thrill of a Buffalo Safari Jeep Tour followed by an authentic Chuckwagon Cookout in Custer State Park. Experience close wildlife encounters and rustic Western cuisine all in one incredible trip.

Custer, South Dakota

Buffalo Safari & Chuckwagon Cookout (Combo)

4 - 4.5 Hours • All ages!

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About This Adventure

Experience the ultimate adventure with a Buffalo Safari Jeep Tour followed by a delightful Chuckwagon Cookout. Encounter majestic wildlife, enjoy a delicious dinner with live folk music, and receive a souvenir cowboy hat and bandanna. This personalized tour offers an unforgettable evening in the stunning Custer State Park.

Double the fun: A Buffalo Safari and a Dinner Show Cookout...in one!

About

Why choose just one? Start with a guided off-road buffalo safari jeep tour through the park in search of pronghorns, elk, and the noble buffalo. Along the way, our guides will share historical and educational facts about the park and wildlife—and help you spot the animals.

Then meet up with the Chuckwagon Cookout in the mountain canyon for a chuck wagon feast and live entertainment with some Western flair. You’ll also get your own souvenir cowboy hat and bandanna to play the part.

More info

Menu options Menu includes your choice of an 8 oz. choice sirloin steak or a 1/3 lb. hamburger with all the fixin’s, including cowboy beans, cornbread and honey, potato salad, coleslaw, watermelon, cookies, chuck wagon coffee and lemonade. A vegetarian option is also available. Please select your option when you make your reservation.

Duration

4 - 4.5 Hours, return back around dusk

What to expect

  • Check-in at Creekside Lodge no later than 15 minutes prior to your scheduled departure time
  • 1.5 Hours on the Buffalo Safari Jeep seeks out the herd
  • Driver then takes you to beautiful Parker Canyon for the Chuckwagon Cookout
  • Driver stays with you for the dinner and takes you back after the show to Creekside Lodge

Requirements

Dress accordingly. It cools down in the evenings! Blankets available. Standard seatbelts available; any required car seats must be brought with you. Drivers will lend a hand loading and unloading, but guests must be physically able to take steps in and out of the jeeps. No pets.

A note about weather

Please be prepared! Jeeps have a canvas top and will still depart if raining. Lighting will force a tour to be rescheduled or delayed. Private interior dirt roads will be taken as long as road conditions permit.

Adventure Tips

Wear sturdy footwear

Choose comfortable shoes suitable for uneven terrain during the jeep tour and walk around the cookout area.

Bring insect repellent

Bugs can be active especially near dusk, so repellent helps keep your experience comfortable.

Dress in layers

South Dakota’s weather can change quickly; layering ensures comfort in both warm afternoons and cooler evenings.

Charge your camera

You'll want plenty of photos of buffalo, scenic views, and the lively cookout experience.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • American Buffalo (Bison)
  • Pronghorn Antelope

History

Custer State Park was established in 1912 and is famed for its successful bison conservation efforts and rich Native American heritage.

Conservation

The park implements sustainable tourism practices to protect wildlife habitats and supports ongoing bison herd monitoring and management.

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Adventure Hotspots in Rapid City

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Comfortable hiking shoes

Essential

Provides support and traction for walking on uneven trails and at the cookout site.

Wide-brimmed hat

Protects you from the sun during daytime safari tours and outdoor meals.

summer specific

Layered clothing

Essential

Keeps you comfortable amid changing temperatures throughout the day and evening.

Insect repellent

Essential

Helps prevent bites during evening hours and in grassy areas.

spring specific