Experience the Thrill of the Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup
Every year, Custer State Park in South Dakota offers a unique and unforgettable experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The annual Buffalo Roundup and Arts Festival is one of the most anticipated events in the Midwest, drawing thousands of visitors to witness the spectacle of hundreds of bison moving across the prairie. This free event, held on the last weekend of September, has become a cherished tradition, with the 60th edition taking place on September 26, 2025.
The buffalo roundup involves rounding up approximately 1,500 bison and bringing them to corrals near the Custer State Park Bison Center. Alongside this natural wonder, the arts festival features over 150 vendors, live music, cowboy poetry, and Western-themed activities. The festival runs from September 25 to 27, making it a perfect weekend getaway for families and travelers alike.
Planning Your Visit: Tips for Attending the Buffalo Roundup
If you’re planning to attend the event, it’s essential to know what to expect. The actual buffalo roundup begins at 9:30 a.m., but the public viewing areas open as early as 6:15 a.m. To secure a good spot, it’s recommended to arrive early, as the event is extremely popular. Visitors are even allowed to line up in their vehicles along the Wildlife Loop Road starting at midnight.
There are two main viewing areas in the park — the north and south sections. The northern area offers a front-row view of the bison approaching, while the southern area provides a broader perspective of the herd moving across the prairie. However, the exact route the bison take can vary each year, adding an element of surprise to the experience.
Once you’re settled in your chosen viewing area, be prepared to stay there until the entire herd is corralled by around 11:30 a.m. or noon. Bring a lawn chair, layers for changing weather, and comfortable shoes. If you’re arriving in the dark, a flashlight is highly recommended. Portable toilets are available, and both viewing areas offer a pancake and sausage breakfast, which is a great reason to arrive early. You can also enjoy bison barbecue for lunch near the corrals, or bring your own food and drinks.
What Happens After the Roundup?
After the bison are rounded up, they undergo several procedures, including vaccinations, branding, and health assessments. A few hundred bison are then auctioned off in November, as the park can only support about 1,000 bison due to grazing limitations.
For those interested in a more hands-on experience, volunteering as a rider during the roundup is an option. This requires extensive horseback riding and livestock experience, as it’s not a leisurely trail ride. Applications for this role are typically accepted months in advance, so it’s best to plan ahead if you’re interested in participating.
Enjoying the Arts Festival and Exploring the Park
The Buffalo Roundup Arts Festival takes place near the Peter Norbeck Outdoor Education Center, approximately a 25-minute drive from the bison corrals. The festival features live music, dancing, cowboy poetry, and a variety of Western-themed food and crafts from local vendors.
If you can’t attend the event in person, past roundups have been live-streamed by South Dakota Public Broadcasting, offering a virtual way to experience the action. Even outside the roundup, Custer State Park is one of the best places in the country — aside from Yellowstone — to see bison in their natural habitat.
Exploring the Park Beyond the Roundup
Driving along the 18-mile Wildlife Loop Road is a fantastic way to observe the park’s wildlife, including bison, elk, deer, and pronghorn. For a more immersive experience, the Buffalo Safari Jeep Tour offers an off-road adventure that gets you closer to the animals. The Bison Center is also a great stop to learn more about the history and conservation efforts of the park’s bison herd.
Where to Stay
With the event drawing large crowds, it’s wise to book accommodation well in advance. Custer State Park offers a range of options, including historic lodges, private cabins, and campgrounds. The nearby town of Custer has hotels and motels within a 10-minute drive, while Rapid City, just over 30 minutes away, serves as a gateway to the Black Hills.
Whether you’re here for the buffalo roundup, the arts festival, or simply to explore the natural beauty of the park, Custer State Park offers an unforgettable experience that should not be missed.
