Things to Do Near Jewel Cave National Monument

Located just four miles west of Custer, Four Mile Old West town is a place to experience family fun and Western history as you walk through the 50 open-door buildings at the historic site. Step back into yesterday and experience the Old West as it really was. We are open mid-May through early-October.

These two historic vacation home rentals near Custer are situated close to all the main attractions of the Black Hills. Enjoy Mount Rushmore National Memorial, Crazy Horse Memorial, Custer State Park, Jewel Cave National Monument and much more, including all the area lakes. After exploring the wonderful attractions, come "home" to the peace and tranquility of these beautiful, Black Hills vacation home rentals at Camp Custer Log Cabins. Experience rustic charm with modern conveniences.

The Black Hills cover an area that is 65 miles wide and 125 miles long. Most of the area is in western South Dakota, with a small part in northeastern Wyoming. There are 11 reservoirs, 30 campgrounds, 32 picnic areas, two scenic byways, two scenic overlooks, and 353 miles of trails within the forest. Both the Norbeck Wildlife Preserve and the Black Elk Wilderness are also part of the forest. Hiking, bicycling, fishing and horseback riding are among the many opportunities for outdoor recreation.

At the South Dakota Outdoor Shop we will outfit you to be outside doing what you love. Stop in our owner-operated store in Custer and let our excellent staff of outdoor-enthusiasts help meet all your adventure needs. From outdoor apparel and hiking, biking & climbing gear, to camping supplies, water sport rentals and beer & snacks, we’ve got everything you need in one spot so you can “Gear Up and Get Out”! Our hours are 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday through Saturday, and 12-4 p.m., Sunday.

Come visit our shop just 10 minutes west of Custer. All Black Hills Candle & Tallow candles and buffalo tallow products are handmade by us, here on site. The buffalo tallow used in our bath and beauty collections is sourced exclusively from Wild Idea Buffalo, another business local to the region. We have a special collection of destination candles, inspired by South Dakota landmarks, which are the perfect gift or memento from your visit. We pride ourselves in making only non-toxic products of the highest quality. From our luxuriously moisturizing buffalo tallow sunscreen to soaps to whipped body butters, healing salve, and more - we know you won't leave disappointed. If you're visiting in August, don't miss the opportunity to come see our sunflower field, which will be in full bloom. We're a founder-owned and -operated business; every visitor makes a difference to us. We're open in the summer, 11 a.m.-6 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday.

If you are looking for a rad thing to do in Custer, we are it! Old Pine Social will be axe-throwin', Bocce ballin', and Hammerschlagen-in' Friday through Wednesday. Come enjoy our selection of local craft and domestic beers on tap and a more than decent wine list. We will have tasty bites to enjoy while you kick it on the best patio in Custer. Also feel free to bring food in from one of our amazing Custer restaurants. All ages are welcome. Our hours are 2-9 p.m. Monday through Wednesday and Friday; 12-9 p.m., Saturday; and 12-7 p.m., Sunday.

Known as the Summer White House, the historic State Game Lodge has 101 units, including cabins (the largest sleeps 28) and modern and historical hotel rooms. We offer Buffalo Jeep Tours, Chuckwagon Cookouts, trail rides, hiking, fishing and endless possible wildlife encounters within the 71,000-acre park. Our elegant restaurant features local game and casual breakfast and lunch dining with a more formal ambiance for dinner. It is open seven days per week, end of April through the end of October.

Want serenity and seclusion? We offer sites that are spacious, level and shaded with both 50 & 30 amp full hook-ups. Primitive tent sites and camper cabins are also available. Our shower-houses and restrooms are sparkling clean. Additional amenities include: Wi-Fi, fire pits, picinic tables, laundry, game room, playgrounds, horseshoes, volleyball, hiking and biking. We're open May 20 - October 1.

Our old-fashioned hayride takes you on a 45-minute scenic drive on Custer State Park's beautiful backroads to a mountain meadow canyon for a chuck wagon feast. Along the way, you can sing-along to classic country and folk music tunes and look for wildlife along the road. Each paying guest gets a souvenir cowboy hat and bandanna to help you play the part. The meal includes your choice of a steak, burger, or veggie wrap. Reservations are required and must be made by 2 p.m. at Blue Bell Lodge.