Annual Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup – September 26, 2025

Watch cowboys and cowgirls as they roundup and drive the herd of approximately 1,300 buffalo. Not only is the roundup a spectacular sight to see, it is also a critical management tool in maintaining a strong and healthy herd.

The Buffalo Roundup begins at 9:30 a.m. MT on September 26, with parking lots opening at 6:15 a.m. Be sure to arrive early if you want to pick your spot. Guests must stay in the viewing areas until the herd is safely in the corrals, generally around noon. Breakfast is available at 6:15 a.m. in both viewing areas. Lunch is served at the corrals once the buffalo are rounded up. There is a fee for both meals.

Testing, branding, and sorting of the buffalo begins at 1 p.m. and lasts until approximately 3 p.m. Crews will work the remainder of the herd in October.

What you need to know

Bring folding chairs, cameras, binoculars, layered clothing, rain gear, and sunscreen.

• You will need to determine which viewing area you will be going to prior to Friday morning. All vehicles will depart the way they entered. Motorcoaches welcomed.
  • North Parking and Viewing | Head south from the Game Lodge area on Wildlife Loop Road. (See green path on map.)
  • South Parking and Viewing | Head east on Wildlife Loop Road near Blue Bell campground. (See red path on map.)
• We encourage that you do not bring your camper. Call 605.255.4515 for drop-off locations. If you do bring it, follow the green route on the map, and you will be parked in the North Overflow Lot and be shuttled to the Roundup.
• We encourage you to leave your pets at home. If you must bring them, they must remain in the vehicle.

Buffalo Roundup Arts Festival

At the Annual Buffalo Roundup Arts Festival from September 25-27, up to 150 vendors offer their fine arts and crafts for sale, including many South Dakota-made products.

Start your morning with a pancake feed and enjoy ongoing Western and Native American entertainment under the big top. All events and vendors will be located on the festival grounds across from the Peter Norbeck Outdoor Education Center.

• Arts Festival Schedule