Travelers heading to South Dakota’s Black Hills often look for authentic ways to experience its vast, rugged landscape. The Jeep Bison Safari offered by Black Hills Open-Top-Tours promises just that — a personalized, small-group adventure to see the iconic wildlife, stunning scenery, and historic sites of Custer State Park. Based on numerous traveler reviews and the detailed itinerary, this tour caters to those who crave a combination of nature, history, and comfort in a day full of memorable moments.
What makes this experience appealing? First, the knowledgeable guides like Cheryl Lee and Mike add a layer of insight that elevates the trip beyond just sightseeing. Second, the stunning scenery, from sweeping plains to granite tunnels, offers picture-perfect vistas at every turn. Third, the value for money shines through with included meals, snacks, and multiple scenic stops, making it a comprehensive package.
However, one consideration could be the group size, which is capped at 14 travelers — excellent for intimacy but potentially less flexible during busy seasons. This tour is best suited for families, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone wanting a relaxed yet rich exploration of the Black Hills without the hassle of self-driving.
Good To Know
- Small-Group Experience: Personalized attention with a maximum of 14 travelers.
- All-Inclusive Tour: Includes a picnic lunch, snacks, bottled water, and fun treats for the burros.
- Diverse Itinerary: From wildlife viewing to scenic drives and historical sites.
- Expert Guides: Guides like Cheryl Lee and Mike bring stories to life with knowledge and humor.
- Family-Friendly Price: Around $329 per person, offering good value for a full-day adventure.
- Great for Wildlife & Nature Lovers: Expect bison, deer, elk, prairie dogs, and more.
What to Expect from the Tour
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This all-day adventure kicks off early at 8:00 am, with hotel pickup arranged for your convenience in Rapid City. The first stop is at the Custer State Park Visitor Center and State Game Lodge, where you’ll learn about its significance as a White House for Presidents Coolidge and Eisenhower. This sets the tone for a tour that balances history with nature.
Next, the Wildlife Loop Road becomes your safari corridor. Covering 18 miles of open grasslands and pine hills, this is where you’ll get your best chances to spot bison, pronghorn, whitetail and mule deer, elk, coyotes, and even burros. Reviewers like Anthony praise the guide Cheryl Lee for being “very knowledgeable and entertaining,” adding depth to wildlife spotting. She reportedly kept the group engaged while pointing out animals and sharing fun facts about their behavior and habitat.
From here, the tour takes you to Mt. Coolidge Fire Lookout Tower, perched atop a 6,023-foot peak. Built of local stone, it’s still in use today, providing panoramic views of the surrounding hills and Mt. Rushmore. The 30-minute stop here offers a sense of the rugged, practical side of the Black Hills’ firefighting history, and stunning vistas that visitors love to photograph.
Scenic lakes and tunnels follow. You’ll pause at Stockade Lake, the largest in the park, with a peaceful setting perfect for a picnic lunch. The included meal, a selection of subs or other options, means you won’t need to worry about packing food — just relax and enjoy the scenery. Reviewers like Bridget Z commend how the tour company “worked with us to reschedule and gave us many sightseeing ideas,” emphasizing the flexibility and thoughtful planning behind the experience.
The Needle Eye Tunnel on the picturesque Needles Highway is next, featuring rugged granite formations and mountain meadows. The drive through pine, spruce, and aspen forests exemplifies South Dakota’s natural beauty, and the guide’s narration helps you appreciate the geology and history of this dramatic landscape.
Finally, the tour wraps up at Sylvan Lake, a favorite spot for visitors thanks to its large granite spires and lush surroundings. Just 15 minutes here allows for photos and soaking in the serenity before heading into the Iron Mountain Road. Known for its 314 curves and historic pigtail bridges, this route highlights the ingenuity of mountain road design and offers incredible views of Mt. Rushmore in the distance.
The Value of This Experience
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At $329 per person, the tour provides a comprehensive look at the Black Hills. It includes multiple scenic stops, wildlife viewing, a picnic lunch, snacks, bottled water, and treats for the burros — all of which contribute to a sense of value that many travelers appreciate. The reviews echo this sentiment, with guests noting that guides like Mike and TJ brought stories to life and made the day memorable.
What’s particularly appealing is the small-group format. With just 14 travelers, you get a more intimate experience, personalized attention, and ample opportunity to ask questions or request specific sights. The open-top Jeep offers unobstructed views, making photography easier and more fun, especially for wildlife shots.
The guided aspect is a major plus. Many visitors appreciated guides who are not only friendly but also deeply knowledgeable about the area’s ecology, history, and geology. As Sandra H pointed out, having an expert like Mike to navigate and narrate made the experience more enjoyable and relaxed.
The included lunch at Stockade Lake is a highlight, offering a serene setting for a meal mid-adventure. Several reviews mention that being driven by someone familiar with the area meant they could enjoy the scenery without the stress of navigation or planning.
Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary
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Stop 1: Custer State Park Visitor Center and State Game Lodge
Your journey begins with an insight into the history of the park, once a summer White House for Presidents Coolidge and Eisenhower. This historical context adds a layer of significance to what’s to come, making it not just a wildlife or scenic tour but a reflection on American presidential history.
Stop 2: Wildlife Loop Road
The 18-mile wildlife loop is the heart of the safari. Expect to see herds of bison, which number over 1400 in the park, making this one of the few places outside Yellowstone with such large bison populations. Reviewers like Anthony note: “We saw lots of wildlife, including buffalo, prairie dogs, and even antelope.” Guides such as Cheryl do an excellent job of pointing out animals and explaining their behaviors, which enriches the experience.
Stop 3: Mount Coolidge Fire Lookout Tower
Climbing up to this historic fire tower reveals breathtaking panoramic views. The tower, made of local stone, has been in operation for years, offering a glimpse into fire management in the region. It’s a brief stop but one that leaves guests with memorable photo opportunities.
Stop 4: Stockade Lake
A peaceful, scenic spot for a picnic lunch. The setting is calm, with often-clear waters reflecting the surrounding forests and granite spires. Reviewers like Bridget Z appreciated the flexibility to relax and enjoy good food amid nature’s beauty.
Stop 5: Needle Eye Tunnel & Needles Highway
This stretch is famous for its granite rock formations and mountain meadows. The tunnel itself is a marvel of engineering, carved through rugged rock, offering a sense of adventure and awe. The drive offers plenty of photo ops, and guides often share geological facts and stories of the area.
Stop 6: Sylvan Lake
Surrounded by tall granite spires, Sylvan Lake is ideal for photos and soaking in nature’s tranquility. Created in 1891, it’s a classic spot that many travelers, including those in reviews, find enchanting. The short stop gives just enough time to stroll or snap a few shots.
Stop 7: Iron Mountain Road
This scenic route redefines “curvy.” With 314 turns, many of them pigtail bridges, it’s a feat of engineering. The views of Mt. Rushmore from Iron Mountain Road make it a fitting conclusion to the day’s adventures.
Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?
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This Jeep Bison Safari stands out as an excellent choice for those who want a full day immersed in the Black Hills’ natural and historical wonders without the hassle of self-driving. The small-group size and knowledgeable guides ensure a personalized, engaging experience, especially for wildlife lovers and families. The included picnic and snacks make the day comfortable and convenient.
Travelers seeking a relaxed but educational exploration, with plenty of photo opportunities and wildlife sightings, will find this tour offers significant bang for the buck. It’s perfect for people who prioritize authentic experiences and value a guided approach that combines storytelling with scenic beauty.
On the flip side, if your main goal is pure adventure or to visit a specific site in-depth (like Mount Rushmore alone), you might want to consider different options. But for those wanting a well-rounded, scenic, and wildlife-rich day, this safari checks many boxes.
FAQs
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What does the tour include?
The tour includes a picnic lunch, bottled water, snacks, treats for the burros, and visits to multiple scenic and wildlife viewing stops.
How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 6 hours and 15 minutes, starting at 8:00 am with hotel pickup, and ending back at the meeting point later in the day.
Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, pickup from your Rapid City hotel is offered, making logistics simple and hassle-free.
What is the group size?
The experience is limited to a maximum of 14 travelers, ensuring a more personalized and relaxed outing.
Are guides knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews highlight guides like Cheryl Lee and Mike for their friendly, informative, and engaging narration, often sharing interesting facts and local stories.
Is the tour suitable for families?
Absolutely. The tour is family-friendly and includes snacks, treats, and a picnic lunch, making it suitable for children and adults alike.
What should I wear?
Layered clothing, sun protection, sunglasses, and hats are recommended. The tour operates in all weather conditions, so dress accordingly.
Can service animals participate?
Yes, service animals are allowed on this tour.
Final Words
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The JEEP Bison Safari at Custer State Park offers a well-rounded experience packed with wildlife sightings, scenic drives, and historical insights. For travelers eager to see the Black Hills’ highlights without the stress of navigation or planning, this tour combines comfort, education, and adventure.
Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a family wanting a fun day out, or simply someone craving authentic scenery and stories, this tour delivers on many fronts. And with positive reviews emphasizing friendly guides and memorable vistas, it’s easy to see why many consider it a must-do when visiting South Dakota.
Planning ahead is key — booking about a month in advance secures your spot on this popular excursion. Dress appropriately, bring your camera, and prepare to enjoy a day that showcases the best of the Black Hills in a relaxed, engaging way.