Custer State Park feels like a national park with its epic scenery, wildlife viewing and abundance of historic lodges. In South Dakota’s Black Hills, there are several national park sites.

One century ago, former South Dakota Governor Peter Norbeck wanted a place where the Game Commission could stay in Custer State Park that would match the natural beauty of the area.

Visitors keep coming to Custer State Park resorts, despite a punishing recession that depressed the hospitality business across the nation but has mostly missed South Dakota's largest state park.