From Rapid City: Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup Tour

A Practical Guide to the Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup Tour from Rapid City

If you’re heading to South Dakota and want a front-row seat to one of the state’s most iconic events, the Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup Tour offers an engaging, well-organized way to witness this historic gathering. While I haven’t personally taken this specific tour, I’ve reviewed the details and feedback to help you decide if it’s a good fit for your trip.

What stands out immediately are the early morning pickup service—which takes the hassle out of transportation—and the opportunity to see buffalo in action during their annual roundup. We particularly appreciate the combination of a guided experience and authentic local flavor, such as the chance to buy a BBQ sandwich at the corrals. The main consideration? It’s a long day, around 10 hours, so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with early mornings and full schedules.

This tour is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts, families, or anyone eager to witness a genuinely South Dakota event in an intimate, educational setting. If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to see the buffalo and learn about the park’s conservation efforts, this tour delivers.

Key Points

• All-inclusive convenience with hotel pickup and drop-off in Rapid City
• Witness the famous buffalo roundup and see the herd driven into corrals
• Enjoy a hearty breakfast before the stampede—perfect for fueling a full day
• Buy a local lunch at the corrals—buffalo brisket sandwich and sides—without hunting for food
• Guided experience with knowledgeable tour guides enhancing the visit
• Limited to one day per year — September 26, 2025—making it a rare event

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Buffalo Roundup Tour

Seamless Transportation and Early Start

We loved the way this tour handles logistics—hotel pickup at 6:00 AM in Rapid City means you won’t need to worry about driving or parking. The tour provider, Affordable Adventures Inc., takes care of all the details, so you can relax and focus on the experience ahead. Expect the drive to be picturesque, with the scenery of South Dakota’s rolling hills and open plains passing by.

Viewing the Buffalo at the Roundup Grounds

Arriving early allows you to get a good vantage point. The tour guides take you to the south area of the park, just above the corrals, where you’ll see the rangers at work—herding the buffalo into the pens using horseback and trucks. This process is fascinating and surprisingly well-organized. Watching the buffalo stampede into the corral is a highlight, and you’ll feel a mixture of awe and respect for these majestic animals.

Breakfast with a Local Touch

Around 8:00 AM, you’ll sit down to a hot breakfast—an egg-buffalo sausage-vegetable dish, muffins, fresh fruit, coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and bottled water. It’s served in a casual setting with a provided bag chair, making it easy to relax while waiting for the herd to come over the ridges. As one reviewer noted, “The breakfast was surprisingly good and set us up for the rest of the day.”

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The Main Event: The Stampede

By late morning, the buffalo start to emerge over the hills, heading into the corrals. The sight of hundreds of animals moving en masse is something you won’t forget. It’s a lively scene—dust flying, animals bellowing—and gives you a real sense of the scale of the operation. You’ll have plenty of opportunities for photos, but remember to be respectful and cautious near the animals.

Lunch at the Corrals

Around noon, a shuttle takes you to the corrals where you can purchase a buffalo brisket sandwich, chips, beans, and a drink for about $20. This is a nice touch, as it avoids the need to bring your own food or hunt for a nearby restaurant. Many travelers appreciate the convenience and the chance to taste local flavors.

Watching the Rangers at Work

After lunch, you’re free to walk over to the corrals and observe the rangers vaccinating and branding the calves—a unique, up-close look at park management. The process is both educational and humbling, revealing the careful balance between conservation and tradition.

Return to Rapid City

The tour wraps up around 3:00 PM, giving you plenty of time to reflect on the experience or explore other parts of Rapid City afterward. The smooth logistics, with hotel drop-off included, make for a relaxed end to a full day.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $185 per person, this tour isn’t the cheapest way to see South Dakota’s wildlife, but it offers good value. It includes transportation, a guided experience, breakfast, and the chance to purchase lunch at the event—elements that would add up if you tried to do it solo. The guided component ensures you get context and background that you might miss on your own, making the experience richer.

Why It Works Well

• You’re part of a small, organized group, which enhances the experience without feeling crowded.
• The timing—early morning and late afternoon—coincides with the best natural light and animal activity.
• The educational aspect of seeing the herd managed by rangers adds meaning beyond just watching a herd.

Possible Drawbacks

The main limitation is the long duration—10 hours from pickup to drop-off—which might be tiring if you prefer shorter outings. Also, because the event takes place only once a year, your window to see it is limited, so booking well in advance is advisable.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, families with older children, and travelers interested in authentic regional traditions. It’s also suited for those who prefer a structured, guided experience over self-directed exploration. If you’re looking for a memorable, educational glimpse into South Dakota’s rugged landscape and cattle traditions, this tour hits the mark.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring a hat, sunscreen, camera, snacks, and water—the early start and outdoor environment mean sun protection and hydration are key.
• Wear comfortable clothes suitable for walking and sitting.
• Be prepared for dust and noise when the herd arrives.
• Keep in mind that pets and smoking are not allowed at the event.
• This experience isn’t suitable for people with back problems, wheelchair users, or those with animal allergies.

FAQ

What is the date of this year’s Buffalo Roundup?
It’s scheduled for Friday, September 26th, 2025, but since it’s a one-day event, booking early is recommended.

Does the tour include hotel pickup and drop-off?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Rapid City, making it easy and stress-free.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is about 10 hours, starting at 6:00 AM and ending around 3:00 PM.

What meals are included?
A hot breakfast is provided before the roundup, and you can purchase a lunch at the corrals—buffalo brisket sandwich, chips, beans, and a drink.

Is transportation provided during the event?
Yes, a shuttle takes you from viewing points to the corrals and back, ensuring easy access and minimal walking between key spots.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Is this tour suitable for children or older adults?
It’s generally suitable for those comfortable with early mornings and outdoor activities, but not recommended for those with back problems, wheelchair users, or animal allergies.

Closing Thoughts

This tour from Rapid City to witness the annual buffalo roundup delivers a blend of excitement, education, and authentic South Dakota charm. With the convenience of hotel pickup, guided insights, and a chance to see a herd of majestic buffalo in their natural setting, it offers a memorable day for those interested in wildlife or regional traditions.

While the long duration and one-day-per-year schedule may not suit everyone, for travelers eager to see this spectacular event, it’s a well-organized, worthwhile option. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, experiencing the buffalo roundup is a vivid reminder of the rugged beauty and enduring spirit of the American West.

You can check availability for your dates here: