The State Game Lodge sits at the heart of Custer State Park, South Dakota's largest and most celebrated state park, serving as the park's premier historic accommodation. Located at 13389 US-16A in the southern Black Hills, the lodge was constructed in the 1920s and served as a Summer White House for President Calvin Coolidge in 1927 and hosted President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1953, a history that remains central to the property's identity and visitor interpretation. The surrounding Custer State Park encompasses 71,000 acres of ponderosa pine forests, granite spires, rolling meadows, and one of the world's largest free-roaming bison herds of nearly 1,400 animals.
Managed by Custer Resorts as part of the Custer State Park Resort collection, the State Game Lodge offers historic lodge rooms within the original stone-and-timber main building, alongside a collection of cottages and cabins distributed through the park's wooded grounds. The Presidential Cabin is the most storied accommodation, reflecting the lodge's executive heritage. Room configurations range from Historic Lodge Rooms in the main building to fully equipped multi-room cabins suited for multi-night family stays.
The Pheasant Dining Room serves as the lodge's signature restaurant, offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner with menus featuring bison, pheasant, and other regionally sourced proteins. An on-site bar opens in the evenings for cocktails and lighter fare. Guided Jeep Safari tours depart from the lodge grounds, providing interpretive wildlife viewing across the park's rolling terrain. Horseback riding is available through the park concession, and the surrounding trail network provides immediate trailhead access for hikers.
The State Game Lodge typically operates seasonally from mid-May through October, aligning with Custer State Park's peak visitor period. Wildlife sightings near the lodge are common, particularly at dawn and dusk when bison, elk, and pronghorn move along the US-16A corridor.
Room types
- Historic Lodge Room
- Cottage
- Cabin
- Presidential Cabin
Amenities
- restaurant
- bar
- horseback riding
- jeep safari tours
- hiking access
- historic charm
Location
13389 US-16A, Custer, SD 57730
43.7336, -103.4112 View on map
Highlights
- Historic 1920s presidential lodge that hosted Coolidge (1927) and Eisenhower (1953), set within 71,000-acre Custer State Park
- Pheasant Dining Room serving bison, pheasant, and regionally sourced South Dakota proteins
- Guided Jeep Safari tours for wildlife viewing of the park's 1,400-animal bison herd, elk, and pronghorn
- Horseback riding available through park concession with access to hundreds of miles of Black Hills trails
- Cottages and cabins surrounding the historic main lodge building, providing self-contained options for families
Tips for visiting
- The lodge operates seasonally from mid-May through October; confirm exact dates before planning a late spring or early fall visit
- Book summer accommodations 3–4 months in advance; the State Game Lodge is among the most sought-after Black Hills properties and sells out early
- A South Dakota State Park vehicle entry permit (approximately $20 for one week) is required for all vehicles entering Custer State Park, purchasable at the gate
- Wildlife viewing is best at dawn and dusk along US-16A; the lodge's location means bison sightings often occur without leaving the property grounds
- Dinner reservations at the Pheasant Dining Room are strongly recommended during summer; the restaurant fills on busy evenings
Accessibility
The State Game Lodge provides accessible accommodations in select lodge rooms with widened doorways and accessible bathroom features. The Pheasant Dining Room and main lodge common areas are wheelchair accessible. Guests with mobility needs should contact Custer Resorts in advance, as the natural terrain of the surrounding park grounds presents mobility challenges outside the main building.
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Frequently asked questions
Which presidents stayed at the State Game Lodge?
President Calvin Coolidge used the lodge as his Summer White House in 1927, and President Dwight D. Eisenhower visited in 1953. Presidential memorabilia and interpretive materials are displayed throughout the property.
Is the State Game Lodge open year-round?
No, the lodge operates seasonally, generally from mid-May through October. Visitors planning winter trips to the Black Hills should seek alternative accommodations in Custer or Hot Springs.
Do guests need a state park pass to stay at the lodge?
Yes, a South Dakota State Park vehicle permit is required for all vehicles entering Custer State Park. Permits can be purchased at the park entrance gate upon arrival.
What wildlife can guests expect to see near the lodge?
Custer State Park supports bison herds of nearly 1,400 animals alongside elk, pronghorn, white-tailed deer, bighorn sheep, and wild burros. Sightings near the lodge along US-16A are common, especially at dawn and dusk.
Are the Jeep Safari tours available to non-lodge guests?
Jeep Safari tours are offered through Custer State Park Resort and are generally available to visitors staying anywhere in the park. Advance booking is recommended as tours fill quickly during summer months.