From Rapid City: Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup Tour

Imagine getting an up-close look at a true South Dakota tradition—the annual Buffalo Roundup—all within a scenic 10-hour day trip from Rapid City. This is one of those experiences that promises more than just watching wild buffalo; it’s a chance to witness a piece of the American West in action, with the added convenience of guided commentary and hotel pickup.

We love how this tour combines education with excitement, especially if you’re interested in seeing large herds of buffalo being herded into the corral. The opportunity to watch the buffalo stampede and see the rangers at work makes it a memorable event. Plus, the included breakfast and the chance to grab a hearty lunch at the corral are thoughtful touches that add to the experience.

One thing to keep in mind is the timing—this tour is tightly scheduled, and roads close early to facilitate the roundup, so punctuality is key. Also, it’s mainly suited for those comfortable with early mornings and outdoor settings. Families with kids may find it engaging, but it’s not necessarily a tour for those with mobility issues or animal allergies.

If you’re looking for a straightforward, well-organized day that offers a genuine look at a unique event in South Dakota, this tour could be a solid choice. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy wildlife watching and want to avoid the hassle of planning logistics yourself.

Key Points

• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Rapid City, making for a hassle-free day.
• Witness the buffalo stampede into the corrals, a rare and fascinating sight.
• Morning breakfast and lunch included, so no need to worry about finding food in the middle of the event.
• A single day event—September 26th, 2025, so mark your calendar.
• Group size and guide: A guided experience with live English commentary.
• Price point: At $185 per person, it offers a comprehensive experience with meals, transportation, and expert guidance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Buffalo Roundup Tour Experience

If you’ve ever dreamed of seeing real buffalo in action, this tour offers a front-row seat to the annual Buffalo Roundup at Custer State Park. It’s a spectacle that draws visitors from far and wide, and with this guided tour, you get to see it with some added comforts—like hotel pickup and a knowledgeable guide.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Your day begins early—hotel pickup around 6:00 AM in Rapid City. The quiet morning drive helps set the tone for a full day of wildlife watching and scenic views. The small group size and transportation in a comfortable vehicle mean you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and your guide will be there to share insights about the park, the buffalo, and the history of the event.

By around 8:00 AM, you’ll settle in with a hot breakfast featuring egg-buffalo sausage, veggies, muffins, fresh fruit, and hot drinks. Sitting comfortably in a bag chair, you’ll be able to soak in the landscape and perhaps get some early photos of the sprawling park.

The main event—the buffalo herd coming over the ridges—usually occurs between 10 and 11 AM. It’s a dynamic scene, with buffalo stampeding into the corrals—an impressive sight that captures the raw power of these animals. Watching the herd driven by horseback riders and trucks is both educational and thrilling.

Once the buffalo are safely corralled, around noon, you’ll take a shuttle to the designated area to buy a buffalo brisket sandwich with chips, beans, and a drink—a well-reviewed lunch that keeps you fueled for the rest of the day. After eating, you can walk over to the corrals to see rangers at work vaccinating and branding the animals, offering a closer look at the management of this iconic herd.

The tour wraps up with a return to Rapid City around 3 PM, giving you plenty of time to relax or continue exploring.

Why the Tour Works

The inclusion of transportation and meals reduces the hassle of planning, which is a big advantage for travelers unfamiliar with South Dakota. The guided element means you’re not just a spectator but also a learner—your guide will fill in details you might not know from just watching.

The timing is designed to maximize your chances of seeing the herd in action, with roads closed early in the day for safety and efficiency. The 10-hour duration balances enough time to experience everything without feeling rushed.

What Could Be Better

The main limitation is the fixed schedule—if you’re not an early riser or your plans change, you might miss out. Also, the tour is not suitable for travelers with mobility issues or those with animal allergies, as you’ll be close to the corrals and the buffalo.

Some reviews mention that the experience is heavily scheduled, but that’s part of the appeal for many—knowing the logistics are handled allows you to just enjoy the spectacle.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Price: Is It Worth It?

At $185 per person, this tour is a solid value if you consider the convenience of transportation, guided commentary, meals, and the exclusive opportunity to watch the herd in action. Comparing it to trying to organize your own trip—driving, timing, and ensuring you get a good viewing spot—the added cost seems justified.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This experience is ideal if you value organized, guided tours with all logistics handled for you. It’s great for wildlife enthusiasts, families wanting a unique outing, or anyone wanting to see a key South Dakota event without the hassle of planning.

However, if you prefer a more flexible or less structured experience, or have specific mobility needs, you might find this tour less suitable. It’s important to be comfortable with early mornings and outdoor activities since the event and the drive are around the park.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Rapid City, a tour guide, and bottled water. Meals—breakfast and lunch—are included, but other refreshments are not.

When does the buffalo roundup happen?
The roundup is scheduled for Friday, September 26th, 2025, during this one-day event each year.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts about 10 hours, starting early in the morning around 6:00 AM and returning around 3:00 PM.

Is this suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the tour could be suitable for children, especially those interested in wildlife. But note it involves early mornings and outdoor activities, so consider your kids’ stamina and comfort.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, camera, snacks, sunscreen, water, and comfortable clothes. The outdoor setting and early start mean preparation is key.

Are pets allowed?
No, pets are not permitted on the tour.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
It’s not suitable for wheelchair users or those with back problems or animal allergies, likely due to the nature of the outdoor, active environment.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, the booking offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

What is the price per person?
The tour costs $185 per person, which covers transportation, guide, meals, and the experience itself.

In the end, if you’re after a well-organized, authentic experience of the buffalo roundup at Custer State Park, this tour delivers a lot of value. It’s perfect for wildlife lovers and those wanting to avoid the logistical headache of visiting on your own, especially if you’re in Rapid City and want a full, hassle-free day out. Just be prepared for an early start and a busy schedule, but in return, you get to witness a quintessential piece of South Dakota life.

You can check availability for your dates here: