Buffalo Roundup at Custer State Park
 

We are heading to the Jackson Hole area in early October from MN, and we'll be driving through SD. I know that on Oct. 3 the folks at Custer State Park round up the bison for the winter (like 1,400 of them, I believe!).

Has anyone participated in this before? Is it packed with lots of spectators? I think it sounds really fun to watch for me, my husband, and our toddler, but just wanted some first-hand advice from folks who've been there.

Thanks in advance for your help!

Just topping this off to see if anyone has participated in this event. Thanks!

If you can wait a few days, I will ask a friend of mine that often rides in the round-up. I know that it is an all-day, maybe even all weekend event.

Thanks! I would appreciate that, Marsha.

I know there are festivities all weekend, but the roundup itself is on Monday morning 10/3. Would love to hear more about what the roundup itself is like, if we should be prepared to encounter a lot of spectators, any special considerations for our 18 month old, etc.

I spoke with my friend who has ridden in the roundup. It is a one-day activity. There are viewing areas for the public set up near and above the corrals, so you will be able to see what is going on. After the roundup, there is a public BBQ. I doubt you will be close to a buffalo, but if you are, stay away because they aren't friendly creatures (very cranky).
My friend said to contact the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks department. Their website is: www.sdgfp.info. I found the "Tatanka" newsletter in PDF on the website - it gave more info about the roundup. It said that the south viewing area is best for first-timers and that you should get there 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 a.m.
That time of year is beautiful in the Hills (although I have been in a snowstorm out there around the first of October). I doubt there will be a lot of people, as it is not tourist season and on a Monday. Have fun!

Thanks so much for this great info! Extremely helpful... I'm really getting excited about it now!

Dear dgkp:

Did you go to the buffalo round-up? What did you and your little one think of it? What else did you do in Custer State Park and the Black Hills? I hope you had a good trip through South Dakota and to Jackson Hole!

Marsha

ttt Dgkp: Did you like the roundup?