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Drone shot of Custer State Park Resort

State Game Lodge

The State Game Lodge is a stately native stone and wood lodge est. in 1920, offering an array of unique lodging options and activities for visitors. The State Game Lodge is located on Route 16A, the southeastern portion of the Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway as it branches off towards the Wildlife Loop.

About State Game Lodge

As the first and largest lodge in Custer State Park, the State Game Lodge is the primary resort hub within Custer State Park, complete with lodge rooms and cabins, meeting space, wedding venues, dining, and more. This lodge is known for its grand, historic character and tradition. The State Game Lodge served as the “Summer White House” for President Calvin Coolidge in 1927 and was visited by President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1953. And the Grace Coolidge Creek still serenely winds through the valley today.

The park’s popular Buffalo Safari Jeep Tours originate from the State Game Lodge (check in at Creekside Lodge). Take an open-air ride into the wilderness in search of bison while our guides tell you all about the park and its amazing wildlife.

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Lodging at the State Game Lodge

Your stay today at the State Game Lodge resort is all about options. Upstairs in the historic lodge above the restaurant, find the seven original lodge rooms (including the appropriately named Coolidge Room and Eisenhower Room, both interim homes to the late Presidents during their terms). Added on to the lodge mid-century, two wings of lodge rooms boast picture windows for wildlife viewing. Another 200 yards southeast, find Creekside Lodge, est. in 2008. Last but by no means least, 1/2 mile's peaceful walk along the paved Creekside Trail leads you to the sprinkling of cabins along the creek.

Book at the State Game Lodge
Fireplace in the living room at State Game Lodge

Cabins

Set in the beautiful mountain valley, stay in modernized cabins near Coolidge Creek and the historical State Game Lodge. Be sure to watch out the window... you never know when a buffalo might be looking in!

State Game Lodge Cabins

Lodge Rooms

Our traditional lodge rooms are available in a variety of layouts to accommodate your travel preferences. All lodge rooms feature modern amenities and a woodsy aesthetic.

State Game Lodge Rooms

Historic Lodge Rooms

Famous for its presidential visitors, this stone and wood lodge features a classic design with modern, elegant amenities. Please contact our reservations team with any questions about booking historic lodge rooms.

State Game Historic Rooms

Creekside Lodge

Open year-round, Creekside Lodge is located adjacent to the State Game Lodge and features modern, oversized lodge rooms.

Creekside Lodge Rooms

Dining

The State Game Lodge offers casual yet elegant breakfast and lunch dining with a more formal ambiance for dinner. Outdoor patio seating is available. Follow the button below to view dining hours and menu items.

Dining Options
Tables set up neatly in the dining area at State Game Lodge

General Store & Gift Shop

The State Game Lodge offers both the Gift Shop, located in the historic lodge, featuring our artist-in-residence, as well as the larger Coolidge General Store down the road.

Shopping

State Game Lodge Area Map

These maps are also found in our Tatanka Guide.

Download PDF

Book your stay at The State Game Lodge.

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Let Us Host Your Group at State Game Lodge

Meetings & Events

Planning a private event? State Game Lodge is a premier group venue. We comfortably host business meetings, team retreats, and reunions of all sorts. Most of all, we ensure your guests are taken care of, so everyone leaves refreshed.

Meeting Information

Family Reunions

Host your family reunion at State Game Lodge! We offer group lodging options to keep everyone comfortable, plus activities for all ages. Get in touch with our team to find the best lodging option for your family.

Family Reunions

Weddings

Planning your big day? State Game Lodge has served as a stunning venue for countless weddings. In addition to idyllic scenery, our Events team will help you coordinate your entire day: ceremony and reception sites, catering, guest accommodations, and more.

Weddings at Custer

Custer Travel Tips

10 Must-Do's for Your First Trip to Custer State Park

Get ready to explore one of the world's top wildlife destinations!

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CSP's Buffalo Roundup Featured in Midwest Living

"On a fall trip to South Dakota, feel the thunder of bison on the move at Custer State Park's annual buffalo roundup and arts festival."

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Man playing guitar and singing to a group in a wagon