A full weekend of events dedicated to love in nature.
Join us for a private dinner in the historic State Game Lodge on Saturday, February 15, 2025 with a live presentation about animal reproduction.
Find out what South Dakota wildlife do to attract a mate, what they do when they find each other, and a little about some unique anatomy. This appropriately-entertaining, cheeky presentation lasts approximately one (1) hour directly following dinner.
Adults 18+
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Aaron Douglass is the Interpretive Manager for Custer State Park. He spent 8 years working of the Indiana State Park system, which is where he developed and introduced “Nature’s Mating Game” to the world. The Indiana version became an annual event until he moved west. A love for multiple outdoor pursuits was a major factor in Aaron and his wife moving to the Black Hills. Aaron’s programs always feature humor and a genuine enjoyment in learning. If you want to work out your mind and your laughing muscles, Nature’s Mating Game is for you.
The Wildlife Loop & Lover's Leap Hike are two very well-known experiences in Custer State Park; but a guided tour takes them to a whole new level. The Wildlife Loop Road Caravan Tour will keep you in your own vehicle while still getting to hear the full program, and a small-group guide up Lover's Leap gives you nearly three (3) devoted hours with an expert on your journey.
Both offered at no additional charge for Valentine's Day Weekend 2025. Sign up online for the Lover's Leap Hike & the Caravan Tour or call 605-255-4515.
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White House Dining Room
5:00PM - 8:00PM | Friday, February 14
$TBA
A great start to your weekend in the Park. The State Game Lodge opens annually for an intimate 3-course elevated Valentine's Day Prime Rib Dinner. Don't delay calling in for your RSVP today...this exclusive dinner sells out. 888-875-0001
Peter Norbeck Visitor Center
6:30PM | Friday, February 14
Nothing beats seeing your loved one basked in starlight. View the winter night sky in a beautiful setting with a Park Naturalist. Participants will learn about winter circle and the characters’ stories that reside within it. Dress in warm layers. A warm beverage in a thermos might pair well too. Program is weather dependent.
Sign Up for Star-Crossed Lover's here or call 605-255-4515.
Visitor Center
9:00AM | Saturday, February 15
Optional Box Lunch | $20 person
Guests will be given a radio to listen as they drive their private vehicle (carpooling is encouraged). Aaron will share about the park’s wildlife, storied history, and the ever-evolving management of the park. Approx. 2 hours, open to the public. Box lunch available (advance purchase only).
Sign up for the Caravan Tour here or call 605-255-4515
Purchase your boxed lunch (72-hour advance purchase required).
Lover’s Leap Trailhead
1:00PM | Saturday, February 15
Whether you have never used snowshoes or are an old pro, join us for a family-friendly hike that is open to the public. Hear how the trail got its name, and take in spacious views of the Needles, Mt. Coolidge, and Badlands. Moderately strenuous 3-mile hike. Snowshoes will be provided. Snowshoe aspect of the hike is weather-dependent. Registration required.
Sign up for the guided Lover's Leap Hike here or call 605-255-4515.
State Game Lodge
6:00PM | Saturday, February 15
$54 person
Cash Bar opens at 5:15pm and dinner buffet opens at 6pm, with the 1-hour program to follow dinner.
Sign up for the Nature's Mating Game Dinner Presentation here.
Creekside Lodge
12:00PM | Sunday, February 16
$139 night
Book a Queen/Queen Jr. Suite after registering for Nature's Mating Game for up to 2 nights pre-and-post the event, and receive a special event rate of $139 night and pre-approved NOON check-out on Sunday, February 16, 2025. Reservations can be made by calling 888-875-0001 to receive the special rate, or check the box upon registering and one of our agents will call you. Cold continental breakfast available with each night booked.
Adults 18+ only, please.
For questions directly related to the weekend agenda or programming, our Park Naturalists welcome your call: 605-773-4518.
Lodging or meal questions may be directed to: info@custerresorts.com 888-875-0001
Tucked along Grace Coolidge Creek, just 200 yards from the State Game Lodge. Creekside Lodge is open year-round.
In Custer State ParkA wildlife hotspot. Travel through 18 miles of open grasslands and pine-speckled hills. Plan for photo ops!
In Custer State ParkWorld-class hiking. Custer State Park is home to dozens of premiere trails for hikers of all skill levels.
