Dining in the Black Hills tends to be a casual affair, but the selection can be excellent, ranging from homemade pies and ranch-raised buffalo to hearty steaks and succulent pheasant. "Summer" means Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Inside the Parks
The only full-service dining for all meals within the National Park Service properties in the Black Hills is the Buffalo Dining Room at Mount Rushmore . Wind Cave and Jewel Cave have vending machines. The four resorts at Custer State Park offer dining facilities that nonguests may enjoy as well; all offer what we might call upscale family dining, with mostly American fare at relatively moderate prices.
In addition to the restaurants listed, you might consider two places in Custer, east of Jewel Cave National Monument, west of Custer State Park, and northwest of Wind Cave National Park. The Bavarian Inn, at the junction of U.S. 385 and U.S. 16 (tel. 605/673-4412), serves American and German dishes at reasonable prices, with live music most nights. The Chief Restaurant, 140 Mount Rushmore Rd. (tel. 605/673-4402), offers family-style dining, with choices ranging from prime rib and steaks to pizza and buffalo burgers.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
