Openings & Updates

When is Mount Rushmore Open?

Below is an updated list of openings, and updates for South Dakota’s Parks, Monuments & Black Hills Attractions.

All information listed is subject to change, please refer to websites or call for most up to date information.

Last Update 4-2022

Mount Rushmore

• Grounds currently open 5am-11pm.

• Visitor Services include:

  • The Information Center (across from the restrooms close to the Monument entrance) is open 8am-5pm through May. Open until 10pm June to mid-August, and open until 9pm mid-August thru September.

  • The Lincoln Borglum Visitor Center (located under the Grand Terrace) is open 8am-5pm through May. June- mid August, the VC is open until 10pm. Mid August - September the VC is open until 9pm. This is where the park films are shown and there is a museum.

• Parking Garage - $10 fee per vehicle. $5 for seniors (62 & up) and free parking for Active Duty military.

• Pets are only allowed in the parking garage & adjacent areas.

• Mount Rushmore is visible from many areas within the monument.

• The monument is lit until 11pm. Check website below for information on the evening lighting ceremony.

Amenities at the Monument

• Carver’s Cafe, Memorial Team Ice Cream Shop & Xanterra Gift Shop - Check website below for hours.

• Mount Rushmore Society Bookstores - Open in the Information Center, Lincoln Borglum Visitor Center and the Sculptor’s Studio - Check website below for hours.

• The Nature Trail and the President’s trails are open. President’s trail is about a 1 mile hike and includes 706 steps. It will take you to the base of the mountain and is one way.

Contact Info

• www.nps.gov/moru

• NPS - 605-574-2523

For more information call Dave at 605-673-1130

Custer STATE PARK

Park open year-round, weather may impact travel on all roads, including Wildlife Loop.

• Fees - 7-day entry fee - $20 per vehicle, Annual fee - $36 per vehicle

• Campgrounds open May 1 - mid October

• Visitor Center open daily 9am-4pm. Memorial Day - Sept 30, 9am-6pm. Call 605-255-4515 or check the website below for additional information.

• Peter Norbeck Education Center is where all interpretive/education programs occur.

• 4 lodges throughout the park offer dining, lodging and shopping opportunities. Check website below for lodge locations and schedules.

• Vault toilets available throughout the park. Flush toilets and water filling station available in the visitor center.

Contact Info

• gfp.sd.gov/parks/detail/custer-state-park

• 605-255-4515

• Email Custer State Park

For more information call Dave at 605-673-1130

Black Hills National Forest

• Developed recreation sites and trails open

• District Offices open to the public www.fs.usda.gov/detail/blackhills/about-forest/contactus/ for District office information or call 605-673-9200

• Select Forest Service roads and trails are open

• Most roads/permitted trail areas open May 15, weather dependent

Amenities

• BHNF campgrounds are open mid-May through mid-September. There may be limitations at some locations. Go to www.recreation.gov to check availability and reserve a spot.

• Day use areas are open with limited facilities - mainly vault toilets.

• Motor Vehicle Use (MVU) permits are required for all permitted trails. Permits can be purchased at the Black Hills & Badlands Visitor Center located off I-90, Exit 60 or online - www.blackhillsbadlands.com/store/permits-passes

• Pactola Lake Visitor Center is open Memorial Day to Labor Day

• Black Hills National Forest and Smokey Bear products available online - blackhillsparks.org

Contact Info

• www.fs.usda.gov/main/blackhills/home

• 605-673-9200

• www.recreation.gov

For more information call Dave at 605-673-1130