Custer County, South Dakota

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Custer County is a county located in the state of South Dakota, United States. As of the 2020 census, the population was 8,318. The county seat is Custer. The county was created in 1875 and organized in 1877. It is named after George Armstrong Custer, a United States Army officer and cavalry commander in the American Civil War and the American Indian Wars.

Geography

Custer County is situated in the southwestern part of South Dakota. According to the United States Census Bureau, the county has a total area of 1,559 square miles (4,040 km²), of which 1,557 square miles (4,030 km²) is land and 2.1 square miles (5.4 km²) (0.1%) is water.

The county is part of the Black Hills region, known for its rugged terrain and scenic beauty. The Black Hills National Forest covers a significant portion of the county, providing numerous recreational opportunities.

Adjacent counties

• Pennington County - north
• Fall River County - south
• Oglala Lakota County - southeast
• Weston County, Wyoming - west

Demographics

As of the 2020 census, there were 8,318 people, 3,731 households, and 2,372 families residing in the county. The population density was 5.3 inhabitants per square mile (2.0/km²). The racial makeup of the county was predominantly White, with small percentages of Native American, African American, Asian, and other races.

Economy

The economy of Custer County is diverse, with significant contributions from tourism, agriculture, and forestry. The presence of the Black Hills National Forest and attractions such as Custer State Park and Jewel Cave National Monument draw numerous visitors each year, bolstering the local economy.

Education

Custer County is served by the Custer School District, which provides education from elementary through high school. The district includes several schools, including Custer High School.

Communities

City

• Custer (county seat)

Towns

• Buffalo Gap
• Fairburn
• Hermosa
• Pringle

Unincorporated communities

• Four Mile
• Sanator

Points of Interest

• Custer State Park
• Jewel Cave National Monument
• Wind Cave National Park
• Crazy Horse Memorial

See also

• List of counties in South Dakota
• National Register of Historic Places listings in Custer County, South Dakota