Watch cowboys and cowgirls as they round up and drive the herd of approximately 1,300 buffalo. Not only is the roundup a spectacular sight to see, it is also a critical management tool in maintaining a strong and healthy herd.
The Buffalo Roundup will begin at 9:30 a.m. MT on Friday, with the parking lots opening at 6:15 a.m. Be sure to get there early if you want to pick your spot. Guests must stay in the viewing areas until the herd is safely in the corrals, generally around noon. Breakfast is available at 6:15 a.m. in both viewing areas. Lunch is served at the corrals once the buffalo are rounded up. There is a fee for both meals.
Testing, branding and sorting of the buffalo begins at 1 p.m. and lasts until approximately 3 p.m. Crews will work the remainder of the herd in October.
What you need to know
Bring folding chairs, cameras, binoculars, layered clothing, rain gear and sunscreen.
You will need to determine which viewing area you will be going to prior to Friday morning. All vehicles will depart the way they entered. Motorcoaches welcomed.
North Parking and Viewing | Head south from the Game Lodge area on Wildlife Loop Road.
South Parking and Viewing | Head east on Wildlife Loop Road near Blue Bell campground.
We encourage you not to bring your camper. Call 605.255.4515 for drop-off locations. If you do bring it, follow the green route on the map, and you will be parked in the North Overflow Lot and be shuttled to the Roundup.
We encourage you to leave your pets at home. If you must bring them, they must remain in the vehicle.
Buffalo Roundup Arts Festival
At the Annual Buffalo Roundup Arts Festival from September 29 to 30th, up to 150 vendors will offer their fine arts and crafts for sale, including many South Dakota-made products.
Start your morning with a pancake feed and enjoy ongoing Western and Native American entertainment under the big top. All events and vendors will be located on the festival grounds across from the Peter Norbeck Outdoor Education Center.
