Galena To Lovers Leap Loop
This is a not as well known trail inside Custer State Park and well worth riding.
Found in 1 campground.
Trail features
Horse camping for Galena To Lovers Leap Loop
This trail had upwards of 40 stream crossings when we rode it as an out-and-back. The crossings aren’t very wide, but there are a lot of them. The majority of the ride is under tree cover. The trail takes you over to Lovers Leap Loop, which we chose to ride, but you can turn around when you reach that decision point. We came across a herd of elk along the trail and, more importantly, a bull bison. The horses started acting strangely as we made our way up the trail and obviously knew he was there long before we did. I don’t think there’s much you can do to prepare yourself or your horse for a moment like this other than stay calm. The bison wasn’t aggressive, but he continued toward us, so we turned around and headed back down the trail. He followed us for a while, and at one point we were perhaps only 50 feet from him. It was definitely an encounter we won’t forget!
States where this trail appears
Campgrounds mentioning Galena To Lovers Leap Loop
Broken Arrow Horsecamp
Custer, SDView detailsHide detailsAmenities AvailableWaterWaterPensPensTurnoutTurnoutStoreStoreDump StationDump StationHighlinesHighlinesBring * Set up your own * AllowedWaterWaterPensPensHighlinesHighlinesElectric FencingElectric FencingHookupsWaterWaterElectricElectricSewerSewer40
Broken Arrow Horsecamp
- Beecher Rock Suzys Mine
- Beecher Rock
- French Creek
- Galena To Lovers Leap Loop
- Glen Erin
- Heavens Trail
- Hell Canyon CCW
- Lost Cabin
- Mount Rushmore From Big Pine
- Slate Creek To Hideout Back Not Mine
- Stockade Lake Mountain Not Mine
- Mount Rushmore From Iron Creek
- French Creek Loop
- Willow Creek To Black Elk Peak Trail
- Deerfield Trail 40
- 3 Ponds Rose Quartz Mine
Broken Arrow is one of our favorite campgrounds near Custer. Being only about four miles from town makes it incredibly convenient if you want to grab dinner or do some shopping. It’s also centrally located to some of the most iconic spots in the Black Hills, including Crazy Horse, Custer State Park, and Mount Rushmore.
The campground itself is very organized, clean, and well maintained. It has a more developed feel compared to many horse camps, making it a comfortable and reliable place to stay.
Access to the campground is no problem, with easy roads in and out and close proximity to town. It’s a great option if you want a basecamp that doesn’t require hauling deep into forest service roads.
Because of its location near Custer and major attractions, it’s easy to plan both riding and non-riding activities without long drives.
The horse setup here is excellent and well thought out. All of the barns have covered stalls with water available, and there are two round pens for turnout. Hitching posts are located by the barns, as horses are not allowed at trailers.
They also provide several golf carts to help haul tack to rental trailers and hitching posts, as well as transport shavings to stalls.
There are miles of trails accessible directly from camp. The owner will help you download routes onto Gaia, and maps are available, but you’ll want to know trail names to navigate effectively. The riding in the area is outstanding, with options like Mount Rushmore routes, Black Elk Loop, Hell Canyon, French Creek, and Galena trails—all offering beautiful scenery and varied terrain.
Due to the rocky terrain throughout the area, boots or shoes are strongly recommended for horses, even on trails leaving directly from camp.
Most sites include water, electric, and sewer, making this a more full-service campground than many equestrian options. There is also a general store on-site with essentials, along with hay, shavings, propane, and even souvenirs. Free internet is available.
There are cabins and trailer rentals available, but you should reserve early. Booking typically opens on the first day of the month prior to your stay (for example, call May 1st for a June reservation).
The campground also includes a bathhouse and laundry facilities, adding to the overall convenience.
Broken Arrow is pet friendly, but dogs must be leashed and cleaned up after. There are also walking areas accessible from the back gate.
This is a popular destination, so planning ahead is important—especially during peak seasons.
