Campsite Reservations for Custer State Park Open Jan. 2
PIERRE, S.D. – The New Year finds many people making plans for their 2009 camping trips. Beginning January 2, visitors will be able to make reservations for campsites in Custer State Park for the upcoming camping season.

Campsite reservations at Custer are accepted beginning at 6 a.m. on Jan. 2 for all arrival dates between May 15 and Oct. 12, 2009. Reservations can be made by calling 1-800-710- 2267 between 6 a.m. and 9 p.m. (MT). Once open, online reservations can be made 24 hours a day at www.CampSD.com. On the website, visitors can also view details about each site, such as pad length and amount of shade.

The reservation center is currently accepting reservations for group campsites, lodge facilities and camping cabins for some 2009 arrivals. The six group lodge facilities, found at Lake Thompson, Mina Lake, Oahe Downstream and Shadehill Recreation Areas, and Palisades and Newton Hills State Parks can currently be reserved for all arrival dates in 2009. The call center is taking group camping reservations in 9 parks for the 2009 camping season. Reservations for camping cabins can be made year-round, within 90 days of arrival.

Reservations for campsites at other South Dakota state parks and recreation areas can be made 90 days before arrival for the summer and fall camping seasons. February 14 is the first day to make reservations for Friday, May 15, which is Open House Weekend at South Dakota state parks and recreation areas. Reservations for arrivals on the Friday of Memorial Day weekend open February 21.

For the first time, State Park gift cards are available for purchase. The cards can be used for payment of State Parks fees, merchandise and services. Shoppers can purchase the cards in any amount by calling 1-800-710-2267 or order online at www.campsd.com. Starting January 1, gift cards will also be for sale at your local park.

For more information on reservations, visit South Dakota state parks online at http://www.sdgfp.info/Parks/General/Reservations.htm.

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