Business Details
Your Home Away From Home in Custer, SD
Shady Rest Motel has been a trusted lodging destination in Custer, South Dakota for decades. Owned and operated by John & Ann, both former U.S. National Park Service Rangers, our property combines professional hospitality with deep local expertise. Ann's extensive experience as an Interpretive Ranger at Mount Rushmore directly benefits guests through personalized travel insights and recommendations. Our 13 uniquely designed cabins offer rustic charm with modern amenities including kitchenettes, private bathrooms, and climate control. Each unit maintains knotty-pine interiors that evoke a camping atmosphere while providing home-like comforts.We implement an Extended Stay Discount system offering 10% off for three+ night stays. Strategic location near major attractions like Mount Rushmore and Sturgis Rally venues makes us an ideal base for regional exploration. Our gravel parking area accommodates various vehicle types with specific provisions during high-demand periods. All reservations require credit card payment with clear cancellation policies outlined for guest convenience.
Services
Rustic Cabins
Extended Stay Discounts
Hot Tub Access
Kitchenette Units
Pet-Friendly Accommodations
Group Lodging Options
Motorcycle Parking
Trailers Parking
Virtual Tours
Local Travel Guidance
Highlights and features
- Owners with National Park Service experience provide expert local insights
- Automatic 10% discount for extended stays of three nights or more
- 360-degree virtual tours available for all cabin types
- Central location near major Black Hills attractions
- Complimentary amenities including hot tub access and kitchen supplies
What people say
Clean and cozy
Kindest people
Prompt response
Daily adventures
Memorable stay
Services
Rustic Cabins
Our 13 uniquely designed cabins blend rustic knotty-pine interiors with modern amenities. Each unit features private bathrooms, climate control, and kitchenettes with cooking essentials. Sleep configurations range from intimate couples' retreats to large family-friendly layouts accommodating up to 10 guests. Complimentary WiFi and cable TV ensure modern convenience in a natural setting.
Extended Stay Discounts
Automatic 10% discount applied to all reservations lasting three nights or longer. This flexible pricing structure benefits guests attending extended events like the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally while maintaining minimum stay requirements during peak periods. Discount applies to standard nightly rates without affecting tax calculations.
Local Travel Guidance
Owners with National Park Service backgrounds provide expert local knowledge. Guests receive personalized recommendations for daily adventures based on Ann's interpretive ranger experience at Mount Rushmore. This service enhances visitor experiences through curated insights about regional attractions, trails, and cultural sites.
Virtual Tours
Interactive 360-degree virtual tours available for all cabin types. These digital previews allow potential guests to explore unit layouts, amenities, and sleeping configurations before booking. Tours help ensure proper cabin selection by showcasing unique features like lofted sleeping areas and covered porches with swing seating.
Group Lodging Options
Specialized accommodations for groups with Hunting Lodge and multi-bedroom units. The largest cabin sleeps 8-10 guests with multiple private bedrooms, full kitchens, and entertainment systems. These options cater to family reunions, friend groups, and event attendees requiring coordinated lodging solutions in the Black Hills region.
People
John
Proprietor
Former U.S. National Park Service Ranger with extensive hospitality experience. Co-owner of Shady Rest Motel, providing professional management and local expertise to ensure guest satisfaction.
Ann
Proprietor
Experienced Interpretive Ranger at Mount Rushmore with deep regional knowledge. Co-owner offering personalized travel guidance to enhance guest experiences through curated local insights and recommendations.
Questions
What are the check-in and check-out times?
Check-in is generally after 4pm, with possible early access if available. Check-out time is 10am. Please contact us directly for specific arrangements.
Do you offer discounts for extended stays?
Yes, all stays of three nights or longer receive an automatic 10% discount. This applies to standard rates during regular seasons.
Is parking available for motorcycles and trailers?
We provide gravel parking for motorcycles and small trailers. During Sturgis Rally, we cannot guarantee space for trailers over 10 feet long.
Are the cabins equipped with cooking facilities?
All cabins have kitchenettes with refrigerators, microwaves, and cooking appliances ranging from portable burners to full stovetops with ovens.
What amenities are included in the cabins?
Each unit includes bedding, bathroom towels, kitchenware, cable TV, WiFi, and climate control. Spa towels are provided for hot tub use.
How close are you to Mount Rushmore?
We're located in Custer, SD, approximately 18 miles from Mount Rushmore. Our owners provide expert guidance for visiting this iconic landmark.
