The Custer Bark Park, located along the Mickelson Trail behind the Custer Elementary School, was first proposed by a 2018 Custer High School graduate, Lane Arthur. For his senior project, Arthur first made his proposal of his idea along with a design and a location to the Custer City Council, which they approved. Then, a volunteer committee was formed and first met in July of 2018. Over the next 15 months the committee conducted a variety of fundraising efforts including a major kickoff in December 2018 at Sage Creek Grill. That ignited a wave of giving from local donors, and by September 2019, there was enough funding to initiate the park build. On a single day in September 2019, as part of the United Way Day of Caring, volunteers from Custer High School, Black Hills Energy and the Custer community were able to erect much of the fencing plus park benches and seating in the first of two pavilions. In the coming weeks, more volunteers finished the fencing to finally provide an enclosed space. Dog lovers then started using the park as word spread.

The Park includes two sections: a smaller section for the smaller dogs and a bigger section for the bigger dogs. Plus, on both sides, there is a shaded pavilion. This is a no-cost park, so it is a great place for visitors to bring their dogs to burn some energy and to meet fellow dog owners! Although this is a fun environment for everyone, there are some rules to follow that are listed at the entrance. A major one is cleaning up after your furry friend! The Custer Bark Park is open throughout the year from dawn to dusk, but, as of right now, there are no plans to add lighting.

This Dog Park was a successful partnership with Custer City and the committee. And a special thank you to the Black Hills Area Community Foundation (BHACF) who partnered with the Bark Park committee to provide a fundraising mechanism. The Custer Bark Park is ready for you and your dog to come and enjoy it!