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Your Home Away From Home in Custer, SD
At Shady Rest Motel, we pride ourselves on offering a unique blend of rustic charm and modern comfort in the heart of Custer, South Dakota. Our proprietors, John and Ann, bring decades of experience as former U.S. National Park Service Rangers, including Ann's role as an Interpretive Ranger at Mount Rushmore. This expertise allows us to provide guests with unparalleled insights into the region's natural and cultural attractions. Our 13 individually designed cabins feature knotty-pine interiors, private bathrooms, kitchenettes, and modern amenities like WiFi and air conditioning, ensuring both comfort and convenience. Guests consistently praise the cleanliness of our accommodations and the personalized service they receive, with many noting how our local knowledge enhances their daily adventures.

We maintain a central location near major attractions like Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse Memorial while preserving a peaceful, wooded atmosphere. Our commitment to guest satisfaction extends to prompt response times for requests and thoughtful touches like providing bath and spa towels. Whether you're visiting for the Sturgis Rally or exploring the Black Hills, we strive to create memorable stays through our combination of historic ambiance, practical amenities, and genuine hospitality.
Services
Cabin Rentals Tourist Information Virtual Tours Extended Stays Group Accommodations
Highlights and features
  • We offer 13 uniquely designed cabins with modern amenities in a historic setting.
  • Our proprietors provide expert local knowledge from decades of National Park Service experience.
  • We maintain 100% cleanliness standards across all accommodations and common areas.
  • We provide prompt, personalized service for all guest requests during your stay.
  • Our central location offers easy access to 12 major regional attractions within 2 hours.
What people say
Clean and cozy Kindest people Prompt service Central location Memorable stay
Services
Cabin Rentals
Our 13 rustic cabins combine knotty-pine interiors with modern amenities like WiFi, air conditioning, and full kitchenettes. Each uniquely designed unit sleeps 2-10 guests with private bathrooms and cable TV. Guests appreciate the balance of historic charm and practical comforts for both short stays and extended visits.
Tourist Information
Leverage our proprietors' decades of National Park Service experience for personalized recommendations. Ann's expertise as a former Mount Rushmore Interpretive Ranger provides unique insights into regional attractions. Guests receive tailored advice for daily adventures near Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse Memorial.
Virtual Tours
Explore 360-degree virtual tours of all cabin units before booking. This service helps guests select the ideal accommodation with transparent views of layouts and amenities. Tours cover features like sleeping arrangements, kitchen equipment, and outdoor spaces.
Extended Stays
Enjoy automatic 10% discounts for three-night minimum stays. Our cabins accommodate extended visits with full kitchen facilities and modern conveniences. Ideal for guests attending multi-day events like the Sturgis Rally or exploring the Black Hills region comprehensively.
Group Accommodations
Book our largest units sleeping 6-10 guests with multiple bedrooms and shared living spaces. The Hunting Lodge cabin features three TVs, two bathrooms, and full kitchen facilities. Perfect for family reunions or group adventures near Custer State Park.
People
Ann
Proprietor
Former U.S. National Park Service Ranger and Mount Rushmore Interpretive Ranger with 20+ years of regional expertise. Provides guests with insider knowledge of local attractions and natural history.
John
Proprietor
Experienced hospitality provider and former National Park Service Ranger committed to creating memorable guest experiences. Manages daily operations and maintenance of the historic property.
Questions
What amenities are included in the cabins?
All cabins include kitchenettes with cooking equipment, private bathrooms, cable TV, WiFi, air conditioning, and covered porches. Bed linens and bath towels are provided.
How far are you from Mount Rushmore?
We're 28 miles (35 minutes) from Mount Rushmore, 7.2 miles from Crazy Horse Memorial, and 14 miles from Wind Cave National Park.
What are your check-in and check-out times?
Check-in is after 4 PM, with possible early access if available. Check-out time is 10 AM. Extended stays receive automatic 10% discounts.
Do you offer group discounts?
Our largest cabin sleeps 8-10 guests. While we don't offer specific group discounts, extended stays of three+ nights receive automatic 10% savings.
What payment methods do you accept?
We require valid credit card information for reservations. Payment is processed upon check-in, with applicable taxes and fees included in final charges.