A horse became separated from its owner in Wind Cave National Park late Tuesday afternoon when the animal escaped its tether at a backcountry campsite. Park staff, along with partners from Custer State Park and Custer County, have been working since that time to locate the animal. Efforts to date have included searching via park UTVs, hikers, horseback riders, and infrared cameras on a county operated drone.
Thank you to all who have contacted the park to offer support. The park is not requesting volunteer assistance at this time. As a reminder, personal ATV/UTV and drone use is not allowed in Wind Cave National Park. Horseback travel is allowed in the park’s backcountry with a free permit available at the visitor center. When heading into the backcountry it is best to prepare for rugged terrain and variable weather conditions, and let another person know your itinerary and estimated time of return. We understand the concern for the animal’s welfare and are providing the resources that we can to find the horse. Anyone who sees the horse in the park should contact the general park number at 605-745-4600.
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service