Photo #22695 - Roadside turnout with historic information sign This picturesque valley was the site of the permanent camp of the Black Hills Expedition of 1874 under the command of General George A Custer of the 7th Calvary. Their 5 day stay was the longest stop made during the entire expedition. General Custer used this campsite as a base for reconnaissance trips to other points of the Black Hills. The expedition party totaled about 1000 men, 1900 horses & mules, 300 beef cattle & 110 wagons. In addition to the cavalry, the personal included nearly 100 Indian scouts, interpreters, engineers, newspaper correspondents, 2 practical miners and a photographer. Gold was discovered in French Creek in 1874. Black Hills National Forest - Custer State Park To City of Custer Black Hills National Forest stretches for 1.2 million acres, offering outdoor adventure like hiking, biking and camping amidst stunning scenery. Find grassy mountain meadows, towering granite peaks, deep canyons, cascading trout streams and clear, clean lakes.