605 STOPS BY | BEARDED BUFFALO TRADING CO

by Alana Snyder

Jeremy and Ashleigh Roemen were intrigued when they began to take notice of unique and modern resorts in northern Minnesota. The two say they had been looking for a business opportunity to eventually build equity over time.

“Ultimately, we decided we wanted to keep our roots in South Dakota, and we started to look at resorts on the market in the Black Hills,” said Jeremy. “After looking at three to four properties, we decided on this one.”

“I think people are looking to escape to enjoy the peace and tranquility of the Black Hills.” - Jeremy Roemen

Sure, it all starts with a seed. But what grows from it is so much more.

In a state where agriculture is the top economic contributor and corn is its largest crop, South Dakota corn growers generate revenue to support all our communities—from Sioux Falls to Rapid City and everywhere in between. Our farmers also choose conservation practices to ensure healthy soil and clean water, and they continue to spark advancements in technology to increase efficiency and create 130,000 job opportunities—right here in South Dakota. And it all starts with that seed.

Learn more at ThisIsFarming.org

You don’t need to grow up on a farm to land a job in agriculture. The ag industry offers rewarding jobs both on and off the farm, including high-tech careers in engineering, data science, biology, software development, consulting and precision ag.

Today’s growers are putting technology to work to farm smarter and produce more using fewer resources. It’s helping us tackle global challenges like a changing climate and secure greater access to food for a growing population.

Our farmers depend on the land. And the earth depends on all of us. Working together, our efforts will allow us to pass along these priceless resources to the next generation.

The property right outside of Hill City on Highway 385, which includes eight cabins and 13 RV sites, was in rough shape when the Roemens took over. The vacation rentals and campground were dubbed Bearded Buffalo Resort.

“The biggest reason we purchased the property was because of its awesome location. Hill City is called the ‘heart of the hills’ because it’s right in the middle of everything,” said Jeremy. “We’re right by Mount Rushmore, Keystone, Hill City, Sheridan Lake, and Lake Pactola.”

Soon after, merchandise also became a big factor inside and outside of the 18 acres, called Bearded Buffalo Trading Co. This included hats, shirts, and more. “Everything in the hills is a very manageable drive from our property, and you don’t have to spend your entire day driving to see all the Black Hills has to offer.” - Jeremy Roemen

The idea behind the brand Bearded Buffalo came from a mixture of Ashleigh and her brother toying around with beard balm with a similar name and the family’s love of attending the annual Buffalo Roundup event at Custer State Park.

“We had such a great time at the event, and we loved the idea of using the buffalo for our brand,” said Jeremy. “Those things in combination made the name stick.”

Knowing they had work ahead of them, the Roemens completely gutted seven of the eight cabins and renovated everything down to the drywall. “The cabins are virtually brand new. We put in new beds, cabinets, and vanities to give the property a fresh start,” said Jeremy.

Along with the cabins and RV hookups, there is a General Store on campus with South Dakota merchandise and Bearded Buffalo Trading Co. merchandise and marketing partnerships, like a Bearded Buffalo coffee from Coffea Roasterie out of Sioux Falls.

“The General Store is currently open Wednesday to Sunday 4-8 p.m. We have everything from soda, to snacks, to our apparel, and more,” said Jeremy.

Interior Renovations Include

» Bed sets and mattresses » Flooring and bathrooms » Heat and air conditioning units » Kitchens/kitchenettes with appliances » Modern furniture and Murphy beds

In the same building is also a quaint bar to order local craft beer or domestics on tap or cans, and guests can order a pizza if guests are hungry.

The “jewel” of the resort is the historic log cabin, which Jeremy calls “a true Black Hills original.” While keeping close to its original state, there have been updates like a propane fireplace in the 100-year-old living room, and a large jacuzzi tub in the bathroom.

“The log cabin is by far our most popular cabin. People love it because it has such a great ‘Black Hills’ vibe to it,” said Jeremy. “It was built in the 1930s, but has been fully updated with a washer and dryer, dishwasher, and a full kitchen. We also finished out the upstairs to add two additional bedrooms.”

LIFESTYLE “We really love meeting people and building relationships. It has been great to get to visit with our guests and help them to enjoy their visits here.” - Jeremy Roemen