Skip to global NPS navigation
Skip to this park navigation
Skip to the main content
Skip to this park information section
Skip to the footer section






National Park Service Search Search
This Site
All NPS
 Open
Menu
Close
Menu
Explore This Park
Explore the National Park Service


Exiting nps.gov
  Cancel


Tallgrass Prairie
National Preserve
Kansas


Info
Alerts
Maps
Calendar
Fees


Alerts In Effect Dismiss
 more information on current conditions...
 Dismiss View all alerts


Contact Us
  Plan Like a Park Ranger
 Our top ten tipsFire fighters perform a controlled burnControlled burns close some park trails in the early spring NPS Photo1. Plan before you arrive
Check out the current conditions section of our website for the most up to date information regarding potential hazards and closures. Check our calendar. We offer special events and programs throughout the summer. All programs are free and open to everyone.

Visitor center buildings covered in white snowTallgrass Prairie Visitor Center in winter NPS Photo2. Stop in at the visitor center
Here you will find trail maps, restrooms, water, and information. Ask a ranger if there is anything you need to know before enjoying the preserve. Check our hours here or call us at 620-273-8494 ext. 270.

View from the Scenic Overlook, grass and skyThe only shade out here comes from the clouds moving across the sky. NPS Photo3. Bring water, sunblock, and bug repellant
There is little to no shade on the prairie. Bring plenty of water, dehydration can be serious. Check for ticks after a hike, especially if you left the trail.

Windmill Pasture GateEntrance to Windmill Pastue NPS Photo4. Always use hiking gates
Never cross cattle guards. They are a real ankle breaker. Be sure to close the gate behind you.

Bison on Scenic Overlook TrailBison heard along the Scenic Overlook Trail NPS Photo5. Do not pet the fluffy cows
Seriously, **b****ison are dangerous.**Stay 100 yards from the nearest animal. Feel free to hike off trail to go around the herd.

Gravel track runs through bottomland prairie at the edge of a streamFox Creek Trail in the fall NPS Photo6. Discover the Tallgrass
Hike the Fox Creek Trail in the fall to see the tallest tallgrass at the preserve. Use the highway underpass to access this area from the visitor center.

stone building at top of hill and road surrounded by green prairie, blue skyLower Fox Creek School, part of the preserve, along the Flint Hills Scenic Byway NPS Photo7. The Flint Hills Scenic Byway is our driving tour
Trails at the preserve can be explored only by foot. Tune your car radio to 1640 AM to learn more about the Flint Hills region.

Spring Hill MansionSpring Hill Mansion NPS Photo8. Tour the Spring Hill Mansion
Take a self guided tour through the Spring Hill Mansion. Experience the lifestyle of a wealthy rancher at the end of the 19th century. Signage in each room tells the story of the house and a cell phone tour is available. The mansion and barn are open daily 9am-4:30pm, unless the park is closed.

BARK Ranger BadgeB.A.R.K. Ranger badge NPS Photo9. Don't forget your pet
Dogs are welcome on the Southwind Nature Trail, the Bottomland Nature Trail, and the Fox Creek Trail. They are also welcome on the Two Section Trail when no cattle are present. Do not leave pets locked inside hot/cold vehicles. Ask a ranger about our B.A.R.K. Ranger Program.

dark sky with starsStars viewed from the Lower Fox Creek School parking area NPS Photo10. Did you know our trails are open 24/7?
While we are not certified as a dark sky park, many stars can be spotted on clear nights. Don't forget your flashlight.
 Last updated: March 23, 2024
 Park footer Contact Info Mailing Address: 2480B KS Hwy 177
Strong City,
KS
66869
 Phone: 620 273-8494
x270 Contact Us
 Tools FAQ
Site Index
Español
 Stay Connected


This Site
All NPS 
  National Park Service U.S. Department of the Interior
 Accessibility
Privacy Policy
FOIA
Notices
Contact The National Park Service NPS FAQ
No Fear Act
Disclaimer
Vulnerability Disclosure Policy
USA.gov Facebook
Youtube
Twitter
Instagram
Flickr