Plan Your Visit

Where is the tall grass?

Shh....It's hiding among the peace and quiet. We want to help you plan your special visit!

With nearly 11,000 acres of Mother Nature, see wide open space, beautiful vistas, wildflowers, wildlife, bison herd, a historic ranch and one-room school with limestone buildings, and plenty of solitude. Each season brings something new to experience.

Our motto is "Tall in the Fall" as it takes all season for the tall grasses to reach their maximum height, which is dependent on the amount of rainfall. Greater rain equals taller grasses. So, expect to see grasses up to 6 inches in the spring that grow all summer until their maximum heights in late September/October.

The preserve offers many opportunities to make a meaningful connection to the prairie and the people that lived here. You do not need a reservation to visit the preserve. The prairie is open year-round 24/7 except during times of prescribed fire. The hiking trails consist of old gravel ranch roads and mowed paths; a truly rustic and natural environment. It's a good idea to wear clothing and footwear you don't mind getting dirty. Use sunscreen and insect repellent. Water is suggested in all seasons.

The buildings have posted hours. All access to the preserve is via walking or hiking. Bicycles, ATVs, and private vehicles are not allowed in the prairie. Camping and overnight parking is not authorized at this time.

We hope you will have fun, make lifelong memories, and develop a deep appreciation for this very special place. There is something for everyone here in the jewel of the Flint Hills.

Tallgrass Prairie NP's visitor centers are grey/brown in front of blue sky and brown grass.
Start here to begin your visit.

All the basic information to get you started. Plan Like a Park Ranger!

Brown sign near freeway reads " Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve via 177 North"
Directions and Transportation

Find out where we are and how to get here.

Visitors stand on the prairie in front of a white bus. A ranger engages the group.
Things to Do

There are many things to see, do, and experience! Find more details here.

Special programs are provided throughout the year.
Calendar

Find out what's going on before you plan your trip to the preserve.

A lamplit table with 6 chairs appears to have food and be laid out for a meal.
Eating and Lodging

Find out about lodging and restaurant options in the local communities.

3 park visitors look at an informational wayside exhibit. One of the visitors is in a wheelchair.
Accessibility

Learn what is available, where to park, and more so your visit will be enjoyable.

A small herd of bison roam the prairie. Adults and young bison are present.
Safety and Weather

Learn how to have a safe visit to the preserve.

Large white barn with a blue-gray roof reads, "Pioneer Bluffs" above the door.
Nearby Attractions

From historic sites to biking trails, there is a lot more to see in the Flint Hills.

A small gathering of visitors gathers around a park ranger gesturing at a white prairie Teepee
Education Programs and Tours

Everything teachers need to know to schedule a program with the rangers.

NPS Badge and patch on a ranger's uniform
Plan Like a Park Rager

Check out our top ten know before your visit tips from our staff.

Visitor sitting outside the Visitor Center with their four-legged friend.
Visiting with your pet

Everything you need to know to have a safe and enjoyable visit with your pet.

Last updated: September 5, 2024

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

2480B KS Hwy 177
Strong City, KS 66869

Phone:

620 273-8494 x270

Contact Us