Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site

Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site is located in southeastern Colorado, near the town of Eads. The site covers an area of 12 square miles and commemorates the tragic events of November 29, 1864, when a peaceful encampment of Cheyenne and Arapaho tribes was attacked and brutally massacred by United States Army forces.

The Sand Creek Massacre was a pivotal moment in the nation's history, as it revealed the deep conflicts and tensions between Native Americans and settlers during the American Indian Wars. The attack was led by Colonel John Chivington and resulted in the deaths of approximately 230 Native Americans, mostly women, children, and the elderly. It became a symbol of the brutality and injustice inflicted upon Native peoples during westward expansion.

Visitors to the Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site can explore the grounds and learn about the history and significance of the event. The visitor center offers exhibits and displays that provide a comprehensive overview of the Sand Creek Massacre, showcasing artifacts and photographs that help tell the story. The site is also home to a memorial honoring the victims and their descendants, with plaques that provide more details about the tragic event.

While in the area, visitors can also explore other attractions in southeastern Colorado. Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site, located about 65 miles to the southeast, offers a glimpse into the life of traders and trappers in the early 19th century. The site features a reconstructed adobe trading post and offers guided tours and demonstrations. Additionally, Comanche National Grassland, situated about 20 miles west of the Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site, provides opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and camping in a picturesque prairie landscape.

Overall, the Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site serves as a solemn reminder of the dark chapter in American history and offers visitors a chance to learn about the tragic events that unfolded on those grounds in 1864.

Located in southeastern Colorado, Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site can be found approximately 2 miles northeast of the small town of Chivington. Nestled within the vast Great Plains region, this historically significant site sits along the banks of Sand Creek, which flows through the high plains. Surrounded by gently rolling grasslands and the occasional cottonwood tree, the site showcases the natural beauty of the prairie landscape. The remote and serene location, away from major urban centers, provides visitors with an immersive experience into the tragic events that took place here on November 29, 1864.

Address & Contact

55411 County Rd W
Chivington, CO 81036
Driving Directions
Phone: 7194385916
Web: Link

Weather & Seasonality

The best time to visit Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site would be in the months of May through September. During this time, temperatures range from a pleasant 75°F to 91°F, providing suitable conditions for outdoor activities. Additionally, the average monthly precipitation during these months is relatively low, ranging from 1.0 in to 3.3 in.

Activities

Some of the activities you can do in Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site are: Guided Tours Wildlife Watching Birdwatching Shopping Bookstore and Park Store Hiking

Topics

Learn about these topics at Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site: Native American Heritage Tragic Events Westward Expansion Military US Army The Gold Rush Grasslands Wars and Conflicts Civil War Indigenous and Native Warrior Social Movements Indian and Frontier Wars Prairies Massacres

Visitor Centers

Visitor Information Center

The information center is located at the historic site, which is eight miles north of the town of Chivington. It provides education and orientation materials and has a sales outlet for educational merchandise. The information center maintains the same hours as the park. NOTE: park store sales end at 3:30 pm.

Passport Stamp locations

The following locations have passport stamps for your "Passport to Your National Parks" booklet: Visitor Information Center.

Campsites within or near Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site

This park doesn't have any campsites within its boundaries (or we haven't found them yet)).

Hotels within or near Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site

OYO Hotel Cheyenne Wells - US 40

With a stay at OYO Hotel Cheyenne Wells - US 40 in Cheyenne Wells, you'll be within a 15-minute walk of Cheyenne Wells Swimming Pool and Cheyenne Wells Old Jail Museum. The front desk is staffed during limited hours. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 500 US 40, Cheyenne Wells, Colorado 80810
Web: Link