Washita Battlefield National Historic Site is located in western Oklahoma near the town of Cheyenne. It commemorates the Battle of Washita, which took place on November 27, 1868, between the U.S. Army's 7th Cavalry Regiment and the Southern Cheyenne and Arapaho tribes.
The site sits on 315 acres of rolling prairie, providing visitors with a glimpse into the historical events that occurred there. At the visitor center, visitors can learn about the battle through interpretive exhibits and films that describe the conflict and its aftermath. The center also offers ranger-led programs, including guided tours and demonstrations, providing a deeper understanding of the area's history and cultural significance.
One of the main attractions at Washita Battlefield is the overlook trail, which takes visitors on a self-guided tour of the battlefield. Along the way, interpretive signs provide information about the battle and the individuals involved. The trail leads to the Washita River, where Chief Black Kettle's village once stood, before being attacked by U.S. forces.
In addition to exploring the battlefield, visitors can also enjoy hiking and wildlife viewing opportunities within the park. The rolling prairie landscape offers picturesque vistas and a tranquil setting for outdoor activities.
Nearby attractions include the Red Hills Nature Preserve, which provides hiking trails and opportunities for birdwatching. The Black Kettle National Grassland, located just northeast of the park, offers additional outdoor recreational activities such as camping, hunting, and fishing.
Overall, Washita Battlefield National Historic Site offers a unique opportunity to learn about and commemorate an important chapter in American history. Through its interpretive exhibits, guided programs, and natural beauty, visitors can gain insight into the complex relationship between Native American tribes and the U.S. government during the 19th century. Additionally, the park's proximity to other natural attractions allows visitors to make the most of their experience by exploring the surrounding area.
Washita Battlefield National Historic Site is located in the western part of the state of Oklahoma in the United States. Situated in Roger Mills County, the battlefield is nestled in the southern Great Plains region, characterized by vast open landscapes and rolling hills. The site spans over 315 acres along the banks of the Washita River, a tributary of the Red River. Surrounded by rural countryside, this historic site showcases the natural beauty of the area, with wide plains and prairies stretching out in all directions. The picturesque setting not only provides a glimpse into the past but also offers visitors a serene and tranquil environment to reflect upon the significant events that unfolded here.
18555 Hwy 47A, Ste. ACheyenne, OK 73628Driving DirectionsPhone: 5804972742Web: Link
The best time to visit Washita Battlefield National Historic Site would be in April or October. These months offer pleasant weather for outdoor activities, with average maximum temperatures of around 71°F and 72°F respectively. The average monthly precipitation during these months is 2.8 inches and 2.6 inches, providing a moderate amount of rainfall. These months also attract a moderate number of visitors, allowing for a more peaceful and less crowded experience at the site.
Some of the activities you can do in Washita Battlefield National Historic Site are: Guided Tours Self-Guided Tours - Walking Hands-On Junior Ranger Program Park Film Museum Exhibits Shopping Bookstore and Park Store Arts and Culture Hiking Front-Country Hiking Living History Reenactments Citizen Science
Learn about these topics at Washita Battlefield National Historic Site: Animals Native American Heritage Tragic Events Westward Expansion Trails Military US Army Foothills, Plains and Valleys Grasslands Scenic Views Wars and Conflicts Cavalry Indigenous and Native Warrior Tribal Conflicts Indian and Frontier Wars Homesteading Massacres
Open 7 days a week from 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day.
The following locations have passport stamps for your "Passport to Your National Parks" booklet: Visitor Center.
This park doesn't have any campsites within its boundaries (or we haven't found them yet)).
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Address: 2801 E Highway 66, Elk City, Oklahoma 73644
Web: Link
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Address: 2500 S Main St, Elk City, Oklahoma 73644
Web: Link
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Web: Link
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Web: Link
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Web: Link
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Address: 2101 E 3rd Street, Elk City, Oklahoma 73644
Web: Link
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Address: 2015 W 3rd St, Elk City, Oklahoma 73644
Web: Link
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Web: Link
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Web: Link
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Web: Link
| Date issued | Details |
|---|---|
| 2024-03-25 | Prescribed Fire at Washita Battlefield National Historic Site National Park Service fire crews are preparing to conduct a prescribed fire within Washita Battlefield National Historic Site, approximately two miles west of Cheyenne. Implementation of this prescribed fire project will occur between March 26 and April 1, depending on favorable weather and fuel moisture conditions. More |
| 2023-02-27 | National Park Service and National Forest Service facilities near Cheyenne, Oklahoma closed following severe storm The shared headquarters and maintenance complex for Washita Battlefield National Historic Site and Black Kettle National Grasslands is closed due to severe storm damage. The shared headquarters complex, its parking lot, and the Dust and Fire Trail are closed while staff assess damage, clean up debris, and make repairs. More |