
Cimarron National Grassland
Vast 110,000-acre grassland in SW Kansas, offering solitude, camping, hiking, and historical sites like Point of Rocks. A true hidden gem.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temps for exploring

Cimarron National Grassland
Best Time
Pleasant temps for exploring
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Vast 110,000-acre grassland in SW Kansas, offering solitude, camping, hiking, and historical sites like Point of Rocks. A true hidden gem.
"A wonderful gem in the SW corner of Kansas. Includes fishing ponds and the Santa Fe Trail runs through the Grasslands."

🗺️ Download Offline Maps
Cell service is spotty. Use apps like Avenza for offline maps to navigate the vast grassland.
🏕️ Affordable Camping
Enjoy camping for around $7/night. A great value for experiencing the wide-open spaces.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Point of Rocks
Southwest Kansas
Historic landmark with stunning views of the river valley. A must-see for any visitor.

Cimarron River Bed
Cimarron National Grassland
Explore the dry riverbed, a unique landscape for hiking and observing nature.

Cimarron Viewpoint
North of Cimarron River
Offers informative plaques and panoramic views of the river valley below.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Vastness
Best for Explorers
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🗺️ Download Offline Maps
Cell service is spotty. Use apps like Avenza for offline maps to navigate the vast grassland.
🏕️ Affordable Camping
Enjoy camping for around $7/night. A great value for experiencing the wide-open spaces.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Services are limited. Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months.
👟 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
Explore diverse terrain, from riverbeds to trails. Comfortable shoes are a must.
Tips
from all over the internet
🗺️ Download Offline Maps
Cell service is spotty. Use apps like Avenza for offline maps to navigate the vast grassland.
🏕️ Affordable Camping
Enjoy camping for around $7/night. A great value for experiencing the wide-open spaces.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Services are limited. Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months.
👟 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
Explore diverse terrain, from riverbeds to trails. Comfortable shoes are a must.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors describe Cimarron National Grassland as a beautiful, hidden gem offering vast open spaces and a peaceful escape. The affordable camping and scenic views, particularly at Point of Rocks, are frequently praised. Some note the remoteness and lack of services, emphasizing the need for preparation.
"This is a nice little hidden gem in Kansas. We started at the NE corner of the grasslands and worked our way to Point of Rocks. Beautiful scenery along the way. Definitely go to Point of Rocks if you’re in the area and you’ll get a great view. We used the map on the Avenza App and it worked out perfectly letting us know our location. Definitely recommend."
Maura L
"Just north of the Cimarron River is the Cimarron Viewpoint with information plaques and the view of the river valley below."
William Sowle
"If you live in southwest Kansas or south eastern Colorado, Oklahoma panhandle, this is an excellent place to go camping fishing and hiking. And only $7 per night to camp. Sweet."
gary pieratt
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cimarron National Grassland is located in Morton County, in the southwestern corner of Kansas. It's accessible via state highways and county roads. The nearest major towns are Elkhart and Hugoton.
Yes, it's quite remote. It's closer to the capitals of Oklahoma, Colorado, and New Mexico than it is to Topeka, Kansas. Plan for a significant drive.
Due to limited cell service, downloading offline maps is highly recommended. The Avenza Maps app is a popular choice among visitors.
Generally, there are no entrance fees to access the Cimarron National Grassland itself. However, specific recreational areas or campgrounds may have associated fees.
Road conditions can vary. Many roads are unpaved and can become challenging after rain. High-clearance vehicles are recommended for exploring deeper into the grassland.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets required for general entry into Cimarron National Grassland. It's a public land managed by the U.S. Forest Service.
Cimarron National Grassland is open year-round, 24 hours a day. However, visitor services and ranger stations may have specific operating hours.
Camping is generally permitted and very affordable, often around $7 per night. Fishing typically requires a valid Kansas fishing license. Always check local regulations.
Absolutely! Many visitors enjoy day trips to explore highlights like Point of Rocks and the Cimarron Viewpoint.
While there isn't a large, traditional visitor center, there are information plaques at key viewpoints like the Cimarron Viewpoint.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy camping, fishing, hiking, wildlife viewing, and exploring historical sites like Point of Rocks. It's a great spot for those seeking solitude and nature.
Yes, it's an excellent place for camping with secluded campgrounds and very affordable rates. Many visitors rave about the peaceful atmosphere.
Expect vast, open prairies, rolling hills, and the unique landscape of the Cimarron River valley. It's a beautiful, albeit different, kind of Kansas scenery.
Point of Rocks is a highly recommended stop for its historical significance and great views. The Cimarron Viewpoint also offers lovely vistas.
Yes, the diverse habitats within the grassland support a variety of bird species, making it a good location for birdwatching.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no restaurants or food services directly within the grassland. You'll need to bring all your own food and supplies.
The closest towns with dining options are Elkhart and Hugoton, which are a considerable drive from most areas within the grassland.
Pack non-perishable items, plenty of snacks, and drinks. If camping, plan your meals and bring all necessary cooking equipment.
Potable water sources are very limited or non-existent. It's best to bring all the water you'll need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.
Campfires may be permitted in designated areas, but always check current fire restrictions and regulations with the U.S. Forest Service before lighting one.
📸 📸 Photography
Point of Rocks offers dramatic landscapes and historical elements. The Cimarron River valley views from the viewpoint are also picturesque. Sunrise and sunset can create stunning light.
Landscape photography is very popular, capturing the vast open spaces and unique geological features. Wildlife photography is also an option.
Generally, there are no specific photography restrictions for personal use. However, commercial photography or drone usage may require permits.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic and flattering light for landscape photography. Midday can be harsh.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage kids to look for wildlife and imagine the history of the Santa Fe Trail. Visiting Point of Rocks can be an exciting historical excursion. Remember to pack plenty of snacks, water, and entertainment, as services are minimal. Downloading offline maps is crucial for keeping everyone oriented.
💰 Budget Travelers
Since there are no commercial services within the grassland, packing all your own food and supplies significantly cuts down on expenses. The main 'cost' is your time and the fuel to get there, making it an ideal destination for those looking to stretch their travel funds while enjoying vast, undeveloped landscapes.
🚗 Road Trippers & RVers
Campgrounds are generally accessible, and the low camping fees are a major plus. Ensure your vehicle is well-maintained and you have sufficient fuel, as services are far apart. Downloading offline maps is essential for navigating the network of roads.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Santa Fe Trail
While the trail itself is largely gone, its legacy is preserved through interpretive signs and the very landscape that shaped its path. It's a tangible connection to America's westward expansion and a reminder of the challenges faced by early travelers. Exploring these historical echoes makes a visit to the grassland more than just a scenic outing; it's a journey through time.
Camping and Recreation
Beyond camping, the grassland provides opportunities for fishing in its ponds and hiking across its diverse terrain. The wide-open spaces are perfect for simply enjoying the solitude and the expansive Kansas sky. Many visitors find the secluded campgrounds and the sheer quietness of the area to be a major draw, often expressing a desire to return after just one visit.
Navigating and Staying Prepared
It's also crucial to bring all necessary supplies, including ample water, food, and fuel, as services are scarce within the grassland. Road conditions can vary significantly, with many unpaved tracks that may become difficult to traverse, especially after rain. Considering a vehicle with higher clearance can enhance your ability to explore more remote areas.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit