Oh give me a home where the buffalo roam. Just decades after being on the brink of extinction, the ubiquitous giants of the great plains have a home once again roaming the rolling prairie on the Maxwell Wildlife Refuge. And, your whole family can visit them in their natural habitat. Covered trams take you out into the Smoky Hills to see the herd of hundreds of bison (and sometimes elk) with informative tour guides.
Learn about native species, American history, conservation efforts, and why what you may know as the ‘buffalo’ is actually the American Bison. Before or after your tour, spend time in the visitor center where they have a stagecoach and many relics from the days of the Santa Fe Trail, as well as art and small souvenirs.
Explore the prairie and enjoy the native wildflowers, and catch glimpses of wildlife including white tail deer, bison, and elk (November – March).
Location:
Maxwell Wildlife Refuge – 2565 Pueblo Road, Canton, KS 67428. This is just over an hour from Wichita (slightly NE of McPherson).
Hours:
Tours are by appointment only (no holidays, no Sundays); three days advance notice requested. Email [email protected] to schedule your visit. Allow 45 minutes for your tour.
Prepare for Kansas weather, no matter the season. There are windows on the tram seasonally and quilts provided in cooler temperatures, but the trams are not climate controlled. Dress as though you will be out in the elements.
Cost:
- Adults: $15
- Children 4-11: $7.50
- Children 3 & under: no charge
Other activities:
-Adjacent to the Maxwell Wildlife Refuge is McPherson State Fishing Lake and Campground. Enjoy fishing (permit required) or camp at one of their many primitive sites or in a furnished cabin. Camping reservations and fees apply.
-Throughout the year there are special events at the Refuge including Fall Rendezvous, Christmas on the Prairie, Elk Days, and Guided Trail Rides (bring your own horse).
Check out more in our Explore With Kids Series!
