By:
Submission
The park is located 16 miles west of Lamar.
There’s a tall strong fence keeping the Bison in and the people out. We saw a nice group near the east gate. The visitors center was closed. When their open they have a movie about the park.
Really cool prairie trail system. Several different trail options that take one relatively close to roaming Bison. There is also a campground for dry camping but there are two concrete pads with a water spigot and bathroom nearby. Be careful when getting close to the bison and watch for bison patties and snakes.
Amazing park for hiking! There are so many wonderful things about the American Prairie that most people don’t realize until they experience it themselves. There are so many flower and animal species! And the herds of Bison are amazing! Just don’t get too close to them!
We are from this area but had never been out to the state park as a family. With the lovely fall weather we decided to go out and have a picnic as a family. The picnic area was spacious, clean and well kempt. There was a dry creek bed that the kids played in and the restroom was concrete building, but no running water. Again it was clean and well kempt. After our picnic we went to the visitors center which was full of information about the prairie and the Flora and fauna that can be found there, as well as the history of the prairie. The gentleman that was there was very kind and helpful. He informed us of events they do periodically and offered to show us around. There are two trails that lead out from the visitors center, a long one and a short one. We had a two year old with us and didn't bring a stroller so we opted for the shorter, approximately 10 minutes, hike. We didn't get far enough into the prairie to see the bison, so we will definitely be going back. Even though we ended with disappointment it was still a wonderful day trip and the kids loved it.
Nice Park and really cool that the Bison can roam freely in the park. They have multiple signs to make sure you are aware. And it does ask to keep your pets in certain areas I think only one trail is pet friendly.. so double check before you bring your friend. so not to disturb the natural wildlife and keep your distance for safety.. please follow their rules. They have a Guided Bison Saunter available on select dates but you have to call early to confirm. I wish I could have joined. Maybe next time. The restrooms are available in the prairie nature center when open.
