Tallgrass Prairie Preserve Ranch Headquarters

The Nature Conservancy’s Tallgrass Prairie Preserve protects one of the largest remaining tallgrass prairie ecosystems on the continent. The old ranch headquarters area allows primitive camping by permit, with fire rings scattered among restored native grassland where bison roam freely. No facilities beyond pit toilets, but the night sky here rivals any dark sky preserve.

Access via Highway 60 west of Pawhuska, then 18 miles on paved preserve roads. Camping permits required and limited to 14 days. Spring through fall offers the best weather, but winter camping provides solitude and clear stargazing. Check bison locations before setting up camp.

Bison country camping on pristine tallgrass prairie.