Cimarron National Grassland, the largest tract of public land in Kansas, spreads across about 108,175 acres of shortgrass prairie in Morton and Stevens counties. Managed by the U.S. Forest Service and administered with Pike–San Isabel National Forests, this grassland was established in 1960 from purchases starting in 1938. Visitors find open horizons, quiet skies, and a genuine High Plains experience.
Best season — Spring and fall deliver mild temperatures and peak wildlife activity; summers are typically hot and windy, and winters cold.
At a glance
The facts worth checking before you roll out
Conservative, source-minded facts for planning your visit — always worth confirming against current conditions before you travel.
Managing agency
U.S. Forest Service (administered with Pike-San Isabel National Forests & Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands)
State
Southwestern Kansas (Morton and Stevens counties)
Size
About 108,175 acres; described as the state's largest area of public land
Established
Renamed Cimarron National Grassland in June 1960 (land purchased beginning 1938)
On the ground
Cimarron National Grassland encompasses approximately 108,175 acres of shortgrass prairie in southwestern Kansas. Established in June 1960 with land purchases beginning earlier, it represents the state’s largest area of public land. Managed by the U.S. Forest Service and administered alongside Pike–San Isabel National Forests, this grassland offers a unique High Plains experience focused on open space.
RV travelers to Cimarron National Grassland typically enjoy birding, hiking, and wildlife viewing across the expansive landscape. The wide-open terrain provides unobstructed views of quiet skies and sunsets. Visitors can find peaceful locations for enjoying the natural surroundings and observing prairie life under dark night skies.
The best seasons for visiting are spring and fall when temperatures are mild and wildlife is most active. Summers in this region tend to be hot and windy, while winters bring cold conditions. Planning a trip during these shoulder seasons maximizes comfort and opportunities for outdoor activities within the grassland.
Consider establishing a basecamp in a nearby community before exploring Cimarron National Grassland. This allows flexible day trips into the prairie landscape. From that location, RV travelers can access the grassland’s features while having convenient access to services and amenities outside of the remote area.
Official sources
- U.S. Forest Service — Cimarron National Grassland USDA Forest Service
Nearby & related
Keep planning Kansas
Sourced costs, campground directories, and the places worth a detour — the next layer of Kansas trip planning.
Planning an RV trip near Cimarron National Grassland: An RV Traveler's Guide?
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