Frequently Asked Questions

What are the park's hours?
The Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site and Visitor Contact Station are open Thursday through Monday 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM, and closed Tuesday & Wednesday. The Visitor and Education Center in Eads is open Monday through Friday 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM, and closed Sunday & Monday.

Is the park open year around?
Yes, we are open year round.

Is the Park open on Federal Holidays?
The park will be closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day.

How do we reach the park?
The Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site is located at 55411 County Road W. The site can be reached via Colorado 96, turning north at Chief White Antelope Way (Kiowa County Road 54) or turning north at Kiowa County Road 59.

Is there camping at the site?
Camping is not permitted at the Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site and there are no overnight facilities available within the park.

Are there walking/hiking trails available in the park?
Yes, there is a trail head located adjacent to the ranger station at the park. The trail is half a mile long and leads to the monument area and viewing overlook above Sand Creek.

There is an additional trail extending approximately one and a half miles beyond the monument area along the ridge line. Visitors must remain on designated trails.


Is there a bookstore at the park?
Yes, we have two bookstores. One is located in the Visitor Contact Station at the site and the other is in the Visitor and Education Center in Eads. Both locations carry a selection of over fifty-five titles and several other assorted items. The sales area is operated through the Western National Parks Association.

Is there a park film available?
No, the National Park Service has not yet produced a film about the Sand Creek Massacre/Sand Creek Massacre NHS.

Are there food/beverage concessions available at the park?
No, there are no food/beverage concessions available at the Sand Creek Massacre NHS.

Are picnic tables available at the site?
Yes, picnic tables are available in a shaded area near the ranger station.

Is potable water available at the site?
Yes, a drinking fountain and drinkable tap water are available inside the ranger station.

Can I smoke at the site?
Smoking is allowed only in designated smoking areas due to extreme fire hazards.

What type of clothing and footwear should we have while visiting the park?
Weather conditions at the park vary considerably. Temperatures range from over 100°F in summer to under 20°F in winter. Visitors can expect blowing dust and sand year-round, especially during infrequent storms. Some of these storms produce violent tornadoes or large blizzards, so prepare accordingly. Visitors often state that sunscreen, bug spray, windbreakers, and sunglasses make the park more comfortable. Park staff strongly encourage wearing sturdy leather boots or shoes, full length pants, head coverings, and weather resistant outer garments.

Last updated: December 6, 2023

Park footer

Contact Info

Mailing Address:

1301 Maine Street
P.O. Box 249

Eads, CO 81036-0249

Phone:

719 438-5916

Contact Us