Washita Battlefield National Historic Site
On November 27, 1868, Lt. Colonel George Armstrong Custer led the 7th US Cavalry on a surprise dawn attack on a Cheyenne village led by Peace Chief Black Kettle.
Photo: NPS Photo / Gene Eakins / NPS
About Washita Battlefield National Historic Site
On November 27, 1868, Lt. Colonel George Armstrong Custer led the 7th US Cavalry on a surprise dawn attack on a Cheyenne village led by Peace Chief Black Kettle. The event was an example of the tragic clash of cultures that occurred during the Great Plains Wars. It is also a place of remembrance and reflection for those who died here. Read More
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Driving times from Washita Battlefield National Historic Site, one way, via road — a realistic day is 8–10 hours behind the wheel.
Hours
Overlook and Trail
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Activities
Getting there
Weather in western Oklahoma can vary considerably. Winters can be mild to severe with ice storms being the biggest concern. Spring is usually short but pleasant although severe weather, including tornadoes, is still a possibility. Usually a strong breeze is associated with spring weather. Summers are brutally hot and visitors should be cautioned about spending any length of time in the heat. Falls are cool with a bitter wind.
Frequently asked questions
- What is there to do at Washita Battlefield National Historic Site?
- Popular activities include Arts and Culture, Bookstore and Park Store, Citizen Science, Front-Country Hiking, Guided Tours, Hands-On.
- Which national parks are within a day's drive of Washita Battlefield National Historic Site?
- Within about a day's drive you can reach Oklahoma City National Memorial (2 h 25 min), Santa Fe National Historic Trail (3 h 4 min), Alibates Flint Quarries National Monument (3 h 19 min), Lake Meredith National Recreation Area (3 h 37 min), Fort Larned National Historic Site (4 h 11 min), Chickasaw National Recreation Area (4 h 21 min).