The prairie, a crucial yet often overlooked ecosystem in North America, is disappearing at an alarming rate. Stretching from Canada to Texas, this vast expanse of grassland was once a thriving habitat for numerous species. Today, however, it stands as one of the continent's most endangered ecosystems. Despite its understated appearance, the prairie is a treasure trove of biodiversity and history, offering unique opportunities for hiking, wildlife observation, and bird-watching. Here are seven parks and preserves working to protect this precious ecosystem and its inhabitants.
Joseph H. Williams Tallgrass Prairie Preserve, Oklahoma
This 40,000-acre preserve is the largest protected tallgrass prairie remaining on Earth. Home to around 2,200 free-range bison, the preserve offers a dynamic experience that changes with the seasons. In spring, visitors can witness the spectacular mating dance of greater prairie-chickens, while summer brings the elegant scissor-tailed flycatcher. As fall and winter arrive, raptors like bald and golden eagles make their appearance.
Where to stay: The Pioneer Woman Boarding House
Book now: pwboardinghouse.com
Badlands National Park, South Dakota
Known for its striking buttes and pinnacles, Badlands National Park offers both geological wonders and vibrant prairie life. The park hosts a successful reintroduction program for the endangered black-footed ferret and provides opportunities to see bison, pronghorn, and other prairie species.
Where to stay: Cedar Pass Lodge
Book now: cedarpasslodge.com
Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve, Kansas
This preserve in the Kansas Flint Hills is dedicated solely to the tallgrass prairie ecosystem. Visitors can explore the landscape through guided tours or self-guided drives, witnessing the grass at its peak height in the autumn.
Where to stay: Clover Cliff Ranch Bed & Breakfast
Book now: clovercliffranch.com
Grasslands National Park, Saskatchewan
Located near the Montana border, this park is the only place in Canada to see black-tailed prairie dogs. Visitors can also spot burrowing owls, explore tepee rings, and stargaze in one of Canada’s largest Dark Sky Preserves.
Where to stay: Parks Canada oTENTik
Book now: parks.canada.ca/pn-np/sk/grasslands
Homestead National Historical Park, Nebraska
This park focuses on the human history of the prairie, commemorating the Homestead Act of 1862. The National Park Service has been working to restore the tallgrass prairie here since 1939, making it their oldest restoration project.
Where to stay: The Kindler Hotel
Book now: thekindlerhotel.com
Living Prairie Museum, Manitoba
Located in Winnipeg, this 32-acre preserve offers a glimpse of the tallgrass prairie without leaving the city. The museum hosts a monarch butterfly festival and offers guided trail walks in the summer.
Where to stay: Inn at the Forks
Book now: innforks.com
Theodore Roosevelt National Park, North Dakota
Named after the conservationist president, this park consists of three units, each offering unique experiences. Visitors can enjoy scenic drives, observe grazing bison and elk, and explore Roosevelt’s legacy of conservation.
Where to stay: Rough Riders Hotel
Book now: medora.com/roughridershotel
Embark on a journey through these parks to experience and help protect the fragile yet magnificent prairie ecosystem.
