Washita Battlefield National Historic Site
OK

Washita Battlefield National Historic Site

Hours

Open daily · Sunrise to Sunset

Entrance Fee

Free

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Trailie

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Washita Battlefield National Historic Site at a glance

Best time
March–May, October–November
Trip length
2–4 hours to 1 day
Don't miss
Walk Washita Battlefield Park Trail
Nearby city
Cheyenne, OK

Explore this park

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

1 current NPS alert

  • Caution: No Winter Maintenance on Battlefield Trail

Source: National Park Service (as of Nov 11, 2026). Official Washita Battlefield National Historic Site page on nps.gov

Weather Information

Weather in western Oklahoma can vary considerably.

  • Spring

    is usually short but pleasant although severe weather, including tornadoes, is still a possibility.

  • Summer

    are brutally hot and visitors should be cautioned about spending any length of time in the heat.

  • Fall

    are cool with a bitter wind.

  • Winter

    can be mild to severe with ice storms being the biggest concern.

Usually a strong breeze is associated with spring weather.

Operating Hours

Overlook and Trail

The overlook and trail of Washita Battlefield National Historic Site are open 30 minutes before sunrise and close 30 minutes after sunset.

  • MondaySunrise to Sunset
  • TuesdaySunrise to Sunset
  • WednesdaySunrise to Sunset
  • ThursdaySunrise to Sunset
  • FridaySunrise to Sunset
  • SaturdaySunrise to Sunset
  • SundaySunrise to Sunset

Common questions

Planning Washita Battlefield National Historic Site

The summary above covers timing and highlights. These go deeper on reservations, crowds, and logistics — check Alerts for live updates.

Reservation rules vary by season and activity for Washita Battlefield National Historic Site. See Overview on this page for fees, timed entry, and campground details before you travel.