The Plains Conservation Center is a nature preserve and educational center offering a reflective hike in solitude on over 1,100 acres of short grass prairie with breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains. It features replicas of a homestead village and tipi camp showcasing pioneer and plains Native American life, along with vintage farm equipment and a yurt. The beautiful gravel trails lead to sod buildings and provide space to walk or run a few miles. The visitor center contains engaging exhibits like fur pelts to touch and a telescope pointed at an eagle’s nest. It includes a great kids area and a super cute, non-typical playground. Helpful and passionate staff enhance the experience. Visitors should note the visitor center has limited hours, opening around noon on some days. It is advised to bring layers and plenty of water, as the wind can be deceiving and the trails are long. Restrooms are available, but planning ahead is recommended due to the distance to the sod buildings. While there are picnic benches by the sod houses, dogs are not permitted on the property to protect the wildlife, which includes cactus and snakes. The area can be very quiet, with only the wind and occasional bird, and trails may be muddy in certain conditions. It is a must-see place that highlights how diverse and important prairies are.
Spent the morning on the trails to the sod homestead, vintage farm equipment, and tipi. Wrapped up the windy day inside at the visitors center that didn’t open until around noon. Great experience for kids inside and out and beautiful gravel trails to walk or run a few miles.
November 2022
Yesterday my Meetup group went there for the wagon tour. We all enjoyed it! We saw pronghorns, bald eagles, sod houses, etc. Our tour guide knew so much about the history, ecology, animals, etc.
September 2022
Wonderful experience from sod farm house to Tipi and yurt. Plan on spending at least 2 hours walking property and enjoying the surroundings.
