Washita Battlefield National Historic Site
PARK OVERVIEW
Washita Battlefield National Historic Site in Cheyenne, Oklahoma, preserves the location of the November 27, 1868, attack on Cheyenne Peace Chief Black Kettle’s village by the 7th United States Cavalry. Led by Lieutenant Colonel George Armstrong Custer, the calvary carried out a surprise attack at dawn, killing or capturing all the villagers in less than thirty minutes.
Begin your visit by stopping at the Visitor Center to pick up a park brochure, check out the exhibit area, and watch the park film. Afterwards you can walk the paved Dust and Fire Trail around the Visitor Center and hike the Washita Battlefield Trail, which is the only way to see the actual battlefield site.
OPERATING HOURS
The grounds of Washita Battlefield National Historic Site are open year-round from dawn to dusk. The Visitor Center is open every day from 8 AM to 4:30 PM, except when closed on New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. Keep in mind that times can always change, so be sure to check the National Park Service’s official Operating Hours and Seasons web page for the latest schedule.
FEES
There are no fees to visit Washita Battlefield National Historic Site.
SCHEDULING YOUR TIME
Visitor Center
Allow up to 1 hour
Hiking Trails
Allow 1.5 to 2 hours
With a few exceptions, use of any photograph on the National Park Planner website requires a paid Royalty Free Editorial Use License or Commercial Use License. See the Photo Usage page for details.
Last updated on January 27, 2026
