Cheyenne Bottoms
Great Bend, KS
A large wetland basin on the Central Flyway where shorebirds and waterfowl gather in migration, with gravel roads and viewing spots along the pools. Spring and autumn are best, so bring binoculars and insect repellent.
Cheyenne Bottoms, northeast of Great Bend, is a natural basin and the largest wetland in Kansas. The Ramsar site covers 10,978 hectares (27,100 acres) and was designated on October 19, 1988; figures for the total area of the wetland vary by source. About 45 percent of the shorebirds nesting in North America stop here during migration; more than 300 bird species have been recorded, including the endangered whooping crane.
Spring migration peaks from late March to late May, and in fall ducks and geese are easy to see. To reach the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks headquarters, drive 6 miles (10 km) north from Great Bend on US 281, then 2 miles (3 km) east; The Nature Conservancy offers a driving tour. Binoculars are essential; allow several hours so that the stops at the pools are worthwhile.
- Nearest town
- Great Bend, KS
- Category
- Nature & parks
- GPS
- 38.4730, -98.6690
Hours, fees and access change. Confirm with the operator or park before you go.
Good to know
Best time to go
The most pleasant months are usually May and September–October. Still fine, with some compromises, in April and June. Hot in July–August. Cold, short days in January–February. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)
Sources
Nearby
FAQs
Where is Cheyenne Bottoms?
Cheyenne Bottoms is in Great Bend, KS, at GPS 38.4730, -98.6690. It is about 45 mi from Hays.
What is there to see near Cheyenne Bottoms?
Places worth a stop nearby: Pawnee Rock State Historic Site (22 mi), Fort Larned National Historic Site (36 mi), Mushroom Rock State Park (39 mi) and Sternberg Museum of Natural History (44 mi).
When is the best time to visit Cheyenne Bottoms?
The most pleasant months are usually May and September–October. Still fine, with some compromises, in April and June. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)