Today, as in 1868, the Washita River flows silently through the valley. The river banks are shaded by cottonwoods and sycamore and flanked with waving fields of grass. Ancient hills of red dirt rim the horizons. This peaceful setting offers us hallowed ground to contemplate this watershed event in our shared history, a place to find understanding, meaning, and perhaps healing in the wake of tragedy.
Follow the links below or images above to learn about what makes Washita such a special place.
Stay connected to Washita Battlefield National Historic Site.
Explore the many breathtaking views and historic photos of Washita.
From Plains Indians to pioneers and the U.S. Army Washita's history is a tapestry of stories that makes it unique.
While not known as a 'natural park,' it is the natural resources one notices at Washita Battlefield. It is these resources that set the scene and provide the backdrop for the tragic story of what occurred on this sacred ground.
Washita Battlefield offers many opportunities for teachers to incorporate history, culture, and science in the classroom!
Children can become Junior Rangers by completing the Washita Battlefield Junior Ranger booklet or if they are visiting Chickasaw National Recreation Area and the Oklahoma City National Memorial as well can also complete the Oklahoma Outdoor Ranger booklet.
Learn more about how Washita Battlefield fulfills its mission statement to "interpret the struggle between the Southern Great Plains Indian tribes and the United States Government as demonstrated by the tragic events at the Washita and how that struggle forever altered a culture and a nation."
The Visitor Center park store has a variety of literature. The store also carries t-shirts, stuffed animals, posters, magnets, incense, buffalo items, and other popular souvenirs. Come see what Washita's park store has to offer.
Last updated: December 4, 2020