Eastern Plains

Near Eads, the Sand Creek Massacre site is sacred ground the National Park Service cares for

History and culture Kiowa County sand creek cheyenne arapaho national park service history

In the open grassland northeast of Eads, in Kiowa County, the Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site marks where U.S. soldiers attacked a Cheyenne and Arapaho village on November 29, 1864. Many of those killed were women, children, and elders. This is not a scenic stop. For the descendant tribes it is sacred ground and a place of mourning, and it is cared for that way.

The National Park Service is the federal agency that protects and explains the site. Park staff work with the Cheyenne and Arapaho nations connected to this history, and the grounds are kept simple and quiet on purpose.

Why this matters if you live in or move to the area: the site is part of the county’s identity, and people who visit are asked to come with respect. Hours, road access, and what is open can change, so they are worth checking before a trip rather than assumed.

If you want to understand this place or plan a respectful visit, start with the National Park Service site for Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site, and follow the guidance the descendant tribes and the Park Service provide.

Sources

Official or primary sources used for this note. Local details can change, so confirm before acting.

Reviewed: June 11, 2026 National Park Service National Park Service

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