Comanche National Grassland: A Prairie Oasis of History and Nature
Explore Colorado's Comanche National Grassland: Dinosaurs, history, and natural beauty await in this vast prairie landscape.
Discover the vast expanse of the Comanche National Grassland in southeastern Colorado, a landscape rich in history, paleontology, and natural beauty. Explore dinosaur tracks, ancient rock art, and remnants of the Santa Fe Trail across its 443,000 acres.
A brief summary to Comanche National Grassland
- Springfield, Colorado, 81073, US
- +1719-523-6591
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit in the fall (mid-September to October) for the tarantula mating season, a unique wildlife spectacle.
- Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and appropriate clothing, as the grassland can be hot and dry.
- Be aware of rattlesnakes and scorpions while hiking, especially in canyon areas.
- Fill up your gas tank before entering the grassland, as services are limited.
- Check with the local Forest Service office for maps, brochures, and information on guided tours.
Getting There
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Driving
The Comanche National Grassland is most easily accessed by car. From Denver, take I-70 east to US-287 south. From Colorado Springs, drive south on CO-115 to Penrose, then east on US-50 to Rocky Ford, and south on CO-109. From Trinidad, take CO-160 east. Be sure to have a full tank of gas, as services within the grassland are limited. Roads within the grassland are generally well-marked, but some may be dirt or gravel. There is no fee to enter the Comanche National Grassland.
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Public Transport
While public transportation options are limited, it is possible to reach the Comanche National Grassland via bus and taxi. From Colorado Springs, take a bus to Pueblo, then another bus to Springfield. From Fort Collins, take a bus to Union Station in Denver, then a connecting bus to Springfield. From the Springfield Truck Stop, a taxi can take you to the Comanche National Grassland. Expect to pay between $150 and $250 for the combined bus and taxi fare.
Discover more about Comanche National Grassland
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Preston Boundary Monument at OK-CO-NM Tripoint
37.9 km
Explore the Preston Boundary Monument, a unique tripoint where Oklahoma, Colorado, and New Mexico converge, steeped in history and natural beauty.
Withers Canyon/Dinosaur Footprints Trailhead
57.1 km
Discover the captivating beauty and history at Withers Canyon/Dinosaur Footprints Trailhead in La Junta, Colorado, where adventure and education intertwine.
Sante Fe trail (Oklahoma - New Mexico state crossing)
69.4 km
Explore the Sante Fe Trail, a historic landmark that connects Oklahoma and New Mexico, offering breathtaking views and a rich tapestry of American history.
Boggsville Historic Site
79.5 km
Explore Boggsville Historic Site, where Colorado's rich history comes alive through preserved landmarks and engaging tours.
Tiger Stadium
81.7 km
Discover the heart of La Junta's sports culture at Tiger Stadium, where community spirit and local traditions come alive in a vibrant atmosphere.
Visit La Junta
82.4 km
Explore the charm of La Junta, Colorado, a historic town offering outdoor adventures and cultural treasures in the heart of the Arkansas Valley.
La Junta Oral History
82.4 km
Explore La Junta Oral History, where local stories come alive, connecting visitors with the rich heritage and vibrant community of La Junta.
Boy Scout Statue of Liberty
82.7 km
Discover the Boy Scout Statue of Liberty in La Junta, CO—a historical landmark celebrating the spirit of scouting and community values.
La Junta Inn
82.7 km
Discover comfort and convenience at La Junta Inn, the ideal hotel for exploring Southeast Colorado's natural beauty and local attractions.
Picketwire Players Theatre
83.0 km
Explore the enchanting world of community theater at Picketwire Players Theatre in La Junta, Colorado, where local talent shines and stories come to life.
HISTORIC JUNCTION BUILDING (Western Centers)
83.3 km
Discover the Historic Junction Building in La Junta, Colorado - a landmark that reveals the rich history and architectural beauty of the American West.
La Junta Transit
83.4 km
Explore La Junta, Colorado, with La Junta Transit—your gateway to adventure and local culture in the heart of southeastern Colorado.
Travel Inn La Junta
83.5 km
Discover the charm of La Junta at Travel Inn, your affordable retreat in Southern Colorado, close to nature and local attractions.
Copper Kitchen
83.5 km
Experience delightful breakfasts at Copper Kitchen, a family-friendly gem in La Junta, Colorado, where delicious meals and warm service await.
La Junta Trading Co
83.6 km
Discover La Junta Trading Co, a top hardware store in La Junta, Colorado, featuring a wide array of home improvement supplies and tools to meet all your needs.
Unmissable attractions to see
Preston Monument at OK-CO-NM Tripoint
37.9 km
Explore the Preston Monument at the OK-CO-NM Tripoint, a unique historical landmark where Colorado, New Mexico, and Oklahoma converge in stunning landscapes.
Dinosaur Tracks
42.9 km
Discover the ancient footprints of dinosaurs at Dinosaur Tracks in Kenton, Oklahoma, a unique historical landmark that brings the past to life.
Highest Point in Oklahoma Trailhead
43.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and adventure at the Highest Point in Oklahoma Trailhead, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and hikers.
Black Mesa Preserve
43.4 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife of Black Mesa Preserve, a natural haven in Oklahoma perfect for outdoor adventures.
Black Mesa
45.5 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Black Mesa, Oklahoma's highest point, where stunning vistas and diverse wildlife await outdoor adventurers.
Kenton Museum
49.1 km
Explore the fascinating history of Kenton, Oklahoma, at the Kenton Museum, where local culture and heritage come to life.
Hoot Owl Ranch
51.0 km
Escape to Hoot Owl Ranch for a serene retreat in Oklahoma, where nature and tranquility meet adventure and hospitality.
Wedding Party rock formation
51.9 km
Experience the breathtaking Wedding Party rock formation in Oklahoma, a stunning natural attraction perfect for outdoor adventures and photography.
A Replica of a Brontosaurus Femur
53.2 km
Explore the captivating replica of a Brontosaurus femur in Kenton, Oklahoma, and immerse yourself in the wonders of prehistoric life.
Black Mesa State Park & Nature Preserve
57.6 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife of Black Mesa State Park & Nature Preserve, an outdoor paradise in Oklahoma.
Native American Petroglyphs
61.3 km
Discover ancient stories etched in stone at the Native American petroglyphs near La Junta, Colorado, a window into the past.
Vogel Canyon Picnic Area
62.1 km
Explore Native American rock art, historic stagecoach ruins, and scenic hiking trails in Colorado's hidden gem, Vogel Canyon.
Koshare Museum & Trading Post
82.1 km
Discover Native American art and culture at the Koshare Museum in La Junta, Colorado, home to the world-famous Koshare Indian Dancers.
Cimarron Heritage Center
82.6 km
Explore the fascinating history of the Oklahoma Panhandle at Cimarron Heritage Center, a captivating heritage museum in Boise City.
Art alley
83.4 km
Discover vibrant murals and artistic expression in the heart of downtown La Junta at the unique and colorful Art Alley.
Essential places to dine
Mexico City Cafe
82.0 km
Discover authentic Mexican cuisine at Mexico City Cafe in La Junta—where every dish tells a flavorful story.
Sweet Inspirations Catering
82.6 km
Experience the finest catering services and delightful meals at Sweet Inspirations Catering in La Junta, Colorado.
Yak & Yeti Bar & Lounge - La Junta
82.7 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at Yak & Yeti Bar & Lounge in La Junta - where comfort food meets warm hospitality.
Boss Hogg's Saloon & Restaurant
82.9 km
Experience the best steaks in La Junta at Boss Hogg's Saloon & Restaurant – where hearty meals meet warm hospitality.
Caffe Melanzana
83.2 km
Discover the delightful flavors of Caffe Melanzana in La Junta - your go-to spot for a hearty breakfast filled with local charm.
K-LUNCHBOX… Korean food & Greek Gyro
83.3 km
Experience a unique blend of Korean cuisine and Greek gyros at K-LUNCHBOX in La Junta - where flavors collide deliciously.
Bamboo Panda Inc
83.3 km
Experience authentic Chinese flavors at Bamboo Panda Inc in La Junta - where culinary tradition meets modern dining.
Pizza Hut
83.3 km
Experience delicious pizzas and crispy chicken wings at Pizza Hut in La Junta—perfect for family gatherings or quick takeout.
La Bocca Felice
83.3 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at La Bocca Felice in La Junta - where every meal feels like a trip to Italy.
Godfather's Pizza Express
83.4 km
Experience mouthwatering pizzas and Italian classics at Godfather's Pizza Express in La Junta, Colorado - perfect for takeout or dining in.
Lucy's Tacos
83.4 km
Experience the vibrant tastes of Mexico at Lucy's Tacos in La Junta - a delightful spot for authentic Mexican fare at affordable prices.
Michael's Pizzeria
83.4 km
Discover delicious pizzas and delightful desserts at Michael's Pizzeria in La Junta, Colorado - where flavor meets comfort!
The Railyard
83.5 km
Discover the culinary charm of The Railyard in La Junta, where delicious grilled dishes meet warm hospitality in a historic setting.
Asian Cafe
83.8 km
Discover authentic Asian cuisine at Asian Cafe in La Junta, Colorado - where flavor meets hospitality in every dish.
Carl’s Jr.
83.9 km
Discover the flavors of Carl’s Jr. in La Junta – where delicious hamburgers meet fast food convenience.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
HisStore
15.6 km
Discover unique fashion at HisStore, a clothing haven showcasing local trends and timeless styles in a friendly, vibrant atmosphere.
Panhandle Milling
18.5 km
Explore the local grain offerings at Panhandle Milling, where quality meets tradition in the heart of Colorado's agricultural landscape.
The Crazy Iguana
40.4 km
Discover unique local pottery and gifts at The Crazy Iguana, Springfield's charming gift shop filled with creativity and local artistry.
Blackthorne Rose
40.6 km
Uncover unique finds at Blackthorne Rose, a charming boutique in Springfield, Colorado, offering handcrafted treasures and local artisan goods.
M.O.M.S. (Mary's On Main Street - Treasure Chest Mall)
40.7 km
Discover unique treasures in Springfield at M.O.M.S. - Mary's On Main Street, a charming shopping mall filled with local artistry and creativity.
Red Feather Gifts
40.8 km
Explore Red Feather Gifts in Springfield, CO for unique handcrafted treasures and local art that capture the spirit of Colorado.
Black Mesa Bed & Breakfast
46.2 km
Discover the charm of Black Mesa Bed & Breakfast in Kenton, Oklahoma, where comfort meets breathtaking natural beauty for the perfect getaway.
Willett Creek Agate Co
61.1 km
Discover a treasure trove of agate stones and unique gifts at Willett Creek Agate Co in Des Moines, New Mexico, perfect for rock lovers and souvenir hunters.
Hutchison Farm And Garden
68.9 km
Discover unique home decor and garden supplies at Hutchison Farm And Garden in Boise City, Oklahoma - a hidden gem for travelers.
Kat's Avon
68.9 km
Explore Kat's Avon for a unique selection of cosmetics, personalized beauty services, and must-have products that enhance your beauty journey.
IAMindful Gifts
70.1 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at IAMindful Gifts in Walsh, Colorado, perfect for every occasion and a true reflection of the region's spirit.
The Beehive Boutique
81.5 km
Explore exquisite women's fashion and unique accessories at The Beehive Boutique in La Junta, Colorado - a shopping paradise for style enthusiasts.
Vanhook's Market
82.6 km
Experience the heart of Colorado's agriculture at Vanhook's Market, where fresh produce and local goods come together in a vibrant community space.
Puff'n Stuff
82.7 km
Discover Puff'n Stuff in La Junta, Colorado - your go-to vaporizer store for quality products and expert advice in a welcoming atmosphere.
Scaff Brothers
83.1 km
Explore Scaff Brothers, La Junta's gourmet grocery store, where local flavors meet quality ingredients for an unforgettable culinary experience.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Mesa Valley Guesthouse
47.9 km
Escape to the serene Mesa Valley Guesthouse in Kenton, Oklahoma, where comfort meets nature's beauty for an unforgettable vacation experience.
The Merch
49.1 km
Experience the warmth and flavor of American cuisine at The Merch in Kenton, Oklahoma – where every meal tells a story.
Hitching Post Working Ranch
49.3 km
Discover the authentic cowboy lifestyle at Hitching Post Working Ranch in Kenton, Oklahoma, where adventure and tradition meet in a stunning natural setting.
The Red Dog Saloon
83.0 km
Experience the vibrant local culture at The Red Dog Saloon in La Junta, Colorado, where affordable drinks and a warm atmosphere await.
Midtown Inn & Suites
83.3 km
Experience comfort and convenience at Midtown Inn & Suites in La Junta, Colorado, your perfect base for local exploration and relaxation.
BJ's Sports Bar
83.5 km
Discover the lively spirit of La Junta at BJ's Sports Bar, where sports, food, and community come together in a vibrant atmosphere.
La Junta Elks Lodge B.P.O.E. 701
83.5 km
Experience the warm community spirit at La Junta Elks Lodge, a cozy lounge perfect for unwinding with drinks and friendly locals.
Stagecoach Motel
83.9 km
Discover a cozy retreat at Stagecoach Motel in La Junta, Colorado, blending comfort with local charm for your perfect getaway.
