National Public Lands Day, held the last Saturday in September each year, raises awareness of the places Americans use for outdoor recreation, education and just plain enjoyment. They encompass national parks, monuments, wildlife refuges, forests, grasslands, marine sanctuaries, lakes, reservoirs, as well as state, county and city parks that are managed by public agencies, but that belong to and are enjoyed by all of us.

 This year marks the 17^th annual National Public Lands Day, offering a fantastic opportunity to get off the couch and out into beautiful natural and historic settings.  It’s a particularly great chance to get kids outside and help erase the “nature deficit” among the next generation.  As part of the celebration, all national park areas will waive entrance fees on Saturday, September 25. 

 “Come out and visit your local national park, Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site”, Alden Miller, Superintendent.

 To learn more about these events and others contact Sand Creek Massacre NHS at 719-438-5916 or visit us online at www.nps.gov/sand.  The park headquarters is located in Eads, Colorado on Hwy 287.  Hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. MST except Federal Holidays when the office is closed.

The Sand Creek Massacre site is located 23 miles from Eads, CO.  To drive to the site take Colorado Hwy. 287 near Eads, or west off Hwy 385 at Sheridan Lake.  Near Chivington, turn north onto County Road 54: or at Brandon, turn north onto County Road 59.  Follow either road to its entrance with County Road W, one mile east (right) of its intersection with County Road 54, or several miles west (left) of County Rd. 59. Hours of operation at the site are Sunday through Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 4 p.m. April –November.  Call for an appointment December through March.

Nancy Stimson, Chief of Interpretation, Education and Visitor Services

719-438-5916