This Uncrowded Gem in Kansas Is the Next Big Thing in Slow Travel

As a young girl, I grew up watching reruns of John Wayne and all of his Westerns. Somewhere along the way, I became fascinated with the idea of the Old West. To me, there is no greater joy than sitting on the prairie and watching the bison roam. When I was invited to visit Maxwell Wildlife Refuge in the small town of Canton, Kansas, I jumped at the chance. Between its long-term camping capabilities and slow pace of life, this refuge is the slow travel my childhood dreams were made of.

In the early ‘50s, a small handful of bison and elk were brought to the land that is now the refuge. Maxwell Wildlife Refuge is now home to a growing population of 200 bison and 45 elk across 2,800 acres. Far from city lights, watching the bison graze on the horizon quickly transports you to a bygone era. I noticed that everything moves slowly here. While the refuge runs official tours, the atmosphere is laid-back and calm. Tourists are not being jam-packed through an overcrowded line. Instead, visitors move quietly. They take in the vast nature around them and appreciate the beauty of the great American bison.

Visitors can choose between a public tram tour or a private option in an SUV. While I took a private tour, the open-air trams appeared spacious and comfortable. I highly recommend experiencing the private tour as it allows you to go off-road and get closer to the wildlife. Additionally, the team at Maxwell Wildlife Refuge hosts regular events throughout the year, including the Baby Bison Spectacular, photo tours, and summer trail rides. There is also an observation tour that is particularly good for birdwatching, as Kansas is on the famous Central Flyway. Finally, be sure to pack a lunch and enjoy a meal at one of the 15 picnic areas scattered throughout the refuge.

What makes Maxwell Wildlife Refuge ideal for slow travel is the ability to camp out long-term on the edge of the property. Privately owned Battle Hill RV Park is located on the west side of the refuge’s fishing lake. Here, visitors can rent RV spots with full hookups on a monthly basis. With the ability to stay on the park’s outer limits for longer periods, visitors have the opportunity to truly disconnect from life and reconnect with what was once part of the Old West. Alternatively, opportunities for fishing and free primitive campsites are available at McPherson State Fishing Lake. Located on the border of the refuge, the fishing lake is a quality option for visitors looking for a remote escape.

Maxwell Wildlife Refuge is where to go if you want to bathe in nature, recharge, and observe. A few daily activities will keep you occupied, but a monthly stay here will be filled with quiet and observation. Book an RV site, and spend your days at Maxwell Wildlife Refuge watching the wildlife go by. What other spots in Kansas are good for slow travel? Let us know by filling out this nomination form. 

Cait was hosted by Maxwell Wildlife Refuge as part of their trip to Kansas. All opinions and thoughts expressed in this content are their own.