Bring your group to the prairie.
Plan a one-of-a-kind Kansas prairie experience for your group. We welcome schools, scouts and 4-H clubs, churches, civic clubs, family reunions, senior centers, tour buses, and corporate teams for guided tram tours across native tallgrass prairie — home to free-roaming American bison and elk.
What's included
A guided prairie experience built around your group.
Every group reservation is a custom visit planned around your group size, learning goals, and schedule. Here is what a typical visit includes.
Guided tram tour
Ride through native tallgrass prairie with a knowledgeable guide who shares the story of Maxwell Wildlife Refuge.
Bison & elk up close
See the refuge's free-roaming American bison and elk herds in their natural prairie habitat.
Optional education program
Add a short program on prairie ecosystems, wildlife, and conservation — perfect for schools and youth groups.
Picnic & gathering areas
Extend your visit with time for lunch, games, or group photos in our outdoor spaces.
Who can book
Who is a group visit for?
Group reservations are ideal for organized groups who want to share a prairie experience together. If your group is on this list — or even if it is not — reach out and we will help you plan.
Schools & homeschool groups
Connect classroom learning to real Kansas prairie wildlife on an outdoor field trip. Great for school field trips, homeschool co-ops, and scouts & 4-H clubs.
Churches & community groups
Enjoy time together in a peaceful, natural setting away from city noise — church and youth groups, civic clubs, and large family groups or reunions.
Tour buses, seniors & corporate
Make Maxwell a stop on your Kansas itinerary or a unique team outing — senior centers, tour buses, and corporate or team-building groups.
Build your group visit.
Start with a guided tram tour and add on an education program or picnic time to make the day your own.
Guided tram tour: ride through native prairie with a guide and learn about the wildlife, plants, and history of the refuge — the bison and elk herds, prairie plants and wildlife, and the conservation story behind Maxwell. About 45–60 minutes. Best for all ages.
Education program (add-on): combine your tram tour with a short program on prairie ecosystems and wildlife, bison and elk biology, and land stewardship. Adds roughly 20–30 minutes. See our Education page for more details.
Picnic & gathering time: extend your visit with lunch, games, or group activities. Picnic tables and restroom access are available on-site. Picnic space is first-come, first-served unless arranged in advance.
Rates & payment
Group pricing.
Group pricing is simple and affordable, making it easy for schools, churches, clubs, and tour groups to plan a visit. For the most up-to-date rates, please refer to our Admission & Fees information or ask when you submit your request.
K–12 education tram tours
$7.00 per student. If your group is tax exempt, please provide a tax-exempt form.
College tram tours
$10.00 per student. If your group is tax exempt, please provide a tax-exempt form.
Large groups of 50 or more
Eligible for a discount. Call (620) 628-4455 or email maxwellwildliferefuge@gmail.com for group pricing.
Donations welcome
Maxwell Wildlife Refuge is supported by visitors like you. Donations beyond admission help care for the bison and elk herds and the prairie they depend on.
Requirements & group policies.
A few things to plan for so your visit goes smoothly. Booking ahead is essential — tram tours are guided and seating is limited, so we schedule each group in advance.
- Book in advance: reservations are required for all groups. Submit your request early — popular dates fill up, especially in spring and fall.
- Plan your party size: group rates apply to organized groups. For very large groups of 50 or more, call ahead so we can arrange the right number of tram runs.
- Arrive 15–20 minutes early to allow time for restrooms, unloading, and gathering your group before the tram boards.
- Tours run rain or shine — usually. Tram tours may be delayed, rescheduled, or canceled due to severe weather or unsafe prairie conditions. We will work with you to find another date when needed.
- Tell us about accessibility needs in advance if anyone in your group has mobility or accessibility needs so we can prepare.
- Follow safety guidance: stay seated on the tram at all times, never feed or approach the animals, and follow all instructions from your guide.
- Give notice to cancel: please notify us as early as possible if you need to cancel or change your reservation, and we will help you find another date when possible.
- Pack out your trash: food is allowed in picnic areas. Please pack out all trash or use designated containers, and never throw food toward wildlife.
How it works
How to book a group reservation.
Four simple steps from interested to out on the prairie.
Review dates & group size
Have 2–3 preferred dates and times ready, along with your estimated group size and age range.
Submit the request form
Fill out the Group Reservation Request form below so we can check availability and plan your visit.
Wait for confirmation
Our staff will contact you to confirm details, answer questions, and finalize your reservation.
Arrive ready to board
Bring your confirmation and arrive early so everyone can use restrooms and be ready when the tram boards.
Helpful tips before you request.
Having complete information helps us place your group on the best tour and prepare our guides for your arrival.
- Know your numbers: have your estimated group size and age range ready.
- Bring a few date options: have 2–3 possible dates and times in mind.
- Decide on add-ons: let us know if you'd like an educational add-on or picnic time.
- Flag any needs: tell us about any accessibility or mobility needs.
Request a reservation
Group Reservation Request
Submit your request below and our staff will be in touch to confirm availability and plan your visit. Your reservation is not confirmed until Maxwell Wildlife Refuge staff contacts you.
Prefer to talk it through?
