Become a member and keep the prairie wild.
Maxwell Wildlife Refuge is 2,560 acres of native Kansas tallgrass prairie — home to a free-roaming bison herd, elk, and the grassland ecosystems that once covered the Great Plains. Your membership funds animal care, habitat restoration, education programs, and keeps this wild Kansas experience accessible to everyone.
Member benefits
What every member receives.
All membership levels include the same core benefits — your level reflects how much you want to give back to the prairie.
Member-only refuge news
Behind-the-scenes updates about the herd, conservation projects, and what is new at the refuge — delivered to your inbox.
Priority notice for special events
Get advance notice of seasonal tours, wildlife photography mornings, educational programs, and special refuge events before the general public.
Supporter recognition
Optional recognition as a refuge supporter on our website and in print materials. Higher tiers receive more prominent placement.
Direct impact on the prairie
Every dollar stays local — supporting daily bison and elk care, prairie habitat maintenance, school programs, and keeping the refuge open to all.
Membership levels
Choose the level that fits you.
From individual supporters to legacy partners, every membership tier directly funds the animals, habitat, and programs that make Maxwell special.
Prairie Friend
Ideal for individuals and seniors who love the refuge. Core member benefits and the satisfaction of knowing you help keep the prairie thriving.
Prairie Family
Perfect for households that visit together. All core member benefits extend to everyone in your home — great for families with young explorers.
Friend of the Herd
Go the extra mile for the bison and elk. Core benefits plus optional recognition on the refuge website and in print as a named supporter.
Bison Guardian
Champions habitat restoration and long-term conservation work. Includes all core benefits, priority event invitations, and optional "Bison Guardian" recognition.
Prairie Legacy Partner
For individuals, families, or businesses who want to make a lasting impact. Prominent online and on-site recognition, plus the option for a private guided tour of the refuge.
Your impact
Where your membership goes.
Maxwell Wildlife Refuge is a nonprofit operation. Memberships directly fund the people, programs, and prairie that make every tram tour possible.
Bison & elk care
Daily animal husbandry, veterinary costs, and herd management for the free-roaming bison and elk on 2,560 acres of open range.
Habitat restoration
Prescribed burns, invasive species removal, and native grassland plantings that keep the tallgrass prairie healthy for decades to come.
Education programs
School field trips, guided nature education, and programming that connects Kansas kids and families to the natural world right in their backyard.
Facility maintenance
Tour Center upkeep, tram maintenance, road repairs, and the infrastructure that makes safe, comfortable visits possible year after year.
Open to all
Your membership helps keep tram tour prices accessible and ensures Maxwell remains a welcoming destination for every family, regardless of budget.
Conservation legacy
Protecting one of the last free-roaming bison herds in Kansas — a living piece of the Great Plains story that future generations deserve to experience.
Membership FAQs
Common questions about membership.
Have a question that is not answered here? Reach out to us at maxwellwildliferefuge@gmail.com and we will be happy to help.
When does my membership start?
+
Your membership is active as soon as your payment is processed through Zeffy. You will receive a confirmation email with your membership details.
How long does a membership last?
+
Memberships are annual — they run for one year from the date of purchase. Renewal reminders will be sent before your membership expires.
Is my membership tax-deductible?
+
Maxwell Wildlife Refuge is a nonprofit organization. Please consult your tax advisor to confirm deductibility for your situation.
Can I give a membership as a gift?
+
Yes! Complete the form above and enter the recipient's information. Contact us at maxwellwildliferefuge@gmail.com if you need help arranging a gift membership.
What is the Prairie Legacy Partner private tour?
+
Prairie Legacy Partners ($500+) may request a private guided tour of the refuge at a mutually agreed time. Contact us after joining to schedule your visit.
How do I get recognition on your website or in print?
+
Supporter recognition is optional for all tiers. After joining, email us at maxwellwildliferefuge@gmail.com with the name you would like listed and we will take care of the rest.
Other ways to support Maxwell Wildlife Refuge
Not ready for a membership? A one-time donation, volunteer hours, or a group tour reservation all make a direct difference for the bison, elk, and prairie.
