Welcome to Maxwell Wildlife Refuge

Welcome to the Maxwell Wildlife Refuge, where you can experience the beauty of nature up close and personal. Come and explore our stunning trails, observe majestic buffalo and elk in their natural habitat, and immerse yourself in a sea of colorful wildflowers. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to connect with nature and create unforgettable memories with your loved ones.

200

Bison

60

ELK

40

FLOWERS

About Us

The collaborative efforts of the Friends of Maxwell, the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks, volunteers, members, and supporters have undoubtedly contributed to the success of promoting prairie stewardship, providing educational opportunities, and enhancing the visitor experience along the Kansas Prairie Trail Scenic Byway and the Maxwell Wildlife Refuge.

FRIENDS OF MAXWELL

The Friends of Maxwell is an organization that was established in 1993. Its primary purpose is to support and promote the Maxwell Wildlife Refuge and its mission of prairie stewardship and educational opportunities. The Friends of Maxwell work closely with the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks to present educational tours and events for visitors from around the world.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

The Friends of Maxwell organization is governed by a board of directors. The board members are responsible for making decisions, providing guidance, and overseeing the activities and initiatives of the organization. They play a crucial role in shaping the direction and priorities of the Friends of Maxwell.

VOLUNTEERS

Volunteers are an integral part of the Friends of Maxwell. They contribute their time, skills, and passion to assist with various tasks and activities, such as leading tours, organizing events, conducting research, maintaining facilities, and providing support to visitors. The dedication and efforts of volunteers greatly enhance the organization’s ability to fulfill its mission.

MEMBERS AND SUPPORTERS

The Friends of Maxwell has a membership base comprised of individuals and organizations who support and align with the organization’s goals. Members may enjoy benefits such as access to exclusive events, updates on refuge activities, and the satisfaction of actively contributing to prairie stewardship. Supporters, whether they are members or not, provide essential financial and moral support to help the organization achieve its objectives.

MAXWELL WILDLIFE REFUGE

The Friends of Maxwell played a significant role in the establishment of the Maxwell Wildlife Refuge. Located along the Kansas Prairie Trail Scenic Byway, the refuge serves as a protected area dedicated to the conservation of prairie ecosystems and the preservation of natural, cultural, and historic resources. It provides a habitat for diverse plant and animal species and offers opportunities for research, education, and recreation.

KANSAS PRAIRIE TRAIL SCENIC BYWAY

The Kansas Prairie Trail Scenic Byway is a 56-mile route that traverses north-central Kansas. Starting from Canton, which is near the Santa Fe and Chisholm trails, the byway extends north to Roxbury, west to Lindsborg, and finally to Kanopolis State Lake and Park. The Friends of Maxwell played a significant role in establishing the Maxwell Wildlife Refuge along this scenic byway, highlighting the importance of prairie conservation and offering visitors a chance to experience the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region. The Friends of Maxwell played a significant role in the establishment of the Maxwell Wildlife Refuge. Located along the Kansas Prairie Trail Scenic Byway, the refuge serves as a protected area dedicated to the conservation of prairie ecosystems and the preservation of natural, cultural, and historic resources. It provides a habitat for diverse plant and animal species and offers opportunities for research, education, and recreation.

MWR Director

Trisha Smith

Director

Trish is a native of Concordia, Kansas. Her love for nature and wildlife is on full display as soon as you make her acquaintance., She claims to have “the best job in the world” and is always excited to share the beauty of this Kansas prairie. Trish and her husband are in Salina, Ks

Visitors’ Reviews

    
 
 
        
   Steven Ward 
 2023-06-21
 
 
  I former worked there maxwell for 1 year.  I love there
  
 
       
   Judi O'Brien 
 2023-06-12
 
 
  Baby Bison!  It was beautiful and worth drive.
  
 
       
   Gene Morse 
 2023-06-10
 
 
  Incredible stewards of the Bison and Elk...
  
 
       
   William Baldwin 
 2023-05-22
 
 
  Great experience. Did the baby bison tour.
  
 
       
   Danny Swafford 
 2023-05-15
 
 
  Enjoyed the 45 minute tour. Saw several bison, 2 elk at a great distance.  Elk more visible during winter.
  
 
       
   Maggie Clark 
 2023-05-11
 
 
  our favorite part of our road trip! loved seeing the bison up close!
  
 
       
   Anna Dyer 
 2023-05-11
 
 
  SO AMAZING!! Thank you so much for bringing us on such a beautiful and informative tour of your herd. We couldn’t believe how closely we got to observe the bison. I have so many great pictures of them and seeing the red dogs was the cherry on top.
  
 
  
  
 
 
   Google rating score: 4.8 of 5, based on 220 reviews