Hike through the Tallgrass Prairie Preserve

Park your car at the Visitor Center and head inside to grab a copy of the trail map. If the Visitor Center is closed, you can take a picture of the map on the display outside of the building. There are several trails you can take in the preserve, and all of them are worth the time. I recommend starting at the Southwind Nature Trail that is just north of the Visitor Center. 

This trail takes you north to the Lower Fox Creek Schoolhouse, this school was constructed in 1882 and it's a great structure to photograph. You will continue northwest for about 0.3 miles and the trail will soon intersect with the Davis Trail. I suggest heading north on the Davis Trail for 2 miles and then jumping on the Gas House Cutoff Trail. This trail takes you west for 1.3 miles and then you can head south on the Prairie Fire Loop, this route will take you to the popular Scenic Overlook Trail. The main trail takes you south, but you can head east for 0.3 miles until you reach a scenic overlook (hence the name of the trail). The overlook gives you a spectacular view of the Big Pasture and the Windmill Pasture. Once you are ready to head back retrace your steps to the intersection of the Prairie Fire and Scenic Overlook Trail. Follow the trail for about 3 miles to return to the Visitor Center. 

I definitely recommend getting to the preserve early to witness a sunrise or staying late to watch the sunset. There are herds of Bison around the preserve but be cautious when walking nearby, your trail options may be limited based on where they are grazing. 

Camping isn't allowed in the preserve but the Chase State Fishing Lake is only a couple of miles away. There is no charge for camping at the lake, and all spots are first come first serve. For a great bison burger and beer stop by Ad Astra in Strong City.