There is no visitor center at Amache National Historic Site. However, the Amache Museum in Granada is open Tuesday to Friday from 9AM to 4PM, and closed on Saturdays, Mondays, and major holidays.
There is no entrance fee to visit Amache National Historic Site. It is free year-round for all visitors.
From Denver, drive southeast on Highway 385/50, passing through Lamar, to reach this historic site near Granada, a poignant stop along the Santa Fe Trail.
Amache National Historic Site has a dirt parking area with ample space for cars and smaller RVs. There is no specific designation for larger RVs or motorcycles, but all can park. Parking is free and there are no overnight parking restrictions.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
Amache National Historic Site, situated in the heart of Prowers County, Colorado, is a poignant and powerful destination that immerses visitors in a tumultuous chapter of American history. This former incarceration camp, where over 10,000 Japanese Americans were detained during World War II, now stands as a solemn reminder of the past.
The site, just southwest of the small farming community of Granada, is characterized by its vast, open landscapes and the remnants of a once-thriving community. The historic cemetery and monument serve as solemn tributes, while the concrete building foundations and the preserved road network evoke the daily lives of those who were forcibly relocated here.
Despite the lack of original buildings, the area remains one of the most intact examples of a World War II incarceration site. Visitors can explore the reconstructed and rehabilitated structures, gaining a deeper understanding of the lives of the internees. The surrounding landscape, marked by the arid beauty of the Colorado plains, adds a haunting backdrop to this historic site.
There are no hiking trails or lakes here, but the site’s historical significance is palpable. Seasonal changes bring subtle shifts in the landscape, from the golden hues of autumn to the stark beauty of winter. Special events, such as ranger-led tours and commemorative services, offer a deeper connection to the site’s history.
For those looking to delve further, nearby Granada offers a glimpse into rural American life, with local eateries and shops that reflect the community’s resilience. Amache National Historic Site is not a place for leisurely strolls or outdoor adventures but a site for reflection and remembrance, inviting travelers to immerse themselves in its profound and somber beauty.
- Area (mi²)
- 1
- Annual visitors
- 30 000
- Established year
- 2022
Top 3 Facts about Amache National Historic Site
The incarceration site was surrounded by a four-strand barbed wire fence with eight guard towers, each equipped with searchlights, and had a unique octagonal lookout design. The camp’s 560 buildings were constructed with superior foundations to withstand the desert heat, using a more durable method instead of post and pier foundations.
This historic site, once a barren landscape, now thrives with life. Siberian elms, planted by former residents, provide refuge for up to 40 bird species. A rare rose bush, dormant for nearly 80 years, has recently bloomed with delicate pink buds. The nearby Arkansas River attracts a diverse avifauna, making this a compelling destination for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers.
In this arid landscape, a surprising oasis thrives. The trees planted by the incarcerees, mostly Siberian elms, have grown and flourished, providing refuge for up to 40 bird species in a region otherwise devoid of trees. The nearby Arkansas River, a lifeline in this desert-like terrain, supports a diverse avifauna, making it a compelling birding destination.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Self-guided Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Living History & Cultural Demos
- Scavenger Hunts
- Volunteer & Stewardship
- Youth Conservation
- Scouting Partnerships
- Virtual Junior Activities
- Arts & Crafts
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Plan for a spring or fall visit to avoid extreme temperatures. Allow a few hours for a self-guided car tour through the unpaved roads. Bring water, snacks, and wear comfortable shoes; no restrooms or visitor center available. Download the driving tour podcast beforehand.
Pack Appropriately
Pack for extreme weather: sunscreen, hats, and layers for hot summers and cold winters. Bring water, sturdy shoes, and beware of snakes and sharp plants. Check forecasts to avoid thunderstorms and tornadoes. For longer stays, include camping gear and protective clothing.
Respect Wildlife
Respect the prairie ecosystem by staying on designated paths, especially during wildflower blooms. Avoid disturbing wildlife, including mule deer and birds. Bring water and sun protection during dry seasons. Leave no trace to preserve this unique habitat.
Stay Informed
Watch for snakes and sharp plants, and use a walking stick on uneven terrain. Bring water, sunscreen, and hats; no restrooms or drinking water available. Stay informed about weather and park rules. For emergencies, call park authorities.
Seasons
Experience the poignant history and summer events, including July 4th parades and musical concerts, amid soaring temperatures (90s°F) and limited shade. Visit early morning or evening to avoid the heat. Don’t miss the annual Obon festival in the summer months. Pack sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water.
Visit in fall, when mild temperatures (50s-70s°F) and crisp air enhance the poignant history. No specific fall events, but interpretive panels and restored buildings come alive amidst the autumn landscape. Ideal for reflection and exploration.
Visit in December and January for a solemn winter experience, with cold temperatures (often below 30°F) and potential snow. While conditions can be harsh, the serene landscape and historical significance make for a poignant and reflective visit. Plan cautiously due to possible road closures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Amache National Historic Site has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The drive from Colorado Springs to Amache National Historic Site is approximately three hours by car, covering a distance of about 178 miles.
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Dogs are allowed on the grounds as long as they are on a leash and their waste is bagged and removed. They are permitted on established roads but must remain leashed at all times.
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There is parking available, but it is limited and not specified for large vehicles like motorhomes, camper vans, or trailers. The site does not provide detailed information on parking for different sizes of RVs. Visitors should be prepared for basic facilities.
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Amache National Historic Site was a World War II internment camp that opened in August 1942 in Granada, Colorado, to house Japanese Americans, mostly from California. The camp, named after Amache Prowers, the daughter of a Cheyenne chief, held up to 7,318 people at its peak and was surrounded by barbed-wire fencing and guard towers. It was part of the War Relocation Authority’s efforts under President Roosevelt’s executive orders, and it operated until the end of the war.