Plan Your Visit
EVENTS
May
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Pioneer Days (Kiowa) May
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Kicking Bear Camp (Gyp Hills Byway) first weekend after Memorial Day
June
July
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Hardtner Fireworks
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Sharon Independence Day
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Barber County Fair (Hardtner)
September
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Kiowa Labor Day Celebration
The Gyp Hills region hosts a variety of festivals, community celebrations, outdoor gatherings, and seasonal activities that bring our scenic landscape and rich heritage to life. From historic reenactments and rodeos to spring wildflower tours and community fairs, there’s always something special happening here.
Peace Treaty Festival- Last Weekend in September!
Every September, the Gyp Hills set the stage for the annual Peace Treaty Festival in Medicine Lodge, Kansas — an event honoring the area’s rich Native American heritage.
Held the last full weekend of the month, the festival features an inter-tribal powwow, the Kansas Championship Ranch Rodeo, Buckapalooza (bucking stock-only rodeo), a parade, vendors, food, and kids activities. Special displays and programs at the local Stockade Museum and Carry Nation home elevate the weekend experience.
Every three years, the Peace Treaty Pageant takes place at Memorial Peace Park, bringing 300 years of history to life and commemorating the 1867 peace treaty signing near Medicine Lodge.
The festival draws thousands each year to experience Native American traditions and the unique culture of the Gyp Hills.
Where to stay
Gyp Hills Guest Ranch
A peaceful ranch stay with lodging and RV park facilities set within the scenic hills themselves. Perfect for those looking to soak in the natural beauty and rural charm up close.
3393 SW Woodward Rd, Medicine Lodge, KS 67104
(620) 242-7643
Copa Budget Inn
A simple and budget-friendly inn in Medicine Lodge, ideal if you’re planning to explore the Gyp Hills Scenic Byway or attend festivals.
401 W Fowler Ave, Medicine Lodge, KS 67104
(620) 886-5673
The Bunk House
Boutique hotel in Kiowa, KS, adding another scenic small-town stop to your stay.
524 S 9th St, Kiowa, KS 67070
(620) 886-1557
Kiowa Motel
Built in 2013, this locally owned motel has modern amenities. Located in Kiowa on Highway 8
802 S. 4th St., Kiowa, Kansas, 67070
620-825-4040
The Guest Lodge
Highly rated private lodging in Kiowa, KS (about 20 mi south of Medicine Lodge)
Camping & Outdoor Stays
Barber State Fishing Lake – Offers camping, picnicking, and fishing near Medicine Lodge.
More Information & Contact:
Well Rd, Medicine Lodge, KS 67104 – Open camping & picnicking along with fishing and boating access.
(620) 227-8609 – Contact number for fishing lake area.
Dry Lot Campgrounds & Spring Creek RV Park – An option for RVs and tent campers close to scenic areas.
More Information & Contact:
421 S Spring St, Medicine Lodge, KS 67104 – RV park with water, sewer, and electric (30 & 50 amp) hookups about 1 mile from Barber State Fishing Lake.
(620) 886-9817 – Phone for reservations and campsite details.
Gypsum Hills Trail Rides Campground – A rugged, equestrian-friendly site with campsites and electric hookups if you’re visiting with horses or love rustic outdoor stays.
More Information & Contact:
3212 NW Forest City Rd, Medicine Lodge, KS 67104 – Equine trail rides and primitive camping in the hills.
(620) 886-0776 – Call for trail ride schedules and camping info.
Tent Camping at Powwow Grounds, Memorial Peace Park
More Information & Contact:
3073 SE US Hwy 160, Medicine Lodge, KS 67104
Medicine Lodge City Park
The Medicine Lodge City Park is a free campsite with accessible drinking water, public restrooms, and picnic tables. The site offers fishing opportunities along Elm Creek.
There are 4 RV campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 40 feet. The park the RV hookup lines near the bathrooms, and the city provides 4 free 50 amp electricity boxes for users. You may stay up to 2 days at Medicine Lodge City Park and not again for 14 days (2 weeks).
The park also features baseball and softball diamonds, the Martina McBride/Home Depot Playground, Powwow Pavilion, and is located adjacent to the Medicine Lodge Pool.
This is a great spot to spend quality family time!
More Information & Contact:
East Fowler Ave, Medicine Lodge, KS 67104
620-886-3909
*Tips for Staying- Accommodations in and around Medicine Lodge can fill up quickly during major events like the Peace Treaty Festival — booking early is recommended.
For a more secluded, nature-immersive experience, consider camping or ranch stays right in the hills.
