Long ago, vast herds of bison roamed countless acres of prairie in the land that would someday become the fertile state of Iowa. You can still find remnants of that era tucked away around the state; you may have even visited the popular Neal Smith Wildlife Sanctuary for some prairie vistas. However, not too many people have even heard of the Broken Kettle Grassland Preserve, which is one of the largest prairies in Iowa.

In fact, it is said to be the largest continuous prairie in all of Iowa. This prairie also happens to be part of the unique Loess Hills formation which sweeps down the western side of the state.
The Nature Conservancy in Iowa / Facebook
This sometimes rugged terrain adds a beauty that can be hard to find in flatter prairie lands.
Broken Kettle even has a growing bison herd which is now over 200 animals strong!
The Nature Conservancy in Iowa / Facebook
This prairie has a wild feel, and it's likely to stay that way. There aren’t hiking or walking trails here.
The Nature Conservancy in Iowa / Facebook

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Just grass, a few trees in the valleys, bison, and all kinds of amazing insects and native prairie plants - not to mention the rare prairie rattlesnake, bobolink, and the Great Plains toad that live here.
The Nature Conservancy in Iowa / Facebook
Human visitors are welcome; however, just be aware that this isn’t a developed attraction with public facilities. Some areas may have limited access due to grazing or other management activity.
The Nature Conservancy in Iowa / Facebook
Activities such as camping, campfires, and seed harvesting aren’t allowed at Broken Kettle.
The preserve can be seen from Highway 12 as well as back roads such as Butcher Road and County Road 34.
The Nature Conservancy in Iowa / Facebook
If you are itching to hike and you prefer trails, you might want to opt for Five Ridge Prairie Park Preserve next door.

The Broken Kettle Grassland Preserve headquarters is located at 24764 IA-12 in Westfield, Iowa. If you’re really excited to fully experience Iowa’s largest continuous prairie for yourself, consider calling the Nature Conservancy at 515-244-5044 to check for upcoming events or tours at Broken Kettle, or visit their website here. Broken Kettle isn’t the only place to see bison or prairie in Iowa – try Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge as well.

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Broken Kettle Grasslands Preserve, Westfield, IA 51062, USA