Battle of Killdeer Mountain
Park Site of 1864 Battle of Killdeer Mountain, historic battlefield
The Killdeer Mountain battlefield in North Dakota marks the 1864 engagement between U.S. forces and Sioux; visitors come for historical markers, prairie walks and interpretive signage.
- Date: The engagement took place on July 28, 1864, and is commonly cited in accounts of the Sioux Wars as a significant summer campaign action.
- Commanders: Brigadier General Alfred Sully led U.S. forces against Lakota Sioux and Northern Cheyenne groups in the action.
How to Get to Battle of Killdeer Mountain #
The site is accessible by road east of Killdeer, North Dakota, in Dunn County. Driving from Killdeer town center via local county roads is the usual approach; check local maps for the official interpretive marker location.
Tips for Visiting Battle of Killdeer Mountain #
- Visit the interpretive markers and bring binoculars-the prairie views are wide and wildlife sightings common.
- Respect private land boundaries-some battlefield areas are on or adjacent to ranch properties.
- Best early or late in the day for light and fewer vehicle reflections on the landscape.
Best Time to Visit Battle of Killdeer Mountain #
Late spring through early autumn offers accessible roads and comfortable touring conditions.
Weather & Climate near Battle of Killdeer Mountain #
Battle of Killdeer Mountain's climate is classified as Warm-Summer Continental (Dry Winter) - Warm-Summer Continental (Dry Winter) climate with warm summers (peaking in July) and freezing winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from -17°C to 28°C. Semi-arid with limited rainfall.
January
January is the coldest month with highs of -6°C and lows of -17°C. Light rainfall.
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February
February is freezing with highs of -2°C and lows of -13°C. The driest month with just 9 mm.
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March
March is freezing with highs of 4°C and lows of -8°C. Light rainfall.
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April
April is cold with highs of 12°C and lows of -2°C. Moderate rainfall (39 mm).
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May
May is cool with highs of 20°C and lows of 5°C. Moderate rainfall (64 mm).
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June
June is cool with highs of 25°C and lows of 10°C. The wettest month with 85 mm of rain.
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July
July is the warmest month with highs of 28°C and lows of 13°C. Moderate rainfall (56 mm).
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August
August is mild with highs of 28°C and lows of 12°C. Moderate rainfall (42 mm).
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September
September is cool with highs of 22°C and lows of 6°C. Moderate rainfall (42 mm).
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October
October is cold with highs of 14°C and lows of -1°C. Light rainfall.
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November
November is freezing with highs of 3°C and lows of -9°C. Light rainfall.
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December
December is freezing with highs of -4°C and lows of -15°C. Light rainfall.