Because

our Best
Moments
are Made
Unplugged

[Link]
Hillsdale State Park

welcome
MISSION
The Kansas Department of Wildlife,
Parks and Tourism (KDWPT) is charged
with conserving our state’s natural
resources and inspiring people to visit
these and all attractions in Kansas.
KDWPT’s mission is to:
• Conserve and enhance Kansas’
natural heritage, its wildlife and its
habitats to ensure the benefits of the
state’s diverse, living resources for
future generations;
• Provide the public with
opportunities to use and appreciate
the natural resources of Kansas,
consistent with conserving those
resources;

A t Kansas State Parks, we don’t settle for humdrum, run-of-the-mill places to visit.
We create spaces for real, meaningful, Instagram-worthy experiences. We’re
striving for experiences that not only look good on the outside but also feel good
on the inside. And with 28 state parks to choose from, there’s a whole lot of adventure to
be had.
• Inform the public about the
natural resources of Kansas to
promote understanding and develop
assistance with this mission;
• Encourage the public to visit
When you choose a Kansas state park for your next overnight stay, you’re choosing from and travel in Kansas and stimulate
one of 10,000 campsites and more than 120 cabins and yurts. tourism and travel-related spending
When you choose a Kansas state park for fun with your family, you’re choosing from in the state by promoting its
130,000 surface-acres of water to boat, jet ski, swim, paddleboard, and fish. recreational, historic, cultural and
When you choose a Kansas state park for making memories with friends, you’re choosing natural attractions.
from more than 250 special events throughout the year.
But above all, when you choose a Kansas state park, you’re choosing adventure. The agency works toward its mission
New this year, adventure can be found at two of Kansas’ newest state parks—Flint Hills through activities in the following
Trail and Little Jerusalem Badlands (set to open this summer). At 117 miles, the Flint Hills categories:
Trail State Park is the longest trail in Kansas—and the seventh-longest rail trail in America. • Administration
Hike a stretch, bike a stretch, or just pick a few favorite spots to complete. As for the Little • State Parks
Jerusalem Badlands, it’s something you’ll need to see to believe. The 330-acre tract of land • Hunting and Public Lands
is home to 250 acres of Niobrara chalk formations that will have you thinking you’re on • Fishing and Public Waters
another planet—in a good way! And while access to the core of this state park is limited to • Boating
preserve its fragile formations, you’re bound to have a phenomenal time participating in • Tourism
one of the guide-led hikes. • Conserving Habitats and Species
So flip through this KANSAS! State Parks guide, find the places where adventure is calling • Law Enforcement
you, then go make it happen! There are incredible sights to see, great fun to be had, and • Information and Education
friendly staff waiting to greet you.

Kansas state parks—where your next adventure lives.

On The Cover
A young boy plays at
Linda Lanterman
Because
our Best
Moments
El Dorado State Park.
are Made
Unplugged Photo by Crossroads
State Parks Director Photography.

[Link]

3
KS State Parks
contents
03 Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park
Welcome

06
About

08
Cabins & Camping

09
Camping Scavenger Hunt

11
Activities

12
Amenities & Regions

13
Northwest Region

17
Southwest Region

21
North Central Region

29
South Central Region

33
Northeast Region

41
Southeast Region LAURA KELLY
Governor

48 BRAD LOVELESS
Secretary
Info Editorial production and design by
All images courtesy of KDWPT
Sunflower Publishing
unless otherwise noted.
50 [Link]
Camping 101 This guide was released in April 2019 with the
latest and most updated information at time of
printing. Park information is updated throughout
51 the year online at
Contacts [Link]
[Link] [Link]

52
Wichita, Kansas
The Kansas State Parks Guide is published by the Printer
Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism
Resources 1020 S. Kansas Ave., Suite 200, Topeka, KS 66612,
(785) 296-2281

54
Map of Kansas

4
KS State Parks
 Life connects in
Franklin County
with the Flint Hills and
Prairie Spirit Trails.

[Link]

Proud Past – Brilliant Future

Smoke in the Spring
State BBQ Championship
April 12-13, 2019
785-528-3714 (Osage City Hall)
[Link]

[Link]
 about
FEES STATE PARKS PASSPORT KANSAS STATE PARKS
For a complete list of permit fees, visit Kansas motor vehicle owners can The Kansas Department of Wildlife,
[Link]/State-Parks/Park-Fees. purchase a “Kansas State Parks Parks and Tourism manages 28 state
Passport,” an annual park vehicle permit, parks, offering such amenities as
MOTOR VEHICLE PERMITS when they register their vehicles. The
permit costs $15.50 (compared to
RV sites with utility hookups, cabins,
primitive camping sites, shower
Daily or annual vehicle permits are
$25 for an annual permit through the houses, playgrounds, trails, beaches,
required at most state parks. Senior KDWPT office). This non-transferable boat ramps and more. Most parks
and disabled vehicle-owners can take permit is only available during the vehicle offer convenient access to reservoirs
advantage of special discounts (Kansas registration process at a motor vehicle and wildlife areas. All the state parks
residents only). Annual motor vehicle registration office, through the online highlight beautiful Kansas landscapes,
permits are available at KDWPT park vehicle registration site ([Link].
perfect for outdoor exploration.
and regional offices, or you can purchase org), or when registering by mail. The
No matter what your nature-loving
daily vehicle permits at park entrance Kansas State Parks Passport is valid for
one year from the date of purchase.
interest, a Kansas state park has what
gates or self-serve kiosks. you’re looking for. Use this guide to
learn more about the Kansas state
Prairie Spirit Trail parks in your area, or to find a park in
Kansas that offers the activities that
interest you.

El Dorado State Park

6
KS State Parks
Great Bend

Kansas
Come for the Hunting . . . Stay for the Hospitality
Located between 50,000+ acres of Walk-In Public
Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Area Land Hunting Area for deer,
& Quivira National Wildlife Refuge turkey, upland game, waterfowl,
and more

Approximately 400 hotel rooms Stock up on all of your hunting

for a comfortable stay after necessities at our excellent
your time in the elements local stores and suppliers

3111 10th Street • Great Bend, KS 67530

620.792.2750 • [Link]

Photo Credits: Melissa Tudor; JC Bosch; Alex Moyers

 cabins &
camping
CAMPSITE &
CABIN RESERVATIONS
To make cabin or campsite reservations,
visit [Link]/State-Parks/
Reservations, or call a KDWPT state
park office or the KDWPT Operations
Office at (620) 672-5911. The number
of campsites available for reservation will
vary by park—in most parks more than
half of the sites can be reserved. The rest
are available on a first-come, first-served
basis. Shelter and group campground
reservations can be made through park
offices. Rates vary depending on location,
dates and amenities desired. Special
event and youth camping permits are
also available. Seasonal camping permits
are available at some parks. Fees vary
depending on the season.

Modern Primitive Total

Cabins Cabins Cabins
CAMPING
A camping permit is required in addition to the Cedar Bluff State Park 3 3 6 MODERN
motor vehicle permit for overnight stays at state Cheney State Park 9 0 9 CABINS
Clinton State Park 7 0 7 Beds; heat/AC;
park. Fourteen-day or annual camping permits electricity; water;
Crawford State Park 5 0 5
are also available. All daily camping permits Cross Timbers State Park 4 0 4
bathroom with
expire at 2 p.m. Special seasonal camping toilet, shower
Eisenhower State Park 4 2 6 and sink; kitchen
permits are available at some parks. El Dorado State Park 5 5 10 with stove, oven
Elk City State Park 1 0 1 and refrigerator.
CABINS Fall River State Park 3 3 6
Glen Elder State Park 2 0 2
Consider a relaxing stay in one of the 120 PRIMITIVE
Historic Lake Scott State Park 2 0 2
comfortable cabins at Kansas state parks. Deluxe CABINS
Kanopolis State Park 6 0 6
cabins feature refrigerators, stoves, microwaves Lovewell State Park 4 5 9
Reliable
shelter and
and coffee pots, as well as separate bedrooms Milford State Park 10 0 10 accommodation.
and full bathrooms with showers. Basic sleeper Perry State Park 4 0 4 No bathrooms
cabins are also available and are located near a Pomona State Park 4 0 4 or running
Prairie Dog State Park 2 2 4 water.
showerhouse. Most cabins can sleep four to six
Tuttle Creek State Park 11 0 11
adults while others can sleep up to 10 adults.
Webster State Park 2 0 2
Many of the cabins are ADA-accessible. Nightly
Wilson State Park 8 0 8
rental rates vary depending on location, season,
day of the week and available amenities. No linens provided. Bring your own linens, toiletries and food.
Telephone and TV not provided.

8
KS State Parks
 camping
scavenger hunt
How many of the items below can you find? As you find the items, cross them off. If you make a
line horizontally, diagonally or vertically, you win! Or you can try to find all of the items.

b i n g o

free
space

9
KS State Parks
 recipe
DIRECTIONS COOK-YOUR-OWN
RADER’S TATERS
Layer potatoes, seasonings, oil and butter in
Dutch oven.
R E C I P E B Y K AT E R A D E R | S TO R Y B Y M E TA N E W E L L W E S T
Regular Dutch oven method—Cover and cook
on medium heat until potatoes are tender,
ABOUT THE COOK AND THE RECIPE
about 35 to 45 minutes, stirring frequently. Kate Rader, a seasoned campfire cooking enthusiast and trail cook, likes to stack
Adding a lid will help steam the potatoes and up a collection of camp Dutch ovens and prepare a full meal in her backyard in
speed up the cooking. Carlton, Kansas. One of her favorites sides is this colorful and flavorful potato dish
that daughter, Annette Satterfield, makes for the family.
For camp Dutch Oven method—For a tempera-
ture of 350°F, use about 16 charcoal briquettes
on top and 8 on bottom; this system provides
more uniform internal heat and lets the inside
INGREDIENTS:
of the pot act as an oven. Kate advised, “I also - Yukon Gold, new or finerling potato — about 3 pounds
heat a few extra briquettes to be on the safe - 1 big sweet potato, peeled, cut in bite-size pieces
side.” Baking requires more heat on top of the - 2 or 3 garlic cloves, crushed
oven than is needed on the bottom. Rotate - Salt and pepper to taste
oven a quarter to a half turn once or twice - 1 tablespoon fresh sage, finely chopped
while baking; this regulates the uneven heat - 1 or 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped
caused by wind and/or the uneven distribution - Olive oil, about 1/4 cup
of coals on the top and bottom of the oven. - Butter, about 3 or 4 tablespoons

THE FRIENDS OF MAXWELL

MAXWELL WILDLIFE REFUGE
2800 acres of native prairie located in the
Smoky Hills. Guided tram tours for viewing
wildlife available by reservations.
Call 620-628-4455 or visit our
website for more information.

2565 PUEBLO ROAD, CANTON, KANSAS [Link]

 activities
Historic Lake Scott State Park

THINGS TO DO
Kansas state parks offer more
than just camping and relaxing,
although those are two excellent
options. There are archery ranges,
basketball courts, baseball fields,
swimming beaches, fishing,
boating and disc golf. Three parks
offer shooting ranges, and most
are conveniently located near
large public hunting areas.

FORE! HUNTING HIKING, BIKING AND HORSEBACK RIDING

Disc golf is a fun and Some parks offer KDWPT maintains some 617 miles of recreational trails built for
competitive way to explore limited special hiking, bicycling, horseback riding and nature appreciation. Enjoy
the outdoors. Find a course at hunting for youth or native flora, fauna and natural geological formations unique to the
these state parks: with special permit. state. Visitors can also experience history and culture by walking the
• Clinton State Park A state park cabin paths once traveled by Native Americans or early Kansas settlers.
• Eisenhower State Park is a perfect hunting The natural settings of Kansas state park trails provide a renewed
• Elk City State Park base camp—a warm spirit and peace of mind seldom found in the urban landscape.
• Historic Lake Scott and cozy place to rest
State Park after a long day of SHOOTING RANGES
• Lovewell State Park hunting. Supervised shooting ranges are located at Hillsdale State Park, the
• Meade State Park Fancy Creek Area of Tuttle Creek State Park and El Dorado State
• Pomona State Park Park. These ranges have designated open hours, which are listed at
• Tuttle Creek State Park FOR MORE [Link]. Just type “shooting ranges” into the search box.
INFORMATION
For more information For information on shooting ranges available to the public, visit www.
TAKE AIM on state park biking [Link]/Services/Education/Shooting-Ranges.
Practice archery at any of trails, visit ksoutdoors.
these state parks: com/Services/
• Cedar Bluff State Park
Outdoor-Activities/
• Clinton State Park
Bicycling. For more SWIM, PADDLE AND FLOAT
information on
• Eisenhower State Park For canoeing fans or avid kayakers, Kansas state parks are the
equestrian trails, visit
• El Dorado State Park perfect place to hit the water. Tuttle Creek, Cross Timbers,
[Link]/
• Elk City State Park
Services/Outdoor- Meade, Elk City, Eisenhower and Historic Lake Scott state
• Glen Elder State Park Activities/Equestrian- parks have kayaks and canoes available to rent. Don’t forget
• Hillsdale State Park Trails. your life jacket! Kansas state law requires anyone 12 and
• Lovewell State Park younger to wear a life jacket at all times when aboard a water
• Prairie Dog State Park vessel. KDWPT suggests everyone wear a life jacket at all times
• Tuttle Creek State Park to ensure optimal safety.
• Webster State Park

11
KS State Parks
Amenities
& Regions
Archery Range NORTHWEST SOUTHWEST NORTH CENTRAL SOUTH CENTRAL NORTHEAST SOUTHEAST
Bait Shop

Biking Lovewell
Prairie Dog
Boat Ramps
70
Glen Elder Tuttle Creek
Webster
Boating Kaw River Perry
635

Milford 70
70 Wilson 470
Clinton
435
Cabins Cedar Bluff 70
Mushroom Pomona
35
Little Jerusalem Rock
Campgrounds w/ Utility Hook-ups Badlands
35W
Hillsdale
Historic Lake Scott Kanopolis Flint Hills
Eisenhower Trail
Canoeing 35
Sand Hills
El Dorado
Courtesy Docks Prairie Spirit
Cross Timbers Trail
Cheney
Disc Golf Fall River Crawford
235

Drinking Water Elk City

35
Meade
Dump Stations

Equestrian Trails State Parks by region and page number

Fire Rings

Fish Cleaning Station

14 36 25

Fishing
CEDAR BLUFF FLINT HILLS TRAIL MILFORD

Grills 30 22 26
Group Camp CHENEY GLEN ELDER MUSHROOM ROCK
Hiking (Trails)
34 37 39
Historical Site
CLINTON HILLSDALE PERRY
Hunting

Kayaking 42 18 40

Marina CRAWFORD HISTORIC LAKE SCOTT POMONA

Mountain Biking
43 23 15
Nature Trails
CROSS TIMBERS KANOPOLIS PRAIRIE DOG
Park Office
35 38 46
Picnic Areas
EISENHOWER KAW RIVER PRAIRIE SPIRIT TRAIL
Playground

Primitive Campground 31 19 32

Restaurant EL DORADO LITTLE JERUSALEM BADLANDS SAND HILLS

Restrooms
44 24 27
Shelters
ELK CITY LOVEWELL TUTTLE CREEK
Shooting Range
45 20 16
Showers
FALL RIVER MEADE WEBSTER
Swimming

Waterskiing 28
Wildlife Watching WILSON
12
KS State Parks
 NORTHWEST
REGION
14 CEDAR BLUFF 15 PRAIRIE DOG 16 WEBSTER

Cedar Bluff

BYWAYS
Western Vistas Historic Byway
Smoky Valley Scenic Byway

Arikaree Breaks Mount Sunflower

This small “badlands” Situated at the Kansas-Colorado border,
region is 36 miles long and is between Interstate 70 and U.S. Highway 40,
located in Cheyenne County Mount Sunflower is the highest point in Kansas
near St. Francis. The deep at 4,039 feet. • Prairie Dog

valleys and ravines were 70

• Webster 635

created by wind and water Physiography

70
470 435
70
• 70
Cedar Bluff 35

erosion. Most of the Northwest Region is considered

35W

35

part of the High Plains physiographic

Monument Rocks region, featuring excellent farmland and
235

35

These natural chalk structures, shortgrass prairie. The eastern part of this
located in Gove County, stand region features the Smoky Hills grassland,
70 feet tall and were formed home to greater prairie chickens and a host
80 million years ago. of other prairie wildlife species.

13
KS State Parks
NORTHWEST

cedar bluff
REGION

S T A T E P A R K

AT CEDAR BLUFF RESERVOIR

See page 12 for icon key listings

32001 147 Highway Ellis, KS 67637 | [Link]@[Link] | [Link]/Cedar-Bluff-State-Park | (785) 726-3212

3
modern
3 267 3 144 21
primitive primitive shelters standard seasonal (long term)
4
standard full
cabins cabins campsites hook-ups with full hook-ups hook-ups
electric & water

GREAT FOR

T he park boasts two recreation areas, Boating

encompassing 1,100 acres along the shore Water sports
of Cedar Bluff Reservoir. Adventurers Fishing
will enjoy a stunning view of the lake from the top Anglers
of the 150-foot-high limestone bluffs. The park is Hiking
also set to open a new archery range for visitors by Hunting
summer 2019. Wildlife
Located in the heart of Trego County, Cedar watching
Bluff State Park is about halfway between Denver
and Kansas City. This area’s newly renovated
campsites await you. WILDLIFE
TO SEE
Mule deer
White-tailed
deer
HISTORIC POINTS Coyotes
OF INTEREST
Jackrabbits
Bald eagles
Threshing Butterfield Overland Golden eagles
Machine Canyon Despatch trail (BOD). (seasonal)
This canyon is named The Cedar Bluff
for the 1867 Native Reservoir is located FISH TO
American attack along the old BOD, a
on freight couriers post-Civil War freight
CATCH
transporting a threshing passage from Atchison
Crappie
machine. All three men to Denver. Stations, Walleye
were killed and the wagons and coaches Wiper
threshing machine was along this route were Largemouth
Photo Courtesy Jason Lindsey

set on fire. Remains of often targets for attack bass

the burned threshing by Native Americans.
machine are now on A stone marker for the
display at Trego County BOD trail can be seen
Historical Society along the highway near
Museum in WaKeeney. the Cedar Bluff Dam.
14
KS State Parks
 NORTHWEST

prairie dog
REGION

S T A T E P A R K

AT KEITH SEBELIUS RESERVOIR

See page 12 for icon key listings

13037 State Highway 261 Norton, KS 67654 | [Link]@[Link] | [Link]/Prairie-Dog-State-Park | (785) 877-2953

2
modern
2 154 3
primitive primitive day use
1
community
67 13 10
standard standard standard full
cabins cabins campsites shelters shelters hook-ups with hook-ups hook-ups
electric & water with electric

GREAT FOR
Fishing
Wildlife
watching
O ccupying 1,150 acres on the shores of
Keith Sebelius Reservoir, Prairie Dog
State Park is known for its prairie dog
town with an estimated 300 prairie dogs. However,
the park was named before prairie dogs called the
Hiking area home. After reintroduction efforts failed, the
Archery prairie dogs voluntarily found their way to the state
park and have thrived since. You can find the colony
about a quarter-mile south of the park office.
WILDLIFE
Young visitors will enjoy The Steve Mathes
TO SEE Nature Trail, a 1.4-mile pathway complete with
Prairie dogs seasonal storybook signs for young hikers to enjoy.
Burrowing owls The park also features an updated archery range
Coyotes for visitors. The adjacent 6,400-acre Norton
Turkeys Wildlife Area offers good prospects for wildlife
Waterfowl viewing and hunting.
Bald eagles
Golden eagles
(seasonal)
POINTS
OF INTEREST
FISH TO
CATCH
Largemouth The Last Adobe House in Kansas
bass Visitors can tour an adobe building that was
Wipers originally built in 1892. The house was preserved
Crappie by a group of activists during the park’s creation.
Photo Courtesy Jessi Jacobs, Michael Pearce

Saugeye
Channel catfish The Hillmon Schoolhouse
This one-room schoolhouse, built in 1887, was
relocated to Prairie Dog State Park in the 1960s.

Shortgrass Prairies
Prairie Dog State Park is the perfect place to view
the shortgrass prairie, which is home to many
iconic grassland wildlife species, including mule
15
KS State Parks
deer and western meadowlarks.
NORTHWEST

webster
REGION

S T A T E P A R K

AT WEBSTER RESERVOIR

1140 10 Road Stockton, KS 67669 | [Link]@[Link] | [Link]/Webster-State-Park | (785) 425-6775

2 100 26
modern primitive shelters
6
standard
86standard
1
standard full
cabins campsites hook-ups with hook-ups with hook-up
electricity electric & water

GREAT FOR

A sandy beach awaits visitors seeking a

retreat on Webster Lake amid rolling
hills and spacious skies. Fossils dot the
rock formations around the lake’s clear water, and
camping is available along the rocky shoreline.
Kayaking
Boating
Hiking
Fishing
The park’s Coyote Trail is a 3-mile nature Archery
trail with 33 interpretive stations. The reservoir
serves as a stopover for all kinds of migratory birds. WILDLIFE
The 8,018-acre Webster Wildlife Area features TO SEE
white-tailed and mule deer, turkey, pheasant, quail White-tailed
and more. deer
Pheasants
Quail
Great blue
herons
Pelicans
NEARBY POINTS
OF INTEREST
Gulls

FISH TO
CATCH
Kirwin National Nicodemus Walleye
Wildlife Refuge National Crappie
Located 20 miles north Historic Site Channel catfish
of Webster State Park, Established in 1877, White bass
this wildlife refuge Nicodemus is the only
offers wildlife watching, remaining site of an
hunting and fishing. A all African-American
visitor center is located pioneer town west of
about 6 miles east of the Mississippi River.
Photo Courtesy Jason Lindsey

the town of Glade on Just a 10-minute drive

Hwy K-9 and is open from Webster State
Monday–Friday. Park, this national
[Link]/refuge/Kirwin/ landmark is a perfect
side trip.
16
KS State Parks
 SOUTHWEST
REGION
18 HISTORIC LAKE SCOTT 19 LITTLE JERUSALEM BADLANDS 20 MEADE

Historic Scott Lake State Park

BYWAY
The southern portion of the
Western Vistas Historic Byway
concludes in Scott City.

The El Cuartelejo Museum and Jerry Sandsage Bison Range Dalton Gang Hideout
Thomas Gallery and Collection and Lee Richardson Zoo This historic homestead includes a
Learn the fascinating history of what is believed Home to 100 bison, the Sandsage range secret stone tunnel believed to be
to be the most northern and most eastern Pueblo offers bison tours and wildflower walks. used by the Dalton Gang to escape
settlement in North America at the El Cuartelejo Visitors might also consider stopping the law. The site also features a
Museum. The museum shares space with the by the Lee Richardson Zoo, located Wild West facade town for picnics
Jerry Thomas Gallery and Collection, displaying one mile from the range and perfect for and photo-ops. [Link]
the art of this Western-theme painter. wildlife lovers of all ages.
[Link] | [Link] [Link]/KDWPT-Info/Locations/Wildlife-A
reas/Southwest/Sandsage-Bison-Range
70

Cimarron National Grassland Boothill Museum

635

70
470 435
70
70

Campers, hunters, hikers and wildlife watchers This museum strives to preserve the his-
35
• Little Jerusalem Badlands
• Historic Lake Scott 35W

will enjoy this massive, preserved grassland, tory of the “Old West” and the legend of
35

spanning 108,175 acres. Dodge City. It is a must-see experience 235

for history enthusiasts. [Link] • Meade 35

17
KS State Parks
SOUTHWEST

historic lake scott

REGION

S T A T E P A R K

AT SCOTT STATE LAKE

101 West Scott Lake Drive Scott City, KS 67871 | [Link]@[Link] | [Link]/Scott-State-Park | (620) 872-2061

2 120 3
modern primitive shelters
7
standard
50standard
cabins campsites full-hook-up hook-ups with
campsites electric & water

GREAT FOR

L ocated in the western Kansas prairie, Historic

Lake Scott State Park offers astonishing
natural springs, deep wooded canyons and
craggy bluffs. The 1,120-acre park surrounds the
100-acre, spring-fed Scott State Fishing Lake.
Fishing
Horseback
riding
Camping
Water-sports enthusiasts can enjoy a swimming Hiking
beach and seasonal canoe, kayak and paddleboat
rentals. Nature trails accommodate hikers and WILDLIFE
horse riders and provide excellent opportunities to TO SEE
observe wildlife. Redheaded
woodpeckers
El Cuartelejo White-tailed
El Cuartelejo is what deer
remains of the only Turkeys
HISTORIC POINTS
OF INTEREST known Pueblo in
Buffalo
Kansas, built by the
Pheasant
Taos in 1664 and
last occupied by the
Coyotes
Steele Homestead Picurie. The adobe Bobcats
Museum and stone foundation
Get a glimpse of early is all that has survived. FISH TO
life on the prairie No Native Americans CATCH
at this historic home occupied the pueblo Crappie
inside the park, built after 1706 although Walleye
by the area’s original Spanish and French Bluegill
settlers and donated forces lived there Channel catfish
by the Herbert Steele occasionally for the Largemouth
KDWPT, Mary Gage

family in 1928. subsequent 20 years.

bass
Duff’s Buffalo Ranch Tour
Photo Courtesy Jason Lindsey

From May through October, visitors can catch a

glimpse of buffalo and learn the regional history
of this majestic creature. Tours can be booked
through the El Quartelejo Museum.
[Link]
18
KS State Parks
 SOUTHWEST

little jerusalem
REGION

badlands S T A T E P A R K

101 West Scott Lake Drive Scott City, KS 67871 | [Link]@[Link] | [Link]/Scott-State-Park | (620) 872-2061
Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park is administered by the staff of Historic Lake Scott State Park

GREAT FOR Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism

Witnessing (KDWPT) it will be available to the public. This
awe-inspiring amazing landscape will open in 2019 as Little
views Jerusalem Badlands State Park.
Seeing natural Fifth generation landowner Jim McGuire sold
wonders the land to TNC because he wanted the formations
protected but also because he loved this property so
much, he wanted others to enjoy it. The purchase fit
WILDLIFE TNC’s mission of conserving critical habitats and
TO SEE KDWPT’s role is to accommodate and educate
Bison visitors while ensuring the badlands are not degraded.
Ferruginous The area is known locally as Little Jerusalem
hawks because some say that when the early-morning sun
Golden eagles lights up the chalk bluffs they resemble the Walls of
Mule deer Jerusalem. The formations consist of chalk sediment
deposited 80 million years ago when a sea covered
much of Kansas. Erosion sculpted the pillars and
ravines over millions of years. The badlands are
world-famous for their well-preserved fossils.
The area provides important habitat for
ferruginous hawks, cliff swallows, Say’s phoebe
and rock wrens, and many native amphibians and
reptiles. Little Jerusalem is also home to the single
largest population of Great Plains wild buckwheat,
an endemic plant found nowhere else in the world.
Trails around the perimeter are being developed
and will allow park visitors to view the badlands.
Access to the interior of the area will be limited to
guided tours to protect the fragile landscape.
“We’re excited about the opportunity The
Nature Conservancy has provided our state park
staff to help people enjoy this amazing piece of

T here is a special place in Logan County –

330 acres of land half way between Oakley
and Scott City – that will transform your
idea of what the shorgrass prairie should look
like. This eruption of Niobrara chalk formations
Kansas,” KDWPT Park Division director Linda
Lanterman said. “We truly believe that visitors will
gain a new appreciation for the Kansas prairie and
the desire to conserve it.”
Watch for a grand opening announcement this
Photo Courtesy Andrea Etzel

is something everyone should experience, and year when facilities are completed, and make plans
now, thanks to a collaborative effort between the to visit Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park. You
Nature Conservancy (TNC) of Kansas and the won’t be disappointed.

19
KS State Parks
SOUTHWEST

meade
REGION

S T A T E P A R K

AT MEADE STATE LAKE

13051 V Road Meade, KS 67864

MeadeSP@[Link]
[Link]/Meade-State-Park
(620) 873-2572

13051 V Road Meade, KS 67864 | [Link]@[Link] | [Link]/Meade-State-Park | (620) 873-2572

54 primitive
4
shelters
42
standard
campsites hook-ups
with electric

GREAT FOR

K nown as the “Oasis on the Plains,” Meade

State Park comprises 443 acres of shortgrass
prairie and recreational facilities situated
around the 80-acre Meade State Fishing Lake.
Visitors enjoy RV sites with hook-ups, primitive sites,
Fishing
Hunting
Nature
enthusiasts
as well as day-use areas and a swimming beach that Disc golfers
features a new beach-side children’s recreation area,
Wild Wood Playground. WILDLIFE
The state purchased the property in 1925 and TO SEE
the dam was built between 1927 and 1928 by hand, White-tailed
mule skids and a couple of small tractors. The lake deer
opened in 1929, but work continued in the area with Armadillos
the Civilian Conservation Corps/Works Projects Roadrunners
Administration stationed there from 1938 to 1943. Quail
Other historical features of the park include Claude
Turkey
Hibbard’s archaeological digs, Native American
campsites, and Coronado’s travels through the area.
FISH TO
CATCH
Channel catfish
POINTS Bluegill
OF INTEREST Largemouth bass
Crappie

The Meade Fish Hatchery

Initially constructed in the 1930s, the Meade
Fish Hatchery is the only hatchery in southwest
Kansas. Fish are raised in seven lined ponds
covering more than 10 acres. Intermediate
channel catfish, hybrid sunfish, largemouth and
Michael Pearce

smallmouth bass, walleye and grass carp are

among the fish species cultured at the Meade
facility. Tours are available by appointment by
Mary Gage

calling (620) 873-2701. The best times to see

Courtesy

fish are April through June.

20
KDWPT,
Photo
 NORTH CENTRAL
REGION
22 GLEN ELDER 23 KANOPOLIS 24 LOVEWELL 25 MILFORD
26 MUSHROOM PARK 27 TUTTLE CREEK 28 WILSON

Wilson State Park

BYWAYS
Post Rock Scenic Byway
Prairie Trail Scenic Byway
(northern section)
Native Stone Scenic Byway
Kansas State University Fort Riley
Located in Manhattan, Kansas State Located near Junction City and Mil-
University is a neighbor to Tuttle ford State Park, Fort Riley is home
Creek State Park. Stay at the park to the 1st Infantry Division, “Big
while also enjoying Wildcat football Red One.” Visit the base’s historic
and all Manhattan has to offer. museums, enjoy a driving or walking
tour and mark your calendar for • Lovewell

patriotic events. 70
• Glen Elder
Milford
• Tuttle Creek 635

The US 36 Treasure Hunt 70 • Wilson

Mushroom Rock •
70
• 70
470 435

If you enjoy antiquing, then you’ll Physiography

35

Kanopolis • 35W

love the US 36 Treasure Hunt. The North Central Region includes

35

This 400-mile “garage sale” is the High Plains, a portion of 235

held annually in mid-September the Flint Hills and the Glaciated

35

as communities along the northern Region. All three regions feature

highway US 36 join forces for a rolling hills along the northern
three-day antique sale. border of the state.

21
KS State Parks
NORTH CENTRAL

glen elder
REGION

S T A T E P A R K

AT GLEN ELDER RESERVOIR & WACONDA LAKE

2131 180 Rd, Glen Elder, KS 67446 | [Link]@[Link] | [Link]/Glen-Elder-State-Park | (785) 545-3345

2 195 3 120
modern primitive shelters standard
cabins campsites hook-ups with
electric & water

GREAT FOR

T his 1,451 acre state park is situated on the

shores of Glen Elder Reservoir (Waconda
Lake). The 12,500-acre lake is named
for the mineral spring that was covered when the
lake was filled. Native Americans called the spring
Water sports
Fishing
Wildlife watching
Hiking
Wakonda, meaning “great spirit.” Archery
It features the Chautauqua Fishing Pond,
which is accessible for individuals with disabilities WILDLIFE
and families with children. The pond is stocked with TO SEE
trout in the winter. Visitors can also practice archery Pelicans
on the archery range or take advantage of the new White-tailed deer
playground at Kanza Campground. Pheasant
Quail
Gulls
Bluebirds
HISTORIC POINTS
OF INTEREST
FISH TO
CATCH
Glen Elder’s Waconda Channel catfish
Heritage Village Walleye
Here, visitors can enjoy entertaining displays White bass
about the area’s unique history. The Waconda
Springs replica is at the park’s highest elevation
and offers unparalleled views. The historic
Hopewell Church in Waconda Heritage Village
is a popular wedding venue.

22
KS State Parks
 NORTH CENTRAL
REGION

S T A T E P A R K
AT KANOPOLIS RESERVOIR

200 Horsethief Road Marquette, KS 67464 | [Link]@[Link] | [Link]/Kanopolis-State-Park | (785) 546-2565

6 200+ 5
modern primitive shelters
63 54 41 16
standard standard designated standard full
cabins campsites hook-ups with hook-ups with equestrian hook-ups
electric electric & water campsites

GREAT FOR
Hiking
Biking
Horseback riding
Fishing
K anopolis State Park, the first in the Kansas
State Park system, is in the rolling hills,
bluffs and woods of the scenic Smoky Hills
region. From the towering Dakota sandstone bluffs
to the caves and crevices of Horsethief Canyon, the
1,605 acre state park and surrounding area offer
WILDLIFE rugged beauty and stunning vistas.
TO SEE With 27.4 miles of trains open to hikers,
White-tailed deer mountain bikers and horseback riders, the
Collared lizards Kanopolis trail system was designated as the Kansas
Quail Millennium Legacy Trail by The American Trails
Turkeys Board and the White House Millennium Council
Nesting bald in 2000. In 2002, the Coalition for Recreational
eagles Trails recognized the trail system for “Outstanding
Use of Recreational Trails Funds for Accessibility
Cedar waxwings
Enhancements.” The Buffalo Track Canyon Nature
Indigo buntings
Trail was designated as a component of the National
Barred owls Trails system in 1981.
Ospreys In addition to trails, visitors can enjoy the
Great blue heron 3,500-acre Kanopolis Reservoir, offering excellent
rookery fishing opportunities.

FISH TO Buffalo Track Canyon Horsethief

CATCH Nature Trail Canyon Trail
Crappie On this trail, you This trail loops through
White bass can observe native canyons and trees, and
Saugeye plants, wildlife and the includes a few water
geology of the canyon. crossings.
Channel catfish
TRAILS Numbered posts along
OF INTEREST the trail correspond to Prairie Trail
numbers in the trail’s Farther north and west
Alum Creek Trail brochure, providing than some of the other
This path takes visitors across the vast prairie and through interesting tidbits of available trails, Prairie
many water crossings. Note that it can take more than a day information along Trail traverses high
to complete some trails on foot. the way. prairie and Red
23
KS State Parks
Rock Canyon.
NORTH CENTRAL

lovewell
REGION

S T A T E P A R K

AT LOVEWELL RESERVOIR

2446 250 Road Webber, KS 66970 | [Link]@[Link] | [Link]/Lovewell-State-Park | (785) 753-4971

5rustic
4 323 10 35 93 27 7
deluxe primitive shelters standard standard standard full station walk-
cabins cabins campsites hook-ups with hook-ups with hook-ups through
electric electric & water archery range

GREAT FOR

L ovewell State Park offers an inviting blend

of camping, fishing, wildlife watching and
special events. The Pioneer Day use Area
features a playground, sand volleyball court, disc
golf course, basketball court and horseshoe pits—
Water sports
Angling
Hunting
Wildlife
DID YOU
KNOW?

ideal for casual visitors. Weekend campers can watching

Lovewell’s
attend church services each Sunday during the Camping playground located in
summer at the historic limestone schoolhouse. Disc Golfing the Pioneer Day use
Water-lovers will enjoy Lovewell’s 2,900- Day use area was donated in
acre reservoir and full-service marina. Lovewell’s memory of longtime
lighted fish-cleaning stations include outlets for WILDLIFE camper Dave
Collette, who passed
electric knives. Fishing licenses can be purchased at TO SEE away in 2016 after a
the state park office. The full-service marina offers White-tailed farming accident. His
bait and tackle—and once visitors have worked deer wife, MaryJane, said
up an appetite, they can find breakfast, lunch and the playground was
Turkeys
dinner options. Visitors can also rent boats and a way to give back
Quail
paddleboards from the marina. For those seeking to the state park
sun and sand, the Southwinds Swimming Beach Pheasant community.
is a nice option. Orioles
Lovewell Wildlife Area invites hunters and Indigo Buntings
wildlife enthusiasts to experience a variety of well-
managed habitat on 2,200 acres. FISH TO
CATCH The US 36
Pawnee Indian Museum Walleye Highway
State Historic Site White bass Treasure Hunt
POINTS
Located a few miles east of Channel catfish Enjoy shopping near
OF INTEREST Lovewell Reservoir and about Crappie Mankato during
8 miles north of US 36 along this antique-filled
K-266 is the city of Republic, weekend. Plan a
where you can learn about the camping trip to
people of the Pawnee Nation Lovewell during the
and hear the story of a Pawnee treasure hunt, which
village that existed there in the takes place in mid-
late 1700s. September.
[Link]/pawnee_indian [Link]

24
KS State Parks
 NORTH CENTRAL

milford
REGION

S T A T E P A R K

AT MILFORD RESERVIOR

3612 State Park Road Milford, KS 66514 | [Link]@[Link] | [Link]/Milford-State-Park | (785) 238-3014

10 103 14 90 51
modern primitive shelters standard standard full
cabins campsites hook-ups with hook-ups
electric & water

GREAT FOR
Biking
Camping
Fishing
Hiking
M ilford State Park is a favorite getaway on
the shores of the state’s largest lake. The
1,600-acre Milford Reservoir is a popular
destination for anglers eager for outstanding fishing
opportunities.
Horseback
Riding Milford is also a popular destination for
Hunting boating and features a large sailing club, swimming
Water sports beaches, boat ramps, picnic shelters, a full-service
marina and a multi-purpose trails system. The
WILDLIFE horse campground is ideal for equestrians and
TO SEE offers 20 campsites with full hook-ups, covered
Bald eagles corrals with lighting and two wash bays.
Ospreys Whether you’re hunting or viewing, the
White-tailed Milford Wildlife Area is home to all types of native
deer species. Roughly 19,000 acres are available for
Quail public access to hunting, wildlife viewing, hiking
Turkeys and more.
Bluebirds

FISH TO
CATCH
Blue catfish
POINTS
Wipers OF INTEREST
Crappie

Milford Milford
Hatchery Nature Center
This hatchery is one The Nature Center,
of only a few warmwater, located adjacent to the
intensive-culture fish hatchery below the
facilities in the Midwest. Milford Dam, offers an
Milford Nature Center hosts Eagle Fish are raised in up-close view of wildlife
Days on the third Saturday of January
concrete raceways, and native to the Flint Hills.
DID YOU each year. The event features
the Milford Hatchery The center features
KNOW? programs on raptors, as well as tours
to view wild bald eagles on the shore also has six one-acre, dioramas, interactive
of Milford Reservoir. 25
KS State Parks
plastic-lined ponds. displays and live animals.
NORTH CENTRAL

mushroom
REGION

rock S T A T E P A R K

200 Horsethief Road Marquette, KS 67464 | [Link]@[Link] | [Link]/Mushroom-Rock-State-Park | (785) 546-2565

T ucked into the Smoky Hills region in BYWAYS

the north central part of the state, the Prairie Trail
mushroom rocks are actually Dakota, Scenic Byway
which are the remains of beach sands and
sediments of the Cretaceous Period. This 5-acre NEARBY
park was donated by the Ellsworth County
Historical Society and was dedicated on April POINTS OF
25, 1965. INTEREST
The sandstone and sedimentary rock are Ellsworth
held together by calcium carbonate, which acts Lindsborg
as a natural cement. The largest rock measures
27 feet in diameter. This geological oddity has
drawn a variety of people, including Native
Americans, mountain men, soldiers and present-
day tourists. It’s said that this was one of American
frontiersman Kit Carson’s “favorite little places.”
This small but mighty state park is
designated as a day-use area only. There is no
camping allowed, and no permits are required.

Ft. Harker Museum Complex HISTORIC POINTS

OF INTEREST
Operated by the Ellsworth County Historical
Society, this four-building complex includes the
guard house, junior officers’ quarters, and the
depot associated with Ft. Harker, which was built
by the Union Army during the Civil War, then
abandoned in 1872.

National Drovers Hall of Fame

Located in Ellsworth, only 12 miles from Mushroom
Rock State Park, the National Drovers Hall of Fame
honors the founders of the American cattle industry.

Little Sweden
The town of Lindsborg is known as “Little Sweden”
Photo Courtesy David Mayes

for its Swedish heritage and celebration of

Swedish cultural events, such as the Annandag
Jul on December 26. Find out what is happening
during the times of your visit by going online at
[Link] .
26
KS State Parks
 NORTH CENTRAL

tuttle creek
REGION

S T A T E P A R K

AT TUTTLE CREEK RESERVOIR

5800 A River Pond Road Manhattan, KS 66502 | [Link]@[Link] | [Link]/Tuttle-Creek-State-Park | (785) 539-7941

11 501 23 44 159
modern primitive shelters standard standard
8
standard full
cabins campsites hook-ups with hook-ups with hook-ups
electric electric & water

GREAT FOR
TRAILS
OF INTEREST
Hiking
Biking
Horseback riding
Fishing
L ocated near Manhattan, Tuttle Creek State
Park offers visitors a wide variety of outdoor
recreation options. Tuttle Creek Reservoir, the
state’s second largest impoundment, covers about
12,500 acres and has more than 100 miles of rugged,
Randolph Area Trail Water sports wooded shoreline to explore. The 1,250-acre park
Catch the access bridge to Archery features camping and fishing, and there are scenic
experience the 14.75 miles trails for hiking, mountain-biking and horseback
of this hiking and horse trail. WILDLIFE riding. Tuttle Creek’s surrounding land is home to one
The difficult terrain yields TO SEE of the steepest mountain-biking trails in the state. In
spectacular views. Nesting bald fact, riders travel from across the country to try out the
eagles Kansas trail with mountainous terrain. Competitions
Cedar Ridge Trail Woodchucks are held throughout the year though bikers can ride
Just three quarters of a mile Great blue this professional-grade path year-round.
long, this trail takes visitors Held annually since 1996 at Tuttle Creek State
herons
through forest, as well as Park’s River Pond area, the Country Stampede is
Pileated
tallgrass prairie. a premier concert event. For three days on the last
woodpeckers weekend in June, around 175,000 fans can camp out
Cottonwood Nature Trail Gulls and hear the top names in country music.
Suitable for all skill levels, this Pelicans Excellent channel catfish and flathead fishing
0.6-mile hiking and walking path White-tailed is available in the lake and in the river above and
is dog-friendly. deer below the lake. The River Pond area offers rentals
Canada geese of canoes and kayaks. Families shouldn’t miss the
Fancy Creek picnic areas, an 18-hole disc golf course, volleyball
Excellent mountain-biking FISH TO courts, horseshoe pits and archery range. The state-
terrain, Fancy Creek is CATCH of-the-art Fancy Creek Shooting Range is open the
considered one of the most Blue catfish first and third weekends of the month. Fancy Creek
challenging courses in the state is east of Randolph, about ½-mile east and ½-mile
Channel catfish
and spans six miles. north of the junction of US-77 and K-16.
Crappie
Western Heritage White bass
This trail follows the Blue River Flathead catfish
and wanders 1.25 miles through Saugeye
Rocky Ford fishing area.

27
KS State Parks
NORTH CENTRAL

wilson
REGION

S T A T E P A R K

AT WILSON RESERVOIR

#3 State Park Road Sylvan Grove, KS 67481 | [Link]@[Link] | [Link]/Wilson-State-Park | (785) 658-2465

8 99+ 3
modern primitive shelters
30 105 4
standard standard standard full
cabins campsites hook-ups with hook-ups with hook-ups
electric electric & water

GREAT FOR

S et in the scenic Smoky Hills region of Kansas,

Wilson State Park provides convenient
access to one of the state’s prime water-
recreation areas. Wilson Lake, the deepest in
Kansas, will satisfy boating enthusiasts and those
Fishing
Wildlife
watching
Water sports
who enjoy water sports. Lake Wilson Marina is Biking
a full-service marina, and anglers can gear up at Hunting
Knotheads Bait & Tackle Shop, located on the east
side of South Shore. WILDLIFE
The Switchgrass Mountain Bike Trail is a TO SEE
24.5-mile trail located in the Hell Creek Area of Quail
the state park. In 2012 Switchgrass was the first White-tailed
mountain bike trail in Kansas designated as an deer
“Epic Trail” by the International Mountain Bike Coyotes
Association (IMBA). Included in the bike trail is an
Blue birds
easy 5.5-mile loop.
Skinks
The adjacent 8,000-acre Wilson Wildlife
Area offers an array of hunting opportunities. Collared lizards
Meadowlarks
Turkeys
Smoky Hills
Wilson Reservoir features a rugged shoreline FISH TO
punctuated by scenic cliffs and rocky outcrops. The CATCH
park is a landmark on the Post Rock Scenic Byway, Walleye
which runs from Wilson north along K-232 to Smallmouth
Lucas. Take time to drive the post rock-lined route bass
and be sure to spend time in Lucas, the Grassroots Striped bass
Art Capital of Kansas.
Crappie
[Link] TRAILS
White perch OF INTEREST

Cedar Trail White bass

Located in the Otoe Area of the park, this trail is
a handicapped-accessible, 3/4-mile loop with a Dakota Trail
concrete surface. This well-maintained trail offers magnificent wildlife views, as
well as a unique perspective on the nearby lake.
28
KS State Parks
 SOUTH CENTRAL
REGION
30 CHENEY 31 EL DORADO 32 SAND HILLS

Sand Hills State Park

BYWAYS
Gypsum Hills Byway
Flint Hills National Scenic Byway
Wetlands & Wildlife National
Scenic Byway
Tallgrass National Physiography
Prairie Preserve The South Central region
Originally the Z-Bar Ranch, this features six landscapes,
historic destination shares what life was including High Plains,
like on a ranch in the late 1800s. Great Arkansas River Lowlands,
for hiking, the preserve is also home to Red Hills, Flint Hills and
roaming bison. Osage Questas. This region
includes a large swath of the 70

70
635

Cheyenne Bottoms Flint Hills, which is scenic

470 435
70
70

35

and Quivira National Wildlife pastureland named for its

35W

35

El Dorado
flint rock and bluestem
Sand Hills •

Refuge Cheney •
•

grasses. The Red Hills has

235

Located near Great Bend, the 35

Cheyenne Bottoms and Quivira traces of sandstone and

National Wildlife Refuge are two shale mix amid its many hills
important regions for migrating birds. and mesas.

29
KS State Parks
SOUTH CENTRAL

cheney
REGION

S T A T E P A R K

AT CHENEY RESERVOIR

16000 NE 50th St. Cheney, KS 67025 | [Link]@[Link] | [Link]/Cheney-State-Park | (316) 542-3664

9 452 8 229 10
modern primitive shelters standard standard full
cabins campsites hook-ups with hook-ups
electric & water

GREAT FOR

O nly 20 miles west of Wichita, Cheney

State Park frames Cheney Reservoir and
covers 1,900 acres. Cheney Reservoir is
known for its dependable winds, and the lake draws
sailboaters and windsurfers from around the country.
Water sports
Fishing
Camping
Hiking
The Ninnescah Sailing Center on the West
Shore Area is a mecca for those seeking water WILDLIFE
sports with a healthy dose of wind. In addition TO SEE
to a marina on the East Shore, the park’s 22 Turkeys
boat-launching lanes provide convenient access Scissor-tailed
to the 9,500-acre lake. The Ninnescah Sailing flycatcher
Association hosts several regatta events each year, Bald eagles
as well as informal races. They also offer junior Pelicans
sailing courses. Gulls
Giefer Creek and Spring Creek nature
Armadillos
trails offer scenic hiking around the reservoir. A
handicapped-accessible fishing area is available at
the Toadstool Loop Jetty. FISH TO
CATCH
Walleye
POINTS Wipers
OF INTEREST White bass
White perch
Souder’s Historical Museum Channel catfish
Relive life in rural Kansas in the late 1880s at
Photo Courtesy Johansen Krause, Deborah Walker

this restored and recreated Main Street-style

museum located just southwest of Cheney.
[Link]/thingstodo/[Link]

The Eagle Valley Raptor Center O’Brien’s Marina

Eagles, hawks, owls and falcons are just a few A full-service marina is available to Lake Cheney
of the birds at the center, which offers up- State Park. O’Brien’s Marina offers boat slips,
close educational opportunities for children. fueling, pontoon rentals, bait and a kitchen to help
[Link] visitors enjoy the waters at Cheney Reservoir.

30
KS State Parks
 SOUTH CENTRAL

el dorado
REGION

S T A T E P A R K

AT EL DORADO RESERVOIR

618 Bluestem Road El Dorado, KS 67042 | [Link]@[Link] | [Link]/El-Dorado-State-Park | (316) 321-7180

10 589 10 307 165

modern primitive shelters standard standard full
cabins campsites hook-ups with hook-ups
electric & water

GREAT FOR
Camping
Archery
Fishing
Boating
E l Dorado State Park is Kansas’ largest and
is located on the western edge of the scenic
Flint Hills. The park sprawls across 4,500
acres along the eastern and western shores of El
Dorado Reservoir.
Hiking The park features a large ADA archery range,
Biking as well as an impressive amphitheater and stage
Horseback riding specially designed for special events and concerts.
Seven trails offer outdoor adventure for hikers,
WILDLIFE bikers and horse riders of all skill levels. The 4,000-
TO SEE acre wildlife area along the shores of the upper end
Pileated of the reservoir is popular for hunting.
woodpeckers
Scissor-tailed
flycatcher
Barred owls
POINTS
White-tailed deer OF INTEREST
Turkeys
Western kingbirds
Great-crested Equestrian Trails
flycatchers A modern equestrian campground with full-sized
Quail arena and attached corrals is open to the public. It
offers 23 utility sites with attached corrals, two non-
FISH TO utility campsites with corrals and water, 26 non-utility
CATCH sites, and a reservable shelter near the arena.
Crappie
Shooting The Dam Music Festival
Photo Courtesy Crossroads Photography

Smallmouth bass
Range This annual multi-day music fes-
White bass
El Dorado now tival is hosted at El Dorado State
Wipers provides a state- Park and has featured country
Blue catfish of-the-art public acts such as Logan Mize and
Channel catfish shooting range. Toby Keith. [Link]

31
KS State Parks
SOUTH CENTRAL
REGION

sand hills S T A T E P A R K

4207 E 56th St. Hutchinson, KS 67502 | [Link]@[Link] | [Link]/Sand-Hills-State-Park | (316) 542-3664

20 44 14
standard standard full sites with
hook-ups with hook-ups horse pens
electric & water

GREAT FOR

L ocated near Hutchinson in Reno County,

the park features excellent trails that wind
through 1,123 acres of sand dunes, native
prairie, wetlands and woodlands.
Sand Hills State Park offers five horse-
Camping
Hiking
Horseback riding
Hunting
friendly trails, varying from 1.2 to 3.8 miles. Wildlife
Horses can be kept at the designated campground watching
area, with corrals provided, so visitors can pack in
multiple days. The campground includes corrals WILDLIFE
and frost-free hydrants for year round camping. TO SEE
Archery deer and upland game hunting are White-tailed
available, but only by special permit. deer
Quail
Turkeys
Coyotes
POINTS
OF INTEREST FISH TO
CATCH
Channel catfish
Sand Dunes Wildlife Blinds Bluegill
These beautiful dunes These state-created
are located at the areas are made to
edges of Sand Hills and mimic natural habitats
offer visitors adjacent while simultaneously
access to Hutchinson’s camouflaging human
Dune Tract. presence. With the use
of these sophisticated
blinds, onlookers can
catch an up-close
glimpse of native birds
and mammals.

32
KS State Parks
 NORTHEAST
REGION
34 CLINTON 35 EISENHOWER 36 FLINT HILLS NATURE TRAIL
37 HILLSDALE 38 KAW RIVER 39 PERRY 40 POMONA

Eisenhower State Park (Michael Pearce)

BYWAYS
Glacial Hills Scenic Byway
University of Kansas Physiography Native Stone Scenic Byway
Take a day trip from Clinton State Much of the region is considered part Northern portion of the
Park to tour the University of Kansas of the Glaciated Region, known for its
Frontier Military Historic Byway
campus. Perched on Mount Oread, hills and valleys with deposits of quartz-
the campus boasts limestone buildings, ite. Also in the region are some of the
a big dose of history and the Booth Flint Hills as well as the Osage Questas.
Hall of Athletics, which celebrates the
school’s basketball traditions. Flint Hills Trail State Park
One of the state’s newest state parks, 70

Kaw
Perry
• 635

Wine Country the Flint Hills Trail, takes visitors on a

70 •
470 435
70
70
Clinton
•
Pomona 35
• •
Located near Hillsdale State Park, 117-mile journey through diverse land- 35W

35
•
Eisenhower
Hillsdale
•

Miami County is known as Kansas’ scapes, from sweeping tall grass prairies Flint Hills
Trail

wine region. Visitors can catch a to mature forests. It links five Kansas 235

trolley to each winery for a day full of counties and provides ample opportuni-
35

tastings. ties to experience the state’s wide range

[Link] of exceptional outdoor activities.

33
KS State Parks
NORTHEAST

clinton
REGION

S T A T E P A R K

AT CLINTON RESERVOIR

798 N 1415 Road Lawrence, KS 66049 | [Link]@[Link] | [Link]/Clinton-State-Park | (785) 842-8562

7 166 6 200
modern primitive shelters standard
cabins campsites hook-ups with
electric & water

GREAT FOR

C linton State Park, located just four

miles from Lawrence, is a 1,425-acre
park that rests on the north shore of
Clinton Reservoir, known for its clear water
and good fishing. The park is located next to a
Camping
Hiking
Biking
Wildlife
DID YOU
KNOW?

9,200-acre wildlife area. Clinton State Park is watching

The area was
well known for its extensive trail system used Day use key for the
by hikers, nature photographers, mountain Fishing Underground
bikers, wildflower enthusiasts and wildlife Archery Railroad. Learn
observers. Don’t miss the cross-country ski Water sports more at the
trail on the northern side of the park. Clinton Disc Golfing Wakarusa River
Lake Marina, in the state park, is the largest Valley Heritage
Museum in
full-service marina in the state, offering slips, WILDLIFE Bloomington
rentals, fuel, and a store. TO SEE Park East at
Bald eagles Clinton Lake.
White-tailed deer
Turkeys
Barred owls
POINTS
OF INTEREST
Chuck-will’s-
widows
Indigo buntings

Clinton Lake Kids-Only FISH TO

Skills Loop Fishing Pond CATCH
For biking enthusiasts Located in the picnic Channel catfish
looking for a chance area of Clinton State Walleye
to practice tricks Park is a kids-only
and skills, this circuit fishing pond, perfect
includes obstacles for youth anglers.
Photo Courtesy Michael Pearce

such as bridges, Each year, children

ramps and balancing can participate in the
boards. Fishing Derby during
the OK Kids Day.

34
KS State Parks
 NORTHEAST

eisenhower
REGION

S T A T E P A R K

AT MELVERN RESERVOIR

29810 S. Fairlawn Rd. Osage City, KS 66523 | [Link]@[Link] | [Link]/Eisenhower-State-Park | (785) 528-4102

2
yurts
4
modern
31primitive
7
shelters
17 127 37
standard standard standard full
cabins campsites hook-ups with hook-ups with hook-ups
electric electric & water

GREAT FOR
Camping
Horseback riding
Disc Golfers
Day use
N amed after native Kansan President
Dwight D. Eisenhower, this 1,785-acre
park features 1,000 acres of tallgrass
prairie. The park is popular with equestrians due
to its expansive area for riding and facilities that
Fishing accommodate visitors traveling with their horses.
Water sports Other recreation facilities include a 10,000-
Archery acre wildlife area, swimming beach on the shore of
the 6,900-acre Melvern Reservoir, horseshoe pits,
WILDLIFE playgrounds, a sand volleyball court, an archery
TO SEE trail, a kids’ fishing pond, a fly-fishing pond, and
White-tailed deer an 18-hole disc golf course. Kayak, canoe and
Coyotes dock rentals are available. Stay the night in one
Quail of Eisenhower’s popular cabins, or in one of the
park’s yurts—a unique feature of this state park.
Scissor-tailed
Ike’s Shelter House is perfect for events such as
flycatchers
family reunions.
Blue birds
Turkeys
Pelicans
Gulls
TRAILS
Warblers OF INTEREST

FISH TO
CATCH
Crappie Crooked Knee Archery Trail
Smallmouth bass Horse Trail Visiting archers can
This trail offers a 20-mile practice their shots
Channel catfish
journey for horseback along a two-mile
Blue catfish
riders. Those looking for long trail, featuring
Walleye
Photo Courtesy Michael Pearce

a two-wheeled adventure 20 targets set at

White bass can head down the bike various ranges and
trail near the Five-Star difficulties.
campground.

35
KS State Parks
NORTHEAST
REGION

flint hills trail S T A T E P A R K

419 S Oak Garnett, KS 66032 | [Link]@[Link] | [Link]/Prairie-Spirit-Trail | (785) 448-2627

Flint Hills Nature Trail State Park is administered by the staff of Prairie Spirit Trail State Park

GREAT FOR

COUNCIL GROVE
Camping available
T

LAKE
he 117-mile rail-trail running across Biking

Flint Hills Trail

K-77
Kansas from the Marais des Cygnes river Birding COUNCIL GROVE

MAX. ELEVATION 1,443’

94 Miles

COUNCIL GROVE
valley near Osawatomie to the heart of Cycling ALLEGAWAHO
PARK
89.5Miles
the Flint Hills is the new Flint Hills Trail State Horseback
Park. It is the state’s second linear state park and riding

US-56
MIN. ELEVATION 835’ TOTAL ASCENT 2,326’

ROAD F
intersects with the state’s first, the Prairie Spirit Strolling
BUSHONG
78.5 Miles

Trail State Park, in Ottawa. Side-trip

Some 96 miles of the trail are now open for exploring ALLEN

I-335
73.5 Miles
non-motorized traffic. Horseback riders, bikers,
= Trailhead

ADMIRE
K-99
ADMIRE
69.1 Miles

hikers and even families with strollers can safely

enjoy this recreational path that winds through the
WILDLIFE MILLER
63.5 Miles

TO SEE

US-56
rural countryside and small-town communities of
eastern Kansas. Bobcats

OSAGE CITY
The Flint Hills rails-to-trails track was Bobwhite

K-170
OSAGE CITY

originally a Missouri Pacific Railroad line built Eastern 53.5 Miles

Camping available

EISENHOWER
STATE PARK
in the late 1800s that ran from Kansas City to meadowlarks

K-31
Pueblo, Colorado. Railbanked by the National Prairie chickens

US-75
Rails-to-Trails Conservancy in 1995, it has been Wild turkeys VASSAR
11 Miles

managed and maintained for many years by the

Kanza Rails-Trails Conservancy. In 2014, state

POMONA STATE PARK

POMONA
and federal grants allowed work to begin on

Camping available
POMONA
32 Miles

bridges, railings and safety features along the trail.

I-35

K-68

OTTAWA

US-59

OTTAWA
20.5 Miles
K-68

TRAILS
I-35

OF INTEREST RANTOUL
9 Miles
HILLSDALE STATE PARK
Camping available
OSAWATOMIE

OSAWATOMIE
Trail users can visit historic sites, such as the John
Brown Museum and the Kaw Mission near the trail,
while appreciating the diverse Kansas landscapes
of tree-lined canopies and bluffs along the Marais
des Cygnes river on the eastern end, and the
rolling farm fields and sweeping tallgrass prairies of
the Flint Hills on the west.

36
KS State Parks
 NORTHEAST

hillsdale
REGION

S T A T E P A R K

AT HILLSDALE RESERVOIR

26001 W 255th St. Paola, KS 66071 | (913) 783-4507 | [Link]@[Link] | [Link]/Hillsdale-State-Park

10 180 60
shelters standard standard full
hook-ups with hook-ups
electric & water

GREAT FOR
Camping
Fishing
Water sports
Hunting
H illsdale State Park offers a broad array
of outdoor recreation opportunities
in the rolling hills of eastern Kansas.
Horseback riding is a popular activity with the
Saddle Ridge Equestrian Area on the east side
Horseback riding of the reservoir. An area just south of the dam is
Model-airplane specially designated for radio-controlled model-
flying airplane flying. Completed in 1982, the reservoir
Hiking is one of the newest in the state park system.
Wildlife Watching Fishing is allowed on all 51 miles of shoreline.
Jayhawk Marina offers slip rentals, boat rental,
WILDLIFE store, fuel, and other services and products.
TO SEE
White-tailed deer
Wild turkey
Barred owls POINTS
OF INTEREST
Whip poor wills
Bald eagles
Pelicans
Gulls Target Shooting
The Hillsdale Shooting Range and Training Facility
FISH TO includes a 100-yard rifle range, a 200-yard range,
CATCH a 50-yard pistol range and a trap/skeet shooting
Crappie range. [Link]
Walleye
Channel catfish
Largemouth bass
Photo Courtesy Michael Pearce

37
KS State Parks
NORTHEAST

kaw river
REGION

S T A T E P A R K

AT THE KANSAS RIVER

300 SW Wanamaker Rd. Topeka, KS 66606 | [Link]@[Link] | [Link]/Kaw-River-State-Park | (785) 273-6740

GREAT FOR

K aw River State Park is the only urban

park in Kansas’ state park system,
consisting of 76 acres of land along
the south bank of the Kansas River in west
Topeka. The area is mostly oak-hickory forest
Day use only
Hiking
Running
Mountain
biking
overlooking the Kansas (Kaw) River and is
Wildlife
adjacent to MacLennan Park and Cedar Crest
watching
(the governor’s residence) to the east.
The wide range of trails in this park were Water sports
designed for erosion protection, sustainability
and access. A boat ramp and parking area WILDLIFE
allow access to the Kansas River, which is open TO SEE
for canoes, kayaks and other small watercraft. Eagles
Kaw River State Park does not require a daily Waterfowl
entrance fee. Deer
Turkey

TRAILS
OF INTEREST

National Water Trail

The Kansas River has been designated a
National Water Trail by the National Park
Service, offering scenic recreational, historic
and cultural opportunities for novice boaters.
Beginning in Junction City, the Kansas River
Trail flows to Kansas City at the confluence with
the Missouri River.
Photo Courtesy Tomi Francisco Ramirez

38
KS State Parks
 perry
NORTHEAST
REGION

S T A T E P A R K

AT PERRY RESERVOIR

5441 West Lake Road Ozawkie, KS 66070 | [Link]@[Link] | [Link]/Perry-State-Park | (785) 246-3449

4
modern
9 118
shelters standard
cabins hook-ups with
electric & water

GREAT FOR
Biking
Camping
Hiking
Horseback riding
P erry State Park, nestled in the forested
hills of northeast Kansas, boasts a
12,500-acre reservoir and an 11,000-
acre wildlife area nearby.
Horse riders appreciate Perry State Park’s
Hunting upland forest riding trails. These 16.5 miles of
Water sports intertwining trails were designed specifically for
horses, although hiking is also welcome.
WILDLIFE Campers will enjoy views of the lake and
TO SEE can launch their boats at the two boat ramps or
White-tailed deer set sail with their catamarans from Hobie Cove
Turkeys campground.
Barred Owls Perry Wildlife Area offers extensive wetlands
Raccoons that attract waterfowl each fall. The wildlife area
is a great location for birdwatching, hunting and
Opossums
simply exploring the area’s natural landscape.
Gray squirrels
Pileated
woodpeckers

FISH TO
CATCH TRAILS
OF INTEREST
Crappie
Largemouth bass
Sauger
Blue catfish Perry Bike Trail
These competitive-
Photo Courtesy Brian Pitts, Michael Pearce

level biking trails

vary in difficulty and
length. They provide
beautiful nature
views for beginning
bikers to seasoned
trail riders.

39
KS State Parks
 pomona
NORTHEAST
REGION

S T A T E P A R K

AT POMONA RESERVOIR

22900 S Highway 368 Vassar, KS 66543 | [Link]@[Link] | [Link]/Pomona-State-Park | (785) 828-4933

4
modern
310 7primitive shelters
92 52
standard standard full
cabins campsites hook-ups with hook-ups
electric & water

GREAT FOR

T he 490-acre Pomona State Park is well

known among campers for its shaded
campsites and a great family atmosphere.
The park is nestled in an area with historical
connections to the Santa Fe Trail and close
Camping
Horseback riding
Disc Golfing
Day use
proximity to Topeka, Lawrence and Kansas City. Fishing
Lighthouse Bay Marina provides full services Water sports
to water enthusiasts, anglers and campers. Four Archery
boat ramps provide access to the lake’s generally
calm waters. WILDLIFE
The Southwind Shelter House provides a TO SEE
gathering place for family reunions, parties, and Pelicans
company retreats and is available year-round. Gull
Barred owls
White-tailed deer
Turkeys
Opossums
POINTS
OF INTEREST Bluebirds DID YOU
Warblers KNOW?

Play Some Games! FISH TO

Pomona State
Visitors can play sand volleyball, horseshoes, disc CATCH Park, like all
golf and basketball in between taking in the scenic Crappie Kansas State
views of the lake and landscape. White bass Parks, is open
Photo Courtesy Emma Rose Wheat Photography

Channel catfish year-round,

making it the
perfect spot to
take a summer
dip in the lake
or to perfect
your winter
camping skills.

40
KS State Parks
 SOUTHEAST
REGION
42 CRAWFORD 43 CROSS TIMBERS 44 ELK CITY
45 FALL RIVER 46 PRAIRIE SPIRIT TRAIL

Cross Timbers (Michael Pearce)

BYWAYS
Frontier Military Historic Byway
Historic Route 66 Byway

Fort Scott National Big Brutus Physiography

Historical Site The former mining community The Southeast area is
In 2017, this former Civil War of West Mineral is home to Big predominately made up
fort celebrated 175 years since it Brutus, the largest electric shovel of the Osage Questa 70

was established. This interactive in the world. Weighing in at 11 Region, offering steeper 70
70
470
635

435

site tells the stories of the soldiers million pounds and standing 16 slopes than the western
70

35

35W
Prairie

and staff who maintained the stories tall, the out-of-commission part of the state. Also 35
Spirit Trail
•
Cross Timbers
fort. Located only 20 miles from shovel is now part of a visitors’ in the region are the 235
•
•
Fall River
Crawford •

Crawford State Park, this is center dedicated to the history of Chautauqua Hills, 35
•
Elk City

an excellent side excursion for the coal-mining industry that once which includes remnants
history enthusiasts. shaped the area. [Link] of thick limestone.

41
KS State Parks
SOUTHEAST

crawford
REGION

S T A T E P A R K

AT CRAWFORD STATE LAKE

One Lake Road Farlington, KS 66734 | [Link]@[Link] | [Link]/Crawford-State-Park | (620) 362-3671

5
modern
28
primitive
2
shelters
45 28
standard standard full
1
group use
cabins campsites hook-ups with hook-ups area
electric & water

GREAT FOR

R ich in history and spectacular scenery,

Crawford State Park gives visitors a
“taste of the Ozarks.” The park dates
back to the1930s, when members of the Civilian
Conservation Corps (CCC) built the 150-acre lake.
Hiking
Biking
History
enthusiasts
A short (.25 mile) interpretive trail leads visitors to Fishing
a CCC memorial. Two recorded archaeological Water sports
sites lay within the park’s boundaries, as well as Camping
remnants of a 19th-century U.S. military outpost.
Patrons who visit the park on holidays and special WILDLIFE
occasions will enjoy the spectacle of 104 state and TO SEE
American flags set out along the dam by members White-tailed
of the park friends group. deer
Hiking and mountain-bike trails offer Turkeys
recreational opportunities nestled in the regional
Gray squirrels
woodlands. Lush foliage of the surrounding
Painted
forest is a naturalist’s delight. Shady campsites
are peppered among a mature oak forest. buntings
Barred owls
Whip poor wills

FISH TO
HISTORIC POINTS
CATCH
OF INTEREST Bluegill
Channel catfish
PearceSchuster, Mary Gage

Crappie
Largemouth
Frontier Military Historic Byway
bass
Crawford State Park is located along this 167-mile
byway, which runs along the eastern edge of the state
Harland

and highlights locations with historical significance.

[Link]/ksbyways/frontier-military/
Photo Courtesy Michael

42
KS State Parks
 SOUTHEAST

cross timbers
REGION

S T A T E P A R K

AT TORONTO RESERVOIR

144 HW 105, Toronto, KS 66777 | [Link]@[Link] | [Link]/Cross-Timbers-State-Park | (620) 637-2213

4
modern
89primitive
8
standard
50 19
standard standard full
cabins campsites hook-ups with hook-ups with hook-ups
electric electric & water

GREAT FOR
Camping
Wildlife
watching
Water sports
C ross Timbers State Park accounts for
1,075 acres in the northern reaches
of the physiographic region known as
the Cross Timbers, thick with hardwood trees
and grasslands. The park provides access to the
Hiking and 2,800-acre Toronto Reservoir, with kayak rentals
backpacking available.
The forested floodplains, surrounded by
WILDLIFE terraces of prairie and hills of oak savannah,
TO SEE showcase some of the most diverse flora and
White-tailed deer fauna in Kansas. Picturesque and shaded
Turkey campsites within easy access of the lake
Otters are available for both full RV hook-ups and
Painted primitive camping.
buntings
Indigo buntings
Whip poor wills
TRAILS
Nighthawks OF INTEREST

FISH TO
DID YOU CATCH Chautauqua Hills Trail
KNOW?
Channel catfish Hikers and backpackers can backcountry
White bass camp along certain sections of this trail with
Crappie a special permit.
YoungSchuster, Mary Gage

The Ancient
Oaks Trail offers Flathead catfish
views of 14 old-
growth trees. The
oldest oak dates
back to 1730
Harland

and the youngest

is 170 years old.
Photo Courtesy Meagan

43
KS State Parks
 elk city
SOUTHEAST
REGION

S T A T E P A R K

AT ELK CITY RESERVOIR

4825 Squaw Creek Road Independence, KS 67301 | [Link]@[Link] | [Link]/Elk-City-State-Park | (620) 331-6295

1
modern
53
primitive
2
shelters
85 14
standard standard full
cabin campsites hook-ups with hook-ups
electric & water

GREAT FOR

E lk City State Park’s 857 acres are

where oak-hickory woodlands meet
rolling meadows of big bluestem and
Indiangrass. There is a 12,000-acre Elk City
Wildlife Area adjacent to the 4,500-acre Elk City
Fishing
Wildlife
watching
Hiking
Water sports
Reservoir, offering visitors ample room to pursue Camping
their pastimes. Archery
Four miles of trails stretch across the state Disc Golfing
park, which is open year-round. This is where
hikers come to enjoy open prairies, wooded hills
and limestone bluffs. And the kids will enjoy WILDLIFE
splashing at the swim beach. TO SEE
Pileated
woodpeckers
White-tailed
deer
HISTORIC POINTS Turkey
OF INTEREST
Bobcats
Coyotes
Indigo buntings
Little House on the Prairie Museum Orioles
Located 13 miles from Elk City State Park, this Chuck-will’s-
museum features a reconstruction of the Ingalls’ widow
cabin, among other historic buildings.
[Link]
Barred owls
Whip poor wills

FISH TO
DID YOU
KNOW? CATCH
Channel catfish
White bass
The world-record 123-pound flathead catfish was Crappie
caught in Elk City Reservoir. Flathead
catfish

44
KS State Parks
 SOUTHEAST

fall river
REGION

S T A T E P A R K

AT FALL RIVER RESERVOIR

144 HW 105. Toronto, KS 66777 | [Link]@[Link] | [Link]/Fall-River-State-Park | (620) 637-2213

3
modern
43 44
primitive standard
2
standard full
cabins campsites hook-ups with hook-ups
electric & water

GREAT FOR
Camping
Water sports
Hiking
Day use
F all River State Park is home to a
remarkable diversity of plant and animal
life. The 1,107-acre park is a unique blend
of forested floodplains, blackjack savannahs
and tallgrass prairie. Many visitors enjoy
Fishing canoeing Fall River, which feeds into the 2,450-
acre reservoir. Otter Creek and Fall River above
WILDLIFE the reservoir are excellent spots for fishing.
TO SEE Bird-watchers, photographers and naturalists
White-tailed can find native plants and animals along six hiking
deer trails within the park. More than 8,000 acres of
Turkeys public wildlife area next to the park are managed
Quail for game and nongame species.
Armadillo
Scissor-tailed
flycatcher
Orioles POINTS
OF INTEREST
Pelicans

FISH TO
CATCH Kansas Astronomical Observers’ Star Party
Crappie This annual event invites visitors to stargaze. The
Flathead catfish group hosts the event at the Casner Creek Camp-
White bass ground in late June and shares an educational
PearceSchuster, Mary Gage

Channel catfish program for those interested in learning more about

viewing celestial bodies in the night sky.
Harland
Photo Courtesy Michael

45
KS State Parks
SOUTHEAST
REGION

prairie spirit trail

S T A T E P A R K

419 S Oak Garnett, KS 66032 | [Link]@[Link] | [Link]/Prairie-Spirit-Trail | (785) 448-2627

GREAT FOR

P rairie Spirit Trail State Park was the first

rails-to-trails site in Kansas and follows
the original bed of the old Leavenworth,
Lawrence and Fort Gibson Railroad. Built in
the 1860s, it was the first north-south rail line
Hiking
Running
Mountain
biking
Wildlife
in Kansas.
Prairie Spirit was constructed from Ottawa
watching
to Iola between 1996 and 2008. The 51-mile trail
is a unique linear park spanning three counties WILDLIFE
and including eight pocket parks to stop along TO SEE
the way. The Prairie Spirit Trail connects with White-tailed
the 7-mile-long Southwind Rail Trail between deer
Humboldt and Iola. Combined, the trails pass Coyotes
through 10 charming rural communities. Mourning
It is a greenway and travel corridor open doves
to pedestrians and bicyclists traversing diverse Wood ducks
ecosystems including tallgrass prairie, riparian
areas, and agricultural lands and communities.
The trail is a hard-packed limestone screening
surface in rural areas and paved with asphalt
through Garnett, Iola and Ottawa.

North Area South Area

About 25 miles of trail This 26-mile
can be found on the north section travels
end of Prairie Spirit’s from Garnett,
path. The historic trailside where visitors may
Old Depot Museum in stop in to see the
Ottawa serves as a local historic trailside
museum and trailhead Santa Fe Depot, to TRAILS
OF INTEREST
parking. The Prairie Spirit Iola, where visitors
Trail connects to the 117- can explore the
mile Flint Hills Trail State historic community Iola
Park south of the Marais and then continue The Prairie Spirit Trail passes through Iola, a Kansas town with
des Cygnes River in south to Humboldt plenty of rich history. Visitors can enjoy antique architecture and
Photo Courtesy Michael Pearce

Ottawa, and visitors can on the Southwind unique restaurants and shops. Don’t miss the annual Buster
access both trails from Trail. Keaton Celebration in September. The famed silent film actor
the museum. hailed from the area. The Prairie Spirit and Southwind trails
connect to the Lehigh-Portland Trails area south of town.

46
KS State Parks
 SHOPPING • DINING • ARTS • HISTORY
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 info Non-native species pose a
serious threat to Kansas
waters. If you find one
of these species, do not
release it back into the
AQUATIC water, and remember that

NUISANCE SPECIES it is illegal to possess many

of these species alive.
Aquatic nuisance species are If you find one of these
animals and plants not native to Kansas species in a new location
that can threaten lake and river ecology, or any other species that
harm desirable species or humans, and looks out of place, please
interfere with our economy. They can contact the Emporia
“hitchhike” with unsuspecting people on Research Office at (620)
equipment that has come into contact 342-0658, report it online,
with a lake or river containing an or notify your local
aquatic nuisance species. KDWPT office. For more
information or to report a
Help stop aquatic nuisance species… finding online, visit
• Clean—drain—dry [Link].
boats and equipment—every lake and
river, every time
• Don’t dump bait in the water or
drainage ditches; discard it on dry
land or in approved receptacles
• Don’t move live fish between bodies
of water or up streams

Before leaving any body of water:

• Clean—Inspect anything that comes
in contact with the water, including
boats, trailers, equipment, clothing,
boots and waders, etc. Remove any
mud, plants, animals, and other debris
before leaving the area.
• Drain—Remove all water from
engines, livewells, bilges, bait buckets,
and spaces that can hold water before
leaving the area. Dump live bait on
dry land or at bait disposal sites, not
into the lake or stream.
• Dry—Allow all equipment to dry
completely (for about 5 days) before using
it again. If you need to use it sooner, wash
it with 140-degree water (retail car washes
are OK) before using your equipment in
another body of water.

KEEP THE WATER SAFE AND CLEAN FOR FUTURE FISHING.

Report dumping or pollution to the EPA at 1-800-223-0425.

48
KS State Parks
WHITE PERCH ASIAN CARP FERTILE GRASS CARP
• Although the possession of live white perch • Asian carp include bighead, silver, and • It is illegal to possess or import
is prohibited, dead white perch may still be black carp species. fertile grass carp.
possessed or used as bait on the waters • Bighead and silver carp can be found • Grass carp are very effective
where they were taken. in the Kansas, Missouri, Wakarusa, and at controlling or eliminating
• White perch have been associated with Big Blue rivers and their tributaries. Fish some types of aquatic
declines in both walleye and white bass may not be transported live from these vegetation, which is why they
populations and out-compete native fishes for or other Aquatic Nuisance Species are often stocked in small
food and space. Designated Waters. ponds to control aquatic
• They look very similar to native white bass and • These fish are highly adaptive, prolific vegetation.
the two species can hybridize. spawners, and they directly compete with • Too little aquatic vegetation
• White perch can be distinguished by the other fish for food and space by filtering can be damaging to the
connection between the spiny and soft dorsal food from the water. ecosystem by removing habitat
fins; both fins pop up when the spiny dorsal fin • Silver carp pose a physical danger to for invertebrates, small prey
is manually erected. boaters because of their leaping ability. fish or young sportfish.

IT IS AGAINST STATE
LAW TO RELEASE
ZEBRA MUSSELS ANY ANIMALS INTO
• Zebra mussels have been discovered in a NEW ZEALAND MUD SNAIL
number of Kansas lakes, streams and rivers, • The New Zealand mud snail has not been
KANSAS WATERS.
and they are easily spread as microscopic reported in Kansas, but it is considered a
larvae in water, attached to hard surfaces, or in priority species because of its introduction It is illegal to transport
mud. into Colorado. certain species in Kansas,
• Zebra mussels filter vast quantities of water, • Mature New Zealand mud snails average or to release any animals
which drastically alters the food web. Filtering 5mm (2/10 inch) in length and have onto state or federal
may clear up the water in some instances, brown or black cone-shaped shells with properties. Protect yourself
which can lead to more frequent or more five whorls. and your natural resourc-
severe harmful algae blooms and allow UV • NZMS disrupt the food chain by es. Livewells and bilges
rays to damage fish eggs. consuming algae in the stream and must be drained and drain
• They can reach high densities, causing competing with native bottom-dwelling plugs removed from all
problems to water intakes, docks, and boat invertebrates. A population crash of vessels being removed
motors. Nationwide expenditures to control invertebrates can follow the introduction from waters of the state
zebra mussels in industrial plants alone are of NZMS, which reduces fish forage. before transport on a
estimated at more than $300 million per year. With a decrease in food availability, fish public highway.
• Their sharp shells can cut the unprotected skin populations may decline as well.
of people or pets. Shoes or other protective • Mud snails are able to withstand Learn more about aquatic
clothing are recommended when wading in desiccation and a variety of temperatures, nuisance species and
zebra mussel-infested water. and they are small enough that many take the ANS Awareness
• All aquatic users need to do their part to types of water users (anglers, swimmers, Course at
prevent the spread of zebra mussels to other pets) could inadvertently transfer this [Link]
waters in Kansas. Follow the clean, drain and nuisance species. It takes only one snail
dry procedures on page 48 and tell others to start an infestation.
how to prevent the spread of zebra mussels.

49
KS State Parks
camping
101
CAMPING ESSENTIALS
METAL ROASTING STICKS
TENT. Try pitching it before you leave home for roasting marshmallows
so you know how it fits together. (or other food items) over
the fire.
A FLY OR RAIN TARP. The forecast might not
call for rain, but sometimes heavy dew can FOIL.
seep into your tent. Be sure to have that
extra cover to keep your sleeping area dry PAPER TOWELS OR QUICK-
and free from bugs. DRYING TOWELS.

TOOLS. Include a mallet or hammer in your ENVIRONMENTALLY SAFE

tool kit. DISH SOAP. Get a brand
that is non-toxic and
A SLEEPING BAG AND SLEEPING PAD. Be biodegradable.
sure to pack a heavier bag (and layers) to keep
yourself warm during early spring or late fall SPONGE.
camping trips. The sleeping pad will add a
little extra protection between you and the FIRST AID KIT. Keep
ground. Don’t forget to pack a pillow, too! bandages and antibacterial
ointment around for nicks,
FLASHLIGHTS AND LANTERNS. So you can see cuts or burns or case of
at night. minor camping injuries.

OUTDOOR CHAIRS.
KITCHEN GEAR. You might bring a propane
stove along, or you might plan on cooking BUG REPELLENT AND
all of your food by campfire. Regardless of SUNSCREEN.
the method, be sure you pack everything
you would need to prepare your meal, such CHECK ON PICNIC TABLES
as knives, mixing bowls, whisks, spatulas and AND FIREWOOD. Some
can openers. locations allow only local
firewood or will allow you
DON’T FORGET TRASH BAGS! Leave your to forage in the wooded
campsite better than you found it by picking areas near the campsite
up after yourself (and cleaning up any other for firewood. Check with
litter you might stumble upon). Some state the park where you plan to
parks require you to take all of your trash camp to learn more.
with you when you leave.
MATCHES AND AN
COOLERS AND ICE. Without refrigeration, ACCELERANT. Matches and
you’ll need a way to keep your food and newspaper are a combo to
drinks cool and safe. Bringing along bottled get your fire going strong.
water is always a good idea.
TOILET PAPER AND
PLATES, CUPS AND UTENSILS. TOILETRIES.

50
KS State Parks
 CONTACTS
KANSAS CITY DISTRICT OFFICE
8304 Hedge Lane Terrace
Shawnee, KS 66227
(913) 422-1314

DODGE CITY DISTRICT

1001 McArtor Drive
Dodge City, KS 67801-6024
(620) 227-8609

CHANUTE DISTRICT
137 E. 21st Rd.
Chanute, KS 66720-0777
(620) 431-0380

REGIONAL OFFICES
HAYS REGION 1
Rt. 2 (U.S. 183 Bypass) P.O. Box 338
#NoPlaceLikeKs Hays, KS 67601-0338
#MyKsStatePark (785) 628-8614
Show us how you experience Kansas’
state parks! Use the hashtags above TOPEKA REGION 2
on your social media posts to share
your photos with us. Get outside, try 300 SW Wanamaker Road
something new and find your next Topeka, KS 66606
favorite Kansas adventure.
(785) 273-6740

WICHITA REGION 3
6232 E. 29th St. N
Wichita, KS 67220
(316) 683-8069

Photo credits (clockwise from top left): @n00z, Historic Lake Scott State Park; @nguye612, Kanopolis State
Park; @kassidyy_ann, Tuttle Creek State Park; @photographykellyann, Perry State Park; @adastraexplorer,
Kaw River State Park; @ckopix, Wilson State Park; @ken_ya_diggit, Elk City State Park

51
KS State Parks
resources
MAGAZINES & GUIDES
The Sunflower State offers memorable
experiences for residents and non-
residents alike. The Kansas Department
of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism publishes
the ideal magazines to help anyone who
wants to explore the state.
KANSAS FISHING FORECAST FISHING REPORTS
TRAVEL KANSAS [Link]/Fishing/Fishing- [Link]/Fishing/Fishing-Reports
There’s no place like Kansas to immerse Forecast Updated by KDWPT fisheries biologists
yourself in the tallgrass prairie, explore our The annual Kansas Fishing on an irregular basis, the Fishing Reports
world-famous wetlands or discover Kansas’ Forecast provides forecasts provide biologists’ insights on fishing
role for freedom at our historic sites. Visit and fishing prospects in public conditions at many department-managed
our [Link] for your ultimate waters throughout the state. The lakes. Information includes a general
resource for all things to see, do and information is formulated from rating of what the fishing is like (poor to
experience in Kansas. data collected by fisheries biologists excellent), as well as the size range of fish
through annual lake monitoring. being caught, and a description of successful
The forecast is released by late baits, methods and locations. Another online
February. Printed copies are resource is the Public Fishing Reports blog.
available at KDWPT offices. Anglers can post comments to the regional
blogs to share fishing accounts and tips.
Download the free TravelKS App.
Available at Apple and Google stores.

LIFE JACKETS
SAVE LIVES Share Our Sky of Wonder!

• Cedar Bluff State

Park, Reservoir
& Wildlife Area
• Smoky Valley
Scenic Byway
• Halfway between
Kansas City
& Denver on 70
WaKeeney Travel & Tourism
785-743-8325 | [Link]
Maryl Gottschalk
 KS Fishing Regulations 19.qxp_Kansas Fishing Regulations 1/2/19 10:54 AM Page 1

SPRING 2019 | VOL 75 | ISSUE 1 | [Link]

tuned to nature,
with songs
for life The work
of Robin
Macy

KANSAS FISHING KANSAS! Plan your stay with the Official

magazine is published quarterly and KANSAS TRAVEL GUIDE.
REGULATIONS SUMMARY highlights the breathtaking variety of
The Kansas Fishing Regulations Summary This resource offers information on
things to do, attractions to visit, dining Kansas tourism, with places to eat and
booklet summarizes important regulations
and lodging opportunities and amazing stay, and attractions not to be missed.
and essential laws for anglers. It features
events for Kansas travelers. Pick up your free copy at state park
state park information and detailed
regulations for each body of water managed offices, Travel Information Centers
by KDWPT. The book lists contact and community visitors’ centers, or go
to [Link] to request a copy
FOR HUNTERS, ANGLERS AND OUTDOOR ENTHUSIASTS | $2.75 | JULY-AUGUST 2018

information for district fisheries biologists, as

well as regional supervisors. or download a digital version.

Little
KANSAS WILDLIFE AND PARKS Jerusalem
Badlands
magazine, published bimonthly, shares s t a t e p a r k

stories and photographs about the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism

Kansas outdoors, touching on camping,

fishing, watching wildlife or hunting. Go outside and play! KANSAS
HUNTING
Although hunting opportunities are limited B Y WAY S O F OUTDOORS, an annual publication,
in state parks, many are located close to celebrates everything there is to do
state wildlife areas where hunting is allowed. outdoors. From bicycling and zip
Annually KDWPT publishes three helpful lining, to hunting and fishing. Request
information sources that are essential for a copy at [Link].
hunters and furharvesters. The Spring Turkey KS Fishing Regulations 19.qxp_Kansas Fishing Regulations 1/2/19 10:54 AM Page 1

and Fall Hunting Atlases pinpoint both public Flint Hills National Scenic Byway | Frontier Military Historic Byway | Glacial Hills Scenic Byway | Gypsum Hills Scenic Byway
Land and Sky Scenic Byway | Native Stone Scenic Byway | Post Rock Scenic Byway | Prairie Trail Scenic Byway | Route 66 Historic Byway
Smoky Valley Scenic Byway | Western Vistas Historic Byway | Wetlands and Wildlife National Scenic Byway

hunting areas and Walk-In-Hunting Access

(WIHA) locations—private properties leased
Explore Kansas’ byways and experience
by the state for public use.
our state’s history and scenic beauty with
BYWAYS OF KANSAS. Start planning
Hunting & Furharvesting
Regulations Summary by visiting [Link] to request
a copy.

KANSAS FISHING
Auto-renew your license
[Link]/License-Permits
REGULATIONS SUMMARY
OPERATION GAME THIEF Report poachers anonymously and toll-free: 1-877-426-3843

The Kansas Fishing Regulations

Summary booklet summarizes
important regulations and essential
THE ANNUAL Subscribe to KANSAS! magazine
laws for anglers. It features state
at [Link]/ks-mag/ and
HUNTING REGULATIONS park information and detailed
to Kansas Wildlife and Parks
Summary comes out in September and regulations for each body of water
Magazine at
outlines the latest regulations and seasons managed by KDWPT. The book
[Link]/Services/
for hunters and furharvesters, as well as lists contact information for district
Publications/Magazine
providing species information and other fisheries biologists, as well as
essential things to know before you hunt. regional supervisors.

KS State Parks
53
kansas 1 2 3

27 25 117 DECATUR NORTON

161 283 PHILLIP
383

A
83 183
ST. Francis Atwood
36 Norton 60
Oberlin
36
383

COUNT ON THE Prairie Dog Philipsburg

36

SUNFLOWER STATE
CHEYENNE
RAWLINS
123 9

IF YOU LOVE TO 83
23
SHERIDAN GRAHAM 283 ROOKS

CAMP, GO RVING Goodland

Colby
24
Stockton

OR CATCH A NAP IN
24
70 24
383 Hoxie Hill

Web
27 City

A CABIN. Whether it’s an 25

B
SHERMAN 18
THOMAS
overnighter or an extended stay,
Oakley
you’ll be amazed at the options TREGO

Kansas state parks offer. From 25

83
Gove
40
Wakeeney
183 W
“primitive” tent campsites to 40 70
Sharon
utility sites for RVs, there are
abundant opportunities for a Little Jerusalem Badlands
Springs
Hays
WALLACE
relaxing outdoor experience.
27
LOGAN GOVE
Cedar Bluff 147 ELLIS
Enjoy fishing, boating, shooting RUSH

C
sports, swimming, wildlife- 4

watching and more at the 26 96 Tribune Historic Lake Scott

Leoti
Scott
City
Ness 4
La Crosse
state parks across the state. Dighton
96
City

83
GREELEY WICHITA SCOTT
LANE 283
[Link] OR 23
NESS 183

[Link] 156
25
50 PAWNEE
156 Jetmore
50 156 19
Syracuse

D
Lakin Garden
City HODGEMAN
270 50 Kinsley
56
HAMILTON 25 Dodge City
KEARNY 83 Cimarron
FINNEY
EDWARDS
27
23 154
Johnson Ulysses
270
160 144 283 154
160 Greensburg
190 54
GRAY FORD 34
STANTON Sublette
GRANT 183
MORTON HASKELL
190

E
98 KIOWA
SEWARD
270 83 Meade
160 16
51 51 Ashland Coldwater
56 270 51

Meade
Hugoton 160
54
27 25 283 34
Elkhart 23 1
STEVENS Liberal
MEADE CLARK
83 COMANCH
183

1 2 3

Cedar Bluff – B/C3 Crawford – D8 El Dorado – D6 Flint Hills Trail – C/D8

Cheney – D5 Cross Timbers – D7 Elk City – E7 Glen Elder – B5

Clinton – C8 Eisenhower – C7 Fall River – D7 Hillsdale – C8

54
KS State Parks
 4 5 6 7 8
159
7
PS REPUBLIC NEMAHA BROWN
281 28 14 81 77
Lovewell
15 99 75

A
15 63 73
8 Hiawatha
Washington DONIPHAN
Smith Belleville 36
Mankato Marysville Seneca 120 Troy
Center 36 36
WASHINGTON 87 187 159
75 20
181
281 128 148
9 20
9 77 9 73
CLOUD
SMITH JEWELL 28 MARSHALL 9
9 Atchison
POTTAWATOMIE 62 159
OSBORNE Concordia RILEY
24 Holton 116 4
Osborne Beloit 15
16

Glen Elder Tuttle Creek

9 ATCHISON 73
Clay 16
Center Westmoreland JEFFERSON
24 192 7
13 4 Leavenworth

bster
82 177 63 92
14 59
OTTAWA 75 LEAVEN-

B
281 24 JACKSON 92 Oskaloosa WORTH

Kaw
MITCHELL 81 Manhattan 635

Perry
82

Milford
WYANDOTTE
113 16 5
SHAWNEE

River
Minneapolis CLAY 18 24
Kansas
181 DICKINSON 177 City
18
Wilson
281 Lincoln 106 40 70
232 18 Junction 32
Alma 470
57
City Topeka Lawrence 10 435
4

Clinton
77 GEARY 99
Abilene Olathe 150
LINCOLN DOUGLAS

Mushroom
Russel 70 69
43
Salina OSAGE
JOHNSON

Rock
156 4 WABAUNSEE 31 56

Pomona
140 15
RUSSELL
Ellsworth 104 59 7
141 4 149 35 33
BARTON 56 Ottawa

C
68 68

Hillsdale
SALINE Council 31 268
14
Grove Lyndon 68 MIAMI Paola
177
ELLSWORTH 4 81 MORRIS 50
170

Kanopolis McPHERSON 56 57

Eisenhower Flint Hills

281 Emporia 169
35W FRANKLIN
96 156 50
Mc Pherson 135
56 75 LINN

Trail
56 150 57
Great Cottonwood 31
Lyons
Bend Marion Falls 7 52
Garnet

Prairie Spirit
15
61
Larned RICE LYON Burlington

Sand Hills
77 52

Trail
35 Mound City
19 59
HARVEY 169 31
96 MARION CHASE 57 239
ANDERSON

El Dorado
9 14 Newton GREENWOOD COFFEY 3
31

D
ST. John 50 WOODSON 65
52
Hutchinson Iola BOURBON
Yates

Cross Timbers
50 196 177 7 69
61 Center
81
SEDGWICK 54 54
54

Cheney
STAFFORD Eureka Fort
96 35W 57
Scott

Crawford
S 17 296 254 El Dorado ALLEN
281 61 RENO 39
WILSON Chanute
Wichita 54 39
Kingman 99 39 7

Fall River
Pratt 96 57
54 146
64 169
g 235 Erie 3
42 77 75
Fredonia 47 47
14 15 57 160
PRATT 42 BUTLER Girard
53 Howard 96 CRAWFORD Pittsburg
COWLEY 37 126
NEOSHO

E
KINGMAN 126
55 160
49 39 169 57
2 ELK Parsons 103
60
Medicine
Lodge
Wellington

35
160
Winfield
160 38
CHAUTAUQUA
Elk City Independence
96 160

96
59
7 69
96
81 15 Oswego Columbus
14 44 75 26
281 Anthony 166 Sedan 101 59 69
MONT- 66
49 77 CHEROKEE
2 GOMERY 166
179 166 15 LABETTE
HE BARBER HARPER SUMNER Coffeyville 166
66
281 8 Arkansas 99 169
81 177
City

4 5 6 7 8

Historic Lake Scott – C2 Little Jerusalem – B/C2 Milford – B6 Pomona – C7 Sand Hills – D5

Kanopolis – C5 Lovewell – A5 Mushroom Rock – C5 Prairie Dog – A3 Tuttle Creek – B6

Kaw River – B7 Meade – E2 Perry – B8 Prairie Spirit Trail - C/D8 Webster – B3

Wilson – B4

55
KS State Parks