Kansas State Parks Guide - Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks

k a n s a s
Yo u r
official
guide to
kansas
s ta t e pa r k s
State
parks
www.ksoutdoors.com
contents
04
welcome
A letter from KDWPT
06
about
Kansas State Parks
08
cabins
From sleeper to deluxe
09
trails
Options for hiking, biking
and horseback riding
10
activities
From archery to hunting to
mountain biking
11
legend
Amenities
12
KS state parks
From Cedar Bluff to Wilson
13
Northwest region
17
southwest region
20
North Central region
28
south Central region
32
Northeast region
39
southeast region
46
important info
48
programs
50
events
51
contacts
52
resources
54
map of kansas
(In alphabetical order)
K A N S A S
YO U R
OFFICIAL
GUIDE TO
KANSAS
S TA T E PA R K S
STATE
PARKS
on the cover
Webster State Park at
Webster Reservoir
Robin Jennison
Secretary
www.ksoutdoors.com
The Kansas State Parks Guide is published by the
Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism
1020 S. Kansas Ave., Suite 200, Topeka, KS 66612, (785) 296-2281
Editorial production and design by
Sunflower Publishing
www.sunflowerpub.com
All images courtesy of KDWPT
unless otherwise noted.
www.mcaprint.com
Wichita, Kansas
Printer
KS State Parks
Sam Brownback
Governor
3
Jason Dailey
www.ksoutdoors.com
welcome
mission
The Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks
and Tourism (KDWPT) is the public steward
of the state’s natural resources and is
charged with inspiring people to visit these
and all attractions in Kansas. KDWPT’s
mission is to:
• Conserve and enhance Kansas’ natural
heritage, its wildlife and it 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;
• Inform the public about the natural
resources of Kansas to promote
understanding and develop assistance
with this mission;
• Encourage the public to visit and travel
in Kansas and stimulate tourism and
travel-related spending in the state
by promoting its recreational, historic,
cultural and natural attractions.
The agency works toward its mission
through activities in the following
categories:
• Administration
• State Parks
• Hunting and Public Lands
• Fishing and Public Waters
• Boating
• Tourism
• Conserving Habitats and Species
• Law Enforcement
• Information and Education
www.ksoutdoors.com
4
KS State Parks
WELCOME
Come explore Kansas’ state parks and
experience the healthy benefits of hiking one
of our many trails or spend a relaxing weekend
in one of our many cabins. The mind, body
and soul benefit from connecting with nature
in the outdoors. Our state parks provide many
wonderful outdoor recreational opportunities
close to home. People of all generations
are seeking active, authentic, participatory
experiences—the kind of memory-making,
family activities that connect families in
healthy, meaningful ways. There are no better
places to enjoy the Kansas outdoors than our
26 state parks; after all, the more than 6.5
million people who visit Kansas state parks
every year would agree the benefits are endless.
The state parks include 32,200 acres
of land, more than 500 miles of trails, more
than 280 miles of roads, more than 10,000
campsites, and access to more than 130,000
surface-acres of water. Each year, our parks
enhance visitors’ experience with more than
220 special events, ranging from triathlons to
music festivals. Then again, some people want
to just kick back, relax and leave the stress of
daily life behind. Our state parks are perfect
for that too.
As you browse through the Kansas State
Parks Guide, you will notice the amazing
variety of landscapes, facilities and activities
available. There are options to suit all tastes,
abilities and interests. We think you will find
just the right park and just the right spot to
connect with nature and rejuvenate your spirit.
I hope to see you at a Kansas state park!
Linda Lanterman
State Parks Director
Deborah Walker
Sand Hills State Park
Historical Lecompton
Civil War Birthplace
Where slavery began to die
Visit Constitution Hall &
Territorial Capital Museum
10-5 pm Wed-Sat • 1-5 pm Sun
Tours (785) 887-6148 • www.lecomptonkansas.com
Bring the whole family to enjoy:
• Over 28 miles of trails • Playground
with 3 levels of difficulty • Restroom facilities
• Picnic shelters
• Large parking lot
with grills
Admission is just $20 daily for vehicles
or $5 for bicycles or hikers.
Purchase an annual access pass for only $70.
LIFE JACKETS
SAVE LIVES
about
Now is the time to discover a rich variety of
outdoor adventures at Kansas’ state parks.
6
KS State Parks
The Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and
Tourism manages 26 state parks. Many parks offer
utility hookups, cabins, primitive camping sites,
beaches and boat ramps. Most parks also feature easy
access to reservoirs, trails and wildlife areas. All the
state parks are immersed in natural areas highlighting
beautiful and untamed Kansas landscapes. Whatever
your outdoor interest—hiking, camping, wildlife
watching, fishing, boating, bike riding, horseback
riding, hunting or just plain relaxing—a Kansas state
park has what you’re looking for.
Use this guide to discover the Kansas state
parks in your area, or to find a park that offers the
activities you’re looking for. Visit our website, www.
ksoutdoors.com, for current park fees and additional
details. You can also contact any state park directly
using the phone numbers or emails associated with
each park.
Fees
State park fees can vary depending on location and
desired activity. For a complete listing of permit fees, visit
www.ksoutdoors.com/State-Parks/Park-Fees.
Motor Vehicle Permits
Daily or annual vehicle permits are required to use most state parks.
Senior and disabled vehicle owners can take advantage of special
discounts (Kansas residents only). Motor vehicle permits are available
at KDWPT park and regional offices. A motor vehicle permit is not
required for Kaw River State Park or Mushroom Rock State Park, and
motor vehicles are not allowed on Prairie Spirit Trail State Park (see
Trail Permits, below).
State Parks Passport
Kansas motor vehicle owners can purchase a “Kansas State Parks
Passport,” an annual park vehicle permit, as part of their vehicle
registration process. The permit costs $15.50 (without a passport the
annual permit is $25). This non-transferable permit is only available
during the vehicle registration process at a motor vehicle registration
office, through the online vehicle registration site (www.kswebtags.
org), or when registering by mail. The Kansas State Parks Passport is
valid for one year.
Tom Parker
Kansas State Parks
Trail Permits
A “per-person” trail permit
is required to use Prairie
Spirit Trail State Park (except
the portion of the trail
within the city limits of Iola,
Garnett and Ottawa). These
permits are available for
daily or annual use. Other
than a motor vehicle permit,
no additional permits are
required to use trails located
in other state parks.
RV Utilities
Parks with RV sites require a
camping permit in addition
to a utility fee. Visitors can
purchase up to three utilities.
Camping
A camping permit is required
in addition to the motor
vehicle permit for overnight
stays at state parks where
camping is allowed. In
addition to daily camping,
visitors can purchase 14-day
or annual camping permits.
All daily camping permits
expire at 2 p.m. Special
seasonal camping permits
are available at some parks.
Camping is not allowed at
Kaw River, Mushroom Rock
and Prairie Spirit Trail state
parks.
Cabin Rental
Rates vary depending
on location, dates and
amenities desired. Visit
www.reserveamerica.com for
availability and reservations.
Special Event and Youth
Camping permits are also
available. Seasonal camping
permits are available at
some parks. Fees can vary
depending on the season.
Get Social
Share your state park visits with the world
by using the hashtag #MyKsStatePark.
7
Lovewell State Park
To browse parks,
see amenities, check
availability and make
reservations, visit
www.reserveamerica.com,
or call a KDWPT state
park office or the KDWPT
Operations Office at
(620) 672-5911 during
normal business hours.
The number of campsites
available for reservation
will vary by park—in most
parks about half of the
sites can be reserved. The
rest will be available on
a first-come, first-served
basis. Shelter and group
campground reservations
can be made through
the park office where
the facilities are located.
When camping is allowed
at a state fishing lake or
wildlife area, sites are
available only on a firstcome, first-served basis
and cannot be reserved.
KS State Parks
Campsite
and Cabin
Reservations
cabins
Deluxe cabins feature refrigerators, stoves,
microwaves and coffee pots, as well as separate
bedrooms and full bathrooms with showers. Basic
sleeper cabins are also available. Most cabins can
sleep four to six adults while
others can sleep up
to 10 adults. Roughly half of the cabins are ADAaccessible. Nightly rental rates vary depending on
location, season, day
of the week and available
amenities.
8
KS State Parks
Complement any outing with a relaxing
stay in a comfortable cabin at a Kansas state
park, wildlife area or fishing lake. More than 115
cabins are available across the state, located at 19
state parks and five wildlife areas or fishing lakes
and one at the Kansas State Fair.
www.reserve.ksoutdoors.com
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sleeper Cabins
Minimum amenities
Beds, heat/AC,
electricity.
No cooking facilities
provided.
deluxe Cabins
Beds, heat/AC,
electricity, water,
bathroom with toilet,
shower, and sink,
kitchen with stove,
oven, and refrigerator.
No linens provided.
Bring your own linens,
toiletries and food.
Telephone or TV, not
provided.
Jason Dailey
cabins
Atchison State Fishing Lake
Cedar Bluff state park
Cheney state park
Clinton state park
Crawford state park
Cross Timbers state park
Eisenhower state park
El Dorado state park
Fall River state park
Glen Elder state park
Kanopolis state park
Kansas state fairgrounds
Kingman State Fishing Lake
Lovewell state park
McPherson State Fishing Lake
Milford state park
Mined Land wildlife area
Ottawa State Fishing Lake
Perry state park
Pomona state park
Prairie Dog state park
Scott state park
Tuttle Creek state park
Webster state park
Wilson state park
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Cheney State Park
trails
HIT THE TRAIL
With thousands of miles of trails available, opportunities for
hiking, biking and horseback riding can be found throughout Kansas.
Most state parks and many wildlife areas and fishing lakes have hiking
trails available that encompass a wide variety of terrain, distances and
physical abilities. ADA accessible trails are available at many state parks.
The Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism maintains
nearly 500 miles of recreational trails, providing visitors with plenty of
options for hiking, bicycling, horseback riding and nature appreciation.
Trails also provide visitors the opportunity to get close to flora, fauna
and natural geological formations unique to the state or to walk where
Native Americans or early Kansas settlers once traveled. The natural
settings of Kansas state park trails provide a renewing of the spirit and
peace of mind seldom found in the urban landscape.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers also maintains trails at many
of the state’s major reservoirs. Some of these trails connect with state
park trails, creating expansive hiking experiences.
Sand Hills State Park
KS State Parks
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1
1
1 trail, 5 miles
3 3 trails, 6.5 miles
3 1 3 trails, 29.75 miles
44
4 trails, 8.25 miles
5
4
5 trails, 15.75 miles
2 11*3 trails, 27.5 miles
6
5
1*
6 trails, 30 miles
4
2
5 trails, 10.75 miles
5
5
5 trails, 6.5 miles
3
3 trails, 7.5 miles
2 21*2 trails, 39 miles
5 21*5 trails, 31.44 miles
1
1 trail, .5 miles
6
6
6 trails, 3.5 miles
1 1 1 trail, 3.4 miles
4 41*4 trails, 13.6 miles
2 11*2 trails, 40 miles
3 2 3 trails, 3 miles
1
1
1 trail, 1.4 miles
1
1
1 trail, 52 miles
8
5
8 trails, 15 miles
2 11*2 trails, 7.3 miles
6
3
1*
7 trails, 22.5 miles
1 1 trail, 3 miles
3 1 3 trails, 26 miles
9
Deborah Walker
Cedar Bluff
Cheney
Clinton
Crawford
Cross Timbers
Eisenhower
El Dorado
Elk City
Fall River
Glen Elder
Hillsdale
Kanopolis
Mushroom Rock
Kaw River
Meade
Milford
Perry
Pomona
Prairie Dog
Prairie Spirit RT
Sand Hills
Scott
Tuttle Creek
Webster
Wilson
Bi
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ils
ils
Discover Kansas trails—truly a moving experience.
activities
Tuttle Creek State Park
things to do
The Kansas state parks offer a variety of activities—
from archery ranges to hunting areas, basketball courts
to baseball fields, fishing to boating, and even disc golf.
For a complete list of activities available at state parks,
visit the individual park pages.
ARCHERY
Recreational archery is a fast-growing sport that can
be enjoyed—and mastered—by enthusiasts young
and old. It can be practiced as a sport on its own
or as a stepping stone or adjunct to bowhunting or
bowfishing.
10
KS State Parks
Recreational archery ranges can be found at the
following locations:
Clinton State Park
Eisenhower State Park
El Dorado State Park
Elk City State Park
Lovewell State Park
Prairie Dog State Park
Tuttle Creek State Park
HUNTING
Hunting is allowed by special permission in more remote
areas at a handful of state parks. Most state parks are
adjacent or close to a state wildlife area where public hunting
is allowed with fewer restrictions. Check with the specific park
office for more information and restrictions. Renting a cabin
or parking an RV at a state park are great options for hunters
seeking comfortable lodging during their hunt.
SHOOTING RANGES
Supervised shooting ranges are located at Hillsdale State
Park and the Fancy Creek Area of Tuttle Creek State Park.
El Dorado State Park is in the process of developing a
shooting range. Supervised shooting ranges are also located
at Shawnee State Fishing Lake and Cheney Wildlife Area. All
supervised ranges have limited hours. Unsupervised ranges
are located at Maxwell Wildlife Refuge (Don Brown Memorial
Shooting Range), Hollister Wildlife Area and Glen Elder
Wildlife Area.
Fully automatic firearms are not allowed at any range on
department lands. For information on shooting ranges
available to the public, visit www.ksoutdoors.com/Services/
Education/Shooting-Ranges.
See all activities at:
www.ksoutdoors.com
legend
Facilities
and
Amenities
in Kansas
State
Parks
Use this legend
as a reference for each of the parks
listed in the State Parks Directory pages.
Archery Range
Hiking (Trails)
Bait Shop
Historical Site
Biking
Hunting
Boat Ramps
Kayaking
Boating
Marina
Cabins
Mountain Biking
Campgrounds w/
Utility Hookups
Nature Trails
Park Office
Canoeing
Picnic Areas
Courtesy Docks
Playground
Disk Golf
Primitive Campground
Drinking Water
Restaurant
Dump Stations
Restrooms
Equestrian Trails
Shelters
Fire Rings
Fishing
Swimming
Grills
KDWPT
Waterskiing
Group Camp
Kaw River State Park
Wildlife Watching
11
Showers
KS State Parks
Shooting Range
Fish Cleaning
Station
Kansas state parks
Lovewell
Prairie Dog
70
Glen Elder
Webster
Cedar Bluff
Milford
Wilson
70
70
Kanopolis
El Dorado
KS State Parks
12
Page
Cross Timbers
Crawford
Fall River
Elk City
35
Meade
435
35
Prairie
Eisenhower Spirit
Trail
35
235
Park
Clinton
635
Hillsdale
35W
Cheney
Page
470
Pomona
Sand Hills
Park
Perry
Kaw
70
Mushroom
Rock
Scott
Tuttle Creek
Park
Page
Cedar Bluff . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Glen Elder. . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Pomona. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Cheney . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Hillsdale. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Prairie Dog . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Clinton. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Kanopolis. . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Prairie Spirit Trail. . . . . . . 44
Crawford. . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Kaw River. . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Sand Hills. . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Cross Timbers . . . . . . . . . 41
Lovewell. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Scott . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Eisenhower . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Meade. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Tuttle Creek. . . . . . . . . . . 26
El Dorado . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Milford. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Webster. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Elk City . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Mushroom Rock . . . . . . . 25
Wilson. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Fall River . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Perry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
• Prairie Dog
70
• Webster
70
•
Cedar Bluff
635
70
470
435
70
35
35W
35
235
35
northwest
14 cedar bluff 15 prairie dog 16 webster
Arikaree Breaks
This baby canyon is located in Cheyenne County near
St. Francis. The deep valleys and ravines were created
from wind and today confirm the varying demographics
of land in Kansas. Measuring 36 miles long, and at
points a few miles wide, the breaks are a sight to see.
Cooper Barn
The famed Cooper Barn is located in Colby at the
Prairie Museum of Art and History. Many consider
the barn to be the largest in Kansas, but even more
unique to the structure is that it was actually built 16
miles northeast of Colby and later moved to its current
location.
Mount Sunflower
Mount Sunflower sits just at the Kansas and Colorado
borders between Interstate 70 and U.S. Highway 40.
Mount Sunflower is the highest point in Kansas at
4,039 feet.
Cedar Bluff State Park
13
Physiography
Most of the Northwest Region is considered part of the
High Plains physiographic region, featuring excellent
farmlands that slope downward from the west. Areas of
the eastern part of the region are considered to be in the
Smoky Hills physiographic region. The area was once
covered by a large sea, leaving traces of aquatic life and
amazing rock formations.
KS State Parks
Byways
Western Vistas Historic Byway
Smoky Valley Scenic Byway
cedar
bluff
S t a t e P a r k
at C e d a r B l u f f R e s e r v o i r
32001 147 Highway Ellis, KS 67637
[email protected] | www.ksoutdoors.com/cedar-bluff-state-park | (785) 726-3212
Cedar Bluff State Park is located in the heart of Trego County, almost exactly halfway between Denver
and Kansas City. The area around the park offers some of the finest upland and big game hunting, making
its cabins ideal for your base camp. A portion of the Page Creek Area is designated as a handicapped hunting
access area, a feature unique to this park.
The park boasts two different recreation areas encompassing 1,100 acres on the 6,000-acre Cedar Bluff
Reservoir. The reservoir is popular among boating enthusiasts, fans of water sports, and anglers. For a stunning
view of the lake, take a drive to the top of the 150-foot-high limestone bluffs that give the lake its name.
Visitors will also enjoy that Cedar Bluff is located on the Smoky Valley Scenic Byway.
Providing everything from hiking and wildlife watching to spaces for family reunions, Cedar Bluff State
Park stands out in western Kansas.
stay
6
cabins
267
primitive
campsites
3
shelters
At the Park
Day trip
History buffs will want to head to nearby Ellis. The
town is home to three museums, the Walter P.
Chrysler Boyhood Home, the Railroad Museum and
the Bukovina Museum. The community also boasts
a golf course, outdoor basketball and tennis courts,
and even a Frisbee golf course (www.ellis.ks.us).
Visitors will also enjoy a drive along the Smoky
Valley Scenic Byway that runs from WaKeeney to
Ogallah (www.ksbyways.org).
16
standard full
hookups
124
standard
water and
electric
hookups
Scott Bean
14
KS State Parks
Historic points of interest
Threshing Machine Canyon, the site of an 1867
Native-American attack on a wagon train bearing
a threshing machine, is accessed by a road west
of the park. In the historic canyon, you will find
carvings dating back to the mid-1800s. The Cedar
Bluff Reservoir is also located along the old
Butterfield Overland Despatch trail (BOD). A stone
marker for the BOD trail can be seen along the
highway near the Cedar Bluff dam.
prairie
dog
Stat e Pa rk
at K e i t h S e b e l i u s R e s e r v o i r
13037 State Highway 261 Norton, KS 67654
[email protected] | www.ksoutdoors.com/Prairie-Dog-State-Park | (785) 877-2953
At the Park
Shortgrass Prairies
Kansas is known for its tallgrass prairie
in the Flint Hills region; Prairie Dog,
however, is known for its shortgrass.
Located in northwestern Kansas, Prairie
Dog State Park is the perfect place to
view natural grasses and see how they
differ from those toward the eastern and
central parts of the state.
stay
4
cabins
154
primitive
campsites
4
shelters
10
standard hookups
with electric and
water
60
standard hookups
with electric,
water and sewer
KS State Parks
Historic Points of Interest
Visitors can see a renovated adobe
house, originally built in 1892, one of
the last adobe buildings in the country
in its original location. The house
was preserved by a group of activists
during the park’s creation. The Hillmon
Schoolhouse, which was relocated in the
1960s, can also be seen at Prairie Dog.
15
Prairie Dog State Park occupies 1,150 acres on
the shores of Keith Sebelius Reservoir and is home to
a thriving prairie-dog colony. Though the park was
named before prairie dogs called the area home, it’s
now the site of a 300-animal colony about a quartermile south of the park office. After reintroduction
efforts failed, the species voluntarily found its way
to the state park and has been calling it home ever
since.
A 1.4-mile nature trail complete with
interpretive signs is a great place to explore the park
and observe wildlife. Anglers have found productive
fishing for black bass, wiper, crappie, catfish and
saugeye.
The adjacent 6,400-acre Norton Wildlife
Area offers good prospects for spotting pheasant,
waterfowl, turkey and rabbits. Both white-tailed and
mule deer can be found here, as well as a variety of
furbearers; however, hunting is not allowed.
webster
S tat e Park
at W e b s t e r R e s e r v o i r
1140 10 Road Stockton, KS 67669
[email protected]
www.ksoutdoors.com/Webster-State-Park
(785) 425-6775
Side Trip
Webster State Park is
about 20 miles south of
Kirwin National Wildlife
Refuge, with its abundant
opportunities to watch
prairie wildlife. A visitor
center is located about 6
miles east of the town of
Glade on K-9 highway and
is open Monday–Friday. Be
sure to bring binoculars and
a camera!
www.fws.gov/refuge/Kirwin/
Water Sports
The gorgeous Webster
Reservoir is known for its
water-sports opportunities.
Visitors can ski, tube,
windsurf, boat and more.
Fewer boats create
plenty of room for these
recreational favorites,
making them safer for all
involved.
stay
2
cabins
155
primitive
campsites
12
16
KS State Parks
shelters
At Webster State Park a sandy beach awaits visitors seeking a retreat in prairie setting of rolling
hills and spacious skies.
Fossils dot the rock formations around the lake. The park has camping available near the water,
which is clear water due to the rocky shoreline. Webster offers more than 25 Toadstool, Wyoming,
and Wauconda shelters to protect from wind and sun.
The park’s Coyote Trail is a three-mile nature trail with 33 interpretive stations. The reservoir
serves as a migration area for waterfowl, shore birds and numerous eagles.
Boating, fishing, waterskiing and windsurfing are popular activities at Webster. Anglers will enjoy
casting a line for walleye, wiper, largemouth bass, crappie, channel catfish and flathead catfish. The
8,018-acre Webster Wildlife Area is home to white-tailed and mule deer, pheasants, quail, waterfowl,
wild turkey, squirrels and songbirds.
At the Park
1
standard full
hookup
10
standard
hookups with
electric
82
standard
hookups with
electric and
water
70
635
70
70
470
435
70
35
• Scott
35W
35
235
• Meade
35
southwest
18 meade
19 scott
Points of Interest
The southern portion of the Western Vistas
Historic Byway concludes in Scott City.
Keystone Gallery, Scott City
The Jerry Thomas Gallery
and Collection
Renowned artist Jerry Thomas kept his roots
planted firmly in Kansas, using colorful
mediums to depict life on the prairie. You can
relive the excitement of the Wild West at his
gallery just off Highway 96 near Scott City.
www.jerrythomasart.com
Scott State Park
History
El Quartelejo Museum
The West truly gets wild at El Quartelejo.
The museum takes you to the High Plains of
western Kansas. www.elquartelejomuseum.org
17
Scott Bean
Try Southwest Kansas
Three southern communities come together to
highlight unique experiences in Kansas. Visit
Dodge City, home of the Boothill Museum;
Garden City, home of the Lee Richardson
Zoo; and Liberal, home to Dorothy’s House &
Land of Oz—all ready to host curious visitors.
www.tryswkansas.com
KS State Parks
Cimarron National Grassland
Explore this massive, preserved grassland.
Camping, hunting, hiking and wildlife
watching are all available. www.fs.usda.gov/
goto/psicc/cim
meade
S tate Park
at M e a d e S tat e L a k e
[email protected]
stay
54
primitive
campsites
2
shelters
18
KS State Parks
42
standard
hookups with
electric and
water
13051 V Road Meade, KS 67864
| www.ksoutdoors.com/Meade-State-Park | (620) 873-2572
Meade State Park, located in southwest Kansas,
is known as the “Oasis on the Plains.”
The park comprises 440 acres of shortgrass
prairie and recreational facilities situated around
the 80-acre Meade State Fishing Lake. This park is
ideal for fishermen, hunters and nature enthusiasts,
but it also includes day-use areas and a swimming
beach. Meade is also the only park in which you
have views of the lake from any vantage point.
Built by the Civilian Conservation Corps/
Works Projects Administration in the 1930s, the
park features opportunities to learn about Claude
Hibbard’s archaeological digs, Native American
campsites, and travels of Coronado through the area.
Anglers and hunters will find reward in the
area. Fresh catches might include bluegill, crappie,
channel catfish and largemouth bass (and don’t miss
the fish hatchery). Hunters can find dove and quail,
as well as deer, turkey, rabbit and the occasional
waterfowl.
At the Park
Historic Point of Interest
The Meade Fish Hatchery was initially constructed
in the 1930s and is the only hatchery in southwest
Kansas. Today, the hatchery consists of seven lined
ponds covering more than 10 acres. Intermediate
channel catfish, hybrid sunfish, largemouth and
smallmouth bass, walleye and grass carp are
among the fish species cultured at the Meade
facility. Tours are available by appointment by
calling 620-873-2701. The best times to see fish
are April through June.
Events
Meade State Park hosts Halloween in the Park
each year in October. For those who are brave
enough, there also is a “haunted” trail through
the woods.
scott
S tate Park
at S c o t t S tat e L a k e
101 West Scott Lake Drive Scott City, KS 67871
[email protected] | www.ksoutdoors.com/Scott-State-Park | (620) 872-2061
stay
2
cabins
80
primitive
campsites
2
shelters
7
standard full
hookups
50
standard hookups
with electric and
water
At the Park
Steele Homestead Museum
Visit this 100-plus year-old historic
home inside the park. The Steele home
was built by the area’s original settlers.
It was also the Herbert Steele family
who donated their land in 1928 in order
to make the state park a reality.
El Cuartelejo
Craggy Bluffs
Located in western Kansas, Scott
Lake is home to breathtaking
craggy bluffs, which offer incredible
views. A great stop for photos, the
bluffs are also a landmark that other
lakes simply can’t provide.
KS State Parks
El Cuartelejo is what remains of the
only known Native-American pueblo
in Kansas. The adobe and stone
foundation is all that has survived. The
pueblo was built by the Taos in 1664
and was last occupied by the Picurie.
No Native Americans occupied
the pueblo after 1706 although
Spanish and French forces lived there
occasionally for the subsequent 20
years.
19
Scott State Park, located in the western
Kansas prairie, is an astonishing retreat of natural
springs, deep wooded canyons and craggy bluffs.
The 1,020-acre park surrounds the 100-acre,
spring-fed Scott State Fishing Lake.
Visitors enjoy a swimming beach and
playground, and a concessions building stocks
camping and fishing supplies during the summer.
Canoe and paddleboat rentals are also available
seasonally.
Rich in history, the park hosts the remains of
El Cuartelejo, the northernmost pueblo in the U.S.
The home of the early settlers of the area is now
the Steele Home museum. The park is also part of
the Western Vistas Historic Byway.
Nature trails accommodate hikers, equestrians
and naturalists, and provide excellent opportunities
to observe wildlife in natural habitats. Wild turkey,
deer, bobcat and beaver are all common in the area.
• Lovewell
70
• Glen Elder
• Tuttle Creek
Milford
•
70
• Wilson
635
470
70
Mushroom Rock •
Kanopolis •
435
70
35
35W
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235
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north central
21 Glen Elder 22 Kanopolis
23 Lovewell 24 Milford 25 Mushroom Rock
26 Tuttle Creek 27 Wilson
Points of Interest
Fort Riley
Kansas State University
Located in Manhattan, Kansas State University is a
neighbor to Tuttle Creek State Park. Stay at the park
while also enjoying Wildcat Football, homecoming,
academic events and the Beach Museum of Art.
Konza Prairie
Flint Hills Discovery Center
Located near Junction City and Milford State Park, Fort Riley is home
to the 1st Infantry Division, “Big Red One.” Visit the base’s historic
museums, enjoy a driving or walking tour and mark your calendar for
patriotic events.
The US 36 Treasure Hunt
If you enjoy antiquing, then you’ll love the US 36
Treasure Hunt. It is held annually in mid-September
and various communities along the northern
highway US 36 join forces to sell various antiques in
this three-day event.
Byways
Post Rock Scenic Byway
Prairie Trail Scenic Byway (northern section)
Native Stone Scenic Byway
Physiography
The North Central Region includes the physiographic regions of the
High Plains, a portion of the Flint Hills and the Glaciated Region. All
three regions feature rolling hills along the northern border of the state.
Tom Parker
20
KS State Parks
Glen Elder State Park
glen
elder
Stat e Pa rk
at g l e n e l d e r R e s e r v o i r
& Waconda Lake
2131 180 Rd. (Hwy 24 and Hwy 128 Junction) Glen Elder, KS 67446
[email protected] | www.ksoutdoors.com/Glen-Elder-State-Park | (785) 545-3345
At the Park
2
cabins
195
primitive
campsites
3
shelters
120
standard
hookups with
electric and
water
Boat ramps
in Kanza and
Osage with
ADA courtesy
docks
Wildlife Watching
You never know what you’ll see along
the park’s roads, which offer 6 miles of
exercise and beauty. Even more natural
wonders can be seen on the Waconda
Nature Trails, which are in development.
Be sure to watch for pheasant, deer,
waterfowl, turkeys and even the
occasional bald eagle.
KS State Parks
Tom Parker
Historic Points of Interest
It’s not unusual to hear wedding bells at Glen Elder’s
Waconda Heritage Village, which features the historic
Hopewell Church. Visitors glimpse the area’s past through
historical displays in the park. The Waconda Springs replica is
at the park’s highest elevation and offers an unequaled view
of the surrounding area.
stay
21
Glen Elder State Park is situated on the shores of Glen
Elder Reservoir (Waconda Lake). The 12,500-acre lake is
named for the mineral spring covered when the lake was filled.
Native Americans called the spring Wakonda, meaning “great
spirit.”
Plenty of activity abounds at the park including
swimming, boating, hiking, volleyball and bicycling. Anglers
will enjoy outstanding crappie; walleye; white, largemouth and
smallmouth bass, among others. The Chautauqua Fishing
Pond offers easy access for individuals with disabilities and
families with children. The pond is stocked with trout, and in
the winter a trout permit is required.
The park hosts a variety of special events annually
including Youth Fishing Tournament, Youth and Women’s
Pheasant Hunt, The Wakonda Indian Festival and yearly
fireworks show on July 4th weekend.
stay
6
cabins
200+
primitive
campsites
5
shelters
kanopolis
S tate Park
16
standard full
hookups
63
standard hookups
with electric
54
at K a n o p o l i s L a k e
22
KS State Parks
200 Horsethief Road Marquette, KS 67464
[email protected] | www.ksoutdoors.com/Kanopolis-State-Park
Kanopolis State Park, the first park in
the Kansas State Park system, is in the rolling
hills, bluffs and woods of the scenic Smoky
Hills region of central Kansas. From the
towering Dakota sandstone bluffs to the caves
and crevices of Horsethief Canyon, the park
and surrounding area offer rugged beauty and
stunning vistas.
Since its inception, the park has received
many accolades. Its trail system has been
recognized by National Trails System and
was designated as a Millennium Legacy Trail
by the American Trails Board. In 2002 the
Coalition for Recreational Trails recognized
the trails system for Outstanding Use of
Recreational Trails Funds for Accessibility
Enhancements.
In addition to trails, visitors will enjoy
the 3,500-acre Kanopolis Lake, offering
excellent fishing opportunities for white bass,
crappie, walleye, saugeye, wiper, largemouth
bass and channel catfish.
At the Park
|
(785) 546-2565
Trails
Kanopolis offers 27.4 miles of trails open to hikers, mountain
bikers and horseback riders. Relax on the Buffalo Track
Canyon Nature Trail while observing native plants, wildlife
and the geology of the canyon. Numbered posts along the
trail correspond to numbers in the trail’s brochure, providing
interesting tidbits along the way. The Horsethief Trail loops
through canyons and trees. Farther north and west, the
Prairie Trail traverses high prairie and Red Rock Canyon. The
Alum Creek Trail takes visitors across the vast prairie and
through many water crossings. Note that it can take more
than a day to complete some trails on foot.
Wildlife Watching
The Kanopolis Wildlife Viewing Area offers a rare
opportunity to find foxes, bobcats, songbirds, wildflowers
and much more. This 40-acre viewing area has more than
half a mile of surfaced ADA-accessible trails circling through
a marsh, two ponds, five photo blinds and an observation
deck. Within the Horsethief area of Kanopolis State Park lies
an active prairie-dog town.
Scott Bean
standard hookups
with electric and
water
lovewell Stat e
Pa rk
a t L o v e w e ll R e s e r v o i r
2446 250 Road Webber, KS 66970
[email protected] | (785) 753-4971
www.ksoutdoors.com/Lovewell-State-Park
Tom Parker
Day trips
The third weekend in September marks
the US 36 Highway Treasure Hunt. Enjoy
shopping near Mankato during this antiquefilled weekend. A few miles east of Lovewell
Reservoir and about 8 miles north of US 36
along K-266 is the city of Republic, where you
can visit the Pawnee Indian Museum State
Historic Site. Learn about the people of the
Pawnee Nation and discover the story of a
Pawnee village that existed there in the late
1700s. www.kshs.org/pawnee_indian
At the Park
stay
9
cabins
323
primitive campsites
10
shelters
27
standard full hookups
35
standard hookups with
electric
93
standard hookups with
electric and water
7-station, 14-target
walk through archery range
KS State Parks
Fishing
The reservoir is home to quality fishing for
walleye, white bass, wiper, crappie, and three
varieties of catfish. Once you’ve caught your
dinner, visit Lovewell’s lighted, accessible
fish-cleaning stations, with outlets for electric
knives. The park’s full-service marina sells bait
and tackle. Fishing licenses can be purchased
at the state park office and the marina.
the water. The south shore’s
high bluffs block the summer
winds and help alleviate
rough waters on the 2,900acre Lovewell Reservoir.
The full-service marina rents
fishing boats, pontoon boats,
ski boats, personal watercraft
and kayaks. Courtesy docks
and boat ramps are available
throughout the park. For the
land-lubbers,
Southwinds
Swimming Beach offers
plenty of sun and shade.
23
Lovewell 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—
ideal for casual visitors. The historic limestone
schoolhouse serves as a nondenominational
church, hosting church services each Sunday in
the summer.
The 2,200-acre Lovewell Wildlife Area
invites hunters and wildlife enthusiasts to
experience a variety of well-managed habitats.
Lovewell is a haven for those who love
milford
S tate Park
at m i l f o r d l a k e
Milford State Park is a favorite
getaway on the shores of the
state’s largest lake—16,000-acre
Milford Lake.
The state park is a popular
destination for anglers eager to
experience the outstanding fishing
available in Milford Lake. The
Milford Nature Center and Milford
Fish Hatchery offer a variety of
interpretive exhibits and displays.
Milford is a popular destination
for boating and features a large yacht
club, swimming beaches, boat ramps,
picnic shelters, a full-service marina
and a multi-purpose trails system.
The horse campground is ideal for
equestrians and offers 20 campsites
with full hookups, covered corrals
with lighting and two wash bays.
Whether you’re hunting or
viewing, the Milford Wildlife Area
is home to all types of native species.
Roughly 19,000 acres are available
for public access to hunting, wildlife
viewing, camping, hiking and more.
24
KS State Parks
3612 State Park Road Milford, KS 66514
[email protected] | www.ksoutdoors.com/Milford-State-Park | (785) 238-3014
At the Park
stay
10
cabins
103
Milford Fishery Hatchery
Visit the Milford Hatchery, one of only a few warm-water,
intensive-culture facilities throughout the entire country.
Fish eggs are hatched in small containers, and the
young fish are grown in fiberglass tanks and concrete
raceways. The Milford Hatchery also has six one-acre
plastic lined ponds that are used to raise fish.
primitive campsites
14
shelters
51
standard full
hookup sites
90
standard hookups
with electric and
water
Milford Nature Center
The Nature Center, located adjacent to the fish hatchery, offers an up-close view of
wildlife native to the Flint Hills area. Through exhibits and demonstrations, the center
offers an educational look at the natural history of a variety of native species. Be sure to
check out the outdoor perks as well, such as a prime eagle-viewing spot.
mushroom
rock
S tate
Park
200 Horsethief Road Marquette, KS 67464
[email protected] | www.ksoutdoors.com/Mushroom-Rock-State-Park | (785) 546-2565
Tucked into the Smoky Hills region in the north-central part of
the state, the Dakota formations (mushroom rocks) are the remains
of beach sands and sediments of the Cretaceous Period. This 5-acre
park was donated to the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and
Tourism (Kansas Park and Resource Authority) by the Ellsworth
County Historical Society and was dedicated on April 25, 1965.
The Mushroom Rocks are sandstone and sedimentary rock held
together by calcium carbonate, which acts 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
Kit Carson’s “favorite little places.”
This small but mighty state park is a satellite of Kanopolis State
Park. It is designated as a day-use area only. There is no camping
allowed, and no permits are required.
Eat
25
Pretty Boy Floyd’s
pays homage to
the famed 1930s
gangster in this
historic Ellsworth
underground eatery
and is known for
hand-cut steaks,
ambiance and
delicious cocktails.
KS State Parks
Ellsworth, Kansas
Only 12 miles west of Mushroom Rock
State Park, Ellsworth welcomes visitors
in fine fashion. Ellsworth was a thriving
cowtown in the late 1860s and early
1870s where the likes of Buffalo Bill
Cody, Wild Bill Hickok and Wyatt Earp
once stayed. The Ellsworth Downtown
Historic District is on the National
Register of Historic Places. Be sure to
visit the National Drovers Hall of Fame,
honoring the founders of the great
American cattle industry.
At the Park
Tuttle
creek
Stat e Pa rk
at T u t t l e C r e e k L a k e
Located near Manhattan in the beautiful Flint Hills,
Tuttle Creek State Park offers visitors a wide variety of
outdoor recreation possibilities and plenty of room to roam.
Tuttle Creek Lake, the state’s second largest impoundment,
has 12,500 acres of water and about 100 miles of rugged,
wooded shoreline to explore.
The 1,250-acre park features camping and fishing,
and there are scenic trails for hiking, mountain-biking and
horseback riding.
Excellent channel catfish and flathead fishing is available
in the lake and in the river above and below the lake.
The River Pond area offers rentals of canoes and kayaks.
Families shouldn’t miss the picnic areas, an 18-hole disc golf
course, volleyball courts, horseshoe pits and archery range.
Mountain-Biking Trail
5800 A River Pond Road Manhattan, KS 66502
[email protected]
www.ksoutdoors.com/Tuttle-Creek-State-Park
(785) 539-7941
Tuttle Creek’s surrounding land is home to one of the
steepest mountain-biking trails in the state. In fact, riders
travel from across the country to try out the Kansas trail with
mountainous terrain. Competitions are held throughout the
year though bikers can ride this professional-grade path
year-round.
stay
11
cabins
501
primitive
campsites
23
shelters
8
standard full
hookups
44
KS State Parks
standard full
hookups with
electric
159
26
standard hookups
with electric and
water
At the Park
Shooting Range
The state-of-the-art Fancy
Creek Shooting Range is
open the first and third
weekends of the month.
Fancy Creek is east of the
town of Randolph, about
½-mile east and ½-mile
north of the junction of
US-77 and K-16.
Wilson
Stat e Park
at w i l s o n L a k e
At the Park
stay
8
modern cabins
99+
primitive
campsites
3
shelters
4
standard full
hook-ups
36
standard
hookups with
electric
95
standard hookups
with electric and
water
(785) 658-2465
Smoky Hills
Wilson Lake features a rugged
shoreline punctuated by scenic cliffs
and rocky outcrops. The park is a
landmark on the Post Rock Scenic
Byway, which runs from Wilson north
along K-232 to Lucas. Take time to
drive the post rock-lined route and
be sure to spend time in Lucas, the
Grassroots Art Capital of Kansas.
www.ksbyways.com
Trails
Plan a day hike on the refurbished
Dakota Trail. Well-maintained trails
offer magnificent wildlife views, as
well as a unique perspective on the
nearby lake. Visitors can also learn
about the area with informative posts
along the way. The Switchgrass Bike
Trail is popular among mountain
bikers. Cedar Trail in the Otoe area is
a handicapped-accessible, 3/4-mile
loop with a concrete surface.
KS State Parks
Set in the scenic Smoky Hills region of
Kansas,
Wilson State Park provides
convenient access to one
of the state’s prime water-recreation areas. The park’s
945 acres consist of two areas, Hell Creek and Otoe,
both situated on the south side of the 9,000-acre
Wilson Lake.
The Switchgrass Mountain bike trail is a 24.5mile trail located in the Hell Creek area of the state
park and in 2012 was the first mountain bike trail in
Kansas designated as an “Epic Trail” by the International
Mountain Bike Association (IMBA). Included in the
bike trail is a 5.5 easy loop.
Wilson Lake, the deepest in Kansas, will satisfy
boating enthusiasts and those who enjoy water sports.
Lake Wilson Marina is a full-service marina, and anglers
can gear up at Knotheads Bait & Tackle Shop, located on
the east side of South Shore.
Wilson State Park is an ideal location for viewing
and photographing wildlife, including deer, bobwhite
quail, waterfowl, and numerous songbirds and migratory
birds. The adjacent 8,000-acre Wilson Wildlife Area
offers an array of hunting opportunities. Famous for
its striped bass and walleye fishing, Wilson attracts
thousands of anglers each year.
|
27
#3 State Park Road Sylvan Grove, KS 67481
W [email protected] | ksoutdoors.com/W ilson-State-Park
70
635
70
70
470
435
70
35
35W
35
Sand Hills •
Cheney •
El Dorado
•
235
35
south central
29 cheney 30 el dorado 31 sand hills
Sand Hills State Park
Cheyenne Bottoms and Quivira
National Wildlife Preserve
Located near Great Bend, the Cheyenne
Bottoms and Quivira National Wildlife
Refuge are two of the more important
regions for migrating birds. While plenty of
wildlife abounds in the area, various species
of birds will stop in this area while moving
north or south.
Urban comforts
Take a day trip to Salina or Wichita, two large communities in Kansas that
offer shopping, entertainment and dining.
Byways
Gypsum Hills Byway
Flint Hills National Scenic Byway
Wetlands & Wildlife National Scenic Byway
Physiography
The South Central region is the most comprehensive of all the regions in
terms of varying physiographic regions. The area features six landscapes
including High Plains, Arkansas River Lowlands, Red Hills, Flint Hills
and Osage Questas. This region includes the most abundant section of the
Flint Hills, which is the state’s scenic pastureland named for its flint rock
and bluestem grasses. The Red Hills also has traces of stone, including
sandstone and shale mix; the area also includes many hills and mesas.
Deborah Walker
Tallgrass National Prairie Preserve
Learn all about the history and importance
of the Flint Hills at this national park.
Originally the Z-Bar Ranch, this historic
destination shares what life was like on a
ranch in the late 1800s. Don’t miss the bison
herd.
cheney
Stat e Park
at C h e n e y R e s e r v o i r
Cheney Reservoir is known as the windiest lake in
the lower 48 states—making this park ideal for sailors and
windsurfers.
Only 20 miles west of Wichita, Cheney State Park
frames Cheney Reservoir with its 1,900 acres of park
amenities. The Ninnescah Sailing Center on the West
Shore Area is a mecca for those seeking water sports with
a healthy dose of wind. In addition to a marina on the
East Shore, the park’s 22 boat-launching lanes provide
convenient access to the 9,500-acre lake.
Giefer Creek and Spring Creek nature trails offer
scenic hiking around the reservoir. Anglers enjoy fishing
for channel catfish, white bass, crappie, striped bass, wiper
and walleye. A handicapped-accessible fishing complex is
available at the Toadstool Loop Jetty.
Events
9
cabins
277
primitive
campsites
8
shelters
3
standard full
hookups
222
standard
hookups with
electric and
water
At the Park
Day trip
The nearby town of Cheney
hosts the Sedgwick County
Fair each July and draws
crowds for the Demolition
Derby and Bull Blowout bullriding event. During the rest
of the year, Souder’s Historical
Museum takes you back to
life in rural Kansas in the
late 1880s (www.cheneyks.
org/thingstodo.html). The
Eagle Valley Raptor Center is
home to native Kansas birds
of prey. The kids will enjoy a
visit to the Cosmosphere and
STRATACA, an underground
salt museum in Hutchinson.
KS State Parks
stay
29
16000 NE 50th St. Cheney, KS 67025
[email protected]
www.ksoutdoors.com/Cheney-State-Park
(316) 542-3664
Cheney Reservoir is known nationally for its wind and is
considered a top attraction for sailing and windsurfing
enthusiasts. The Ninnescah Sailing Organization has
hosted several regatta events, as well as informal races. The
association also offers junior sailing and camps for those
looking to get their feet wet early. www.ninnescah.org
ElSDorado
tate Park
at e l d o r a d o l a k e
618 Bluestem Road El Dorado, KS 67042
[email protected]
www.ksoutdoors.com/El-Dorado-State-Park | (316) 321-7180
El Dorado State Park is located on the edge of the scenic Flint Hills
and is Kansas’ largest state park. El Dorado’s four areas sprawl across
4,000 acres along the eastern and western shores of El Dorado Lake.
In addition to camping, boating, fishing, hiking and a large
ADA archery range, the park features a large amphitheater and stage
specially designed for special events and concerts. Equestrians will
enjoy an outdoor arena, an exception to Kansas State Parks.
Seven trails offer outdoor adventure for hikers, bikers and horse
riders of all skill levels. The 4,000-acre wildlife area along the shores
of the upper end of the reservoir is popular for hunting quail, prairie
chicken, deer, turkey, waterfowl and small game.
stay
10
cabins
589
primitive
campsites
10
shelters
165
KS State Parks
307
standard
hookups with
electric and
water
Events
30
A large amphitheater with dual stages accommodates a variety of concerts and festivals conducted
at the park each year. Visitors have enjoyed live music, a chili cook-off, a tractor-pull and a triathlon.
The park regularly updates its Facebook page to keep fans “in the know” about events.
At the Park
Jason Dailey (top)
Horseback
A modern equestrian campground with full-sized arena and attached
corrals is open to the public. It offers 23 utility sites with attached
corrals, 2 non-utility campsites with corrals and water, 26 non-utility
sites, and a reservable shelter near the arena.
standard full
hookups
sand
hills
S t a t e P a r k
4207 E 56th Hutchinson, KS 67502
[email protected]
www.ksoutdoors.com/Sand-Hills-State-Park (316) 542-3664
A unique natural area, Sand Hills State Park is a wildlife watcher’s
delight. Located near Hutchinson in Reno County, the park features
excellent trails that wind through 1,123 acres of sand dunes, native
prairie, wetlands and woodlands, and 15 miles of trails.
The most popular activities at Sand Hills are hiking and
horseback riding. Sand Hills offers five horse-friendly trails, varying
from 1.2 to 3.8 miles. Horses can also be kept at specially marked
campground areas so visitors can pack in multiple days of riding
fun. Or, keep the horses in provided pens while enjoying additional
activities such as wildlife watching.
Camping is now available at Sand Hills State Park at a new
campground, which includes corrals for equestrian camping. Archery
deer and upland game hunting are available, but only by special
permit.
Deborah Walker
At the Park
44
standard
full
hookups
20
standard
hookups
with water
and sewer
(Sites have
50-amp
service)
14
sites with
horse pens
KS State Parks
Wildlife Blinds
Get an up-close look at all types of wildlife
with Sand Hills’ specialty blinds. These
state-created areas are made to mimic
natural habitats while simultaneously
camouflaging human presence. With
the use of these sophisticated blinds,
onlookers are given an easy view into the
lives of birds, mammals and more.
stay
31
Sand Dunes
It’s not often Kansas gets to lay claim to
sand dunes, especially ones that come
with natural wind-blown formations and
multiple hues—a beautiful and rare sight
for anyone to experience. These dunes are
located at the edges of Sand Hills and offer
visitors adjacent access to Hutchinson’s
Dune Tract.
70
70
70
70
35W
35
Kaw
•
Perry
•
470
northeast
35
33 Clinton 34 Eisenhower 35 Hillsdale
36 Kaw river 37 Perry 38 Pomona
University of Kansas
Take a day trip from Clinton State Park to tour the
University of Kansas campus. Perched on Mount Oread,
the campus showcases its famed limestone buildings,
a big dose of history and the Booth Hall of Athletics,
celebrating the school’s basketball traditions. Spend the
afternoon cruising Mass Street downtown.
Miami County
Located near Hillsdale State Park, Miami County is
know as Kansas’ wine region. Featuring many wineries
as part of the Somerset Wine Trail, the area offers
breathtaking views and ideal soil for grapes.
www.kansaswinerytrail.com
Delicious Barbecue
Staying at Eisenhower State Park? Take a short trip to
Williamsburg for some of Kansas’ finest barbecue at
Guy & Mae’s Tavern. If you enjoy family recipes and
homemade sauce, don’t miss this attraction.
KS State Parks
435
Clinton
•
Pomona 35
•
•
Hillsdale
•
Eisenhower
235
32
635
Byways
Glacial Hills Scenic Byway
Native Stone Scenic Byway
Northern portion of the Frontier Military Historic Byway
Physiography
Much of the region is considered part of the Glaciated
Region, known for its hills and valleys with deposits of
quartzite. Also in the region are some of the Flint Hills
as well as the Osage Questas.
Kaw River State Park
clinton
S t a t e P a r k
at c l i n t o n l a k e
798 N 1415 Road Lawrence, KS 66049
[email protected] | www.ksoutdoors.com/Clinton-State-Park | (785) 842-8562
166
primitive
campsites
6
shelters
Jason Dailey
200
standard
water and
electric
hookups
Wildlife Watching
In addition to endless beautiful scenery, Clinton
State Park offers plenty of native wildlife. Don’t
be surprised if you spot whitetail deer, turkeys,
cranes and songbirds during your hike among
wildflowers and prairie grasses.
At the Park
Boating
Boating enthusiasts stay active at Clinton Lake. Clinton
Lake Marina offers boat slips, fishing, boating supplies,
equipment rental and a floating restaurant—the
Submarina Deli. The boat launch area includes 16 lanes,
eight accessible courtesy docks and fish-cleaning stations.
KS State Parks
7
cabins
Events
Many events occur
at Clinton State Park
throughout the year.
Eagle Day in January
remains popular
among wildlife
watchers. The Ironman
70.3 Kansas is held
in June; see worldrenowned triathletes
conquer Kansas.
33
stay
Clinton State Park, located just four miles from Lawrence, is a 1,425-acre
park that rests on the north shore of Clinton Lake, known for its clear water
and good fishing. The park is located next to a 9,200-acre wildlife area.
Popular activities include camping, picnicking and swimming; the beach
is open Memorial Day through Labor Day. Anglers enjoy channel catfish,
walleye, and crappie fishing. Lake Henry is stocked with trout during the trout
season. The park also offers a “kids-only” fishing pond at the picnic area.
Clinton State Park is well known for its extensive trails system used by
hikers, nature photographers, mountain bikers, wildflower enthusiasts and
wildlife observers. Don’t miss the cross-country ski trail on the northern side
of the park.
eisenhower
S t a t e P a r k
at m e lv e r n l a k e
S Fairlawn Rd. and W 293rd St. Osage City, KS 66523
[email protected] | www.ksoutdoors.com/Eisenhower-State-Park
| (785) 528-4102
stay
2
yurts
7
cabins
31
primitive
campsites
7
shelters
37
standard full
hookups
68
standard full
hookups with
electric
81
34
KS State Parks
standard hookups
with electric and
water
Named after native son President Dwight Eisenhower, this
1,785-acre park features 1,000 acres of eastern tallgrass grassland.
The park is popular among equestrians due to its expansive area
for riding and facilities that accommodate visitors traveling with their
horses.
Among the lodging options, Ike’s Shelter House is an excellent
area for family reunions within the Jones Family Activity Area. Other
recreation facilities include a 10,000-acre wildlife area, swimming
beach off of the 6,900 acre Melvern Lake, horseshoe pits, playgrounds,
sand
volleyball court,
archery trail, kids’
fishing pond, fly-fishing pond,
and an 18-hole disc golf course. Kayak, canoe and dock rentals are
available. Stay the night in one of Eisenhower’s popular cabins. The
park is also the only location to offer yurts.
At the Park
Trails
If you’re fond of the outdoors, don’t miss the rapidly
growing trails system at Eisenhower State Park. Crooked
Knee Horse Trail offers a 20-mile journey for horseback
riders. Those looking for a two-wheeled adventure can
head down the bike trail near the Five-Star campground.
Events
A hotspot like Eisenhower State Park is bound to have
popular events throughout the year. Park visitors have
enjoyed tie-dyeing parties, ice cream socials and more
thanks to the Friends of the Eisenhower State Park. Be sure
to check the Events Calendar at www.ksoutdoors.com.
hillsdale
S t a t e P a r k
at h i l l s d a l e l a k e
Lake Road and Harmony Road Paola, KS 66071
[email protected] | www.ksoutdoors.com/Hillsdale-State-Park | (913) 783-4507
Wildlife Watching
79
primitive
campsites
11
shelters
180
Harland J. Schuster
Trails
Mosey through some of the 48 miles of trails that Hillsdale has to
offer. You’ll be led through grassy meadows, cedar-dotted prairies,
forested hills and deep-wooded valleys. On the east side of the
reservoir, the Saddle Ridge Equestrian Area has approximately 32
miles of marked trails available to horseback riders. Outside of this
area, horseback riding is available only on maintained roads.
At the Park
standard
hookups with
electric and
water
Hunting
Within the bounds of the wildlife
area and the state park, roughly
7,000 acres are open to hunting;
trapping also is authorized in these
areas. The Hillsdale Range and
Training Facility includes a 100-yard
rifle range, a 200-yard range, a 50yard pistol range and a trap/skeet
shooting range.
www.hillsdalerange.org
KS State Parks
stay
The Hillsdale Wildlife Area, located
across the reservoir, includes nearly
5,000 acres on the northern arms of
the Little Bull and Big Bull creeks.
See whitetail deer, bobwhite quail,
squirrel, rabbit, beaver, muskrat and
a variety of waterfowl. Bird-watchers
may spot bald eagles, finches,
warblers, sparrows and more.
35
Hillsdale State Park offers a broad array of outdoor recreation
opportunities in the rolling hills of eastern Kansas. Campers,
anglers, boaters, hunters, swimmers, horseback riders, modelairplane flyers, hikers, naturalists, photographers and sightseers all
enjoy special opportunities at this picturesque state park.
Horseback riding is a popular activity with the Saddle Ridge
Equestrian Area on the east side of the reservoir. A specially
designated area just south of the dam is for radio-controlled modelairplane flying. And the Hillsdale Shooting Range offers handgun,
rifle and shotgun shooting. Cabins and an observatory are in the
future for Hillsdale.
Anglers will enjoy catching walleye, catfish, largemouth bass,
crappie and bluegill. Fishing is allowed on all 51 miles of shoreline.
kaw
river
State Park
at t h e k a n s a s r i v e r
36
KS State Parks
300 SW Wanamaker Rd. Topeka, KS 66606
[email protected] | www.ksoutdoors.com/Kaw-River-State-Park | (785) 273-6740
Kaw River State Park is the only urban
park in Kansas’ state park system.
The park property consists of 76 acres of
land on the south bank of the Kansas River in
west Topeka. The area is mostly oak-hickory
forest overlooking the Kansas (Kaw) River and
is adjacent to MacLennan Park and Cedar Crest
(the Kansas governor’s residence) to the east.
Wildlife species are common in the oak and
hickory forest of the area. Eagles and various
species of waterfowl are common visitors on the
river through winter.
Trail usage includes walking, hiking,
running and mountain biking; the wide range
of trails was designed for erosion protection,
sustainability and access. The Kansas River is
accessible
from a boat ramp and parking
area.
This river access is available
for canoes, kayaks
and other
small craft.
At the Park
National Water Trail
park
hours
6 a.m. to 11 p.m.
daily
The Kansas River has been designated a
National Water Trail by the National Park
Service, and offers scenic recreational,
historic and cultural opportunities for
novice boaters and families. Beginning in
Junction City, Kansas, the Kansas River Trail
flows to Kansas City at the confluence with
the Missouri River.
Wildlife Watching
The extensive—and growing—trail system at the Kaw River State Park offers the
prospect of spotting deer, turkey, eagles and waterfowl.
Point of Interest
The Kaw River State Park is the only state park in Kansas that does not require an
entrance fee.
perry
Stat e
Pa rk
at p e r r y l a k e
5441 Westlake Road Ozawkie, KS 66070
[email protected]
www.ksoutdoors.com/Perry-State-Park
(785) 246-3449
Perry State Park, nestled into the forested hills of northeast Kansas, boasts a
12,500-acre reservoir and an 11,000-acre wildlife area nearby. This state park is
ideal for any lover of the outdoors.
Anglers seek out Perry Lake for its crappie, bass and channel catfish. The
marshes at Perry Wildlife Area provide early migrant bird-hunting, and deepwater
areas of the marshes supply late-season mallard and diving-duck hunting.
Horse riders will appreciate Perry State Park’s upland forest. These trails
were designed specifically for horses, although hiking is also welcome along the
intertwining 16.5 miles of scenic routes. Plan on one trail for a quick burst of scenery,
or take in multiple stops for a more comprehensive tour of the Kansas landscape.
Campers will enjoy views of the lake and can launch their boats at two of the
boat ramps or set sail from Hobie Cove campground. Visitors can also have a
relaxing day at the swimming beach.
Wildlife Watching
Perry Lake, with its intricate hills and woodlands, has
a reputation for beautiful scenery, whether you are
hiking or enjoying the views from a boat. The sunrises
and sunsets on the lake can be spectacular. These
rolling hills are also home to campgrounds and plenty
of recreational shade.
At the Park
4
cabins
9
shelters
110
standard
hookups with
electric and
water
KS State Parks
Rolling Hills
stay
37
Perry Lake Wildlife Area offers an extensive wetland
due to being located in the floodplains of the
Delaware River. The lake’s outlying barriers capture
excess water throughout the year. The Wildlife Area
offers a great location for bird-watching, hunting and
simply exploring a wetland environment. Perry State
Park can offer visitors sightings of white-tailed deer,
cottontail rabbits, wild turkeys, coyotes, raccoons,
possums, skunks, a variety of birds and water fowl.
pomona
S tate
Park
at p o m o n a r e s e r v o i r
Well-known among northeast Kansas
residents for shaded campsites and a great family
atmosphere, the 490-acre Pomona State Park is
located in Osage County. The park is nestled in
an area with historical connections to the Santa Fe
Trail and easy access to several metropolitan areas.
Recreation opportunities at the park include
camping, picnicking, fishing, boating, hiking and
wildlife viewing. A marina provides full services to
boaters, anglers, skiers and campers, and four boat
ramps provide access to the lake’s generally calm
waters.
The Southwind Shelter House provides a
gathering place for family reunions, parties, and
company retreats. Reserve this facility for an
upcoming event. The Southwind Shelter House is
available year-round.
38
KS State Parks
22900 S Highway 368 Vassar, KS 66543
[email protected] | www.ksoutdoors.com/Pomona-State-Park | (785) 828-4933
At the Park
Wildlife Watching
Nearby wildlife areas offer upland bird and
waterfowl hunting. Bald eagles visit the lake
in the winter and are often seen perching in
shoreline trees or soaring above the lake. A
popular destination for anglers, the 4,000acre Pomona Reservoir offers some of the
best crappie and catfish angling in Kansas,
as well as good populations of walleye, white
bass and largemouth bass.
Recreation
When you’re not spending time on the
water, Pomona State Park offers a number of
land-based activities. Visitors can play sand
volleyball, horseshoes, disc golf and more.
Each activity offers scenic views of the lake
and its surrounding landscape.
stay
4
cabins
310
primitive campsites
7
shelters
41
standard full
hookups
93
standard hookups
with electric and
water
70
635
70
70
470
435
70
35
35W
235
35
Prairie
Spirit Trail
35
•
Cross Timbers
•
Crawford •
•
Fall River
•
Elk City
southeast
40 Crawford 41 Cross Timbers 42 Elk City
43 Fall River 44 Prairie Spirit Trail
Hiking
State parks located in the southeastern part of
the state offer some of Kansas’ greatest hiking.
The landscape is hilly and the parks have
multiple trails of varying lengths. Also in the
area is one of the first Rail to Trail pathways,
the Prairie Spirit Trail State Park. The
converted railroad bed now welcomes cyclists,
runners and walkers along its 51 miles.
Pittsburg
Pittsburg is a community full of personality.
A thriving art community that also admires
its mining history, it is home to Pittsburg
State University and a serious fried chicken
rivalry. With so much to offer, Pittsburg is a
can’t-miss destination.
Fall River State Park
39
Physiography
The Southeast region is predominately made
up of the Osage Questa Region, offering
steeper eastern slopes than the western
part of the state. Also in the region are the
Chautauqua Hills, which has remnants of
thick limestone.
KS State Parks
Byways
Frontier Military Historic Byway
Historic Route 66 Byway
crawford
Stat e Pa rk
at l a k e c r a w f o r d
Rich in history and spectacular scenery, the
southeast Crawford State Park gives a “taste of
the Ozarks.”
Hiking and mountain-bike trails offer
recreational opportunities nestled in the regional
woodlands. Redbud trees offer spectacular beauty
in spring, and the lush foliage of the surrounding
forest is a naturalist’s delight. Shady campsites
are peppered among a mature oak forest.
The park dates back to the Civilian
Conservation Corps (CCC), whose members
built the 150-acre lake in the 1930s. A short (.25
mile) interpretive trail leads visitors to a CCC
memorial. Two recorded archaeological sites lay
within the park’s boundaries, as well as remnants
of a 19th-century U.S. military outpost.
Patrons who visit the park on holidays and
special occasions will enjoy the spectacle of 104
state and American flags set out along the dam
by members of the park friends group.
stay
5
cabins
28
primitive campsites
2
shelters
28
standard full
hookups
45
standard full
hookups with
electric
1
group use area
40
KS State Parks
One Lake Road Farlington, KS 66734
[email protected] | www.ksoutdoors.com/Crawford-State-Park | (620) 362-3671
At the Park
Day Trips
A short drive yields visitors a big
treat in nearby West Mineral. The
former mining community is home
to Big Brutus, the largest electric
shovel in the world. Weighing in at
11 million pounds and standing 16
stories tall, the out-of-commission
shovel remains as a museum
dedicated to the history of the coalmining industry that once shaped
the area. www.bigbrutus.org
Historic Byway
Crawford State Park is near the
Frontier Military Historic Byway.
This 167-mile byway runs along
the eastern edge of the state,
highlighting locations with historical
significance. www.travelks.com/
ksbyways/frontier-military/
cross
timbers Stat e
Pa rk
at t o r o n t o l a k e
E Main St. and S Point Rd. Toronto, KS 66777
[email protected]
www.ksoutdoors.com/Cross-Timbers-State-Park
(620) 637-2213
Cross Timbers State Park accounts for 1,075 acres in the northern
reaches of the physiographic region known as the Chautauqua Hills. The
park provides access to the 2,800-acre Toronto Lake. Those enjoying
wildlife watching and nature study will find the park an unexpectedly
rewarding area.
The forested floodplains, surrounded by terraces of prairie and hills
of oak savannah, showcase some of the most diverse flora and fauna in
Kansas. Picturesque and shaded campsites within easy access of the lake
are available for both full RV hookups and primitive camping.
The adjacent 4,600-acre Toronto
Wildlife Area is a diverse collection of
habitats, including forests, grasslands,
farmlands and marshes. Species
common to the area include whitetailed deer, wild turkey, quail, squirrel,
rabbit, dove, waterfowl and raccoon.
4
cabins
89
primitive
campsites
19
standard full
hookups
8
standard hookups
with electric and
water
50
standard hookups
with electric and
water
41
Harland J. Schuster
Trails
Hikers and backpackers will feel at
home at Cross Timbers thanks to the
park trails. Jogging and mountain
biking are popular activities in the area,
which includes the Chautauqua Hills
Trail, where backcountry camping is
allowed by special permit in certain
sections.
stay
KS State Parks
Wildlife Watching
At the Park
elk city
S tate
Pa rk
at e l k c i t y r e s e r v o i r
4825 Squaw Creek Road Independence, KS 67301
[email protected]
www.ksoutdoors.com/Elk-City-State-Park
(620) 331-6295
Elk City State Park will satisfy every member of the family.
Oak-hickory woodlands meet rolling meadows of big bluestem and
Indiangrass at this striking 857-acre park. The 4,500-acre Elk City
Reservoir and 12,000-acre Elk City Wildlife Area adjacent to the
state park offer visitors ample room to pursue their pastimes.
Four miles of trails stretch across the state 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 splashing
at the swim beach.
Hunters will enjoy the Elk City Wildlife Area, home to whitetailed deer, wild turkey, bobwhite quail, cottontail rabbits, fox, gray
squirrels, and prairie chickens. Common furbearers include beaver,
raccoon, bobcat, coyote, gray fox, opossum, mink and muskrat.
Events
This scenic state park is known for events like our Annual First Day
Hike/Fun Run, Glow in the Park Run, O.K. Kids Day and End of
Summer Bash in August. Our Annual Halloween Campout takes
place the last full week of October. Come out to the park to enjoy all
the activities.
Fishing
The world-record 123-pound flathead catfish was taken from Elk
City Reservoir. In their hunt for trophy fish, anglers can also catch
channel catfish, white bass, crappie and largemouth bass. State
park officials hold a free fishing weekend every summer. An ADAcompliant fishing dock is available.
At the Park
stay
53
primitive
campsites
3
shelters
14
standard full
hookups
85
standard hookups
with electric and
water
Harland J. Schuster
42
KS State Parks
Day Trips
Nearby is the bustling community of
Independence. Visitors will enjoy the
Little House on the Prairie Museum,
which features, among other
historic buildings, a reconstruction
of the Ingalls’ cabin. The annual
“Neewollah” (Halloween spelled
backwards) celebration is October
31. The tradition, which began in
1919, features a variety of contests,
the Neewollah Queen crowning,
5K and 10K races, and much more.
Independence also features a host
of quaint shops in its charming
downtown area.
www.indkschamber.org
fall river
S tate
Park
at F a l l R i v e r L a k e
2381 Casner Creek Rd. Fall River, KS 67047
[email protected] | www.ksoutdoors.com/Fall-River-State-Park | (620) 637-2213
stay
3
cabins
53
primitive campsites
2
standard full
hookups
44
At the Park
Wildlife Watching
Wildlife buffs will feel right at home at Fall River
State Park. Visitors can get an up-close view of all
the species that call the park home, including dove,
quail, deer, waterfowl and prairie chicken. Birdwatchers and naturalists alike will enjoy the view
from the six hiking trails nestled among the native
plants.
Events
When darkness settles in, novice and experienced
astronomers head to Fall River State Park. Armed
with telescopes pointed at the star-filled skies, the
Kansas Astronomical Observers host a star party at
the end of the summer. It’s a feast for the eyes best
served from this unique park.
KS State Parks
Located two miles north of US-400 on Z50 Road, seven miles east of
Severy. The park is managed out of the Cross Timbers State Park office, so
only gatehouses and maintenance staff are onsite.
Fall 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. Camping, swimming, boating,
waterskiing, hiking and picnicking are popular pursuits at Fall River.
A favorite pastime is canoeing Fall
River, which feeds
into the 2,450acre
reservoir. Bird-watchers, photographers and naturalists will enjoy
viewing a variety of native plants and animals. More than 8,000 acres of
public wildlife area next to the park are managed for a variety of game and
nongame species.
Fall River offers good fishing opportunities for channel catfish, white
bass, crappie, flathead catfish, largemouth bass, and walleye. White-bass
fishing can be excellent during the spring spawning run, particularly in
Otter Creek and Fall River above the reservoir.
43
Jason Dailey
standard hookups
with electric and
water
prairie
spirit
trail
S tat e Pa r k
44
KS State Parks
[email protected]
Prairie Spirit Trail State Park was the first
of several rail-to-trail sites in Kansas. It 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
in Kansas.
Prairie Spirit, the only rail trail in the
park system, was constructed between Ottawa
and Iola between 1996 and 2008. The trail is
a unique linear park through three counties in
eastern Kansas with eight pocket parks along
the way. The Prairie Spirit Trail connects with
the 7-mile-long Southwind Rail Trail between
Humboldt and Iola. Combined, the trails pass
through 10 charming rural communities.
A greenway and travel corridor open to
pedestrians and bicyclists, Prairie Spirit Trail
traverses diverse ecosystems including tallgrass
prairie, riparian areas, and agricultural lands
and communities. The trail is a hard-packed
limestone screening surface in rural areas and
asphalted through Garnett, Iola and Ottawa.
At the Park
419 S Oak Garnett, KS 66032
| www.ksoutdoors.com/Prairie-Spirit-Trail | (785) 448-6767
good
to
know
A per-person trail pass
is required for persons
16 years of age and
over, except in the city
limits of Iola, Garnett
and Ottawa. Selfissue day permits are
available at trailheads.
Annual permits are
available where KDWPT
licenses and permits
are sold. Camping is
not allowed along the
trail but is available
near the city of Garnett
and other communities
along the trail.
Prairie Spirit Trail: North Area
About 25 miles of trail can be found on
the north end of Prairie Spirit’s path. The
historic trailside Old Depot Museum in
Ottawa serves as a local museum and
trailhead parking. The Prairie Spirit Trail
connects to the Flint Hills Nature Trail
south of the Marais des Cygnes River in
Ottawa, and visitors can access both trails
from the museum.
Prairie Spirit Trail: South Area
This 26-mile section travels from Garnett,
where visitors may stop in to see the
historic trailside Santa Fe Depot, to Iola,
where visitors can explore the historic
community and then continue south to
Humboldt on the Southwind Trail.
Connect
Prairie Spirit Trail intersects with the
117-mile Flint Hills Nature Trail in Ottawa.
Discover Your Adventure within
the pages of KANSAS! magazine.
Engaging articles & vibrant images
showcase Kansas’ unique history,
recreation & landscapes!
fall 2015
| vol
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important
info
Aquatic Nuisance Species
Aquatic nuisance species are animals and plants not native
to Kansas that can threaten lake and river ecology, harm desirable
species or humans, and interfere with our economy. They can
“hitchhike” with unsuspecting people on equipment that has
come into contact with a lake or river containing an aquatic
nuisance species.
Help stop aquatic nuisance
species…
• Clean—drain—dry
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
receptacle
• Don’t move live fish between
bodies of water or up streams
Before leaving any body of
water:
46
KS State Parks
• 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.
Non-native species
pose a serious threat
to Kansas waters.
If you find one of
these species, do
not release it back
into the water, and
remember that it is
illegal to possess
many of these
species alive. If you
find one of these
species in a new
location or any other
species that looks
out of place, please
contact the Emporia
Research Office
at (620) 342-0658,
report it online, or
notify your local
KDWPT office. For
more information or
to report a finding
online, visit
www.ProtectKS
Waters.org.
Keep the water safe and clean for future fishing.
Zebra mussels (mature species)
Report dumping or pollution to the
EPA at 1-800-223-0425.
NEW ZEALAND MUD SNAIL
• The New Zealand mud snail has not
been reported in Kansas, but it is
considered a priority species because
of its introduction into Colorado.
• Mature New Zealand mud snails
average 5mm (2/10 inch) in length
and have brown or black cone-shaped
shells with five whorls.
• NZMS disrupt the food chain by
consuming algae in the stream and
competing with native bottomdwelling invertebrates. A population
crash of invertebrates can follow the
introduction of NZMS, which reduces
fish forage. With a decrease in food
availability, fish populations may
decline as well.
• Mud snails are able to withstand
desiccation and a variety of
temperatures, and they are small
enough that many types of water
users (anglers, swimmers, pets) could
inadvertently transfer this nuisance
species. It takes only one snail to start
an infestation.
FERTILE GRASS CARP
• It is illegal to possess or
import fertile grass carp.
• Grass carp are very effective
at controlling or eliminating
some types of aquatic
vegetation, which is why they
are often stocked in small
ponds to control aquatic
vegetation.
• Too little aquatic vegetation
can be damaging to the
ecosystem by removing
habitat for invertebrates,
small prey fish or young
sportfish.
IT IS AGAINST STATE
LAW TO RELEASE
ANY ANIMALS INTO
KANSAS WATERS.
It is illegal to transport
certain species in Kansas,
or to release any animals
onto state or federal
properties. Protect
yourself and your natural
resources. Livewells and
bilges must be drained
and drain plugs removed
from all vessels being
removed from waters of
the state before transport
on a public highway.
Learn more about aquatic
nuisance species and
take the ANS Awareness
Course at
www.ProtectKSWaters.org
KS State Parks
ZEBRA MUSSELS
• Zebra mussels have been discovered in a
number of Kansas lakes, streams and rivers,
and they are easily spread as microscopic
larvae in water, attached to hard surfaces, or
in mud.
• Zebra mussels filter vast quantities of
water, which drastically alters the food web.
Filtering may clear up the water in some
instances, which can lead to more frequent
or more severe harmful algae blooms and
allow UV rays to damage fish eggs.
• They can reach high densities, causing
problems to water intakes, docks, and boat
motors. Nationwide expenditures to control
zebra mussels in industrial plants alone are
estimated at more than $300 million per
year.
• Their sharp shells can cut the unprotected
skin of people or pets. Shoes or other
protective clothing are recommended when
wading in zebra mussel-infested water.
• All aquatic users need to do their part to
prevent the spread of zebra mussels to
other waters in Kansas. Follow the clean,
drain and dry procedures on page 46 and
tell others how to prevent the spread of
zebra mussels.
ASIAN CARP
• Asian carp include bighead, silver, and
black carp species.
• Bighead and silver carp can be found
in the Kansas, Missouri, Wakarusa, and
Big Blue rivers and their tributaries.
Fish may not be transported live from
these or other Aquatic Nuisance
Species Designated Waters.
• These fish are highly adaptive, prolific
spawners, and they directly compete
with other fish for food and space by
filtering food from the water.
• Silver carp pose a physical danger to
boaters because of their leaping ability.
47
WHITE PERCH
• Although the possession of live white perch
is prohibited, dead white perch may still
be possessed or used as bait on the waters
where they were taken. • White perch have been associated with
declines in both walleye and white bass
populations and out-compete native fishes
for food and space.
• They look very similar to native white bass
and the two species can hybridize.
• White perch can be distinguished by the
connection between the spiny and soft
dorsal fins; both fins pop up when the spiny
dorsal fin is manually erected.
programs
•
•
•
•
•
Hunter, furharvester and bowhunter education
Boating education
Becoming an Outdoors-Woman (BOW)
Kansas Archery in the Schools
Angler education
Programs enhancing the knowledge,
understanding and appreciation of Kansas’ natural
resources include:
•
•
•
•
•
Museums and nature centers
Kansas Eco-Meets
Outdoor Wildlife Learning Sites (OWLS)
Wildlife Education Materials
In-service Workshops
Lovewell State Park
Tom Parker
KS State Parks
48
The Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and
Tourism offers a variety of outdoors skills, ethics and
environmental education programs:
Ranger Tips
State Park Rangers Anthony Reitz and
Michelle Campbell help keep campers
safe every day. Here are a few tips from
the professionals to make sure you and
your family have a safe and enjoyable
visit at any one of Kansas’ state parks.
• Always leave your campsite cleaner
than when you arrived.
• Keep perishable goods secure in a
cooler over night. Nocturnal animals
love to find easy meals.
•
•
Jason Dailey
•
Milford Nature Center and
Fish Hatchery, Junction City
Great Plains Nature Center,
Wichita and Prairie Center, Olathe
Wetlands Education Center,
Great Bend
Southeast Kansas Nature Center,
Galena
Pratt Education Center
and Fish Hatchery, Pratt
Workshops occur in the fall and
spring—often at Rock Springs 4-H Center
south of Junction City. The workshops,
which take place over a weekend, begin at
noon on Friday. The weekend is divided into
four blocks of instruction, about three hours
each. Participants choose one of 6–10 options
for each instructional period.
Pre-registration is required.
• If camping near water or
participating in water-based activities,
play it safe and have personal
flotation devices readily available. It is
imperative to keep your children and
non-swimmers safe. “Wear It!”
www.ksoutdoors.com/services/education
O.K. Kids Days
In cooperation with the Kansas
Wildscape Foundation, many state parks
•
host an O.K. Kids Day during the summer,
often in conjunction with a free park entry
•
day. O.K. Kids Days activities can include
fishing derbies, fishing clinics, archery, hiking,
outdoor cooking, nature watching and many
other outdoor adventures that encourage kids
Becoming an Outdoors-Woman
to get outside and explore, learn about nature,
(BOW)
“Becoming an Outdoors-Woman” is and get active. Contact an individual state park
a workshop focused on learning outdoor for information about its O.K. Kids event.
skills—skills usually associated with
hunting and fishing, but useful for many The Kansas Wildscape Foundation is a
pursuits. The workshop is designed for private, nonprofit organization dedicated to
women 18 years of age and older and is conserving and perpetuating the land, wild
a chance to learn about fishing, hunting, species, and rich beauty of Kansas for the use
orienteering, backpacking, camping and and enjoyment of all. To learn more about
the Kansas Wildscape Foundation, visit
canoeing.
www.kansaswildscape.org.
• Be careful with fire. Only burn in
designated fire rings and never leave a
fire unattended.
• Be courteous to others. You and
others are there to relax and enjoy your
natural resources. Know the rules and
adhere to them.
• Sometimes things break. Please let a
park employee know if there are facility
issues. We want you to enjoy your
stay, but sometimes we experience
breakdowns. The faster we are notified
the faster we can get it fixed for you.
• We are public servants. Without you,
we are without.
• You are outdoors. Remember that
you share the area with many animals
and insects.
KS State Parks
Learn about the wildlife and natural
history of Kansas through displays,
dioramas, and exhibits when you visit the
following museums and nature centers. You
might even experience a close encounter
with the native birds, fish, mammals, and
reptiles of Kansas.
49
Museums and Nature Centers
• It is always a good idea to have a
weather radio nearby. Knowing where
to go in the event of bad weather is a
must. It is important to have a plan in
place if such cases arise.
Winter
Spring
Summer
January
April
July
May
August
• First Day Hikes at select state parks
• Eagle Days at Tuttle Creek, Perry,
Clinton and Milford state parks
February
• Enjoy a winter break in the warmth of a
state park cabin
• Polar Plunge, Tuttle Creek State Park
• Spring Fling Bike Race Series, Clinton
State Park
March
• Open houses and Free Entrance Days
at many state parks
• Irish Road Bowling, Clinton State Park
• Spring Fling Bike Race Series, Clinton
State Park
• Animal Show-n-Tell, Clinton State
Park
• Trail runs, bike races and marathons
• Fishing tournaments
• Kansas UltraRunners Society 16th
Annual Rockin’ K Ultramarathon Trail
Run at Kanopolis State Park
• Free State Trail Marathon & 1/2
Marathon Run, Clinton State Park
• Special Olympics Fishing Tournament,
Clinton State Park
• O.K. Kids Days
• Fishing tournaments
• Capital Campout, near Kaw River State
Park
• Cardboard Boat Races at Milford State
Park
• Disc Golf tournament at Tuttle Creek
State Park
• Women on Target, Tuttle Creek State
Park
• Heartland Coursing Association Dog
Trails, Clinton State Park
• Antique tractor parade, Glen Elder
State Park
50
KS State Parks
June
• Celebrate National Trails Day at a state
park
• O.K. Kids Days, Prairie Dog State Park
• Fishing clinics, various parks
• Annual Youth Fishing Tournament, Glen
Elder State Park
• Country Stampede at Tuttle Creek
State Park
• Kids’ Day at the Range, Tuttle Creek
State Park
• Wish America a happy birthday with
fireworks and other events at select state
parks
• Sand Castle Contest at Lovewell State
Park
• Veterans and family reunion at El Dorado
State Park
• Wakonda Indian Festival, Glen Elder
State Park
• Fishing Tournaments
• O.K. Kids Days
• Campground Christmas, Lovewell State
Park
• Manhattan Triathlon, Tuttle Creek State
Park
• Float Your Boat, Milford State Park
• 3D Archery Shoot, Lovewell State Park
• Lovewell Fun Day, Lovewell State Park
September
• Youth/ADA Deer Hunt, Tuttle Creek
State Park
• Youth Deer Hunt, El Dorado State Park
• Bike race, Wilson State Park
• Lawrence Trail Hawks - Hawk Hundred
Trail Run, Clinton State Park
• Fall River Mountain Man Rendezvous,
Fall River State Park
• Country Music Jamboree at Crawford
State Park
• Women on Target, Tuttle Creek State
Park
• 3D Archery Shoot, Lovewell State Park
• The Country Music Jamboree and Chili
Cook-off, Crawford State Park
Jason Dailey
events
Many state parks either host, or are the site of, a variety of special events each year. They include
activities for children and families, wildlife watching and outdoor sports tournaments. Events and
schedules may vary from year to year. Be sure to contact a particular state park for up-to-date
information on their events, or check the Event Calendar online at ksoutdoors.com.
• Fishing tournaments
• Mountain bike races
• Monster Myths by Moonlight at Milford
State Park
• Neewollah, Independence
• Dutch Oven Cookout, Tuttle Creek
State Park
• Prairie Long Rifles Rendezvous at
Mulberry Campground, Kanopolis
State Park
Office of the Secretary
1020 S. Kansas, Room 200
Topeka, KS 66612-1327
(785) 296-2281
Pratt Operations Office
512 SE 25th Ave.
Pratt, KS 67124-8174
(620) 672-5911
Emporia Research and Survey Office
1830 Merchant, P.O. Box 1525
Emporia, KS 66801-1525
(620) 342-0658
Kansas City District Office
8304 Hedge Lane Terrace
Shawnee, KS 66227
(913) 422-1314
REGIONAL OFFICES
Region 1 Office (Northwest Kansas)
Rt. 2 (U.S. 183 Bypass) P.O. Box 338
Hays, KS 67601-0338
(785) 628-8614
Region 2 Office (Northeast Kansas)
November
300 SW Wanamaker Road
Topeka, KS 66606
(785) 273-6740
December
Region 3 Office (Southwest Kansas)
• Youth Pheasant Hunt,
Glen Elder State Park
• Try winter camping in luxury with a stay
at a state park cabin
1001 McArtor Drive
Dodge City, KS 67801-6024
(620) 227-8609
Region 4 Office (South-central Kansas)
6232 E.29th St. N
Wichita, KS 67220
(316) 683-8069
Region 5 Office (Southeast Kansas)
1500 W. Seventh St., Box 777
Chanute, KS 66720-0777
(620) 431-0380
KS State Parks
October
www.ksoutdoors.com
51
Fall
contacts
Eisenhower State Park
Kansas Department of Wildlife,
Parks and Tourism Offices
resources
KS State Parks
52
Kansas Fishing Forecast
Kansas Fishing Atlas
Hunting
www.ksoutdoors.com/Fishing/
Fishing-Forecast
The annual Kansas Fishing
Forecast provides forecasts
and fishing prospects in public
waters throughout the state.
The information is formulated
from data collected by fisheries
biologists through annual lake
monitoring. The forecast
is
released by late February. Printed
copies are available at KDWPT
offices.
The Kansas Fishing Atlas
pinpoints a variety of public
fishing areas geographically,
including Fishing Impoundment
and Stream Habitats (FISH)
waters. F.I.S.H. waters are privately
owned ponds or streams that
KDWPT has leased and opened
to public fishing. The atlas can
be downloaded from www.
ksoutdoors.com or found at
most KDWPT offices and license
vendors.
Although hunting opportunities
are limited in state parks, many
are located close to state wildlife
areas where hunting is allowed.
Annually KDWPT publishes three
helpful information sources
that are essential for hunters
and furharvesters. The Spring
Turkey and Fall Hunting Atlases
pinpoint both public hunting
areas and Walk-In-Hunting
Access (WIHA) locations—private
properties leased by the state for
public use.
Fishing Reports
Kansas Fishing
Regulations Summary
www.ksoutdoors.com/Fishing/
Fishing-Reports
Updated by KDWPT fisheries
biologists on an irregular basis,
the Fishing Reports provide
biologists’ insights on fishing
conditions at many departmentmanaged lakes. Information
includes a general rating of
what the fishing is like (poor to
excellent), as well as the size
range of fish being caught, and
a description of successful baits,
methods and locations. Another
online resource is the Public
Fishing Reports blog. Anglers can
post comments to the regional
blogs to share fishing accounts
and tips.
The Kansas Fishing Regulations
Summary booklet summarizes
important regulations and
essential laws for anglers. It
features state park information
and detailed regulations for
each body of water managed by
KDWPT. The book lists contact
information for district fisheries
biologists, as well as regional
supervisors.
The annual Hunting Regulations
Summary comes out in
September and outlines the
latest regulations and seasons for
hunters and furharvesters, as well
as providing species information
and other essential things to know
before you hunt.
Magazines & Guides
B Y WAY S O F
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.
winter 2015 | vol 71 | issue 4 | kansasmag.com
WETLANDS AND WILDLIFE NATIONAL SCENIC BYWAY | FLINT HILLS NATIONAL SCENIC BYWAY | FRONTIER MILITARY HISTORIC BYWAY
GLACIAL HILLS SCENIC BYWAY | GYPSUM HILLS 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
Explore Kansas’ 11 byways and
experience our state’s history
and scenic beauty with Byways
of Kansas. Start planning by
visiting www.ksbyways.org to
request a copy.
2016
$2.75
The Photo Issue
Seeing the Big Picture
Kansas Wildlife and
Parks magazine, published
bimonthly, shares stories
and photographs about the
Kansas outdoors touching on
camping, fishing, watching
wildlife or hunting.
Kansas
OFFICIAL TRAVEL GUIDE 2016
PLAN A PARK
GETAWAY
Soda fountains &
craft breweries serve up
SWEET SIPS & SUDS
Kansas Byways
Regional Attractions
Annual Events
Maps & More
TravelKS.com
KANSAS! magazine is
published quarterly and
highlights the breathtaking
variety of things to do,
attractions to visit, dining and
lodging opportunities and
amazing events for Kansas
travelers.
KANSAS OFFICIAL TRAVEL GUIDE
years of
Kansas! magazine
JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015
“Spiker,” Keystone Gallery’s 1949
Chevy Suburban, on a driving
tour to Monument Rocks. The
world-renowned Bonner family
has used this vehicle for
fossil hunting in the Smoky
Hill chalk since the early 1960s.
Plan your stay with the Official
Kansas Travel Guide. This
resource offers information on
Kansas tourism, with places to
eat and stay, and attractions
not to be missed. Pick up your
free copy at state park offices,
Travel Information Centers and
community visitors’ centers,
or go to www.travelks.com to
request a copy or download a
digital version.
official
k a n s a s
guide
outdoors
2015
“Now I see the
secret of the
makINg of the
best persons,
It Is to grow
IN the open air
aNd to eat aNd
sleep wIth the
earth.”
- Walt Whitman
kansas department of wildlife, parks and tourism
Subscribe to KANSAS!
magazine at www.travelks.
com/ks-mag/ and to
Kansas Wildlife and Parks
magazine at ksoutdoors.com/
Outdoor-Store.
Go outside and play!
Kansas Outdoors, an annual
publication, celebrates
everything there is to do
outdoors. From bicycling
and zip lining, to hunting and
fishing. Request a copy at
www.travelks.com.
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
877-962-7248 | www.WaKeeney.org
Maryl Gottschalk
map of kansas
1
27
2
25
161
117
DECATUR
Atwood
383
RAWLINS
183
60
Prairie Dog
SHERIDAN
GRAHAM
ROOKS
Stockton
24
70
24
Hoxie
383
27
Hill
City
25
SHERMAN
Oakley
25
40
TREGO
83
Wakeeney
40
Gove
Hays
WALLACE
LOGAN
147
ELLIS
RUSH
4
Scott
Leoti
Cedar Bluff
GOVE
27
Tribune
183
70
Sharon
Springs
96
We
18
THOMAS
b
c
283
Colby
Goodland
24
23
36
9
123
83
Scott
City
Dighton
Ness
City
96
La Crosse
83
GREELEY
WICHITA
SCOTT
LANE
283
NESS
183
23
156
25
50
d
HAMILTON
HODGEMAN
83
KEARNY
FINNEY
EDWAR
154
Ulysses
270
160
283
144
190
STANTON
GRANT
MORTON
190
e
270
Sublette
HASKELL
SEWARD
GRAY
83
56
Elkhart
Hugoton
270
51
183
23
Liberal
83
1
Greensb
34
KIOWA
98
Meade
54
25
STEVENS
154
54
FORD
Meade
160
51
Kinsley
Dodge City
Cimarron
23
Johnson
50
56
25
51
Jetmore
156
50
Garden
City
Lakin
270
27
PAWNEE
156
Syracuse
160
KS State Parks
PHIL
383
Philipsburg
27
54
283
Norton
36
Oberlin
36
CHEYENNE
Count on the
Sunflower State
if you love to
camp, go RVing
or catch a nap
in a cabin. Whether
it’s an overnighter or an
extended stay, you’ll be
amazed at the options
Kansas state parks offer.
From “primitive” tent
campsites to utility
sites for RVs, there are
abundant opportunities
for a relaxing outdoor
experience. Enjoy fishing,
boating, shooting sports,
swimming, wildlifewatching and more at
the 26 state parks located
across the state.
NORTON
83
ST. Francis
A
3
MEADE
160
Coldwater
Ashland
34
283
CLARK
COMAN
183
2
3
ksoutdoors.com or
reserveamerica.com
Cedar Bluff – B/C3
Crawford – D8
El Dorado – D6
Glen Elder – B5
Kaw River – B7
Cheney – D5
Cross Timbers – D7
Elk City – E7
Hillsdale – C8
Lovewell – A5
Clinton – C8
Eisenhower – C7
Fall River – D7
Kanopolis – C5
Meade – E2
1
6
7
8
159
LLIPS
281
REPUBLIC
14
28
Lovewell
8
Smith
Center
281
36
148
ebster
Beloit
Clay
Center
Wilson
24
77
LINCOLN
Russel
Mushroom
Rock
140
104
141
BARTON
4
4
ELLSWORTH
156
56
Great
Bend
Larned
Sand Hills
96
19
77
Newton
El Dorado
SEDGWICK
281
RENO
61
Pratt
Cheney
254
235
160
Wellington
Medicine
Lodge
281
2
NCHE BARBER
Anthony
179
HARPER
281
160
160
Winfield
81
44
81
177
37
Arkansas
City
6
54
Fort
Scott
160
96
96
101
166
4
5
7
Milford – B6
Pomona – C8
Sand Hills – D5
Webster – B3
Mushroom Rock – C5
Prairie Dog – A3
Scott – C2
Wilson – B4
Perry – B8
Prairie Spirit Trail - C/D8
Tuttle Creek – B6
d
3
Girard
CRAWFORD
57
160
Pittsburg
126
126
57
169
103
59
Oswego
59
7
69
Columbus
69
CHEROKEE
26
LABETTE
e
96
66
66
169
99
7 69
7
146
Erie
NEOSHO
Parsons
MONTGOMERY
Coffeyville
15
BOURBON
39
47
75
Sedan
31
65
57
75
Independence
166
166
47
Elk City
239
3
54
39
15
77
49
SUMNER
8
38
ELK
CHAUTAUQUA
52
Crawford
96
160
35
14
Howard
COWLEY
55
49
Fredonia
52
7
31
52
Iola
ALLEN
Chanute
39
57
169
39
Fall River
BUTLER
135
Mound City
ANDERSON
54
c
169
Prairie
Spirit
Trail
59
169
Cross Timbers
99
Paola
LINN
WILSON
77
15
53
2
FRANKLIN
57
68
Hillsdale
Burlington
COFFEY
WOODSON
7
68
MIAMI
50
El Dorado
54
KINGMAN
r
Eureka
35W
42
68
Yates
Center
96
14
42
LYON
35 33
Ottawa
268
31
Garnet
GREENWOOD
177
Wichita
Kingman
54
64
96
296
17
57
150
69
JOHNSON
59
75
35
196
81
31
Lyndon
CHASE
MARION
435
Olathe
56
Pomona
Emporia
Cottonwood
Falls
Marion
HARVEY
OSAGE
Eisenhower
50
150
61
STAFFORD
32
Lawrence 10
Topeka
170
57
56
Hutchinson
50
PRATT
MORRIS
50
b
Clinton
31
56
Council
Grove 177
56
15
14
ST. John
burg
149
61
19
RDS
4
Lyons
RICE
WABAUNSEE
4
15
Kanopolis
281
96
7
192
Leavenworth
92
59
LEAVENOskaloosaWORTH
635
WYANDOTTE
5
16
24
Kansas
40
City
DOUGLAS
81
McPHERSON
35W
Mc Pherson
470
4
99
GEARY
SALINE
14
Kaw
70
43
Salina
Ellsworth
92
Perry
SHAWNEE
Alma
73
Abilene
70
156
RUSSELL
75
JACKSON
Manhattan
177
40
Junction
City
57
18
232
4
Atchison
4
JEFFERSON
63
18
CLAY
DICKINSON
9
Holton 116
ATCHISON
Westmoreland
113
Milford
106
62
Tuttle Creek
13
177
36
73
159
16
82
Minneapolis
Lincoln
75
A
DONIPHAN
120 Troy
20
159
20
16
24
OTTAWA
181
187
POTTAWATOMIE
82
81
Seneca
9
RILEY
9
MITCHELL
18
281
87
15
14
73
MARSHALL
Glen Elder
281
36
9
9
Concordia
24
7
BROWN
75
63
77
CLOUD
28
JEWELL
Osborne
Marysville
WASHINGTON
9
NEMAHA
99
Hiawatha
Washington
128
SMITH
OSBORNE
77
15
15
Belleville
Mankato
181
81
166
8
KS State Parks
5
55
4