This nature preserve in Kansas looks like a dream, maybe even the classic verdant computer background that Windows is known by. It is a sight to be seen. Over 40 miles of a luscious sea of grassy hills, wild bison roaming, over 500 species of plants are all yours to explore in this land preserve right in the Kansas Flint Hills. What makes this preserve special is the wildlife that it is rich in. See this rustic terrain in this pocket of the Tallgrass Prairie and your thirst for exploration will be quenched.
Over 15 miles of these occasionally challenging blue-blazed trails will have you feeling connected at the hip with nature. The varied terrain offers an immense number of scenic features, such as panoramic views, narrow canyons, rock overhangs, beautiful foliage in the fall, lush greenery, and much more. Feel a rush of adrenaline as you trek through these canyons and over the hilly, rocky land.
The Chautauqua Hills hike travels through centuries-old oak trees and boasts some of the most scenic views in Cross Timbers State Park. The hills are covered in black jack oaks, scrub oaks, as well as other hardwood species. Cross Timbers is characterized by its grasslands and beautiful deciduous trees. The 11-mile Chautauqua Hills hike is challenging because of its length, and is open year-round.
Chaplin Nature Center is for those who want to get a taste of everything Kansas wildlife has to offer. Over 230 species of bird can be seen here, as well bobcats, wild turkeys, white-tailed deer, and for reptile lovers, you might catch a glimpse of some snakes. Not only is the ecosystem thriving, but so are the wetlands and forest. There isn’t a dull area here, that is for sure. Walk this roughly five-mile trail along the Arkansas River and experience the vivid wildlife right in Arkansas City.
This immersive and historic nature trail is one of the more invigorating hiking experiences you’ll have in Kansas. This first loop of the nature trail spans 2.6 miles. The Konza Prairie Biological Station covers 8,600 acres with native tallgrass. Along the way, you’ll observe fields that featured a working cattle ranch in 1977, excellent spots to see beautiful wildflowers, and if you’re really lucky, you might get to see a wonderful bison herd.
]]>The Big Creek Nature Trail in Hays offers an easy to moderate hiking trail that winds along a stream, and a timbered tree-lined path. The trail is situated in Frontier Park, is about 1.5 miles in length, and affords some of the most beautiful views in Kansas.
The Elk River Hiking Trail near Independence follows the Elk River for 15 miles. The hiking trail offers panoramic outlooks from limestone cliffs and trails across several small streams as well as gullies through narrow canyons.
Black Hawk Trail is situated on the north shore of Pomona Lake in 110 Mile Park. Several trailheads mark the trail’s 21-plus miles. Black Hawk was originally a horse trail and has now become a popular scenic hiking trail.
The Flint Hills Nature Trail stretches 117 miles from Osawatomie to Herington. The trail crosses the tall grass prairie, historic sites, offering incredible views of farmland and woodlands.
Experience immaculate sandstone rock formations and cascading waterfalls as you hike the Hemlock Cliffs area. A one-mile jaunt leads hikers down into the canyon and, according to the website, “under a lush canopy of large trees, through rock shelters, and past high seasonal waterfalls.” You simply can’t beat that.
]]>Bring your own jet ski or rent one at Hillsdale Lake, one of the most thrilling spots for watersport fun. This lake has over 4,500 acres of lake to power up and enjoy the water. Keep an eye out for the nearby wildlife!
Wilson Lake, north of the city of Wilson, is known to be the clearest lake in Kansas. The long wide body of this lake offers excellent jet skiing or other watercraft sports, for all levels of experience.
El Dorado Lake offers jet skiers over 8,000 acres of water. Parts of the lake are large enough to accommodate many types of watercraft and other parts are narrower and provide calmer waters.
Lake Perry near Topeka is an 11,000-acre lake which offers plenty of open water and inlets to give jet skiers the ideal space. This large lake has plenty of room for all sizes of watercrafts.
Waconda Lake near Cawker City is known for its “picturesque” setting. Smooth waters provide jet skiers an excellent space to fly across the surface, and there are still plenty of other areas of the lake to hit some waves.
]]>Kill Creek Streamway Park is your next go to dog friendly hiking trail in De Soto. With plenty of accessible trails and open spaces to explore, this park is perfect for adventure seekers and their four-legged friends.
Established in 1981, it is a great place to hang out, with trails and open spaces to hike, bike, jog and picnic with your pup by your side. Spend the day any way you wish with your dog, get ready for a tail wagging good time!
The scenic trails at Osage Nature Trail are perfect for exploring with your pup. Make your way through this all terrain paradise, these trails are a great place to bond with your pup while appreciating nature.
Mutt Run is the ideal spot for a pup-filled outing. Dogs can run free in the mowed paths and wooded areas, while owners enjoy the facilities like restrooms and a drinking fountain.
If you’re looking for a change of pace, Tuttle Creek State Park may be just the thing. This park boasts tons of trails to explore, this is the perfect spot to go on an adventure with your pup.
Shawnee Mission Park offers plenty of opportunities for exploration, including a 120-acre lake with a swimming beach and marina, paths and even an archery range. Dogs can have a good time in the 44-acre off-leash area. Your dog friendly adventure awaits you!
Here is a great spot for adventure. Located 4 miles west of Norton, this state park is a great place to enjoy the outdoors with your pup, and make some new furry friends along the way.
Santa Fe Lake has two trails divided between hiking, mountain biking, walking and running. This spot is perfect for going on a long exploration with your pup, and taking in the sights. The possibilities are endless with how you and your furry friend can spend your day at Santa Fe Lake.
History lovers and their four-legged companions rejoice! This piece of land was gifted to the descendants of White Plume by the U.S. government and includes prairie and woods never developed, making it a great spot for exploration. Take your dog to discover uncharted territory in a stunning natural setting.
Chapin Park is the perfect spot for outdoor activities, with plenty of trails, a playground, an off-leash dog park and a RC aircraft field. With a pond in the center and a bridge, this park is a great spot to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city with your canine family members.
]]>Grab your ATV and head to the Syracuse Sand Dunes to enjoy the best off-roading. This park has over 1,300 acres of off-roading opportunities that every member of the family will enjoy. Be sure to register all off-highway vehicles at the Syracuse City Hall or Sand Park Office.
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The Tuttle Creek area north of Manhattan has over 310 acres of rugged terrain with several miles of trails for the novice-level to expert hill climbs. Picnic tables and a loading ramp are located next to the entrance parking lot. The area is also open to bicycles and two, three and four-wheeled motorized vehicles.
Several trails wind through the Riverside East section of the John Redmond Reservoir near Burlington. Riverside East Campground is located on the east bank of the Neosho River in Kansas and is open to ATV and other off road vehicles.
The Perry Lake ATV and Motorcycle Trail covers more than 140 acres of space—with difficulty suitable for beginners and those who are more experienced. You can spend hours at this place. Just make sure to check out the map before heading out!
Kansas Badlands offers 254 acres of ATV riding trails and tracks. Riding is open daily during daylight hours all year round. The cost is $5 per person for the week from Monday-Sunday and $10 per weekend for special events.
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Take the family to experience the beautiful hiking trails around Clinton Lake in Lawrence. Depending on the hikers in your family, these trails will allow you to choose the best path for your skill level. Your options are endless as you set out to explore the lake, forests, and hills of this enchanting area. Wildlife is abundant and the views are spectacular. Stop by the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers Visitors Center for maps and instructions and follow the trail heads. Enjoy walking and hiking with the family.
The Agave Ridge Trail near Ellis will wind your family through a one-mile paved trail and also offers a four-mile primitive trail. Both deliver beautiful scenic vistas of Western Kansas prairie grasses, opportunities to view wildlife, the abundant Great Plains Yucca plants, and the half-mile cedar lined bluffs from which the trails are named after. The trail head is found in the Page Creek Area in Cedar Bluff State Park and interpretative signs keep you on the trails. Have fun and enjoy the scenery!
Located northwest of Topeka in the iconic Flint Hills, the Oregon Trail Nature Park provides three short loop hiking trails for the entire family. The trails are along the north edge of the Kaw River Valley and it’s the same route immigrants crossed over 100 years ago. The Sea of Grass trail takes you up to the top of the ridge and gives 360-degree views. Wildlife and wild flowers are abundant and don’t miss the old silo murals. Restrooms, picnic tables, shelters and water are onsite for convenience. Learn some history and take in the fascinating ecosystems.
One of five hiking areas at Cross Timbers State Park near Toronto, the Ancient Trees Trail is a family favorite one-mile hike. Walk along the scenic valley of the Verdigris River through 400-year-old oak trees and cross through parts of the Chautauqua Hills. This trail is rich in history with diverse habitat, prairie clearings, and translucent streams. Interpretive signage leads the way, and day or night camping is permitted. A great place to spend time in a truly “ancient” forest.
Load up the family and hike the Alcove Springs Loop Trail near Blue Rapids. Explore the trails scenic, history-filled surroundings, and look for actual carvings of pioneers who etched their names into nearby rocks and trees. Stay on the path until you find the waterfall and enjoy the quiet picturesque scenery (and the occasional wildlife sightings!) This is an awesome trail to hike and explore.
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The Dragon Motocross Park in Lyndon is privately-owned and operated and open to the public a couple days a week. If you’re inexperienced, check out Dragon’s “Robbie Skaggs Motocross School.” Skaggs’ training classes are immensely helpful for the beginner as he applies his many years of professional knowledge. Races are scheduled throughout the season. Call before you go to find out all the details!
Turkey Trail is a 10.5-mile trail that follows the Cimarron River beginning at the Cottonwood Picnic Area. The trail is slightly downhill on mostly hard-packed paths. The trail can be rough and dense in spots. Enjoy the abundant wildlife and scenic vistas surrounding the area.
The Perry Lake Motorcycle Trail is open from dawn to dusk and provides a range of narrow wooded trails, which include steep, rugged hills, and at times, deep puddles. There are separate beginner tracks available because most of the 10-mile track is geared toward experienced riders.
The Spillway Cycle Area at Turtle Creek Dam is 35 acres with a wooded landscape adjacent to the spillway area. The cycle trails are open to novice level riders and will provide hill climb challenges for more advanced motorcyclists.
At Bogie’s Adventure Park in Latham, the goal is to provide motorcycle and quad riding for families (and all levels of riders). The owners are accommodating and provide plenty of insight to the trails and the area. This is a great motocross park to enjoy the day.
]]>Start your day early by heading to the Otter Creek ATV Area which is located on the south side of the John Redmond Reservoir and offers over 140 acres of wooded trail to explore with your ATV. The trails contain diverse foliage and varying wildlife such as turkey and deer.
After riding, you’re going to be hungry. Fill up your belly at the classic Diners’ Kafe in Burlington, Kansas. Their Monday-Friday menu features satisfying sandwiches such as shrimp po’boys, breaded chicken sandwiches, and burgers. Be sure to check out their daily specials.
Make the most of your opportunity outdoors and head out towards the north side of the recreation area to cast your reel out along one of the many banks of the John Redmond Reservoir. The lake offers many species of fish such as crappie and catfish and it’s great place to hang out and enjoy the peaceful sounds of water and wildlife.
Head northeast along Embankment Road until you reach the John Redmond Reservoir dam. Here you can pull off and catch a glimpse one of nature’s wonders which comes in the form of a beautiful Kansas sunset along the rolling grassy hills.
Just down the road from the reservoir you can find the Riverside East Campground which is the perfect place to set up camp and call it a day. With over 43 campsites, it’s the perfect place to wind down after a long hard day on the trails. Pitching your tent and enjoying time around the campfire is the ultimate way to cap off a great ATV off-roading adventure.
]]>Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Area is a 41,000-acre lowland that is home to hundreds of Kansas’ bird species. It’s estimated that over 45 percent of North America’s shorebird population stops in the basin during their migration north in the spring. It’s primarily a wetland habitat and offers endless birdwatching for the more than 60,000 people who visit annually.
Quivira National Wildlife Refuge is constantly rated as one of the top birdwatching destinations in the United States. Over 344 species have been recorded in this massive wetland and being in the middle of the country, it offers birdwatchers a mix of western and eastern species. Hike along one of the many mudflats or shorelines and you are sure to see tons of long-legged waders like herons and cranes.
The Jamestown Wildlife Area offers over 3,000 acres of beautiful wetlands and uplands full of a variety of bird species. A popular area to visit is the Jamestown Lake where you can go on a quick hike. The area offers excellent wildlife viewing and photographing opportunities. Be on the lookout for a variety of waterfowl and other migrating shorebirds!
The George Stumps Nature Trail is a great place to bring friends or family for a leisurely stroll through southeastern side of the Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Area. The paved trail is located at the Kansas Wetlands Education Center, next to the center, and offers over a half mile hike through Kansas wildlife such as woodrats, deer, and many species of birds.
The Emporia Cottonwood River Trail a great natural trail that runs along the Cottonwood River and offers a secluded area great for birdwatching. The trail is just under a mile long and easily hiked or can also be accessed by bike. You can access the trail from Peter Pan Park and quickly spend a few hours there observing beautiful Kansas bird species.
The Ernie Miller Nature Center was the first nature center in Kansas and has a great hiking trail called the Ernie Miller Bittersweet Trail that is home to varying species of birds including chickadees and goldfinch. The 116-acre nature preserve also has an education center with exhibits and programs for the whole family to enjoy.
The George Latham Trail can be found along the western side of Clinton Lake and is a 4.5-mile trail open solely for hikers. The trail offers a mix of wooded areas and open grasslands that are filled with hundreds of species of native Kansas birds. Trailheads are found along the northwest corner and southeast corner of the parking area.
]]>The Kansas River stretches 173 miles from north central Kansas to the Missouri River, and is an ideal spot for novice boaters. The Kansas River provides a scenic route for first timers to easily tackle, and more experienced kayakers to enjoy as well. There are many stops along the way, but be sure to take your map!
Experience the peaceful calm waters of Pillsbury Crossing on your next kayak outing near Manhattan. Follow the stream through the wildlife area and enjoy the terrain, bird watching and places where a variety of bass fish are spotted.
The Kaw River is available for kayakers to follow downstream to remote water trail areas of the park, where stunning views and wildlife are common. Kayakers should always know the river conditions and the river’s skill levels before entering the water.
Kayakers at Tuttle Creek State Park near Rocky Ford can access the Kansas River at three entry ports. However, the River Pond area is perfect for beginning kayakers to enjoy the water and practice maneuvering. Kayak rentals are available at this lake.
Kayaking slowly down the Arkansas River through parts of Wichita is awesome. The trip can take 2-3 hours as you navigate your kayak through the wide, calm waters. Be sure to contact the Arkansas River Coalitions for floating information. Sometimes the Coalition will provide the kayaks and life jackets to paddlers.
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Angler’s Bait & Tackle is a premier outdoor outfitter and their huge shop is the one-stop place to find all of the fishing gear you need. The staff is known for their welcoming attitude and they’ll always ensure customers have a great experience.
Minnesota Bait & Fly has great service and selection of bait that will help you land your next big fish. The store has all the fishing needs for anglers including an excellent supply of lines, rods, tackle, and much more.
“Home of the jumping worm,” Outback Bait & Tackle has been providing bait and tackle to the South Central Kansas area for many years. The shop has a huge selection of live bait and tackle and even offer services for rod & reel repairs.
Webster Bait & Tackle is a quick place to stop and grab some bait, tackle, and snacks on your way to your next fishing adventure. They also have some camping equipment, drinks, and expert advice on where you might find your next big catch.
Zeiner’s Bass Shop is a year round fishing store with over 64 years in business. They have been in business for so long because of their dedication to providing high-quality fishing gear and the highest level of service to their customers.
Done & Tom’s Bait and Tackle is a fantastic little store that offers a wide selection of bait, tackle, and trapping supplies. The store is named after the two owners who have combined over 80 years of fishing experience and will help you find the perfect gear for your fishing trip.
P&P Seed & Bait has everything you need to have a great fishing experience for you and your family. They carry fresh bait such as bloodworms, sandworms, fresh-shucked skimmer clams, and much more. Their huge bait selection is unmatched and will help you have a successful day of fishing.
Mike’s Bait and Tackle is a family-owned business that will happily supply you with all of your fishing needs. Their shop has live bait including minnows, goldfish, worms, and a great selection of artificial bait as well.
Mondo Tackle is a mom and pop store that serves fishing enthusiasts. They have the best selection of hard-to-find tackle that is essential to catching your next big one. Their staff is always friendly and helpful and has everything you need to take your fishing game to the next level.
The Happy Joy Acres Store located on Lake Perry is a great little store that will help you get stocked up on fishing supplies which come in handy for the nearby lake. The shop has a tremendous selection of live bait such as minnows, shrimp, worms, and much more. Along with fishing gear they have other camping and water sport necessities.
]]>Cedar Bluff State Park near WaKeeney offers backpackers two unique areas to explore and camp. Backpack along the shorelines of the Cedar Bluff Reservoir and the wide-open spaces of the Bluffton area on the north shore. The second area is the Page Creek south shoreline. This side is not as developed, but offers large shade trees and sandier shorelines with both designated and undesignated primitive campsites. Both areas can provide outdoor adventure and relaxing solitude.
Backpackers will enjoy the hiking trails and camping areas the John Redmond Reservoir offers throughout the year. Located in the Neosho River Valley, the area’s rolling hills offer backpackers acres of wheat, corn, and maize fields. The native tall-grass prairies and rolling hilltops open to seas of waving grasses and bottomlands that are coved by trees. Three recreation areas provide beautiful campsites.
When life gets too hectic, head to southwest Kansas and backpack the Pike and San Isabel National Forests and the Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands near Elkhart. Birdwatch, fish, find an oasis all your own. After you spend time backpacking the area’s scenic, unspoiled grasslands, camp for the night at one of the 12 primitive campsites. Pitch your tent for a small fee under the park’s tall cottonwood trees and take in the peace and tranquility this park offers.
Pomona State Park, east of Pomona, welcomes any skill level of backpacker. You are invited to leave the hustling metro plex of Kansas City and travel southeast to this quiet, serene spot and take in the view of the lake, the park, the grassy areas and the abundant trees. Perch yourself along one of the park trails and watch red-bellied woodpeckers, black-capped chickadees, and purple finches spend their days. Recreational activities during your stay could include fishing and boating, and enjoying a variety of wildlife. The park is open year-round.
Bring your camera, your binoculars, and set your backpack down and relax at Kaw River State Park near Topeka. Wooded trails follow alongside the Kaw River and provide incredible viewing of wildlife and even seasonal eagle viewing. Relax and enjoy the beauty this park has to offer as you backpack the river and the remote areas of the park, which are full of stunning natural wonders.
]]>One of the best-stocked fishing holes in Kansas is the Larned Fishing Pond. When you fish here, you can expect to catch black crappie, bluegill, carp, channel catfish, or largemouth bass. Make sure to bring along a bucket for your catch! Be sure you have your Kansas fishing license, as well.
Bone Creek Reservoir is a young body of water recognized in 1996 when the Bone Creek Valley flooded to supply water for the residents of Crawford and Cherokee Counties. This fishing hole is stocked with largemouth bass, catfish, walleye, and crappie.
Gridley City Lake is just north of Gridley and is home to an impressive fish management program. Kansas licensed fisherman may cast their hook into a fish population of sunfish, channel catfish, crappie, largemouth bass, small mouth bass, walleye, and wiper.
These two city lakes can provide any angler with a full day of fishing fun. These lakes have been cared for and attended to and will bring anyone who visits a comfortable, quiet place to enjoy a day by the water. Be sure you have your fishing license.
In the covered hills of western Kansas, Sheridan State Fishing Lake is a great place to relax and fish near Hoxie. Fisherman can hook a bluegill, channel catfish, crappie, largemouth bass, or a red ear sunfish from one of the lake’s floating piers.
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Sitzmark Sports is a family-owned outdoor sports shop that has some great deals on outerwear and equipment. Their expert staff has a ton of experience using all types of gear so they will be able to help you with high-quality recommendations on equipment for your upcoming hiking trips.
This renowned sporting goods store is one of the largest in the state that sells almost everything you could ever need outdoors. Their huge store has an indoor Ferris wheel and a selection of outdoor hiking gear that is unmatched. With hundreds of options for outdoor clothing and boots, you will find exactly what you need to take on your next adventure.
This is a paradise for hikers, bikers, campers, and other wilderness explorers. Find water bottles, backpacks, and more, from top brands like Sea to Summit, Patagonia, and Eagle Creek.
Eddie Bauer is one of the best known names when you think about going on outdoor adventures. Their store is packed with high-quality outerwear, boots, and even casual clothing. Their excellent staff has a ton of knowledge on their different types of gear and what will be optimal for all types of weather and terrain conditions.
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If you are looking for super tough and durable gear than nothing beats the military quality equipment that you can find at Mickey’s Surplus. Their army surplus store is full of outdoor specialty gear and military-grade equipment. Their store carries many top brands and tons of camouflage patterned gear that will last through even the toughest outdoor hikes.
Bass Pro Shops is one of the most well-known names in outdoor equipment. Their incredible outdoor supply store is bursting full of great deals on hiking gear. The boot selection here is top-notch and you are sure to find all of the outdoor clothing and accessories you could ever need.
If you are looking for a fun shopping experience, then you have to check out Cabela’s, which has locations in Kansas City and Wichita. Their store is enormous and full of outdoor gear and wildlife on display. Boasting one of the biggest selections of outerwear and gear, this place has everything you could ever need for hiking and probably some things you didn’t even know existed. Make sure you plan a few hours to wander their huge store, pick up gear from your favorite brands, and check out the amazing wildlife exhibits as well.
Nothing compares to the down-home feel and selection at Sunflower Outdoor and Bike. This Lawrence shop features all the greatest brands like the North Face, Smartwool, Osprey, Marmot, MSR, and much more.
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With over 40 years of excellent service, Sunflower Outdoor and Bike is prepared to outfit you with the very best for your next camping experience. Find all of your favorite trustworthy brands like Mountain Hardwear, Marmot, Osprey, Merrell, Smartwool, and more.
Cabela’s is one of the best known outdoor stores where you can find everything you could ever need for your outdoor adventure. Their camping section is one of the best around and offers gear from all the major brands. Here you can pick up everything for your upcoming trip including relaxing ENO hammocks, Eureka! tents, and a high-quality Benchmade knife which always comes in handy.
With 11 different departments to choose from, this outdoor store really has it all. This is the largest locally-owned and operated sports store in Kansas. Find all the camping gear you’ll need from brands like ALPS Mountaineering and Coleman. You’ll also find dehydrators from Open Country for delicious cooking outdoors.
Einstein’s Outdoor Outfitters has been providing the Topeka area with all of the proper gear for a safe and enjoyable camping experience for over 100 years. That’s right. A century of excellent service. Not only will you find footwear, Coleman camping goods, and other outdoor appliances, but you’ll find the complete selection of military surplus in Topeka.
This independent specialty outdoor equipment store in Manhattan, Kansas, has been outfitting campers and outdoors people since 1975. Find top-quality packs from Osprey and Deuter, as well as tents, sleeping bags, camp cookware, tools and gadgets, safety gear, gear repair products, and much more!
Bass Pro Shops is another leader in providing high-quality outdoor equipment including great camping accessories. Stroll through their huge store and you are bound to find some great new gear including Lodge Cast Iron cookware, the super comfortable Big Agnes camping chairs, and a nearly unlimited supply of fishing equipment to add some extra fun to your upcoming camping trip.
Mickey’s Surplus is an army surplus store that is jam packed with all kinds of outdoor gear and military-grade equipment. Here you can find an enormous selection of camouflage clothing along with standard outdoor clothing brands like Carhartt and Dickies. Military is the main theme but you are sure to find all of your basic camping supplies here as well.
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