Kansas State Parks

Location:

Trego County, KS

Highlights:

Want a mix of water fun, camping, and Kansas history? Cedar Bluff State Park delivers it all—just pack the cooler and your sense of adventure.

Recommended For:

Families, campers, history buffs, nature lovers, and outdoor sports enthusiasts.

What we Love:

Split park areas with different vibes, a sandy beach for summer lounging, and hidden canyon carvings from the 1800s.

• Explore the 300-acre Bluffton Area for active recreation—think sand volleyball, basketball, horseshoes, a BMX track, and a beach.
• Escape to the quieter Page Creek Area with shaded primitive campsites and tranquil shoreline views.
• Discover Threshing Machine Canyon, home to unique rock carvings left behind in the 1800s.
• Stay overnight in one of the park’s campgrounds or rental cabins for a full weekend getaway.

Cost:

$10 per vehicle for a 1-day pass; annual and multi-day passes available

Best time to visit:

Spring and early summer for mild temps and full reservoir levels

Local tips:

Bring water shoes for the shoreline and don’t miss sunset views from the bluffs!

Distance:

45 minutes southwest of Hays, KS

How to Get to Cedar Bluff State Park:

From Hays, take I-70 west to Exit 135, then head south on KS-147 for about 25 miles. The park entrance is clearly marked near the Cedar Bluff Reservoir.

Address:

32001, KS-147, Ellis, KS 67637
Phone: 785-726-3212

Location:

Lawrence, KS

Highlights:

Looking for the perfect all-seasons getaway with lake views and tons to do? Clinton State Park is your go-to for outdoor fun just minutes from Lawrence.

Recommended For:

Families, anglers, water sports lovers, trail hikers, disc golf players, and weekend campers.

What we Love:

Massive marina, scenic lake views, tons of trail options, and both 10- and 18-hole disc golf courses.

• Camp year-round in either primitive sites or modern campgrounds with cabins available for a cozy stay.
• Fish in the reservoir or stocked trout pond—don’t forget the fish cleaning station!
• Play on the beach, volleyball courts, playgrounds, or try your hand at the archery range.
• Explore mountain biking and hiking trails, plus a mile-long self-guided nature loop for families.

Cost:

$10 per vehicle for a 1-day pass; annual and multi-day passes available

Best time to visit:

Summer for full lake access and activities; Fall for trail hiking and colorful foliage

Local tips:

The 18-hole disc golf course is a hidden gem—bring your own discs!

Distance:

45 minutes west of Kansas City, MO

How to Get to Clinton State Park:

From Kansas City, take I-70 W toward Lawrence. Exit at US-59 S, then follow signs to Clinton Parkway and turn onto N 1415 Rd to reach the park entrance.

Address:

798 N 1415 Rd, Lawrence, KS 66049
Phone: 785-842-8562

Location:

Farlington, KS

Highlights:

Want a peaceful lakefront escape with trails, wildflowers, and cozy cabins? Crawford State Park makes it easy to relax and reconnect with nature just minutes from Girard.

Recommended For:

Families, fishing fans, boating enthusiasts, birders, and those looking for a tranquil lake retreat.

What we Love:

Gorgeous wildflower-filled landscapes, rental cabins right by the water, and a peaceful beach perfect for summer swims.

• Stay in one of six campgrounds or book a lakeside cabin for extra comfort and views.
• Fish & boat from two convenient boat ramps—great for relaxing or reeling in the catch of the day.
• Hike or bike on scenic trails surrounded by butterflies, wildflowers, and lake vistas.
• Swim safely in the park’s designated beach area with calm, clean lake waters.

Cost:

$10 per vehicle for a 1-day pass; annual and multi-day passes available

Best time to visit:

Late spring through summer for wildflower blooms and lake activities

Local tips:

Early mornings are best for birdwatching—bring binoculars and a field guide!

Distance:

2 hours and 15 minutes south of Kansas City, MO

How to Get to Crawford State Park:

From Kansas City, head south on US-69 to Fort Scott, then take US-54 west to KS-7 south. Follow signs to Farlington and continue to 1 W Lake Rd.

Address:

1 W Lake Rd, Farlington, KS 66734
Phone: 620-362-3671

Romantic Kansas State Parks

Location:

Toronto, KS

Highlights:

If you’re craving quiet trails, lake views, and a real Kansas backcountry feel, Cross Timbers State Park is the spot. It’s a peaceful blend of prairie, oak forest, and river valley just south of Toronto.

Recommended For:

Hikers, horseback riders, campers, anglers, wildlife watchers, and outdoor explorers looking for solitude.

What we Love:

Oak-studded hills, miles of trails, and close access to the expansive Toronto Wildlife Area.

• Camp under the trees in shaded sites with easy lake access and serene surroundings.
• Hike the scenic Chautauqua Hills Trail or explore other multi-use trails on foot, bike, or horseback.
• Fish & boat in the lake or enjoy water activities like paddling and shoreline relaxing.
• Watch for white-tailed deer, wild turkey, songbirds, and more in the diverse habitats nearby.

Cost:

$10 per vehicle for a 1-day pass; annual and multi-day passes available

Best time to visit:

Spring and fall for cooler temps, vibrant foliage, and active wildlife

Local tips:

Trails can get muddy after rain—bring waterproof boots and a walking stick.

Distance:

2 hours and 15 minutes east of Wichita, KS

How to Get to Cross Timbers State Park:

From Wichita, take US-400 E to Fredonia, then follow KS-105 north toward Toronto. The park entrance is well-signed and easy to reach.

Address:

144 KS-105, Toronto, KS 66777
Phone: 620-637-2213

Location:

Osage City, KS

Highlights:

Need a getaway with lake views, trails, and something for everyone? Eisenhower State Park has it all—plus cabins, disc golf, horseback camping, and wide-open prairie skies.

Recommended For:

Families, equestrians, disc golfers, campers, and outdoor lovers wanting variety and space to explore.

What we Love:

Equine-friendly campsites, primitive yurts, and one of the most activity-packed park layouts in Kansas.

• Camp in everything from yurts and cabins to equestrian sites with personal corrals.
• Swim & play at Omaha Swim Beach, Jones Family Activity Area, and the sand volleyball court.
• Fish in Melvern Lake or the park’s fly-fishing pond—great for beginners and pros alike.
• Explore trails by foot, bike, or horse, and try your aim on the 19-target archery course.

Cost:

$10 per vehicle for a 1-day pass; annual and multi-day passes available

Best time to visit:

Late spring through early fall for warm weather fun and lake recreation

Local tips:

Bring your disc set—the 18-hole course is well-kept and rarely crowded.

Distance:

45 minutes south of Topeka, KS

How to Get to Eisenhower State Park:

From Topeka, take US-75 south to K-278, then follow signs for Eisenhower State Park and Melvern Lake.

Address:

Osage City, KS 66523
Phone: 785-528-4102

Location:

El Dorado, KS

Highlights:

Want big adventure without a long drive? El Dorado State Park is Kansas' largest—and it’s packed with lakeside fun, trails, and wildlife just outside of Wichita.

Recommended For:

Boaters, birdwatchers, hikers, photographers, families, and fans of wide-open landscapes and water recreation.

What we Love:

Nearly 100 miles of shoreline, incredible wildlife viewing, and easy access from highways and interstates.

• Explore 4,000 acres of natural space with trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding.
• Enjoy kayaking, fishing, boating, and swimming in the expansive El Dorado Reservoir.
• Watch for migrating birds, wading herons, small mammals, and other wildlife—camera ready!
• Camp lakeside or inland with modern amenities and easy access to the water.

Cost:

$10 per vehicle for a 1-day pass; annual and multi-day passes available

Best time to visit:

Spring and fall for wildlife activity and mild trail weather

Local tips:

Arrive early in the morning for the best birdwatching along the shoreline.

Distance:

40 minutes northeast of Wichita, KS

How to Get to El Dorado State Park:

From Wichita, take I-35 north to US-77 N, then turn east onto NE Bluestem Rd. Follow signs directly to the park entrance.

Address:

618 NE Bluestem Rd, El Dorado, KS 67042
Phone: 316-321-7180

Kansas State Parks for Families

Location:

Independence, KS

Highlights:

Craving a trail-filled getaway with lake views and forest vibes? Elk City State Park is a hidden gem full of rugged beauty, perfect for both relaxation and adventure.

Recommended For:

Hikers, campers, mountain bikers, paddlers, wildlife watchers, and nature-loving families.

What we Love:

Packed trail system, lakeside scenery, and wide-open meadows surrounded by peaceful hardwood forests.

• Explore iconic trails like the Elk River Hiking Trail and Eagle Rock Mountain Bike Trail.
• Camp in a cozy setting near the lake, with shady spots and open views.
• Paddle & fish in Elk City Reservoir or kayak along calm coves and inlets.
• Relax at picnic shelters, playgrounds, or by soaking in panoramic bluff views.

Cost:

$10 per vehicle for a 1-day pass; annual and multi-day passes available

Best time to visit:

Spring and fall for hiking and birding; summer for lakeside fun

Local tips:

Don’t miss the scenic overlooks on the Table Mound Trail—especially during fall colors.

Distance:

2 hours and 15 minutes southeast of Wichita, KS

How to Get to Elk City State Park:

From Wichita, take US-400 E to Independence, then head west on County Road 160 and follow signs to Squaw Creek Rd and the park entrance.

Address:

4825 Squaw Creek Rd, Independence, KS 67301
Phone: 620-331-6295

Location:

Hartford, KS

Highlights:

If you love quiet landscapes and the thrill of spotting wildlife, Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge is a must-see. It’s a peaceful haven for migrating birds, tucked just outside of Hartford.

Recommended For:

Birders, nature photographers, hikers, families, and anyone seeking a serene, educational escape into the wild.

What we Love:

Wide-open wetlands, rich prairie grasses, and the chance to see migratory birds up close in their natural habitat.

• Watch thousands of waterfowl and shorebirds during peak migration seasons.
• Explore trails through wetland, forest, and prairie habitats with great photo ops.
• Fish & boat in designated areas of the Neosho River and reservoir-connected wetlands.
• Learn through interpretive exhibits and educational programs hosted by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Cost:

Free admission

Best time to visit:

Spring and fall for peak bird migration and cool, scenic walks

Local tips:

Bring binoculars and a bird checklist—the diversity of species is impressive during migration!

Distance:

1 hour and 15 minutes southwest of Topeka, KS

How to Get to Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge:

From Topeka, take I-335 S to US-50 E toward Emporia. Turn south onto KS-130 to Hartford, then head west on W Maple Ave to the refuge entrance.

Address:

530 W Maple Ave, Hartford, KS 66854
Phone: 620-392-5553

Location:

Glen Elder, KS

Highlights:

Need a peaceful lakeside escape with a bit of history thrown in? Glen Elder State Park is a serene rural spot on Waconda Lake where you can unwind, play, and learn.

Recommended For:

Families, history lovers, anglers, campers, birders, and anyone seeking scenic lake views and local culture.

What we Love:

Heritage museum, calm waters for boating and fishing, and wide-open landscapes perfect for picnics and photography.

• Swim & boat on the expansive Glen Elder Reservoir, also known as Waconda Lake.
• Visit the Waconda Heritage Village to learn about Native American history in the region.
• Camp lakeside and enjoy volleyball, softball, or relaxing walks along scenic park paths.
• Birdwatch and fish in peaceful surroundings away from crowded recreation areas.

Cost:

$10 per vehicle for a 1-day pass; annual and multi-day passes available

Best time to visit:

Late spring and early fall for mild weather and fewer crowds

Local tips:

Don’t skip the visitor center—local displays and staff insights bring the lake’s history to life.

Distance:

2 hours and 30 minutes northwest of Salina, KS

How to Get to Glen Elder State Park:

From Salina, take US-81 N to US-24 W through Beloit. Turn south on 180 Rd and follow signs to the park entrance in Glen Elder.

Address:

2131 180 Rd, Glen Elder, KS 67446
Phone: 785-545-3345

Location:

Paola, KS

Highlights:

Want a quick nature escape just outside Kansas City? Hillsdale State Park is a lakeside retreat with trails, water activities, and scenic views perfect for a day trip or weekend away.

Recommended For:

Boaters, anglers, equestrians, hikers, families, and anyone craving outdoor space near the city.

What we Love:

Proximity to Kansas City, horseback-friendly trails, and more than 50 miles of scenic shoreline.

• Explore two hiking trails and the Saddle Ridge equestrian trail system with 30+ miles of marked paths.
• Fish & boat on the 4,500-acre Hillsdale Lake with plenty of quiet coves and open water.
• Swim & picnic with family at designated beach areas and spacious shoreline spots.
• Hunt seasonally in the surrounding 12,000-acre wildlife management area.

Cost:

$10 per vehicle for a 1-day pass; annual and multi-day passes available

Best time to visit:

Summer for water activities; Fall for horseback riding and quiet trail time

Local tips:

Bring your own horse for Saddle Ridge—the trails and lake views are worth the ride.

Distance:

45 minutes south of Kansas City, MO

How to Get to Hillsdale State Park:

From Kansas City, take US-69 S or I-35 S toward Paola. Follow KS-68 and then turn onto 255th Street to reach the park entrance.

Address:

26001 255 St, Paola, KS 66071
Phone: 913-783-4507