National Parks in Kansas
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Small Town Best-Kept Secrets: National Parks in Kansas

National Parks in Kansas make a great low-key vacation that is all about relaxing and seeing the true beauty of wide-open spaces. 

This blog post is intended to show you national parks, trails, and sites that are in or around small towns. There are a lot of sites to see without having to navigate in the city.

National Parks in Kansas

Kansas, also known as the Sunflower State, is in the heart of the Great Plains region of the United States.

It is known for its vast open spaces, farmland, and prairies.

The state is also home to several national parks that showcase the natural beauty and rich history of the region.

National parks are a great way to provide people with a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty and rich history of the region. 

Whether you are interested in American history, the western frontier, or the Great Plains, there is something for everyone to visit and discover in Kansas’s national parks.

Kansas may not be the first state that comes to mind when you think of national parks, but it is home to a few hidden gems that are worth exploring. 

Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve

Location: Strong City, KS | Population: 420 | Eastern Kansas  

Established in 1996, The Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve is located in the Flint Hills of Kansas and is the only national park in the state dedicated to preserving the tallgrass prairie ecosystem. 

People hiking

Tallgrass prairie once covered millions of acres of land across North America. Today only 4% of the United States is tallgrass prairie. Most of that 4% is in the Flint Hills. 

Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve is located in the Flint Hills of Kansas and is the only national park in the state dedicated to preserving the tallgrass prairie ecosystem. 

The park covers over 11,000 acres and is home to a diverse range of plant and animal species, including bison, coyotes, and prairie chickens.

One of the best ways to explore the park is by taking a hike on one of the many trails that wind through the tallgrass prairie. The park also offers visitors the opportunity to bike, and explore the prairie ecosystem.

Visitors can also learn about the history of the area, including the role of the prairie in Native American culture and the impact of settlement and agriculture on the landscape.

The park also offers guided tours, ranger-led programs, and other educational opportunities to help visitors learn more about the unique ecosystem.

Fort Larned National Historic Site

Town: Larned | Population: 3,621 | Central Kansas

The Fort Larned National Historic Site, was established in 1964. The site preserves the history of the western frontier and the role of the military in protecting settlers and travelers along the Santa Fe Trail. 

This National Historic Site is located 10 min west of Larned, KS.

Visitors can explore the fort’s buildings, including barracks, officers’ quarters, and the hospital. 

State of Kansas

You can also learn about the soldiers who lived and worked there, and experience what life was like on the frontier.

The park also offers guided tours and living history demonstrations to help visitors better understand what life was like for the soldiers stationed at the fort.

Fort Scott National Historic Site

Town: Fort Scott | Population 7,500 | Eastern Kansas

Fort Scott National Historic Site stands as a testament to the military and cultural history of the American frontier. 

It served as a crucial military outpost along the permanent Indian frontier.

The fort’s primary purpose was to maintain peace between Native American tribes and settlers, protect trade on the frontier, and provide security on the Santa Fe and Oregon-California trails.

It offers visitors a chance to explore and learn about the fort’s role in shaping the region’s history during a critical period in the mid-19th century.

It offers various activities and interpretive experiences for visitors, including guided tours by park rangers, living history demonstrations, exhibits, and special events.

It provides a glimpse into the daily life of soldiers and civilians during the fort’s active period.

Find more information on Fort Scott National Historic Site here. 

Activities in Kansas National Parks

When you visit a national park in Kansas, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy. From hiking and wildlife watching to cultural exhibits, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Trails

Kansas National Parks offers a variety of hiking trails for all skill levels.

Whether you are looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, you can find it here. 

The Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail

Town: Atchison Kansas | Population, 10,500 | East Kansas

Atchison County Historical Museum which is in the historic 1880 Santa Fe Freight Depot. 

Lewis & Clark

The Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail marks the path taken by explorers Lewis and Clark in the early 1800s.

They traveled across the country from Pennsylvania to Oregon, exploring new territories. In Kansas, the trail follows along the Missouri River.

Why is Kansas of any significance to this historic trail? Atchison County is actually where they spent their first Independence Day!

Fun fact, 20th century female aviator Amelia Earhart’s hometown is Atchison, Kansas. 

Santa Fe National Historic Trail

The Santa Fe Trail was a big road used for trading between Missouri and Santa Fe, New Mexico.

It was very important for business and travel in the 1800s. Parts of it went through Kansas.

Along this historic trail, you’ll be able to stop at Barton County Historical Society Museum in Great Bend, KS (Population: 14,500).

There is also the Big Bend of the Arkansas River in Ellinwood, KS (Population, 2,000) to visit, this was a popular spot for water and fuel. Walnut Creek Crossing, 7 miles south of Ellinwood, you can still visit the site, but all that is left there today is the foundation of the trading post.

Also, visit the Morton County Historical Society Museum in Elkhart, Kansas (Population 2,000).

Find many more national historic landmarks along the Santa Fe National Historic Trail here

View of a field

California National Historic Trail

The California Trail was a route used by 250,000 emigrants moving from Missouri to California during the Gold Rush in 1849.

Some parts of this trail went through the northeast corner of Kansas. 

Pony Express National Historic Trail 

The Pony Express Trail was a fast mail service that went from Missouri to California for a short time in the late 1850s.

In Kansas, riders changed horses and rested at stations along this trail.

Along this route you’ll be able to stop at Marysville Pony Express Barn that’s a stone barn they used as a livery stable in Marysville, KS (Population 3,500).

Also in Marysville is the Marshall’s Ferry that was used in many of these Historic Trails. 

These trails were significant in American history because they helped people travel, trade, explore, and communicate across the country.

Today, they’re preserved as important parts of America’s past.

Wildlife Watching

Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge:

The Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge is located in the scenic Flint Hills region of eastern Kansas. 

This refuge was established to conserve and protect a crucial habitat for migratory birds, particularly waterfowl. 

The area consists of wetlands, tallgrass prairies, and woodlands, providing a home for various species of birds, including ducks, geese, shorebirds, and songbirds.

It offers opportunities for wildlife observation, nature photography, and environmental education.

The headquarters is located in Harford, KS (Population: 400), but with this map, you will find places to park & trail to walk. 

Quivira National Wildlife Refuge

Quivira National Wildlife Refuge is another important refuge situated in south-central Kansas.  

It’s recognized for its diverse habitats, including wetlands, prairies, and marshes.

This refuge is particularly famous for being a crucial stopover point for migratory birds along the Central Flyway, a major bird migration route. 

Thousands of waterfowl, shorebirds, and other bird species use this area as a resting and feeding ground during their migrations.

Additionally, Quivira Refuge is known for its efforts in preserving and restoring habitats to support wildlife populations, offering educational programs and opportunities for wildlife observation and photography.

The headquarters for this refuge is in Stafford, Kansas (Population 1,000), find out what activities are offered within this refuge

Both of these National Wildlife Refuges in Kansas play vital roles in conserving natural habitats, supporting wildlife populations, and providing opportunities for people to connect with and appreciate nature.

Events and Festivals

If you’re planning a trip to a national park in Kansas, you might want to check out some of the events and festivals that take place throughout the year.

From nature walks to music festivals, there’s always something happening in these parks.

Festivals

One of the most popular events is the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve’s annual Prairie Days Festival.

This two-day event takes place in late September and features live music, guided hikes, and demonstrations of traditional prairie skills like blacksmithing and basket weaving.

If you’re a birdwatcher, you won’t want to miss the annual Birding Festival at Quivira National Wildlife Refuge.

This event takes place in May and features guided birding tours, workshops, and presentations by experts in the field.

For those interested in history, the Fort Larned Old Guard Annual Mess & Muster is a must-see event.

Held in early June at Fort Larned National Historic Site, this event features reenactors dressed in period clothing, military drills, and demonstrations of traditional frontier skills like cooking and blacksmithing.

Other events and festivals throughout the year include the Flint Hills Prairie Fire Marathon, the Symphony in the Flint Hills, and the Kansas State Fair.

Check the individual park websites for more information on upcoming events and how to participate.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most popular national parks to visit in Kansas?

Kansas is home to a number of national parks that are worth exploring.

Some of the most popular ones include Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve, Fort Larned National Historic Site, and Nicodemus National Historic Site.

Each of these parks has its own unique features and attractions that make them popular among visitors.

Are there any national parks in Kansas that offer camping facilities?

Yes, there are several national parks that offer camping facilities. These include Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve, Fort Larned National Historic Site, and Wilson Lake. Camping is a great way to experience the beauty of Kansas and immerse yourself in nature.

Which national park is considered the most famous in Kansas?

The most famous national park in Kansas is undoubtedly Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve. This park is home to the last remaining tallgrass prairie in North America and offers visitors a chance to see the natural beauty of the Great Plains.

Can you list the national parks that are within driving distance from Kansas City?

Yes, several national parks are within driving distance from Kansas City. These include Wilson Lake, Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve, and the Ozark National Scenic Riverways. Each of these parks is located within a few hours’ drive of Kansas City and offers visitors a chance to experience the natural beauty of the region.

What are the closest national parks to Kansas in neighboring states?

If you’re looking to explore national parks outside of Kansas, there are several options located in neighboring states. Rocky Mountain National Park and Great Sand Dunes National Park are both located in Colorado and are popular destinations for outdoor enthusiasts. Both of these parks offer stunning natural landscapes and a variety of recreational activities.


Throughout the state of Kansas, there are wide open places to see. It is also a great place to see some historical buildings, a nature trail or two, wildlife areas, and some of the best national parks to visit.  

So often people think you have to go to the city to find great things. This is proof right here that you’ll discover so many things throughout the state of Kansas. 

Small Town Best-Kept Secrets: National Parks in Kansas
Small Town Best-Kept Secrets: National Parks in Kansas
Small Town Best-Kept Secrets: National Parks in Kansas