A Nature Lovers Definitive Guide To Kansas’s Natural Beauty – Parks, Beaches, Hikes And More!
When it comes to natural beauty, Kansas may just be the best-kept secret in the nation. Filled with natural wonders, world-class parks, wildlife preserves, and some of the most gorgeous scenery the Midwest has to offer, there’s plenty to love about the Sunflower State. If you’re a nature lover, then seeking out some of Kansas’s great treasures should be a priority. This definitive guide to the state’s natural beauty will definitely provide some inspiration for your next big adventure. With everything from hiking trails and parks to lakes and swimming holes, there’s something for every type of adventurer in the great state of Kansas.
The Best Little Known Park In Kansas
Tucked between the Cross Timbers area and the Flint Hills, Fall River State Park is a true hidden gem in Kanas. Consisting of 980 acres, the park is a unique blend of all types of habitats including forested flood plains, tall-grass prairie, and savannas. The Fall River, a gorgeous river that feeds into a 2,450-acre reservoir, is the park's most notable feature. You could easily spend a whole day exploring the hiking trails, canoeing on the river, and observing wildlife at this natural oasis. Have you visited this delightfully underrated park in Kanas?
The Most Pristine Beach In Kansas
Kansas doesn't exactly have a reputation for being a beachy state, but look close enough and you're bound to find some fantastic spots where you can enjoy a beach day. In fact, one of the most pristine beaches in Kansas can be found at Glen Elder State Park. Boasting bright blue waters, Glen Elder Reservoir (a.k.a. Waconda Lake) is a prime destination for a fun-filled day in the sun. At the park, you'll find a visitor's center, marina, boat ramps, campgrounds, and yes, even swimming beaches! Boasting white sand and picture-perfect views of the lake, you'll want to spend all summer at this beautiful Kansas beach.
The Most Jaw Dropping Lake In Kansas
One of Kansas's best water recreation areas can be found amid the scenic Smoky Hills region. Wilson State Park is home to the 9,000-acre Wilson Reservoir, an absolutely spectacular body of water that's perfect for all types of recreation. Boating, swimming, and hiking are all treasured pastimes at the park. Nothing beats a dip in the lake on a hot summer day, but you can also enjoy the lake's beauty from afar on the Dakota Trail which boasts views of both the Kansas prairie and the reservoir. Plus, the park is located right next door to the 8,000-acre Wilson Wildlife Area. Simply put, this lake and its surroundings are a natural oasis that you'll never get tired of exploring. Are you ready to spend the day at this jaw dropping lake in Kansas?
This Swimming Spot With The Clearest Water In Kansas
On a hot Kansas day, the best way to beat the heat is to take a dip in one of our state's fantastic swimming holes. There are plenty of great swimming spots to choose from in the Sunflower State, but eastern Kansas’s Clinton Lake may just contain some of the most pristine and clearest water you've seen. Clinton State Park is located on the north shore of the reservoir and contains modern facilities, a hiking trail system, boat ramps, and a beautiful beach with a shower house. Surrounded by so much beauty, you could easily find yourself enjoying Clinton Lake's clear waters from sun up 'til sundown. When you feel like a swim, you'll find there are always great memories to be made at this idyllic swimming spot in Kansas.
The Best Trail To Hike In Kansas
When you're in the mood for a long, beautiful hike in nature, there's no better choice than the Elk River Hiking Trail near Elk City Lake. The trail is a bit long at over 14 miles, but it's well worth making the effort to accomplish. Meandering through forest, lush foliage, and even a natural rock tunnel, you'll be in complete awe of this trail from the moment you set foot on it! There's even a great little waterfall to be found along the trail, so keep an eye out. There's always an adventure to be had on the best hiking trail in Kansas.
The Most Beautiful River In Kansas
Flowing through east-central Kansas and into Missouri, the Marais des Cygnes River is definitely a beauty. With a name that means "marsh of the swans" in French, the river is notably a haven for waterfowl. The 7,500-acre Marais des Cygnes National Wildlife Refuge is a great place to explore everything this stunning river has to offer. A popular destination for hunting, fishing, and birding, it's here that you can truly appreciate the Marais des Cygnes and its tranquil beauty. The river may not be as wide or fast as other rivers in Kansas, but its peaceful atmosphere, lush surroundings, and abundant wildlife make it a sight that's worth seeing for any nature lover. Definitely don't sleep on this underrated but beautiful river in Kanas.
The Most Scenic Rock Formation In Kansas
Kansas is filled with natural wonders, but Monument Rocks may just be the most unique of them all. Made up of Niobrara Chalk, this formation in Grove County was created around 80 million years ago. They stand tall over the surrounding scenery and the sight of them certainly catches your attention! With some of the rocks reaching up to 70-feet-high, you can't help but feel like you've been transported to a different planet as you walk among the formations and explore all of their nooks and crannies. If you have yet to visit this special place, you'll want to be sure to plan a day trip to this otherworldly rock formation right here in Kansas.
The Most Unique Garden In Kansas
There are few things as relaxing a stroll through a beautiful garden, especially if we're talking about Bartlett Arboretum in Belle Plaine. The vision for this magical garden came to life in 1910, and since then the garden has become one of the most gorgeous spots in Kansas. Filled with trees, flowers, and the lovely Euphrates Creek, the arboretum makes for a fantastic place to pass the time. It's absolutely inspiring no matter the season but you can't go wrong with a springtime visit to see Tulip Time, an event that shows off tens of thousands of tulip blooms. Treat yourself to a stroll through the most unique garden in Kansas for a relaxing outing like no other.
