Kansas is home to gorgeous sunflower fields and miles of prairie. However, there is one part of the Sunflower State that boasts some very unique and unexpected terrain — Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park. Located in the western part of the state, this awe-inspiring area is certainly a day trip in Kansas that will leave you speechless.

Lynn Bohm/Google
Little Jerusalem Badlands is one of the newer state parks in Kansas. Established in 2018, this state park features more than 220-acres of badlands that will make you feel like you’ve stepped onto an alien planet.
Charley Clarissa/Google
This area of the state has had many names over the years including Castle City, Logan County Badlands, and more. This state park received its official name as it looks like the ancient city of Jerusalem from a distance.
Chuck Wiebe/Google
These badlands are made from Niobrara Chalk formations. These chalk formations are estimated to be millions of years old.
Luke Mahin/Google
As you explore Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park in Kansas, be on the lookout for fossils. This area was once a salt sea and giant clams and oysters are some of the more commonly-found fossils in the area.
Mark Alexander/Google
However, if you do come across a fossil, only take a picture of your find. You are not allowed to bring anything with you from the state park.
Bring your hiking boots on this day trip in Kansas. The only way to explore this incredible state park on your own is on a hiking trail.
Sam Karson/AllTrails
Guided tours are also available by the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks. These tours are limited and available at select times. Click here to learn more about upcoming tours and events in the state park.
Life on the Rocks Trail is 1.5 miles and will take you along the rim of the formations. This trail is rated easy with only a few slight grades to climb. Make sure you bring your camera as you will come across two incredible scenic overlooks.
ashli giltner/AllTrails
The Overlook Trail has a slight incline but it is only 0.25-mile long. You will come to a scenic overlook that will give you a mesmerizing view of the chalk formations and the surrounding area.
Miranda Burley/AllTrails
Make sure you don’t rush as you explore this state park. The views will take your breath away.
john xue/Google

To learn more about Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park, click here. Have you ever visited this state park in Kansas? If so, we’d love to hear all about your experience in the comments.

If you are looking for more state parks in Kansas to enjoy, here are 10 you must add to your bucket list.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.

Related Articles

Explore Kansas

Featured Addresses
Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park, County Road 400 and Gold Road, Oakley, KS 67748, USA