Posted in Kansas July 16, 2020 by

Scott State Park In Kansas Leads To A Magnificent Archaeological Treasure

Kansas has a few spots with archaeological treasure to discover, but Lake Scott State Park is one for the books. These pueblo ruins are worth exploring, especially if you have interest in the native peoples of the area. Come check out what there is to see!

We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
Welcome to Lake Scott State Park, a spot where history and natural beauty come together all in one place.
Jonathan Daniels/Google
There are many paths you can take at Lake Scott, but one area will lead you to the ruins of the only known pueblo in Kansas.
Friends of Lake Scott State Park Facebook
El Quartelejo (or El Cuartelejo) is the name given to these remains, the farthest north pueblo we have found.
Thomas Marten/Google
In 1898, El Quartelejo was rediscovered and excavated to reveal seven rooms in the structure. It was designated as a national historic landmark in 1964, later being marked "at risk" due to weather erosion.
sas4253/TripAdvisor
Though we cannot know for sure, the main theory as to why this was constructed so far north, is that the fleeing Pueblo Indians were escaping Spanish rule and teamed with the Apache before being seized.
Leon67203/TripAdvisor
The commander responsible wrote that these natives were living in permanent structures. They were also inhabited temporarily by Spanish and French soldiers as an outpost, but the building did not last long after they left in the 18th century.
Amber M/TripAdvisor
What happened here was terrible, but we're glad to have the structure standing, and hope to keep it preserved enough for many years going forward. Come visit the state park, enjoy the view, and take in a bit of history for about these ruins.
Friends of Lake Scott State Park Facebook

If you’d like to learn more about the El Quartelejo ruins, visit the official Facebook Page of the El Quartelejo Museum.

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Address: 101 W Scott Lake Dr, Scott City, KS 67871, USA