Located just outside of Ellis, Cedar Bluff State Park is a 1,000-acre park with the additional 9,000-acre Cedar Bluff Wildlife Area and 6,000-acre Cedar Bluff Reservoir. One of the most distinct features of the park is the 100-foot-tall limestone bluffs, but there is so much more to see and do including fishing, hiking, wildlife sighting and other iconic outdoor activities. However, one of the best kept secrets of Cedar Bluff State Park may just be their spacious swimming beach:
Featuring soft sand, clean reservoir waters, and ample space to spread out, the swim beach at Cedar Bluff is truly one of Kansas's most pristine hidden gems. In addition to the beach, the park is also home to more than 100 campsites, perfect for a weekend getaway full of sand and sun.
Did you know that Kansas is home to 28 state parks? No matter where you are in the Sunflower State, you're never too far from a preserve or park that's just waiting to be explored. One of our favorite things about this magnificent state is just how beautiful it is, and whether you're checking out a popular locale like Kanopolis State Park or enjoying the solitude at one of our more underappreciated destinations, there's endless beauty and outdoor recreation on offer. One of the parks that definitely fits into the lesser-known category is the magnificent Randolph State Park. This 200-acre oasis is only about 30 minutes outside of Manhattan. It's located in the tiny town of Olsburg, KS. Don't feel bad if you've never heard of it: with a population of only around 200 people, most people haven't! However, this beautiful park definitely makes it worthy of a visit.
Randolph State Park is actually one of five units that make up the sprawling Tuttle Creek State Park. This behemoth in Pottawatomie County offers up a wealth of outdoor activities to entertain virtually any nature lover.
The dog-friendly park has a 3.8-mile trail that winds through the area and provides great views of the Big Blue River, the Kansas River's longest tributary.
The trails are available for both hiking and equestrian use, and it's a wonderful spot to head out on horseback.
It's worth noting that some of the terrain here can get quite rocky, so if you're exploring on foot, you'll want to be extra-careful to watch your step. There are some fallen trees in the area that may require some scrambling, and all of the shade means that bug spray is a great idea, especially in the warm months.
This is such a beautiful state park that deserves more attention than it gets. Have you ever visited? Share your experiences in the comments!
Want to learn more about Randolph State Park in Olsburg, KS? Check out trail information from our friends at AllTrails. If you're a regular hiker in the Sunflower State, you do not want to miss a free trial of AllTrails+. It's got all the benefits we know and love from the site's free accounts, but you can also enjoy turn-by-turn directions, live-sharing of locations, and additional map details. It's perfect for making sure you stay safe when out in the wilderness.
One Of The Most Remote Lakes In Kansas Is Also The Most Peaceful
Scott City, Kansas, is home to the remote and beautiful Lake Scott State Park, featuring the historic El Cuartelejo ruins and offering numerous recreational opportunities.
There's certainly no shortage of remote places in Kansas. We're well-known for our peaceful middle-of-nowhere towns, trails, and obscure attractions. Scott City is just one of these off-the-beaten-path towns. This small community has a teeny population of just under 4,000; you'd have to drive nearly four hours to reach the closest city with more than 75,000 people in it! Scott City is best known as the home of Lake Scott State Park, which is certainly one of the most beautiful state parks in the Sunflower State. But the park also shares its name with an absolutely stunning lake. In fact, this incredibly peaceful body of water is also one of the most remote lakes in Kansas. It's also one of the best lakes in KS, and it's perfect for a day of fun out on the water!
advertisement
Lake Scott State Park may be named after the lake, but perhaps its most famous feature is the ruins of El Cuartelejo (also known as El Quartelejo). The site is the only known Native American pueblo in Kansas.
Since it's tucked away in such a secluded location, it's safe to say there will be plenty of sites to choose from, even in the busiest camping months.
The park's centerpiece is the beautiful 100-acre Lake Scott. The stunning lake is perfect for fishing and other recreational opportunities, and it's easily one of the best lakes in Kansas, despite its remote location.
With more than 1,000 acres to explore, there's plenty of room to spread out here. No matter which direction on the compass you look, the nearest town is more than a few miles away.
An afternoon spent on or near Lake Scott will make you feel miles away from both civilization and your worries. This middle-of-nowhere spot may not be in a big city, but it's perfect for tranquility and relaxation.
Lake Scott is definitely one of the quietest lakes in Kansas, which makes this secluded beauty even more worth checking out, no matter the season. For more information about additional amenities and seasonal hours at Lake Scott State Park, check out the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks website.
You can also learn more about the hiking trails at Lake Scott State Park from our friends at AllTrails.
