The Largest Living Ghost Town in America Is Right Here in Kansas

Out in Elk County in southeast Kansas, there’s a tiny town called Elk Falls that usually flies under the radar for most people. It’s sitting right along the Elk River and is surrounded by a lot of quiet countryside, so it’s easy to see why people often call it a ghost town. But even though it feels that way when you’re driving through, it’s actually home to a small community that’s still very much active and involved.

The population has been dropping pretty steadily since its peak back in the late 1800s. To give you an idea of the scale, there were 513 people living there in 1880, but that number took a big hit by the end of the century and just kept going down until there were only 113 residents left by the 2020 census. Because of that shift, the locals started calling it the “World’s Largest Living Ghost Town.” It’s a bit of a joke, obviously, but it definitely shows they have a good sense of humor about their own history.

Even though it’s a small place, there are actually several things worth seeing if you stop for a bit. The biggest draw is definitely the waterfall that the town was named after, and that’s really the main reason most people end up visiting. But along with the falls, you’ve also got a few local spots to check out, like Elk Falls Pottery, the old Tannery, and a handful of other historic landmarks scattered around the area.

One of the most recognizable things you’ll see is the 1893 Iron Truss Bridge that goes right over the falls. It’s actually on the National Register of Historic Places, and it really adds to that historic feel of the town. But if you’re looking for something a little more unique, you have to see the outhouse tour and competition they host every year around Thanksgiving. People get to vote on their favorite themed outhouses, and it’s become such a big deal that the town is now known as the “Outhouse Capital of Kansas.”

While the festivals and the quirky history are great, the waterfall is still the heart of the town. If you’re planning to stop by, spring is usually the best time to do it because the seasonal rains make the water flow a lot heavier. At the end of the day, Elk Falls is a tiny place, but it does a great job of hanging onto its past while being a really welcoming spot for anyone looking for something a little bit different.

If you enjoy seeking out a ghost town in Kansas, Elk Falls is an easy place to add to your list. Have you visited a small town or unusual attraction you think deserves attention? You can share your suggestion by submitting a nomination through our form. For even more ideas on where to go and what to see in Elk Falls, Travel Kansas offers helpful resources for planning your next trip.