Get ready to beat the August heat and dive into the exciting outdoor adventures that Northeast Kansas has to offer! From shady retreats to refreshing spots, and even sun-soaked activities, there's something for everyone. Whether you're up for a lake adventure, a new hike, or discovering a fun playground for the kids, the region is brimming with endless possibilities waiting for you to explore!
Lakes
Kansas City: Wyandotte County Lake and Park provides 1,500 acres of wooded area, a 400-acre lake with marina, a kids' fishing pond, a large playground, boat rentals, concessions, a bridle trail, an off-leash dog area, an archery range, and the F.L. Schlagle Library and Environmental Center.
Lawrence: The Summer of Fun Pass offers plenty of outdoor activities in Lawrence! From the outdoor pool to an all-inclusive playground to a marina, Lawrence is full of outdoor fun. Sign up for the pass, earn points, and redeem for prizes!
Topeka: Visit beautiful Lake Shawnee in Topeka! Lake Shawnee offers fishing, boating, sailing, and swimming. Within the 1,100-acre park surrounding the lake are foot trails, a golf course, a marina, playgrounds, picnic tables, tennis courts, shelters, ball diamonds, a campground, an 11-acre arboretum, and 9.5 acres of beautiful gardens.
Parks & Playgrounds
Atchison: Jackson Park in Atchison, Kansas, is a serene oasis offering visitors a perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational activities. Spanning over 80 acres, the park features well-maintained walking trails that wind through lush forests, providing ample opportunities for hiking and birdwatching. Families can enjoy picnicking in the shaded areas or one of the shelter houses, playing on the well-equipped and accessible playgrounds, or engaging in a friendly game of disc golf. Jackson Park is a beloved destination for both residents and visitors seeking relaxation and outdoor fun.
Eudora: Explore the scenic beauty and recreational opportunities Eudora has to offer. Nestled along the Wakarusa and Kansas Rivers, Eudora invites you to experience its unique charm. Use the restored boat ramp next to the Public Works Department for a fresh perspective on these picturesque rivers. Unleash your musical talents at various parks equipped with interactive play equipment, or embrace adventure at Lucy Kaegi Park. Here, you can enjoy a leisurely walk, play on the spacious grounds, and cool off in the swimming pool during hot summer days. For a fun challenge, try your hand at disc golf at Blue Jacket Park. Eudora combines the warmth of a small town with the excitement of big possibilities. Come and #DoEudora outdoors!
Gardner: Explore Veterans Park in Gardner, Kansas! Visitors can enjoy the veteran’s memorial, walking trail, picnic areas, and a full-size basketball court. The park proudly features two inclusive playgrounds, designed to inspire all visitors to play and explore together, fostering a welcoming environment for families and children of all abilities. Plan your outing today!
Leavenworth: Leavenworth’s Ray Miller Park was made for summer with its 20 acres of walking trails, fitness stations, picnic shelters and nine-hole disc golf course. The course continues on the west side of U.S. Route 73 with additional holes on the scenic campus of the University of St. Mary, where wooded terrain adds a welcome challenge for players. For additional disc golf practice, consider the forested course on Fort Leavenworth, an active Army base that is open to civilian visitors after a cursory security check.
Miami County: The Flint Hills Nature Trail begins with Mile 0 in Osawatomie. The eastern portions of the route travel alongside the Marais Des Cygnes River, between rushing waters and towering bluffs, through rolling farmland and riparian woodlands. The trailhead includes a shelter, informational kiosk, recycling center, and public bathroom. On your way through town, be sure to check out the community's mural and stop for a selfie at the Mile Zero bike rack located downtown at 5th and Main Streets.
Merriam: Howdy partner! Come visit the historic Dodge Town playground at Antioch Park, a historic nod to the Wild West. This replica town offers park goers a unique glimpse into the past featuring carefully reconstructed buildings reminiscent of the 19th-century frontier, including a post office, general store, and bank. Children can immerse themselves in cowboy adventures while learning about the pioneering spirit that shaped the American West. One of the most popular play areas in the county, Dodge Town is fun for all ages and sits near two fishing lakes, a robust trail system, and many other park amenities!
Seneca: Seneca's North Park, located on 11th Street, is a fantastic destination for family fun and outdoor activities. The park features a great playground for kids, providing endless entertainment and safe play. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy a game of sand volleyball, while the two shelter houses offer perfect spots for picnics and gatherings. Additionally, the park is home to the historic Seneca Hand Dug Well, adding a unique and educational element to your visit. Tours of the Well can be scheduled by calling 785-336-1313.
Spring Hill: Veterans Park is situated on the west side of Spring Hill City Lake, located near U.S. 169 and Lone Elm Road. The lake covers about 40 acres and features a variety of fish, including crappie, blue gill, largemouth bass, and channel cat. As part of the Community Fisheries Assistance Program, anglers who hold a state fishing license may fish here without a City permit. In 2023, the City completed the construction of two ADA-accessible fishing jetties. Address: 20201 Veterans Lane, Spring Hill, KS 66083
Comments