KANSAS
Kansas is a state located in the Midwest region of the United States. Known for its wide open spaces and prairie landscapes, Kansas is a place where you can see for miles in every direction. The state is also home to a number of vibrant
cities, including Wichita, Topeka, and Kansas City. In addition to its urban areas, Kansas is home to a number of rural communities, many of which are centered around agriculture. The state is also known for its severe weather, including
tornadoes, which can occur throughout the year. Despite this, Kansas is a friendly and welcoming place, where visitors can experience the best of Midwestern hospitality.
The state of Kansas manages much of its public lands, including state parks and wildlife areas. However, there are also federal lands in Kansas that are managed by various agencies, such as the National Park Service, the Bureau of
Land Management, and the U.S. Forest Service. Additionally, there are private landowners who manage their own lands for agricultural, recreational, or conservation purposes.
There aren’t any national forests in Kansas!
Kansas has some lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), although the amount of BLM land in the state is relatively small compared to other states in the western U.S. Most of the BLM-managed lands in Kansas are located in the western part of the state and are primarily used for grazing and oil and gas development. The agency works to balance these uses with conservation efforts to protect the wildlife, cultural resources, and scenic values of the lands. Some popular recreational opportunities on BLM lands in Kansas include hunting and fishing, camping, hiking, and birdwatching. Additionally, the BLM in Kansas partners with local communities and organizations to promote outdoor recreation and conservation education programs.
The grasslands in Kansas are characterized by expansive prairies that stretch as far as the eye can see. The state is known for its tallgrass prairie, which is home to a diverse range of plant and animal species. These grasslands are dominated by tall grasses such as big bluestem, little bluestem, and switchgrass, and are interspersed with wildflowers and shrubs. The Flint Hills in eastern Kansas are home to some of the most intact tallgrass prairie ecosystems in North America, while the western part of the state is characterized by mixed-grass prairies that support a variety of wildlife, including bison, pronghorn antelope, and prairie dogs.
The Cimarron National Grassland is a 108,000-acre grassland located in southwestern Kansas, with a small portion extending into southeastern Colorado. The grassland features rolling hills, deep canyons, and open prairies, providing habitat for a variety of wildlife, including prairie dogs, bison, and pronghorn antelope. Visitors can explore the grassland’s many trails, which offer opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. The Cimarron National Grassland is also home to several historic sites, including the Santa Fe National Historic Trail and the Santa Fe Trail Auto Tour Route. The grassland is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for birdwatching, stargazing, and photography. The Cimarron National Grassland is a unique and beautiful destination that offers a glimpse into the vast and rugged landscapes of the Great Plains. You can check out more information here! https://www.nps.gov/places/cimarron-national-grassland.htm
Cimarron National Grassland
242 East Highway 56 (P.O. Box 300) Elkhart, Kansas 67950
(620) 697-4621
Cimarron National Grassland
2840 Kachina Drive, Pueblo, CO 81008
(719) 553-1400
tips and tricks
Kansas is located in the central region of the United States and is bordered by Nebraska, Missouri, Oklahoma, and Colorado.
The state is known as the “Sunflower State” due to the abundance of sunflowers that grow there.
When driving in Kansas, be aware of long stretches of highway with limited services, and plan accordingly.
Kansas is home to several historic landmarks, including the Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site and the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve.
do’s and dont’s
Visit the museums and historical sites that showcase Kansas’ role in the Wild West and Civil War.
Explore the unique geological formations of the state, such as the Flint Hills and Monument Rocks.
Sample the local cuisine, including famous dishes like Kansas City-style barbecue and bierocks.
Don’t underestimate the weather in Kansas, which can be extreme and unpredictable. Be prepared for potential tornadoes and severe thunderstorms.
