Most People Don't Even Know This Little-Known Destination In Kansas Even Exists
By Lisa Sammons|Published July 24, 2023
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Lisa Sammons
Author
Lisa loves animals and has dogs, rats, cats, guinea pigs, and snakes. She is passionate about animal rescue and live music - traveling across the country to see a favorite band is a pretty regular occurrence! Being out hiking in the woods enjoying the scenery with her beloved dogs is another favorite hobby, and also checking out the Pokemon Go scene in whatever city she happens to be in at any given time (coffee and dog leash in hand). You can reach Lisa at lsammons@onlyinyourstate.com
Among our many natural wonders in Kansas are our magnificent rock formations; these mineral structures dot the prairies here and are truly spectacular to see in person. Sadly, time is unkind to places like the mighty Monument Rocks, as the same natural forces that eroded these unique shapes are also wearing them down over the years, and one day they will no longer be here. That just means it’s important to treasure them while we still can! While the Monument Rocks (also known as the Chalk Pyramids) are considered among the eight wonders of the Sunflower State, there’s a similar rock formation that isn’t quite as famous but is just as striking: Castle Rock in Kansas, which is located about 15 miles south of Collyer in a remote area.
To reach Castle Rock, take exit 107 off I-70 onto Castle Rock Road. Drive about 15 miles south to reach the intersection of GO 80 and GO K, then drive four miles east and you'll see the Castle Rock sign.
Most cars should be able to reach it during dry weather, but this can be dangerous terrain after heavy rains, so be cautious.
The formations here were made about 80 million years ago, during the Crustaceous Period. It's hard to imagine now, but this area was once under several hundred feet of ocean.
Sadly, Castle Rock and formations like it won't be here forever. The weather is taking a toll on these chalk structures, which are extremely susceptible to erosion.
