7 Amazing State Parks Around Kansas City That Will Blow You Away
By Clarisa|Updated on July 06, 2023(Originally published June 30, 2023)
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Clarisa
Author
Born and raised Kansan, Clarisa has lived in both tiny towns and cities during their time here in the Sunflower State. As a busy mother of one crazy kid, two cats, and two geckos, they write whenever there is spare time.
Looking for a break in your routine? Why not take a trip out to one of the nearby state parks you know you’ve been missing out on? If you’ve ever searched online for “best state parks near me” in Kansas City, you may be surprised what you’ll find. You can soak up some sun when the days are warmer, or enjoy a brisk hike when the air is cooler. Some of these state parks even offer horse trails for you and your equine companion. Let’s get out there! In no particular order, here are the best state parks near Kansas City.
1. Hillsdale State Park
Hillsdale State Park campground Trail, Richland, KS 66071, USA
This Paola, Kansas park isn't anything to shake a stick at, especially during a sunset. This park also has plenty of hiking and horseback riding trails, as well as a lake for all your water-related activities. Learn more by visiting the official KS Outdoors website.
2. Watkins Mill State Park
Watkins Mill State Park school house, Watkins Rd, Lawson, MO 64062, USA
This State Historic Site and the surrounding park hold the only 19th-century textile mill in the United States that still has it's original machinery. The mill and home have been preserved well, and give visitors a look into life in the 1870s. This is one of the best state parks near Kansas City. While you're there, try out this easy trail!
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3. Weston Bend State Park
Weston Bend State Park, 16600 MO-45, Weston, MO 64098, USA
Catch gorgeous views of the Missouri River or take the three-mile loop through the woods and enjoy the peace and quiet away from the city. Everyone needs a break at some point, right? Learn more about one of the most beautiful parks near Kansas City on the Missouri State Parks website.
4. Perry State Park
Perry State Park, 5441 W Lake Rd, Ozawkie, KS 66070, USA
This park in Ozawkie, Kansas features thousands of acres of wildlife area to hike through and enjoy the views overlooking the reservoir. There are 25 miles of horse trails and 20 miles of biking/hiking trails for you to enjoy so make sure you plan to spend all day here! Camping here is a special treat, as the wooded area makes you feel like you're much farther away from the city than you really are. Visit KS Outdoors for more information.
5. Lewis and Clark State Park
Lewis and Clark State Park, 801 Lakecrest Blvd, Rushville, MO 64484, USA
What is today Lewis and Clark Lake, was once described by the pair in 1804 as a lake full of geese. Now there are plenty of picnic areas, and birdwatchers from all over come to see the geese, herons, and eagles flock to this spot. Visit the Missouri State Parks website for more information.
6. Knob Noster State Park
Knob Noster State Park, 873 SE 10 Rd, Knob Noster, MO 65336, USA
Though it has a funny name, this Missouri park has some awesome trees that sometimes make it seem like you're in a fairy forest. It also features both hiking and horseback trails, so don't leave your horse at the door! Learn more about one of the best state parks near Kansas City on the official Missouri State Parks website.
7. Jerry Smith Park
Jerry Smith Park, Prospect Ave, Kansas City, MO 64146, USA
Okay, so you've caught us. This one isn't a state park, but it's gorgeous and it definitely fits the bill for a gorgeous park near Kansas City. There's no reason why it shouldn't be on this list! Visit KCParks.org to learn more about this Kansas City state park.
Have you ever searched online for “best state parks near me” around Kansas City? What’s your favorite park in or near Kansas City? Tell us your picks in the comments and don’t forget to try AllTrails+ free for one week!
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More to Explore
State Parks to Visit in Kansas City
Tori Jane|January 31, 2022
What are the best parks in Kansas City for families with kids?
Some of the best parks in Kansas City for families with kids are the following:
Antioch Park, which is technically in Merriam, Kansas, has a fun wild-west theme to it that will awaken kids’ imaginations.
Penguin Park, on Vivion Road in Kansas City, MO has been a beloved playground paradise for more than half a century now; kids have loved it for generations. You can’t miss the gigantic (25-foot-tall) penguin statue, either.
Roanoke Park
Concourse Park
Dagg Park
What are some of the best hiking trails in Kansas City?
There are more than 50 awesome trails in and nearby the city to choose from. Here are some of the best hiking trails in Kansas City:
According to our friends at AllTrails.com, the most popular trail in the area is the White Tail Trail located inside the Parkville Nature Sanctuary. It’s a 2.6-mile, easy trek through a beautiful urban forest you won’t soon forget.
Blue River Parkway and Minor Park Trail, within Minor Park. That one is longer, at 5.6 miles long, but it’s still easy and quite enjoyable for most folks of all ages.
The Hidden Valley Natural Area Loop is a 3.2-mile easy hike in Hidden Valley Park
Swope Park Mountain Biking Trail is great for mountain biking.
