kaw river State Park at t h e k a n s a s r i v e r
36
KS State Parks
300 SW Wanamaker Rd. Topeka, KS 66606 KawRiverSP@ksoutdoors.com | www.ksoutdoors.com/Kaw-River-State-Park | (785) 273-6740
Kaw River State Park is the only urban park in Kansas’ state park system. The park property consists of 76 acres of land on the south bank of the Kansas River in west Topeka. The area is mostly oak-hickory forest overlooking the Kansas (Kaw) River and is adjacent to MacLennan Park and Cedar Crest (the Kansas governor’s residence) to the east. Wildlife species are common in the oak and hickory forest of the area. Eagles and various species of waterfowl are common visitors on the river through winter. Trail usage includes walking, hiking, running and mountain biking; the wide range of trails was designed for erosion protection, sustainability and access. The Kansas River is accessible from a boat ramp and parking area. This river access is available for canoes, kayaks and other small craft.
At the Park
National Water Trail
park hours 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily
The Kansas River has been designated a National Water Trail by the National Park Service, and offers scenic recreational, historic and cultural opportunities for novice boaters and families. Beginning in Junction City, Kansas, the Kansas River Trail flows to Kansas City at the confluence with the Missouri River.
Wildlife Watching The extensive—and growing—trail system at the Kaw River State Park offers the prospect of spotting deer, turkey, eagles and waterfowl.
Point of Interest The Kaw River State Park is the only state park in Kansas that does not require an entrance fee.