Explore with Kids: Cross Timbers State Park

 

You’ve heard of hiking trails in Kansas and if you love to explore our great state, chances are you have probably ventured out on a few and even taken the kids along. But have you done a water hike/trail?! Recently our family had the opportunity to try out an incredible water trail at Toronto Lake or as the state park directory refers to it; Cross Timbers State Park and it was INCREDIBLE. 

We loved everything about our trip to Cross Timbers, from the quick scenic drive through the Flint Hills along Highway 54 to the well-kept bathrooms/shower houses, manicured camping spots and playground, to the delicious concession stand put on by volunteers to fuel/refuel after a day on the water. 

Location: 

144 KS-105, Toronto, KS 66777 Cross Timbers State Park, also known as Toronto Lake is an incredible gem of a state park and located just off the beaten path. Only an hour and a half away from Downtown Wichita and just south of the city of Toronto, it is the perfect weekend getaway!

Hours:

Friday- noon to 6pm

Saturday- 9am to 5pm

Sunday- 9am to 3pm

Cost:

FREE for canoes and kayaks at a first-come-first serve basis.

Camping varies depending on site but pricing structure can be found here. 

This is a state park, so parking permits are required. You can purchase an annual State Park Passport here, or for a discounted rate of $15.50 when you renew your vehicle tags. 

Hali Stevenson
After moving to Kansas from Wyoming shortly before Kindergarten, Hali was raised a "country girl" in a small town south of Wichita. She graduated high school and attended the University of Kansas before deciding that cosmetology and the beauty industry was her passion. A licensed hairstylist for ten years and salon owner for six she loves creative freedom and the ability to form her work schedule around the needs of her children. Hali now calls El Dorado home and resides there happily with her son Riley (b.2009), her daughter Heidi (b. 2015). When her schedule isn't packed with youth sports, or working behind the chair in her salon, she enjoys time with friends at any patio restaurant or a good girls day out exploring new local shops.