Explore with Kids: Camping, Hiking & Swimming at Kanopolis State Park

Located just 90 minutes north of Wichita is a state park that has everything your adventure loving family could want. Kanopolis State Park in the Smoky Hills is the perfect destination if you’re looking for hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, camping, swim beaches, fishing, boating and more.

Take A Hike

With over 27 miles of marked trails on more than 12,500 acres you will find hikes for all skill levels and see an amazing natural diversity. If you are interested in the sandstone bluffs, red rock formations, and exploring caves used by pioneers, be sure to check out the Horsethief Canyon area. My kids like to take the Buffalo Tracks Trails to Horsethief Canyon Trail, and then Prairie Trails around to Red Rock Canyon. There really isn’t a bad route!

Go Camping

Campsites can be reserved online via Reserve America. The park features 450 camp sites in 14 campgrounds ranging from primitive campsites to full hookups to deluxe cabins. Pricing varies, but you’ll find options from $10-$120 a night. 

Go for A Swim

-The swim beach is at Langley Point.

Kanopolis Tower Marina is your stop for all water sports and boating needs on Kanopolis Reservoir. 

Ride the Trails

Check out Rockin’ K for all your equestrian needs at Kanopolis State Park.

If you’re headed to Kanopolis State Park, don’t forget to stop at Mushroom Rock State Park too!

 

Ginny Ellis
Ginny Ellis is a hometown girl who happily resides in East Wichita with her husband, two young sons, two rowdy dogs, and one spoiled tortoise. Together they enjoy taking part in all our city has to offer, especially if it involves being outdoors, supporting the arts, or is particularly delicious. She is a WAHM who serves as WMB's Events Director as well as holding volunteer positions in Junior League of Wichita, on her neighborhood elementary school's PTO Board, and for United Way of the Plains. Ginny is a podcast enthusiast, laundry folding procrastinator, and insatiable reader who loves the Shockers, theme parties, and her margaritas on the rocks.