Scott State Park, Scott City Kansas

Listed by National Geographic as one of the country's 50 must-see state parks and hidden in a canyon in the western Kansas prairie, Scott State Park is a stunning oasis of natural springs, deep wooded canyons, craggy bluffs and early American history. The 1,020-acre park surrounds the 100-acre, spring-fed Scott State Fishing Lake, and a 160-acre wildlife area lies west of the park. The park is one of the most historic locations in Kansas. More than 26 archeological sites have been documented in and adjacent to the park. The remains of the northernmost known Native American pueblo – El Cuartelejo, a National Historic Landmark – are located in the park. The Steele home, the dwelling of the original settlers on the area, has been preserved much as it was 100 years ago. About 1 mile south of the park is Battle Canyon, the location of the last Native American battle in Kansas. The park is an ideal setting for City RV camping, boating, swimming, hiking, hunting, fishing, and wildlife observation. Nature trails accommodate hikers, horseback riders, and naturalists and provide excellent opportunities to observe wildlife in natural habitats. Wild turkey, deer, bobcat and beaver are common in the area. A horse camp area has amenities for equestrian visitors.