4 Amazing State Parks in Driving Distance of Parsons, KS

Elk City State Park

This park spans more than 850 acres along the expansive Elk City Reservoir in Independence, about 45 minutes from Parsons. Elk City State Park is an ideal weekend trip for hikers with access to several rambling trail systems that cover diverse terrain. You can observe limestone cliffs, hilly forests, and sprawling meadows. Amenities at Elk City State Park include playgrounds, campsites, a swimming beach, and several boat access points.

Elk City State Park is located at 4825 Squaw Creek Rd. You can contact the park office for reservations and information Monday through Friday from 8:15 a.m. until 4 p.m.

Fall River State Park

Located about an hour from Parsons in Fall River, Fall River State Park is a popular spot for canoeing and kayaking. You might also spot some of the many animals that live in the park, with native species such as prairie chicken, waterfowl, squirrel, rabbit, turkey, deer, quail, and dove. Fall River State Park also offers a self-guided orienteering course, six hiking trails, fishing, tent campsites, and cabin rentals.

You’ll find Fall River State Park at 2381 Casner Creek Rd. This park doesn’t have its own office, but you can make reservations online or through the Cross Timbers State Park office in Toronto.

Cross Timbers State Park

Speaking of Cross Timbers, it’s another convenient destination for adventurers from the Parsons area. We love camping here because of the lakeside tent sites, which have updated shower and bathroom facilities. You can also reserve an RV site or apply for a permit to go backcountry camping along the Chautauqua Hills Trail.

Cross Timbers is a popular place for fishing, with access to both Fall River and the Toronto Reservoir. Angle for sunfish, bluegill, crappie, bass, and catfish species. You might also spot a raccoon, white-tailed deer, or wild turkey during your travels. This state park is located at 144 Hwy 105.

Crawford State Park

This 500-acre state park is less than an hour from Parsons in Farlington. Crawford features six campgrounds with lake views, five available cabin rentals, two boat ramps, and three bathhouses. You can also go boating, fishing, and swimming in the lake, or just relax on the beach and enjoy the pleasant weather. Crawford State Park is located at 1 Lake Rd.

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