Day Trips from Manhattan
← All Manhattan day tripsDay Trips from Manhattan: State Parks & Natural Areas
The best state parks and natural areas within driving distance of Manhattan, KS. Hiking, camping, swimming, and stunning scenery without the national park crowds. Real drive times, ratings, and visitor info included.
12 state parks near Manhattan
Parkville Nature Sanctuary
Parkville, MO 64152
Just 1 hr 52 min from Manhattan, rated 4.8 stars by 1,475 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Burr Oak Woods Conservation Area
MO 64015, USA
Just 2 hrs 9 min from Manhattan, rated 4.8 stars by 1,553 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Wilson State Park East Loop
Sylvan Grove, KS 67481
Just 1 hr 42 min from Manhattan, rated 4.8 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve
Strong City, KS 66869
Just 1 hr 23 min from Manhattan, rated 4.8 stars by 1,331 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Wilson State Park
Sylvan Grove, KS 67481
Just 1 hr 47 min from Manhattan, rated 4.7 stars by 1,015 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Weston Bend State Park
Weston, MO 64098
Just 2 hrs 1 min from Manhattan, rated 4.7 stars by 1,658 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
James A. Reed Memorial Wildlife Area
Lee's Summit, MO 64082
Just 2 hrs 7 min from Manhattan, rated 4.7 stars by 1,654 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Milford State Park
Milford, KS 66514
Just 34 min from Manhattan, rated 4.6 stars by 1,058 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Chase Lake Falls Trail
Cottonwood Falls, KS 66845
Just 1 hr 24 min from Manhattan, rated 4.6 stars by 146 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Branched Oak State Recreation Area
Raymond, NE 68428
Just 2 hrs 38 min from Manhattan, rated 4.6 stars by 2,354 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Mushroom Rock State Park
Brookville, KS 67425
Just 1 hr 27 min from Manhattan, rated 4.6 stars by 1,015 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Bluffwoods Conservation Area
St Joseph, MO 64504
Just 2 hrs 3 min from Manhattan, rated 4.6 stars by 161 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About State Parks Day Trips from Manhattan
What are the best state parks near Manhattan, KS?
The best state parks near Manhattan offer hiking, camping, swimming, fishing, and scenic overlooks. Check the cards above for top-rated parks with drive times, ratings, and budget estimates.
How much does it cost to visit state parks near Manhattan?
Most state parks near Manhattan charge a vehicle entry fee of $5-$15 per day. Annual passes are usually available for $25-$50 and pay for themselves in 2-3 visits. Camping fees are separate and vary by site type.
Which state parks near Manhattan are best for camping?
Several state parks within driving distance of Manhattan offer campgrounds ranging from primitive tent sites to full-hookup RV sites with showers. Book early for summer weekends, as popular parks fill up months in advance.
What is the best time to visit state parks near Manhattan?
Spring and fall offer the best weather and smallest crowds at state parks near Manhattan. Summer is great for swimming and camping but parks are busiest. Winter visits are peaceful and many parks stay open year-round for hiking.
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