2020 was a challenging year, as the COVID-19 pandemic brought travel to a standstill. One by one, I received cancellation emails, as most states closed their parks, and many private campgrounds followed suit. It was a time of uncertainty, and our travel plans were derailed.
However, Kansas and Missouri kept their state parks open, which offered us a silver lining. Embracing this opportunity, Lisa and I set a new, ambitious camping goal: to visit every state park in Kansas and as many as possible in Missouri. It was a perfect way to make the most of a difficult situation, allowing us to explore local natural wonders and enjoy the outdoors safely, while still pursuing our love of camping and adventure.
What started as a way to cope with the challenges of the year turned into a rewarding journey, uncovering hidden gems and making memories at some of the most scenic and serene parks our region had to offer.
Kansas State Parks
Starting from Kansas City, we set out to explore the hidden treasures of Kansas, and along the way, we were pleasantly surprised by the beauty and diversity this state had to offer. While we didn’t camp at every state park—sometimes because the parks didn’t have campgrounds or the facilities weren’t to our liking—we made it a point to visit each one.
To our delight, we discovered a much more captivating and visually diverse landscape than we’d expected. Kansas revealed itself as a state rich in historic and quirky landmarks and natural beauty. From the fascinating Barbed Wire Museum to the whimsical Oz Museum, each stop offered something unique. One of our favorite spots was Prairie Dog State Park, where we enjoyed ice cream while watching the playful prairie dogs go about their business—a simple but unforgettable experience.
As we ventured from park to park, we took advantage of the opportunity to explore Kansas’ reservoirs with our inflatable kayak. We enjoyed the peaceful waters, the stunning shores, and the variety of wildlife we found during these excursions
Missouri State Parks
Our Missouri State Park adventures took place during the vibrant fall season, when the changing leaves painted the landscape, adding an extra layer of magic to our experiences. We explored the natural wonders of the Ozark Mountains and the Ozark National Scenic Waterways. As the weather allowed, we continued exploring by kayak when weather permitted.
Other
We also embarked on two memorable weekend getaways. One took us to the stunning Grand Lake of the Cherokees, where we enjoyed the serene waters and scenic surroundings, making the most of the peaceful atmosphere and breathtaking views. The other weekend adventure led us to the Gasconade River, where we paddled its winding course. Both trips offered perfect escapes.