You've got precious time between the cold rainy days and the soon-to-be sweltering heat that is Kansas summer. What do you do with those seemingly perfect days? Go on a picnic, of course! If you've lived here for a while, you know that great picnic spots are hard to find, or maybe you've never tried to find one. Well, let me be the one to show you some unforgettable spots to choose from! (Besides your backyard, of course.)
1. Coronado heights - NW Lindsborg
Though this comes up pretty often, this castle is a prime spot for picnics. They have tables around the castle, which keep you from sitting on the ground if you have something against dirt, or if you want to save your lunch from ants. There's also an inside area, and the whole place sits up on a hill overlooking gorgeous scenery.
2. Gypsum Hills - Medicine Lodge
Though rough and scraggy bushes don't look ideal, you'll find this is a great place for picnics if you don't like cars, other people's kids, or buildings blocking your picnic view. There's plenty of views to go around, too. As far as you can see.
3. Crawford State Park - Farlington
If you're less excited about dining on the ground, perhaps a well kept lawn in a state park is your style. There's even benches, if you're allergic to grass (like me) but still want that scenic view experience. Plus, there's a gorgeous waterfront view and tons of space for kite flying as well.
4. Castle Rock - Gove County
One of our favorite landmarks won't be here forever, and reduced tourist traffic means this spot is great for family picnics as well as pictures.
5. Shawnee Mission Lake - Shawnee
Pick a spot next to the lake, and revel in what feels like the best breeze ever. I've spent some time at this location, and it's prime for picnics, as long as the wind isn't too strong. If it is, just eat from your lap and make sure to bring a kite!
6. Rock City - Minneapolis
Dine among the biggest balls Kansas has to offer (besides the twine ball, of course!) and enjoy the natural scenery of Kansas' unique geological wonders. Some of these are bigger than your car!
7. Horsethief Canyon, Kanopolis State Park, Ellsworth
Before the mosquitoes gather and ruin summer days, Horsethief canyon is a great place to dine outdoors at Kanopolis.
8. Webster State Park - Stockton
Just because you're out in a controlled environment instead of the true countryside doesn't mean you won't feel like you're in a forest here. The scenery is gorgeous, and it's easy to make a day trip out of this beautiful park.
9. South Park - Lawrence
With a classic play area for the kids, and a more scenic area for picnics and romantic walks, this place really does have everything. Their flower beds are a gorgeous backdrop for a blanket picnic, but there's also tables around if you prefer staying off the ground.
Where's your favorite unforgettable picnic spot? Tell us in the comments below! (I'm always looking for great pictures too, so don't hold out on me!)
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