The Remote Small Town in Kansas Locals Don’t Want You to Find

Hidden truly in the middle of nowhere as the county seat of Scott County, Kansas, is a small town jam-packed with awe and amazement that's truly unmatched by other middle-of-nowhere towns; this particular town—Scott City, to be precise—has named one of the ten most remote towns in the United States in the past (alongside a couple of other Kansas towns, a couple of Nebraska towns, and a couple of Montana towns—what an honor!), so if you're looking to "get away from it all"... seriously, you'll be doing that should you come out here. And I love it.

Scott City was founded in 1885 and, as of the 2020 census, is home to about 4,113 people. It's about three to three-and-a-half hours from the nearest city of 75,000 people or more, making it one of the most rural places in the United States. But don't let this fool you into a sense of boredom: there's more to do around this idyllic little place than meets the eye.

Nature lovers will be pleased to find that this little town in Kansas is home to some truly jaw-dropping natural wonders, like the surreal-looking Monument Rocks, which are absolutely alien in appearance compared to the average Kansan landscape. When you think of Kansas, you probably think "flat," but it's so much more interesting than that, and it's a must-visit natural wonder in Kansas.

Another must-see attraction in Scott City is Scott State Park. In this natural playground, geology nerds and archaeology geeks can meet up and hang out, bonding over their mutual obsessions with this little corner of the Sunflower State. This state park is more than just visually stunning; it's also home to the single northernmost Pueblo ruins known as the El Quartelejo Ruins, which is super cool and worthy of a day trip all on its own. Of course, while you're here, you'll need to check out Lake Scott as well—it's got the delightful distinction of being the most remote lake in Kansas.

Personally, I think Kansas is one of the most beautiful places in the world. There's something about the endless plains full of knee-high grass that sways and dances in the steady wind, giving the entire state a dreamlike, idyllic feel. Kansas is incredible, and our small towns—Scott City included—are a wondrous reflection of this.

If you're planning to visit Scott City (or even Lake Scott State Park), check out the delightfully charming two-bedroom home that can accommodate up to six guests. It is one of the very few vacation rentals in town (seriously, it's that remote, and there are only a few hotels in town).

Are you tempted to visit this remote Kansas town yet? I sure am. I'd continue writing, but Scott City is calling me. In the meantime, if you crave more Kansan beauty, check out some of Kansas's most incredible state parks.

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