Located equidistant from both Brookville, KS and Ellsworth, KS, the tiny Mushroom Rock State Park is quick spot to visit with unique and almost “out of this world” rock formations that you have to see to believe. These free-standing sandstone formations are part of the 8 Wonders of Kansas Geography and are a stop along the Kansas Prairie Trail Scenic Byway.
While this, the smallest state park in Kansas, isn’t overly complicated to plan a trip to, we hope our guide can help figure out how to get to the park and spend a bit of time exploring the area, as well as let you know what else is in the area to visit!
Mushroom Rock formation, photo courtesy of Lylegentry
MUSHROOM ROCK STATE PARK HISTORY
Not a lot is known about these unique formations, other than that they are made of sandstone and the held together by calcium carbonate, a natural cement. It’s estimated that they were formed over 60 million years ago during the Cretaceous Period. What’s particularly unique is that the “stems” of the mushroom rocks have eroded more quickly, while still managing to hold up the top of the rocks.
In more recent history, the rocks were used as a meeting place for early settlers as well as American Indians.
Mushroom Rock State Park was established in 1965 and encompasses approximately 5 acres.
ACTIVITIES IN MUSHROOM ROCK STATE PARK
Mushroom Rock State Park map, courtesy of the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks
While it’s possible to breeze through this park in only a few minutes, the main activity that we recommend dong while you are here is getting out and walking around the rock formations. To the north and south of Avenue K (the main road that goes through the park) there are two walking trails to go on. To the north, this 0.1-mile trail heads past the impressive Pulpit Rock, which measures 27 feet in diameter. You can also explore a few other formations that are much shorter. The south trail heads across a small bridge on its way to a smaller rock formation than Pulpit Rock, but is free standing and not near any other trees or landscape to block your view. The south trail is slightly longer, at just over 0.1 miles.
Pulpit Rock, photo courtesy of Lylegentry
Feel fee to get up close to the rocks, but please refrain from carving or marking anything on the rocks. Others have done that in years past, and not only is it illegal, it also detracts from the beauty of the rocks for future generations to enjoy.
WHAT IS THERE TO DO NEAR MUSHROOM ROCK STATE PARK?
Nearby Mushroom Rock State Park there are a few areas worth checking out. Our recommendations include:
- Visit Kanopolis State Park. Kansas’s first state park, Kanopolis State Park is set on the Kanopolis Reservoir, with plenty of opportunities for boating, hiking fishing and biking. Kanopolis State Park is located just 4 miles to the southeast of Mushroom Rock State Park.
- Visit Wilson State Park. Located on the Wilson Reservoir, Wilson State Park is a great park to find amazing fishing, hiking, biking and general outdoor recreation. Wilson State Park is located 12 miles to the northwest of Mushroom Rock State Park.
HOW TO GET TO MUSHROOM ROCK STATE PARK AND OTHER TRAVEL INFORMATION
Though Mushroom Rock State Park really isn’t on the main highway, it’s still relatively easy to get to as it’s just south of Interstate 70.
- Here are directions from Topeka, KS to Mushroom Rock State Park. This will take you about 2 hours.
- Coming from the south, here are directions from Wichita, KS to Mushroom Rock State Park. This is about 100 miles and will take you just over 90 minutes.
ENTRANCE FEES AND REQUIRED PASSES FOR MUSHROOM ROCK STATE PARK
There are no fees or permits required for Mushroom Rock State Park.
BEST TIME TO VISIT MUSHROOM ROCK STATE PARK
Mushroom Rock State Park is open year-round. Summertime usually comes with hot temperatures, and at times it can be oppressive! But in the summer, you’ll have the best trail conditions. Fall and spring are wonderful as well, with fall being slightly better due to a lower likelihood of mud on the trail.
VISITING MUSHROOM ROCK STATE PARK IN THE WINTER
Wintertime is a fine time of year to visit, though just be advised that you may have slick trail conditions as this part of Kansas is known for getting freezing conditions. You may need to have traction to avoid slipping on the trails.
ARE PETS ALLOWED IN MUSHROOM ROCK STATE PARK?
Pets are more than welcome, but must be kept on a leash at all times.
RELATED INFORMATION ON MUSHROOM ROCK STATE PARK AND THE SURROUNDING AREA FROM JUST GO TRAVEL STUDIOS
- When you return from your trip to Mushroom Rock State Park, send us a photo and we’ll create a custom, vintage travel poster! We’ll take your photo, desired custom wording and filtering and create a lasting travel memory!
