Kansas is home to a number of stunning waterfalls located throughout the state. From cascading falls in the east, to dramatic plunges in the west, these natural wonders are sure to take your breath away. Here are some of our favorite falls in Kansas to enjoy.
List of Top Waterfalls to Visit in Kansas
1. Angel Falls – Lansing
Angel Falls is a beautiful public park located in Lansing, Kansas. The park is named after the Angel family who owned the land prior to its development into a park. It consists of five acres and includes several amenities such as walking trails, picnic tables, grills, playgrounds and an amphitheater.
The centerpiece of Angel Falls Park which attracts thousands of people each year is the waterfall itself. The falls are created by a natural spring which runs through the middle of the park and cascades down over large rocks before feeding into nearby Mill Creek. Visitors can enjoy watching or playing in the shallow pool at the base of the falls.
Address: 900 Ida St, Lansing, KS 66043 | Directions from Topeka – Map
2. Geary State Lake Waterfall – Junction City Kansas
Geary State Lake Waterfall in Junction City, KS is a beautiful natural waterfall located in the Geary State Fishing lake. The lake is an 85-acre man made reservoir that was created by the U.S Army Corps of Engineers and opened to the public for fishing in 1965. It is stocked with bluegill, largemouth bass, crappie, channel catfish and carp.
The falls themselves are spectacular with a drop of just over 75 feet into a deep pool below it. Located at one end of the lake they can be seen from both sides as well as from above. Swimming isn’t allowed but anglers may fish from shorelines along either side provided they have proper licenses and adhere to any local regulations regarding size limits.
Address: US-77, Junction City, KS 66441 | Directions from Kanas City – Map
3. Santa Fe Lake Falls – Edgerton
Santa Fe Lake Falls is a beautiful waterfall located in Edgerton, Kansas. It is one of the most popular natural attractions in the area and draws visitors from all around to enjoy its beauty. The falls are situated on Santa Fe Creek and cascade down over several tiers before ending at the lake below.
The upper tier of Santa Fe Lake Falls measures 10 feet high while the lower portion reaches up to 20 feet tall. There are plenty of spots along both levels where visitors can take photos or just sit back and enjoy nature’s beauty. The water cascading down creates a peaceful atmosphere that allows people to relax and unwind away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Address: 11367 SW Shore Dr, Augusta, KS 67010 | Directions from Kansas City – Map
4. Hitchen Creek Waterfall – Longton
Hitchen Creek Waterfall in Longton, KS is a stunning natural feature located within the city limits. The cascading waterfalls provide an awe-inspiring backdrop to visitors of this unique area. Although it’s only a several foot drop, the surround views and backdrop surrounding the river makes the visit well worth it.
The Hitchen Creek Waterfall is part of a larger system that feeds into nearby Lake Neosho which provides drinking water for Longton residents as well as recreational activities such as fishing and swimming. This system also supports many species of wildlife including deer, foxes, raccoons, frogs, turtles, snakes and more. There is even evidence of bobcats living near the waterfall’s edge! The City of Longton has worked hard to preserve this beautiful natural wonder by creating park areas surrounding it with benches for people to sit on while enjoying its splendor or simply take in some peace and quiet.
Address: 37.393350, -96.118137 | Directions from Witchita – Map
5. Bourbon Waterfall – Elsmore
The Bourbon Waterfall is a beautiful natural wonder located in Elsmore, Kansas. It’s one of the most unique and scenic waterfalls in the state. The waterfall is made up of two tiers that cascade down into a deep pool below. The first tier has a height of about 20 feet, while the second tier drops around 10 feet. This creates an impressive display as the waters flow over both levels and create stunning views from all angles.
Visitors to this area can enjoy the scenic views provided by the waterfall or explore nearby trails for additional outdoor activities such as hiking and fishing. The Bourbon Waterfall is an ideal spot to take photographs due to its unique setting and amazing scenery, so be sure to bring your camera along when visiting!
Address: Uniontown, KS 66779 | Directions from Witchita – Map
6. The Alcove Spring and Waterfall – Blue Rapids Kansas
The Alcove Spring and Waterfall in Blue Rapids, Kansas is a natural wonder located along the banks of the Big Blue River. The spring is fed by an underground aquifer that originates from an unknown source deep beneath the earth’s surface. Its waters are crystal clear and flow out into a small pool surrounded by beautiful wilderness.
A short walk downriver leads to a beautiful waterfall which cascades over several rocks and into another swimming hole below. This scenic spot has been popular since its discovery in 1864 when it was first established as a public park. It provides access to some of the best fishing spots around, including catfish, bass, walleye, bluegill and crappie.
In the summer time many travelers enjoy coming here for a nice hike, followed by jumping into the swimming hole.
Address: 1728-1764 E River Rd, Blue Rapids, KS 66411 | Directions from Kansas City – Map
7. Bachelor Creek Falls – Eureka City
Bachelor Creek Waterfall is located in the southeast corner of Kansas in Eureka City. It is one of the more beautiful areas in Kansas to get out and enjoy a hike before being rewarding with the falls that cascade down into Bachelor Creek.
The waterfall has a drop of approximately 20 feet and is made up of several small ledges. Bachelor Creek Waterfall is also protected by The Nature Conservancy’s Nature Preserve System, meaning its unique landscape remains unspoiled from human activity or development so everyone can continue to appreciate its beauty for years to come!
Address: 37.893733, -96.289009 | Directions from Wichita – Map
8. Empire Dam Waterfall – Riverton
Empire Dam is located in Riverton, Kansas and was constructed by the United States Army Corps of Engineers. The dam was completed in 1938 to provide flood control for the Arkansas River Valley. It stands at a height of 40 feet and has a length of 1,400 feet. The dam serves as an important factor for recreation activities such as fishing, boating, canoeing, camping and swimming.
Empire Dam also helps regulate water flow into the Arkansas River from its source in Colorado. This makes it easier to manage irrigation systems that help farmers throughout this region grow their crops more efficiently while still protecting against floods during heavy rains or snow melts. The area surrounding Empire Dam offers some beautiful scenery including trails that pass through wooded areas with views of mountains and valleys below them.
Address: 7947 Federal-Aid Secondary Hwy 107, Riverton, KS 66770 | Directions from Wichita – Map
9. Montgomery Falls – Montgomery County State Lake
Montgomery County State Lake is home to a beautiful waterfall located near the dam. The waterfall cascades over a steep ledge of rock and tumbles into the lake below, creating an enchanting scene for visitors to enjoy.
A small beach area allows swimmers access to cool off on hot days, while anglers can fish from the shore or rent a boat to try their luck out on the lake. There are also a few easy hiking trails that loop around the Montgomery County State Lake for a peaceful stroll before heading back home.
Address: 37.16184 -95.68679 | Directions from Wichita – Map
10. Wakarusa River Falls – Lawrence
The Wakarusa River Falls is a stunning natural water formation located in Lawrence, Kansas. The falls are part of the Wakarusa River and are easily accessible for any person to enjoy. The waterfall is about 8 feet high and 30 feet wide with a swimming hole at its base. It is a popular spot for swimming, fishing, picnics, and nature walks.
The area around the falls has been developed into an outdoor recreation area with picnic tables, grills, restrooms and plenty of shade trees making it an ideal place to spend time outdoors. People can also take advantage of kayaking, canoeing, and camping in designated areas nearby. As part of its commitment to preserving natural resources Lawrence’s Parks & Recreation Department maintains regular maintenance on this site including cleaning up trash left behind by visitors and monitoring water quality levels so that everyone who visits can safely enjoy their experience here without any impact on wildlife.
Address: Lawrence, KS 66047 | Directions from Kansas City – Map
11. Drury Dam Waterfall – Drury
Drury Dam is a small earthen dam located in Ford County, Kansas. It is located about 10 miles south of Dodge City and has a maximum storage capacity of 18,000 acre-feet (22 million cubic meters). The Drury Dam consists primarily of two embankment dams constructed with clay core walls, one on each side of the river channel.
The main embankment extends from near Ulysses to eastward along the Arkansas River for approximately 3 miles (4.8 kilometers). A saddle dike extends across its northern part, connecting it to an auxiliary embankment which runs parallel to the main structure and forms a partial reservoir behind it. The total length of both structures combined measures 4500 feet (1371 meters) long and rises up to 25 feet (7.6 meters) high at its highest point above ground level.
The primary purpose for building Drury Dam was to reduce flooding downstream along the Arkansas River during periods when water levels were too high or fast flowing. Its secondary purpose includes recreation activities like fishing, camping, boating, swimming , and more.
Address: 139-135 W 175th St S, Caldwell, KS 67022 | Directions from Wichita – Map
12. Bowersock Dam Waterfall – Lawrence
The Bowersock Dam is located in Lawrence, Kansas and was constructed between 1891 and 1893. It was built to provide water power for the city of Lawrence. The dam stands at a height of 30 feet (9 meters) and is composed of stone masonry with concrete facing. It spans a width of 36 feet (11 meters).
The dam created Lake Henry, which has become an important recreational spot for residents in the area. Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, camping, swimming, and more at this lake. By controlling the amount of water released from upstream reservoirs through its gates, it helps prevent flooding during periods when heavy rains occur in other parts of the river basin system. This protection extends throughout much of northeast Kansas all the way down to Leavenworth County where it meets up with Missouri’s border. The historic structure continues to be used today but has been modified over time to meet changing needs while maintaining its original charm and character intact
Address: US-59, Lawrence, KS 66044 | Directions from Kansas City – Map
13. Ozro Waterfall – Cedar Vale
Ozro Waterfall is located in Cedar Vale, Kansas and even though it drops by less than a foot, it still attracts visitors from all over the country. The waterfall cascades down a series of stepped rocks and stresses the full width of the river. Ozro Waterfall is fed by the Arkansas River and its surrounding tributaries, resulting in a continuous flow of water throughout the year.
The Ozro Waterfall area also offers numerous recreational activities such as kayaking and fishing for those looking to spend a day outdoors.
Directions from Wichita – Map
14. Deep Creek Waterfall – Manhattan
Deep Creek Waterfall is a stunning attraction located in Manhattan, Kansas. This waterfall cascades down the bluffs of Deep Creek, creating a beautiful and tranquil setting for hikers and photographers. The waterfalls themselves are quite impressive: they range from 3-8 feet in height and stretch over 60 feet in width. During heavy rains or snowmelt seasons, these falls can become quite powerful and mesmerizing to watch!
Though Deep Creek Waterfall may be somewhat out of sight for many visitors as it’s tucked away within deep ravines near Tuttle Creek Reservoir, it’s worth making the trek.
Address: 2464-2484 Pillsbury Crossing Ln, Manhattan, KS 66502 | Directions from Kansas City – Map
15. Prather Creek Falls – Chase State Fishing Lake
The waterfall at Chase State Fishing Lake is a beautiful attraction in the Flint Hills of Kansas. The lake, located near Cottonwood Falls, was created in 1961 and features a 30-foot waterfall that cascades over several rock formations. The waterfall has become an increasingly popular attraction for visitors looking for a day out in mother nature.
Visitors can access the lake from either the north entrance off Old Highway 50 or from the south entrance off US Hwy 177. Just follow the trails around the lake to get up close and personal with Prather Creek Falls. A small beach area is also available for swimming in the summer months.
Address: Cottonwood Falls, KS 66845 | Directions from Wichita – Map
15 of the Best Waterfalls in Kansas:
Angel Falls – Lansing
Bachelor Creek Falls – Eureka City
Bourbon Waterfalls – Elsmore
Bowersock Dam Waterfall – Lawrence
Deep Creek Waterfall – Manhattan
Drury Dam Waterfall – Drury
Empire Dam Waterfalls – Riverton
Geary State Lake Waterfall – Junction City Kansas
Hitchen Creek Waterfalls – Longton
Montgomery Falls – Montgomery County State Lake
Ozro Waterfalls – Cedar Vale
Prather Creek Falls – Chase State Fishing Lake
Santa Fe Lake Falls – Edgerton
The Alcove Spring and Waterfall – Blue Rapids Kansas
Wakarusa River Falls – Lawrence
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