With warm weather upon us in Kansas City, if you’re looking for outdoor adventure this is the perfect time to explore the many parks and lakes in the metro area. Tell the kids to put the electronics down and get out and enjoy nature. I think you’ll enjoy the rejuvenation only nature can bring whether resting or working up a good sweat:
Johnson County Streamway aka Mill Creek Streamway
Mill Creek Streamway in Johnson County is a beautiful linear park with more than 17 miles of pedestrian and bicycle trails. It also consists of three miles of equestrian trails and open spaces for leisure pursuits like jogging, picnicking and nature hiking.
Wyandotte County Lake
Wyandotte County Lake, a 300 acre lake known for the 8 mile hiking trail that circles the lake and accessed by 5 trail heads. Offering 16 Shelter houses, Picnic tables, Playground, Marina, Boat rental.
Smithville Lake
A 7,200 acre Army Corp of Engineers lake and has more than 175 miles of shoreline. Located just 20 miles from downtown Kansas City, recreational opportunities include: 2 swim beaches, 777 campsites, reservable shelters, 2 full service marinas including boat rentals, 1 sailboat only marina, dockside restaurant, 2 public 18-hole golf courses within the Paradise Pointe Golf Complex, 4 disc golf courses, great fishing from shore or by boat, 25 miles of walking/biking trails, 11 miles of single-track mountain biking trails, 26 miles of equestrian trails. Plan your visit to Smithville Lake.
Watkins Mill National Park
A 100-acre lake with a paved bicycle path around it, plentiful fishing, a picturesque campground and choice picnic spots make Watkins Mill State Park an ideal place for an afternoon or longer.
Parkville Sanctuary
The Parkville Nature Sanctuary is a wildlife preserve and educational site developed and maintained by the City of Parkville and extraordinary volunteers. Visit the 115 acre natural outdoor area made accessible by nearly three miles of hiking trails. The sanctuary is open from dawn to dusk. No dogs or other pets are allowed on the trails.
Maple Woods Natural Area Trail
Maple Woods Natural Area Trail is a 1 mile, moderately trafficked loop trail located near KC, MO. This trail features a river and is good for all skill levels. Dogs are able to use this trail, but must be kept on leash.
Longview Lake
930 acres of water entertainment and 14 picturesque shelters. Beach and marina with boat rental, fishing and campgrounds. Click here to plan your visit to Longview Lake.
Heritage Park
1,238-acre park is located at 159th Street and Pflumm Road. Recreational facilities include: A 40-acre lake, marina – A 30-acre dog off-leash area, Athletic fields for softball, football, soccer and the 18-hole championship Heritage Park Golf Course and driving range. Plan your visit to Heritage Park.
Shawnee Mission Park
Shawnee Mission Park features a 120-acre lake with swimming beach and marina, twelve shelters, numerous picnic areas, nature trails, play areas, an archery range, a 44-acre dog off-leash area, a disc golf course, mountain biking and hiking trails, equestrian trails, and is home to The Theatre in the Park. Plan your visit to Shawnee Mission Park.
Prairie Center Nature Reserve Loop
This 2.4 mile, lightly trafficked loop trail is located near Olathe. This trail features a lake and is a great trail for all skill levels. **Dogs are not allowed on this trail.
Jackson County Parks
Visit Cave Spring’s 39 acre beautiful park, that is on the National Historic Site Registry. This park has 4.5 miles of easy trails with picnic areas throughout the park. This park is open from Dawn to Dusk, 365 days a year. **Trails are open, but no group hikes until Covid-19 virus has passed.
