On the Konza Prairie trails, the landscape changes with every step: they lead through a lowland riparian forest, cross Kings Creek and climb over ancient limestone outcrops into the pristine tallgrass prairie. From the highest points, the view stretches across the Flint Hills to the Kansas River valley. The transition between stream, rock and open prairie makes these trails a distinctive way to experience the Riley County landscape.
Prairie, Water and Trails
Riley County is located in the Kansas Flint Hills; its eastern edge is shaped by Tuttle Creek Reservoir. It was built in 1959 for flood control, management of the river’s lower reaches and recreational purposes. At the northern end of Tuttle Creek Lake, the Tuttle Creek Wildlife Area encompasses 17,800 acres of land managed to protect wildlife. Created wetlands provide food and shelter for migrating shorebirds and waterfowl. The Pillsbury Trail is open year-round and is 0.5 miles long.
Those looking to explore a range of outdoor activities will find scenic trails for hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding at Tuttle Creek State Park. Fancy Creek State Park on Tuttle Creek Lake offers a different experience, with 6 miles of challenging mountain biking terrain. The main lake also has 14 miles of open water for sailing. River Pond below the dam is suitable for paddling; canoes, kayaks and pedal boats are available for rent at the state park.
The community parks in Riley County also offer a variety of options, including trails, swimming pools, golf courses and disc golf courses. Individual park amenities may change. Rocky Ford Outdoor Recreation Area features a viewing platform, interpretive panels and a boat ramp providing access to the banks of the Blue River.
Places That Tell a Story
Goodnow House is a historic site dating to 1861. It is associated with abolitionists Isaac and Ellen Goodnow and the founding of Kansas State University. Anderson Hall was built in 1879 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Its tower houses an electronically operated carillon with 98 bells, installed in 1965.
Fort Riley is located in Riley and Geary counties and is an important part of Riley County’s history. Rocky Ford connects this chapter with the history of the trails: it was an important crossing on the Military Trail, which carried supplies and soldiers between Fort Leavenworth on the Missouri River and Fort Riley. The military road from Fort Leavenworth to Fort Riley is considered the best-known trail through Riley County.
The Pioneer Log Cabin offers a glimpse into the lives of Riley County’s early settlers through historic farming equipment and household items from the pioneer era. Hartford House recalls the history of settlement: it is one of the prefabricated houses brought to Manhattan in the Kansas Territory by the steamboat Hartford in the spring of 1855. Wolf House was built of limestone in 1868 and served as a boardinghouse; today, it is interpreted as a home from the 1880s. Visitors are welcome during regular hours and by special appointment.
Old Randolph Jail is another historic site. Located on the grounds of the Riley County Historical Museum, it can be visited as part of a guided tour. Hartford House is open during the same hours as the Riley County Historical Museum, subject to staff availability.
Exhibits and Special Encounters
The Flint Hills Discovery Center features more than 10,000 square feet of interactive and changing exhibits in a 35,000-square-foot building. The content of the changing exhibits varies. At the Marianna Kistler Beach Museum of Art, a collection of regional art meets an international program: the museum brings artists and art from around the world to Manhattan.
The K-State Insect Zoo offers an unusual encounter. This interactive experience includes live cockroaches, beetles, walking sticks, praying mantises, centipedes, scorpions and tarantulas. The Insect Zoo is open year-round; regular walk-in hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 1 to 6 p.m.
The Pioneer Log Cabin’s 2026 season runs from April 26 to October 25; admission is always free. From Manhattan, take Highway 177 and McDowell Creek Road to reach Konza Prairie. Check road conditions before you go. Rocky Ford Outdoor Recreation Area combines Blue River scenery with a site connected to the history of the military trail, while the region’s museums, houses and exhibits offer other ways to explore its history.
Discover more destinations: Manhattan, Douglas County, Dickinson County, Crawford, Kearny County, Pratt County, Reno County, Finney.
Return to the main travel overview: Kansas.
