Meade State Park

A relaxing vacation awaits you and Fido at Meade State Park! Situated in the high plains just west of the Red Hills, this 800-acre site is the only state park in southwest Kansas. Meade attracts nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts with its woods and water, rare features in an area that's mostly open farmland.

You and your pup will have to drive a bit out of the way to find this oasis; once you do, you'll be greeted by a serene park with a beautiful lake. While Meade does get visitors, it is rarely overcrowded, so you and your four-legged pal can appreciate the natural beauty of southwest Kansas without any distractions. Don't miss the nature trail at the northwest corner of the 80-acre Meade Lake—although it's only half a mile, this path is lined with various trees, flowers, and grasses that will give your pooch plenty of new sights and smells to take in. Keep your eyes peeled for white-tailed deer and local turkey vultures, which are often spotted in this part of the park. The trail passes by a cattail marsh that draws red-winged blackbirds and barn swallows in the evenings, but you might see some birds during the daytime, too.

Several primitive and improved camping areas surround the lake, allowing you and Fido to rest and relax under tall cottonwoods. Aside from other campers, you'll be accompanied by northern orioles, red-headed woodpeckers, western kingbirds, and Mississippi kites that call these magnificent trees home. Boating, fishing, and swimming are also pawpular activities at Meade, but note that the swimming beach is off-limits to canine visitors. Elsewhere, Fido must stay on a leash no longer than 10 feet at all times. Be sure to carry water and doggie waste bags as well.

Enjoy the hidden gem that is Meade State Park with your furry best friend!