When it comes to Sunflower State landscapes, our plains are by far the most famous. Kansas is practically synonymous with “flat,” even though we have our beautiful Flint Hills. However, there’s one other major landscape in Kansas that often gets ignored: our wetlands. A good portion of the state is made up of marshy wetlands that bring to mind the famous Florida Everglades. One of the best places to see wetlands in Kansas is the stunning Quivira National Wildlife Refuge. This south-central Kansas park is an amazing spot that spans more than 22,000 acres and is considered one of the Eight Natural Wonders of Kansas, along with the nearby Cheyenne Bottoms wetlands.

The Quivira National Wildlife Refuge is an incredible spot that will make you feel like you were magically transported to the southeastern United States.

Mark Alexander/Google Maps

Kansas gets an unfair reputation as a dry, dusty plain region with not much variation in landscape, but this refuge throws all those stereotypes out the window.

Steve Hartig/Google Maps

Due to the preserve’s importance as an important habitat for so many plant and animal species, it’s been named a Wetland of Global Importance.

Julie Buker/Google Maps

The Big and Little Salt Marshes here attract migratory birds of all kinds.

Mark Alexander/Google Maps

Of course, the area is great for humans to enjoy (responsibly), as well! There are two main areas of the refuge where trails are maintained, giving nature lovers a great opportunity to observe wildlife in a natural habitat.

Anastasis Alayon/Google Maps

Not only will you find marshes here, there are also plenty of prairie grass-covered sand dunes.

Danielle Heath/Google Maps

The Quivira National Wildlife Refuge is one of the most stunning places in Kansas and belongs on any Sunflower State traveler’s bucket list.

Tim Young/Google Maps

You can learn more about this amazing wetland in Kansas from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service site.

Mark Alexander/Google Maps

Steve Hartig/Google Maps

Julie Buker/Google Maps

Anastasis Alayon/Google Maps

Danielle Heath/Google Maps

Tim Young/Google Maps

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Address: Quivira National Wildlife Refuge, 1434 NE 80th St, Stafford, KS 67578, USA