Fort Defiance State Park
Amenities • Weather • Recreation
Fort Defiance State Park is a historical and natural attraction located in the state of Kansas. The park offers visitors a chance to explore the rich history of the area while enjoying various outdoor activities.
One of the main reasons to visit Fort Defiance State Park is to see the remains of the original fort that was built in 1851 to protect the Santa Fe Trail. The fort was used during the Civil War as a base for Union troops and was later abandoned. Today, visitors can explore the ruins of the fort, including the stone walls and foundations, and learn about its history through interpretive panels.
In addition to the fort, the park offers several hiking trails, picnic areas, and a campground. The park's two lakes, which are popular for fishing and boating, are also a significant attraction.
Interesting facts about Fort Defiance State Park include that it is the site of the only Kansas fort that was built to protect a trade route rather than a military objective. The park is also home to several species of wildlife, including deer, coyotes, and bobcats.
The best time of year to visit Fort Defiance State Park is in the spring and fall when the weather is mild and ideal for outdoor activities. During the summer, the park can get crowded with visitors, and temperatures can be high. The park is closed during the winter months.
Overall, Fort Defiance State Park is an excellent destination for history buffs, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone looking to explore the natural beauty of Kansas.
Until 2024-06-01T21:45:00-05:00 • National Weather Service
...The National Weather Service in Des Moines IA has issued a Flood Warning for the following rivers in Iowa... West Fork Des Moines River at Estherville affecting Emmet County. * WHAT...Minor flooding is forecast. * WHERE...The West Fork Des Moines River at Estherville, or from the Iowa-Minnesota border to near Wallingford. * WHEN...Until Thursday evening. * IMPACTS...At 11.0 feet, Mike Mickelson Park south of Iowa 9 is inundated. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS... - At 9:00 AM CDT Saturday the stage was 9.6 feet. - Forecast...The river is expected to rise above flood stage this afternoon to a crest of 10.6 feet this evening. It will then fall below flood stage Thursday morning. - Flood stage is 10.0 feet.
June 1, 2024
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Popular Camping Destinations
| Camping Area | Campsites | Reservations | Toilets | Showers | Elevation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lyons Park | Numerous | 1,214 ft | |||
| Sunnyside Park Campground | Numerous | 1,204 ft | |||
| Carson City Park | 15 | 1,060 ft | |||
| Botna Bend County Park | 40 | 1,108 ft | |||
| Cocklin Fish Farm | 56 | 1,110 ft | |||
| Pottawattamie County Fairgrounds | 60 | 1,132 ft | |||
| Arrowhead Park | 60 | 1,184 ft | |||
| Cold Spring Park | 80 | 1,122 ft | |||
| Olde Towne Co Park | Numerous | 1,044 ft | |||
| Pilot Grove Co Park | 16 | 1,184 ft |
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