Jackson: Nature, Golf and History

At Banner Creek Reservoir, Jackson shows its active side: hiking and biking trails, horseback riding trails, beaches and a disc golf course are all located here. There are also opportunities for birdwatching by the lake. Visitors who want to focus their trip on nature and outdoor activities will find several different options at the reservoir.

Banner Creek Reservoir: Trails, Water and Wildlife Watching

The trail network includes 13 miles for hiking and biking, including three miles of ADA-certified trails. There are more than six miles of horseback riding trails. The beaches are in the northwest and southeast of the reservoir; if you plan to visit, check current conditions and access. Disc golf is also available: the course has nine holes and offers lake views. The options by the water vary not only by activity, but also depending on whether you want to explore on foot, by bike, on horseback or with a round of disc golf. Trail routes can change, so check the facility’s current information before your trip.

Since the lake opened in 1997, more than 25 bird species have been observed at Banner Creek Reservoir. This figure provides a historical reference for birdwatching at the lake, not a fixed count for any particular day. Day and annual permits are available for boating and personal watercraft. Since permit conditions can change, it’s a good idea to check the latest information before making plans.

Casino, Live Entertainment and Golf

Prairie Band Casino & Resort offers casino gaming with 1,200 slot machines, 27 table games and a bingo hall. The gaming options may change over time, so check what’s currently available before your visit. The entertainment lineup also includes live music and other live entertainment in an intimate ballroom. Events vary, so checking the current program can help with planning. Buffet dining and upscale dining are also among the resort’s offerings; check in advance to see what’s currently available.

Firekeeper Golf Course is directly across from Prairie Band Casino & Resort. The course was designed by Notah Begay III and Jeff Brauer and is listed as a par-72 championship golf course. The stated tee distances range from 7,500 yards at the back tees to 4,500 yards at the forward tees. These different distances offer a concrete point of comparison for planning your game; the course configuration can change. Check the latest information before you play and directions before you travel.

Buildings and Local History

The Jackson County Museum is housed in a brick building dating to around 1905. The building originally served as a tinsmith’s workshop, and its original tin ceiling remains. The workshop history and ceiling are two specific historical features that illustrate the building’s former use and design.

Holton Bath House and Swimming Pool was added to the National Register of Historic Places on May 21, 2009. In nearby Holton, there are also turn-of-the-century houses with large porches and hand-carved decorations. The name “Battle of the Spurs” offers another kind of historical trace: it originated when a newspaper man mocked the posse’s retreat.

Events and Activities Throughout the Year

July Jubilee is an Independence Day celebration at Banner Creek Lake. It includes live music, family activities and fireworks. Since event dates and programs can change from year to year, check the information for the relevant year again.

For “Watch Your Glass,” 100 glass balls are hidden throughout Jackson County each year. Hiding places include trails, parks and public spaces, and they change with each edition. The event’s format can also change from year to year. If you plan to take part in the search, check the details of the current edition in advance.

Whether you plan your trip around reservoir trails, golf and entertainment, or historic buildings and events, Jackson offers several distinct themes to guide your day. Use these highlights as a guide when looking for a hotel for your stay.

Discover more destinations: Holton, Geary County, Dickinson County, Harvey County, Meade County, Barber County, Pawnee, Kingman County.

For the broader travel overview: Kansas.