Meade County: Prairie, Fishing and History

Prairie, Trails and Lake

Meade State Park combines shortgrass prairie with a lake area: it encompasses 803 acres of shortgrass prairie and recreational facilities around the 80-acre Meade State Fishing Lake. Located on K-23, the park is eight miles south and five miles west of the town of Meade. The nature trail, lake and prairie offer different options to consider when planning a stay in the park.

The nature trail offers opportunities for birdwatching, biking and hiking. You can use the trail to observe nature or explore the park on foot and by bike. Stumpy Arroyo Loop adds specific route details to these options: it is 0.5 miles long, rated easy, and suitable for hiking and biking. If you want to choose a route based on length and difficulty, this trail provides clear reference points. Check current trail access before your visit.

Bluegill, catfish and largemouth bass are found in Meade State Fishing Lake, which offers good fishing opportunities. This makes fishing a distinct focus of the park, alongside its trails. When planning, you can decide whether to focus your stay on fishing or combine it with activities on the nature trail.

Another way to experience nature is at the 360-acre Meade Wildlife Area. There are opportunities to hunt doves and quail there. This is a distinct hunting focus alongside activities for hikers, cyclists and anglers. Tours of the Meade Fish Hatchery are available by appointment; arrange your visit in advance.

Local History and Historic Sites

The Meade County Historical Society Museum is located on Highway 54 in downtown Meade. The history presented at the museum spans from the time of the Indigenous peoples to the present day. Its particular areas of focus are the first settlers and agriculture. This broad historical perspective is paired with a very specific collection: the museum displays 62 saddles from around the world, collected over four generations of the Bartlett family. Alongside an overview of local history, you can explore a collection whose origins are tied to a family story.

Another historic site is the Dalton Gang Hideout, formerly the home of Eva Dalton Whipple, the sister of the Dalton Gang. The Hideout’s grounds include the Wild West setting known as “Old Town.” It was built for historical reenactments and quick-draw competitions. This offers two different ways to explore local history: the story of a particular home and a purpose-built setting.

An early historical reference is also recorded: Francisco Coronado first crossed Meade County in 1541. For orientation in the town of Meade, K-23, Highway 160 and Highway 54 intersect there.

Discover more destinations: Meade, Kearny County, Sedgwick, Wabaunsee County, Decatur County, Logan County, Harvey County, Montgomery

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