The last Tuesday of each January is U.S. Travel’s National Plan for a Vacation Day. Ever since the global pandemic, more than ever, people are now itching to get out of what has become their “new normal” routine.

If you’re seeking low key, low-to-no foot traffic locations, to either relax or have just enough things to do to keep you busy, look no further than Crawford County, Kansas.

Crawford County is a hidden gem for camping and recreation in Kansas.

Located where the prairie meets the Ozarks, Crawford State Park near Farlington, Kansas includes campsites that range from primitive to electric/water sites for RV’s, cabins, a café overlooking the 150-acre lake, and recreational opportunities including fishing, hiking, mountain biking and kayaking. Crawford State Park sits where the Cherokee Lowlands meet the Osage Cuestas & Ozark Plateau, and many habitats & landscapes seen across Kansas are experienced in this single park.

Just east of Crawford State Park is Bone Creek Reservoir, a 540 acre lake great for anglers wanting to get out on the water. Catch and release tournaments are held every Thursday evening.

Plus, land once mined has been returned to nature, providing unique habitat for a variety of game and outdoor activities. These state owned recreational areas open to the public known as the Mined Land Wildlife Areas are spread across the coal bed that was once mined. No state park pass is needed. Hunting is allowed at designated locations.

Or drive around and visit any of the 30 parks throughout the county. These parks include numerous trails, a mountain bike park, vintage playground equipment, and cool rural backdrops, perfect for photos of your kids or grand kids.