Mushroom Rock State Park

Mushroom Rock State Park is a geological phenomenon of sandstone spheres balanced on softer pedestals of sandstone. The power of erosion weathered away the softer portions of sandy rock. The spheres of the naturally cemented portions of the sandstone are what we see today.

Nearby was the Smoky Hill wagon trail, and these unusual formations, which resemble giant mushrooms reaching for the sky, served as landmarks and meeting places for Native Americans and pioneers.

Managed by staff from nearby Kanopolis State Park, Mushroom Rock is a unique site in a history-rich region.

Attractions - Picnic tables and a vault toilet are available, however, camping is not allowed. Still, this spot is definitely worth driving out of your way to see.

Recreation - scenic viewing

Climate - Kansas has an annual mean temperature almost as high as that of Virginia, more sunshine than that of any state to the east, and generous summer rains. The State lies across the path of alternate masses of warm moist air moving north from the Gulf of Mexico and currents of cold, comparatively dry, air moving from the polar regions. Consequently, its weather is subject to frequent and often sharp changes, usually of short duration. Summers are inclined to be warm--often the word "hot" describes them best--but are healthful, with low relative humidity during periods of high temperatures, and usually a good wind movement. Heat prostrations are almost unknown. Summer nights are usually cool, especially in the western counties. Winters are drier, with more sunshine than those of eastern states. The average snowfall is less than that of other states, except those located farther south. Michigan, Pennsylvania, New York, and the New England States normally have from two to three times as much snowfall as Kansas.

Location - Mushroom Rock is located just one mile south of Carneiro (1/4 mile east of 25th Road and Avenue K) in Ellsworth County. Mushroom Rock State Park is a satellite of Kanopolis State Park. No camping is allowed and no vehicle permits are required