Exploring the Red Hills of Gypsum Hills

One of the most scenic places in all of Kansas, the Gypsum Hills, also known as the Red Hills, span a large portion of south-central Kansas. They stretch from Medicine Lodge in the east to Ashland in the west.

Winding through the heart of the region is the Gypsum Hills Scenic Byway, offering access to towering mesas, rolling red hills and wide-open prairie landscapes. Past the byway, quiet back roads reveal some of the most photogenic scenery in the state. In particular, the drive between Ashland and Clark State Fishing Lake is up there with the best backroads in all of Kansas.

As you go west, one of the most unique landscapes in Kansas appears on the western edge of the Gypsum Hills. Two dramatic ancient sinkholes, Big Basin and Little Basin, offer striking reminders of geographic forces in these parts. Inside of Little Basin lies St. Jacob’s Well, which has all sorts of legends behind it. If the Flint Hills are Kansas' crown jewel, the Gypsum Hills are the state’s most unforgettable hidden gem.

Map Icons

  • - Waterfall
  • - Scenic Drive
  • - Landmark
  • - Park
  • - Hiking Trail

Featured The Gypsum Hills Locations

Some of my favorite spots in the Gypsum Hills are highlight below.

Spring sunset over the Gypsum Hills Scenic Byway

Gypsum Hills Scenic Byway

One of the most picturesque roads in Kansas is the Gypsum Hills Scenic Byway. Full of red mesas, wildflowers and large buttes, it is carved into one of the most rugged regions of Kansas.
Sunrise over Big Basin

Big Basin National Preserve

An ancient collapse created this massive sinkhole, forming one of the most dramatic natural landmarks in Kansas.
Sunset over Clark State Fishing Lake

Clark State Fishing Lake

Tucked into the western edge of the Gypsum Hills, Clark State Fishing Lake is surrounded by red rock bluffs and quiet prairie landscapes, making it one of the most scenic lakes in south-central Kansas.

Gypsum Hills Listings

Below is a full list of landmarks, scenic drives and more from within Gypsum Hills region. You can browse this list alphabetically or use the map above to explore by location.

Landmarks

Parks & Lakes

Scenic Drives

Trails

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