Hunting & Fishing

Year after year, sportsmen from most states and some foreign countries flock to these game-rich prairies. But rather than the buffalo that once roamed the plains, it’s birds that are the current draw. Some believe this region offers the finest overall bird hunting in a state that’s often rated as one of the best wingshooting states in the nation. Unlike some areas that offer decent gunning for just a single species, the coverts in this region offer a true smorgasbord for hunters. Bobwhite quail, pheasants, prairie chickens, and waterfowl are plentiful. Plus, the state of Kansas posts one of the highest spring turkey hunting success rates in the nation. And the northern Flint Hills consistently produces some of the finest whitetail bucks in the nation.

Culture & the Arts

Just a short drive from Fort Riley, Manhattan, Kansas, offers a vast variety of culture and art.  It is also home of Kansas State University.  First time visitors to The Little Apple will be amazed at the opulence of arts and entertainment available. Manhattan offers private art galleries, theatrical production, professional artists, professional arts educators and arts presenters. Located on the K-State campus, McCain Auditorium hosts an array of outstanding artists and attraction each year. From ballet to Broadway, jazz to chamber music, comedy to classic theatre, McCain has something for almost every taste. The K-State campus also offers Nichols Theatre, which is home to numerous theatre and dance productions.

A short drive to the west will bring you to Junction City, where first time visitors to the historic downtown will discover what has been called the best limestone facades of any Kansas community.  Junction City is also home to a thriving Arts Council with a full calendar of gallery shows, classes, and special events.  The C.L. Hoover Opera House, originally opened in 1882, recently underwent a multi-million dollar renovation and features performances by the Junction City Little Theater, summer children's workshops, and performing art productions with local and national acts.  To the east you will find the historic Columbian Museum and Theater in Wamego. You can enjoy dinner theater, concerts, and Broadway musicals in this elegant venue.

In addition to cultural experiences available in Manhattan and Junction City, other communities in the Fort Riley region offer a wide array of museums and attractions ranging from the OZ Museum in Wamego to the Eisenhower Library in Abilene.

.

Natural Splendor

Many scenic opportunities abound for the nature enthusiast when visiting the Central Flint Hills Region. There are opportunities to hike nature trails through the Konza Prairie, an 8,600-acre tallgrass prairie preserve, or view wildlife and bald Eagles along Milford Lake trails. You can camp in comfort by renting a cabin at Tuttle Creek State Park and Milford or your can "rough it" by pitching your tent at one of the many campgrounds at Milford, Tuttle Creek, Council Grove or the nearby state lakes. Those who prefer a more civilized view of nature can visit the K-State Botanical Gardens and Insect Zoo. But regardless of your preferences, the Fort Riley region allows you to experience first hand one of the world’s most beautiful ecosystems.