Area Attractions near Russell, Kansas

Water Sports at Wilson Lake

Wilson Lake is an oasis in the dry prairies of Western Kansas. The waters which flow into Wilson Lake have many unique properties because of the limestone through which they flow.

The lake has high salt content which allows it to support some types of fish, such as the striped bass, which are native to the ocean. Limestone also filters the waters, making Wilson the clearest lake in Kansas, and a great location for scuba diving and other water sports.

Mountain Biking at Bur Oak Nature Trail

A more relaxing venture can be had via the Bur Oak Nature Trail located below the dam at Lake Wilson. A short, 3/4 mile nature trail, walkers and hikers alike will find this an enjoyable opportunity. Information about the surrounding ecosystem us provided.

There is also a 4 mile mountain biking trail loop that winds its way over the hills surrounding the Wilson Lake area. The hills provide good climbs and hair-raising descents. The trail is rated intermediate level and includes sections.

Russell County Free Fair

The Russell County Free Fair has great rides, music, food, and motor sports; its the best week of summer. If you are a life long resident of the area or just traveling through stop in to see the sights and join the fun. This annual event is held the last week of July.

Dream Theatre

Russell’s original one-screen theatre built in 1923 has been restored and shows movies every weekend and some weekdays. It has recently been updated with 3-D capabilities.

Oil Patch Museum

The story of the people and events that make up the history of oil in this area will come alive at the Oil Patch Museum in Russell. Walk through an actual oil storage tank and study the geology, drilling and production and transportation exhibits. Located just North of Interstate 70 at the 184 exit. Summer hours are June 1-Aug. 31, Mon.-Sun., 4:00-8:00pm, and by appointment year around by calling 483-3637 or 483-4796.

Granny Mae's Pumpkin Patch

Granny Mae's offers an old-fashioned fall festival atmosphere with hayrack rides, bonfires, marshmallow roasts, and live music. Located in rural Russell County this family farm was purchased by the Herber's in 1942 and remains in the family today. Open every weekend from the end of September till the end of October.

Garden of Eden

Samuel Perry Dinsmoor, a retired schoolteacher, Civil War veteran, farmer and Populist politician, began building the Garden of Eden and Cabin Home in 1907 at the age of 64. For 22 years he fashioned 113 tons (2,273 sacks) of cement and many tons of limestone into his unique "log" cabin with its surrounding sculptures. The Garden of Eden is located in Lucas, Kansas

Fossil Station Museum

This imposing building was constructed of native limestone or "post rock" to house the sheriff and county jail in 1907. Today the museum displays portray the early history of Russell County. View 100 years of Clothing, Heartland Politics, Russell County Goes to War, and the Painless Puller Palace during a visit to the Fossil Station Museum. Summer hours are Monday - Saturday 11:00 am till 4:00 pm and Sunday 1:00 pm till 4:00 pm.

Dorrance Museum

Dorrance is located in the eastern part of Russell County and is a rural farming community. In June of 1867, the Kansas Pacific Railroad tracks reached Dorrance, bringing German, English, Irish, and other immigrants, who had accounted for much of the town's modest growth by 1870. A prairie fire almost destroyed the entire business district of Dorrance on March 27, 1879. The town was named after a Mr. Dorrance, who was the railroad superintendent at that time.

Deines Cultural Center

Located in Russell, Kansas, the Deines Cultural Center is a non-profit educational resource that enriches local cultural life by providing artistic exhibits and activities, musical events and concerts, educational and historic programs. Free admission and accessibility to those with disabilities. Open Tuesday through Sunday.