Kansas State Maps
These maps show Kansas State's Counties, Cities, Federal Areas, Physiographic, and Ecoregions.

The 105 Counties of Kansas and Their Name Origins
- Allen County: Named after William Allen, a U.S. senator from Ohio.
- Anderson County: Named for Joseph C. Anderson, a Kansas territorial legislator.
- Atchison County: Named after David Rice Atchison, a U.S. senator from Missouri.
- Barber County: Named for Thomas Barber, an abolitionist who was killed during the Wakarusa War.
- Barton County: Named after Clara Barton, founder of the American Red Cross.
- Bourbon County: Named for Bourbon County, Kentucky.
- Brown County: Named for Albert Gallatin Brown, a U.S. senator from Mississippi.
- Butler County: Named after Andrew Pickens Butler, a U.S. senator from South Carolina.
- Chase County: Named for Salmon P. Chase, U.S. Treasury Secretary and Chief Justice.
- Chautauqua County: Named after Chautauqua County, New York.
- Cherokee County: Named for the Cherokee Native American tribe.
- Cheyenne County: Named for the Cheyenne Native American tribe.
- Clark County: Named for Charles F. Clarke, a captain in the Civil War.
- Clay County: Named after Henry Clay, a U.S. senator from Kentucky.
- Cloud County: Named for William F. Cloud, a Union general in the Civil War.
- Coffey County: Named after A.M. Coffey, a Kansas territorial legislator.
- Comanche County: Named for the Comanche Native American tribe.
- Cowley County: Named for Matthew Cowley, a first lieutenant in the Civil War.
- Crawford County: Named after Samuel J. Crawford, a governor of Kansas.
- Decatur County: Named for Stephen Decatur, a U.S. naval officer.
- Dickinson County: Named for Daniel S. Dickinson, a U.S. senator from New York.
- Doniphan County: Named after Colonel Alexander Doniphan, a hero of the Mexican-American War.
- Douglas County: Named after Stephen A. Douglas, a U.S. senator from Illinois.
- Edwards County: Named for John H. Edwards, a state senator.
- Elk County: Named for the Elk River.
- Ellis County: Named for George Ellis, first lieutenant of the Twelfth Kansas Infantry.
- Ellsworth County: Named after Fort Ellsworth, which was named for Allen Ellsworth, a lieutenant in the 7th Iowa Cavalry.
- Finney County: Named after David W. Finney, Lieutenant Governor of Kansas.
- Ford County: Named after James H. Ford, a Union general in the Civil War.
- Franklin County: Named after Benjamin Franklin.
- Geary County: Named for John W. Geary, a governor of Kansas Territory.
- Gove County: Named for Grenville L. Gove, a captain in the Union army.
- Graham County: Named after Captain John L. Graham, killed at Chickamauga.
- Grant County: Named after Ulysses S. Grant, 18th President of the U.S.
- Gray County: Named for Alfred Gray, a state legislator.
- Greeley County: Named after Horace Greeley, editor of the New York Tribune.
- Greenwood County: Named after Alfred B. Greenwood, U.S. Indian Commissioner.
- Hamilton County: Named for Alexander Hamilton, first U.S. Secretary of the Treasury.
- Harper County: Named after Sergeant Marion Harper, killed at Jenkins' Ferry.
- Harvey County: Named after James M. Harvey, a governor of Kansas.
- Haskell County: Named after Dudley C. Haskell, a U.S. congressman.
- Hodgeman County: Named after Amos Hodgman, captain of the Seventh Kansas Cavalry.
- Jackson County: Named after President Andrew Jackson.
- Jefferson County: Named after President Thomas Jefferson.
- Jewell County: Named after Lieutenant-Colonel Lewis Jewell, killed at the Battle of Cane Hill.
- Johnson County: Named after Reverend Thomas Johnson, a Methodist missionary.
- Kearny County: Named for General Philip Kearny, a U.S. Army officer.
- Kingman County: Named after Samuel A. Kingman, a chief justice of the Kansas Supreme Court.
- Kiowa County: Named after the Kiowa Native American tribe.
- Labette County: Named after LaBette Creek.
- Lane County: Named after James H. Lane, a U.S. senator from Kansas.
- Leavenworth County: Named after Colonel Henry Leavenworth.
- Lincoln County: Named after President Abraham Lincoln.
- Linn County: Named after Lewis F. Linn, a U.S. senator from Missouri.
- Logan County: Named after General John A. Logan, a Union general.
- Lyon County: Named after General Nathaniel Lyon, killed at the Battle of Wilson's Creek.
- Marion County: Named after Francis Marion, the "Swamp Fox" of the Revolutionary War.
- Marshall County: Named after Frank J. Marshall, an early settler.
- McPherson County: Named after General James B. McPherson, killed during the Civil War.
- Meade County: Named after General George G. Meade, Union general at Gettysburg.
- Miami County: Named after the Miami Native American tribe.
- Mitchell County: Named after Captain William D. Mitchell, killed at the Battle of Monroe's Crossroads.
- Montgomery County: Named after Richard Montgomery, a Revolutionary War general.
- Morris County: Named after Thomas Morris, a U.S. senator from Ohio.
- Morton County: Named after Oliver P. Morton, a governor of Indiana.
- Nemeha County: Named after the Nemaha River (note spelling difference).
- Neosho County: Named after the Neosho River.
- Ness County: Named after Corporal Noah V. Ness, who served in the Civil War.
- Norton County: Named after Orloff Norton, captain of Company L, 15th Kansas Cavalry.
- Osage County: Named for the Osage Native American tribe.
- Osborne County: Named after Vincent B. Osborne, a Union soldier.
- Ottawa County: Named after the Ottawa Native American tribe.
- Pawnee County: Named after the Pawnee Native American tribe.
- Phillips County: Named after William Phillips, a Free-State advocate.
- Pottawatomie County: Named after the Pottawatomie Native American tribe.
- Pratt County: Named for Caleb S. Pratt, a Civil War soldier.
- Rawlins County: Named after General John A. Rawlins, U.S. Army.
- Reno County: Named after General Jesse L. Reno, killed at the Battle of South Mountain.
- Republic County: Named for the Republican River.
- Rice County: Named after Samuel Allen Rice, a brigadier general in the Civil War.
- Riley County: Named after Bennet C. Riley, a U.S. Army officer.
- Rooks County: Named for Private John C. Rooks, who died from wounds received at the Battle of Prairie Grove.
- Rush County: Named after Captain Alexander Rush, killed at the Battle of Jenkins' Ferry.
- Russell County: Named for Avra P. Russell, killed at the Battle of Prairie Grove.
- Saline County: Named after the Saline River.
- Scott County: Named after General Winfield Scott.
- Sedgwick County: Named after General John Sedgwick, killed at the Battle of Spotsylvania Court House.
- Seward County: Named after William H. Seward, U.S. Secretary of State.
- Shawnee County: Named for the Shawnee Native American tribe.
- Sheridan County: Named after General Philip Sheridan.
- Sherman County: Named after General William Tecumseh Sherman.
- Smith County: Named for Major J. Nelson Smith, killed at the Battle of Westport.
- Stafford County: Named after Lewis Stafford, a Union captain.
- Stanton County: Named after Edwin M. Stanton, U.S. Secretary of War.
- Stevens County: Named after Thaddeus Stevens, a U.S. congressman from Pennsylvania.
- Sumner County: Named after Senator Charles Sumner, an abolitionist from Massachusetts.
- Thomas County: Named after General George H. Thomas, a Union general.
- Trego County: Named after Edgar P. Trego, second lieutenant of Company A, 8th Kansas Infantry.
- Wabaunsee County: Named for a Potawatomi chief.
- Wallace County: Named after General W.H.L. Wallace, killed at the Battle of Shiloh.
- Washington County: Named after President George Washington.
- Wichita County: Named for the Wichita Native American tribe.
- Wilson County: Named after Hiero T. Wilson, a colonel in the Mexican-American War.
- Woodson County: Named after Daniel Woodson, acting governor of Kansas Territory.
- Wyandotte County: Named for the Wyandot Native American tribe.

Kansas State County Sizes Map
Smallest County in Kansas State
Wyandotte County: 155 sq miles
Largest County in Kansas State
Butler County: 1,444 sq miles
Mean and Median Area of Counties in Kansas State
Mean Area: Approximately 900 sq miles
Median Area: Approximately 900 sq miles

Major Cities of Kansas State and Their Locations
In Kansas State, major cities are often located along historic transportation routes, near rivers, or in regions significant for trade and agriculture. Below are examples:
1. Cities Along Historic Paths or Routes
Wichita: The largest city in Kansas, Wichita developed as a trading post along the Chisholm Trail. Its central location made it a significant hub for cattle drives in the 19th century and later for aviation, earning it the nickname "Air Capital of the World."
Topeka: The state capital, Topeka is located along the Kansas River and was a key stop on the Oregon Trail. Its location made it an important site for westward expansion and trade.
2. Cities Near Rivers
Kansas City: Situated at the confluence of the Kansas and Missouri Rivers, Kansas City is a major metropolitan area that benefits from river transportation and commerce. The city's location has historically made it a gateway for trade and migration.
Lawrence: Located along the Kansas River, Lawrence was founded by anti-slavery settlers and played a significant role in the state's early history. Its river access facilitated trade and transportation.
3. Agricultural Centers
Dodge City: Known for its rich history as a frontier town, Dodge City is located in southwestern Kansas. It became a major cattle-shipping point on the Great Western Cattle Trail, supporting the agricultural economy.
Salina: Positioned near the Smoky Hill River, Salina serves as a regional trade center for north-central Kansas. Its location has made it a hub for agriculture and manufacturing.

Topographic Tour of Kansas
Often perceived as flat, Kansas State actually features a variety of terrains that gently rise from east to west. The state's topography includes rolling hills, river valleys, and high plains, reflecting its geological history and influencing its climate and agriculture.
1. Eastern Lowlands
The eastern part of Kansas is characterized by rolling hills, forests, and river valleys. This area includes the Osage Plains and is more humid, supporting hardwood forests and fertile soils ideal for agriculture. The Flint Hills, a region of tallgrass prairie, offer unique landscapes with limestone and flint rock formations.
2. Central Plains
Moving westward, the Central Plains consist of gently rolling terrain and open prairies. This area is part of the larger Great Plains and features fertile soils that are extensively used for farming, particularly wheat and corn. The Smoky Hills region, with its sandstone bluffs and buttes, adds to the varied landscape.
3. Western High Plains
The western third of Kansas rises to higher elevations and is characterized by the High Plains. This region is flatter and drier, with shortgrass prairies dominating the landscape. The climate is more arid, and the area relies heavily on irrigation for agriculture. Notable features include the Chalk Pyramids (Monument Rocks), impressive chalk formations that stand out in the plains.
4. River Systems
Kansas has several significant rivers that traverse the state from west to east, including the Arkansas, Kansas, and Missouri Rivers. These rivers have carved valleys and provide essential water resources for agriculture, wildlife, and human consumption. The river valleys often feature more lush vegetation compared to the surrounding prairies.
5. Flint Hills
The Flint Hills region in east-central Kansas is one of the last remaining tallgrass prairie ecosystems in North America. The area is named for the flint (chert) found in the limestone layers. The rolling hills and rich biodiversity make it a unique landscape, supporting ranching and conservation efforts.
6. Red Hills
Located in south-central Kansas, the Red Hills (also known as the Gyp Hills) are characterized by their reddish soil and gypsum rock formations. The area features canyons, mesas, and buttes, providing a stark contrast to the surrounding plains. The unique geology supports specialized plant and animal life.
7. Glaciated Region
The northeastern corner of Kansas was influenced by glacial activity during the Ice Ages. The glaciated region features hills, ridges, and deposits left by retreating glaciers, contributing to the area's fertile soils and diverse terrain.

Physiographic Regions of Kansas State
Central Lowland - Dissected Till Plains
The Dissected Till Plains in northeastern Kansas are characterized by gently rolling hills and fertile soils resulting from glacial deposits. This region was shaped by glaciers during the Pleistocene epoch, leaving behind rich till and loess soils that support extensive agriculture, particularly corn and soybeans.
Central Lowland - Osage Plains
The Osage Plains cover southeastern Kansas and consist of open prairie lands with gentle slopes. The region features sedimentary rocks such as limestone and shale, and the soils are well-suited for grasslands and pasture. The Osage Plains transition into the Ozark Plateau to the east and are important for cattle ranching.
Great Plains - High Plains
The High Plains occupy western Kansas and are characterized by flat to gently rolling terrain at higher elevations. This area is part of the larger High Plains that extend into neighboring states. The region has a semi-arid climate and relies on irrigation from the Ogallala Aquifer for agriculture, primarily wheat and sorghum production.
Great Plains - Plains Border
The Plains Border region is located between the Central Lowland and the High Plains, featuring a mix of rolling hills and flat plains. This transitional zone includes the Smoky Hills and the Red Hills, with rock formations composed of chalk, limestone, and sandstone. The area supports a mix of agriculture and grazing.
Ozark Plateaus - Springfield-Salem Plateaus
The southeastern edge of Kansas touches the Ozark Plateaus, specifically the Springfield-Salem Plateaus. This region is characterized by forested hills, karst topography with caves and sinkholes, and diverse ecosystems. The geology consists mainly of Mississippian-age limestone and chert, and the area supports hardwood forests and some mining activities.

Notable Federal Lands: Some of the Largest and Most Fascinating Destinations in Kansas
1. Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve
The Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve, located in the Flint Hills region, protects a rare remnant of the tallgrass prairie ecosystem that once covered vast areas of North America. Established in 1996, the preserve encompasses nearly 11,000 acres of rolling hills, wildflowers, and diverse wildlife. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, guided tours, and educational programs that highlight the importance of prairie conservation.
2. Fort Larned National Historic Site
Fort Larned National Historic Site preserves an authentically restored 1860s military fort that played a crucial role in protecting travelers and commerce along the Santa Fe Trail. The site offers a glimpse into frontier life, with original buildings, museum exhibits, and living history demonstrations. It provides valuable insights into military history and Native American relations during the westward expansion.
3. Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site
Located in Topeka, this historic site commemorates the landmark 1954 Supreme Court decision that declared racial segregation in public schools unconstitutional. The site is housed in the Monroe Elementary School, one of the segregated schools involved in the case. Exhibits and programs educate visitors about the civil rights movement and the ongoing struggle for equality.
4. Nicodemus National Historic Site
Nicodemus National Historic Site preserves the only remaining western town established by African Americans during the Reconstruction Period following the Civil War. Founded in 1877, Nicodemus represents the pioneer spirit of formerly enslaved people seeking freedom and self-determination. Visitors can explore historic buildings and learn about the community's history and cultural heritage.
5. Quivira National Wildlife Refuge
Situated in central Kansas, Quivira National Wildlife Refuge encompasses over 22,000 acres of prairie grasslands, salt marshes, and wetlands. The refuge is a critical stopover for migratory birds along the Central Flyway, attracting birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. It provides habitat for diverse wildlife, including waterfowl, shorebirds, and whooping cranes.
6. Cimarron National Grassland
Covering more than 108,000 acres in southwestern Kansas, Cimarron National Grassland is the largest area of public land in the state. The grassland offers recreational opportunities such as hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing. It features a variety of landscapes, including prairie, woodlands, and the Point of Rocks landmark along the historic Santa Fe Trail.
7. Kansas Army Ammunition Plant (now Great Plains Industrial Park)
While not open to the public, the former Kansas Army Ammunition Plant near Parsons has been repurposed into the Great Plains Industrial Park. The site's transformation represents efforts to convert federal lands for community and economic development while addressing environmental concerns from its past military use.
8. Santa Fe National Historic Trail
The Santa Fe National Historic Trail passes through Kansas, marking the historic trade route that connected Missouri to Santa Fe, New Mexico. Various sites along the trail in Kansas offer insights into the state's role in westward expansion, including trail ruts, landmarks, and interpretive centers that highlight the cultural exchanges and challenges of the journey.

Ecoregions of Kansas
Central Dissected Till Plains Section
This ecoregion is located in the northeastern corner of Kansas and is characterized by rolling hills and fertile soils derived from glacial till. The area supports a mix of cropland and deciduous forests. The natural vegetation includes oak-hickory forests, but much of the land has been converted to agriculture due to the rich soils.
Central High Tablelands Section
Situated in the northwestern part of the state, the Central High Tablelands are part of the High Plains. This ecoregion features flat to gently rolling terrain with shortgrass prairie vegetation. The semi-arid climate and high elevation make it suitable for grazing and dryland farming, primarily wheat and sorghum.
Central Loess Plains Section
The Central Loess Plains run through central Kansas and are characterized by loess soils deposited by wind. The fertile soils support extensive agriculture, including corn, soybeans, and wheat. The original tallgrass prairie has largely been replaced by cropland, but some remnants remain in protected areas.
Flint Hills Section
The Flint Hills are a unique ecoregion known for their tallgrass prairie and rolling hills composed of flint-rich limestone and shale. This area has shallow soils unsuitable for cultivation, which has helped preserve the native prairie grasses. The region supports cattle ranching and is important for grassland conservation.
Osage Plains Section
Extending into southeastern Kansas, the Osage Plains are characterized by gently rolling prairies and savannas. The ecoregion features a mix of tallgrass and mixed-grass prairies, with soils that support both grazing and some agriculture. The area provides important habitat for grassland birds and other wildlife.
Ozark Highlands Section
The Ozark Highlands occupy a small area in southeastern Kansas. This ecoregion is marked by forested hills, karst topography, and clear streams. The natural vegetation consists of oak-hickory forests, and the area supports diverse plant and animal life. Limestone and chert formations contribute to the region's unique geology.
South-Central Great Plains Section
Located in south-central Kansas, this ecoregion features a mix of prairies and cropland. The terrain is generally flat to gently rolling, with soils derived from ancient sea beds. The area supports agriculture, including wheat and cattle ranching, and contains important wetlands and rivers that provide habitat for wildlife.
Southern High Plains Section
The Southern High Plains in southwestern Kansas are characterized by flat tablelands and a semi-arid climate. This ecoregion features shortgrass prairie vegetation adapted to dry conditions. Agriculture relies heavily on irrigation from the Ogallala Aquifer. The area is important for grain production and supports prairie wildlife.