Fort Scott: Fort Scott National Historic Site, (tour historic Fort Scott (in operation from 1842-73). Reenactments, self-guided and audio tours, walking tours). Located in downtown Fort Scott on Old Ford Blvd. (junction of US 69 and 54). 620-223-0310
Cottonwood Falls: Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve, (bird watching, hiking, wildlife and wildflower viewing). From Emporia, take US 50 west, past Strong City. Take Hwy. 177 north, 2 miles. 620-273-8494
Independence Elk City State Park, (bird watching, mountain biking, hunting, fishing, hiking). Located northwest of Independence and east of Elk City. 620-331-6295 www.kdwp.state.ks.us/parks/parks.html