We enjoyed a fun family day trip this weekend to Mushroom Rock State Park. It’s about a 30 minute drive from Lindsborg, KS, which is also a great place to visit! It is the smallest state park in Kansas, but definitely worth seeing! We decided not to tell Gabe where we were going. Even though he is so much like his momma and really doesn’t like surprises, we thought it would be fun to keep it a secret and give him clues on the way. Once we arrived and began exploring and climbing on rocks, he was so happy to be there! The random hugs and huge smile proved that he didn’t mind this surprise.
The park actually has two mushroom-shaped rocks. The first is visible from the parking area and surrounded by a short hiking trail that loops around several smaller rocks that are great for climbing! The second mushroom rock is across the road that enters the park. There is a bench overlooking a bridge leading to another short trail which leads to the second area of the park.
A warning to anyone who is afraid of wasps…this area is guarded by an army of what Michael told me were ground wasps which do not sting humans. I believed him. I’m sure a quick Google search would tell me the truth, but do I really want to know? These guys were the size of large humming birds and as loud as helicopters. Mike marched on in front of us, oblivious to the game of Red Light Green Light we were forced into playing. Gabe and I followed slowly, single file along the trail, freezing in unison each time a wasp darted by. Arriving safely at our destination, we climbed more rocks, danced in a field of wildflowers, and even had time to practice our secret handshake. Gabriel was a bit sad that he didn’t bring his camera, so he took over as photographer for a while. Be sure to scroll all the way down to see his images. He even posed us for most of the photos!
If you are looking for an adventure not too far from Wichita, don’t miss Mushroom Rock State Park! 
Plotting a way to jump from the rock we were sitting on to the one in front of us. Looks like I’m going solo. 
Safety first. The shoes have no grip and must be left behind. 
Ready. Set. Go!
Disney fans, does this face look familiar? Gabe practicing his Flynn Rider smolder
The wasp trail. Don’t worry, Michael was prepared to defend us in case they decided to attack.
Practicing our secret handshake.
Gabriel’s photos. He began shooting at 4 years old when I gave him a camera with manual focus lens. Best way to learn!!
