Are you looking for your new favorite hunting or fishing spot? Among the many things to do in the Gypsum Hills of south-central Kansas are three of its most popular and sought-after pastimes: hunting, fishing, and observing wildlife.
Hunting
The Gyp Hills is an excellent location for great hunting opportunities. It has just the right combination of trees, river, and open spaces that make it ideal for hunting. Barber State Fishing Lake and Gyp Hills Guest Ranch are popular hunting locations in the Gyp Hills near Medicine Lodge, Kansas.
Kansas State Hunting licenses are available at Orscheln and White’s Foodline.
This region is known for its
- Wild turkeys
- Deer (including world class bucks)
- Quail
- Pheasant
- Racoons
- Waterfowl
- Cottontail rabbit
Although most of the hunting areas are located on private property, you can call ahead to arrange your hunting excursion.
Fishing
The Gyp Hills welcome people who enjoy fishing! You’ll find the experience of fishing in the Gyp Hills therapeutic and relaxing. You may even experience some excitement if you catch something! Whether you fish alone or with family and friends, you’ll love the serenity of fishing among the Gyp Hills.
Barber State Fishing Lake is a 77-acre fishing lake located at the north part of Medicine Lodge, Kansas. It offers primitive camping around the lake, encourages fishing, and features a two-mile hiking trail around its perimeter called Red Cedar Nature Trail. You can take your boat out on the lake for fishing.
Kansas State Fishing licenses are available at Orscheln and White’s Foodliner. Bait is available at Phillips 66 Black Diamond, White’s, and Farmer’s Coop Equity (next to Pizza Hut).
In the lake, you’ll find the following, and more!
- Bluegill
- Carp
- Channel catfish (stocked yearly)
- Crappie
- Largemouth bass
- Walleye
There is a wide variety of fishing opportunities in the lakes, reservoirs, and streams of the Gyp Hills. Grab your fishing gear and prepare to cast your line! You’re sure to find your new favorite fishing spot!
Observing Wildlife
The Gypsum Hills Scenic Byway and the Gypsum Hills Scenic Drive are perfect for those who prefer to experience nature and wildlife from more of a distance. On either one of these drives, you’ll enjoy gorgeous panoramic views. You’ll be amazed by the landscapes created by the rolling farmland, prairies, and rugged, red hills.
The area is full of rich, vibrant color from the wildflowers, the red and green cedar trees, and the rust-colored hills. It truly is a sight to behold!
You’re also likely to encounter an abundance of wildlife. You can spot bobcats, coyotes, porcupines, raccoons, 13-lined ground squirrels, lizards, frogs, snakes, or tarantulas. You may even see an armadillo. The region also attracts a variety of fascinating birds, such as great blue herons, American white pelicans, American blue robins, and bald eagles.
You’ll make lasting memories when you take advantage of the hunting, fishing, and wildlife in the Gyp Hills.
