Camp Branch Glade: A small reserve packed with nature
Camp Branch Glade is a unique southeast Johnson County park that has preserved some of the area’s native wildness. Its 58 acres include a glade, prickly pear cactus, a sinkhole, large limestone boulders and a rocky, clear tributary to Camp Branch Creek and the Blue River.
Camp Branch Glade Park and trail, Stillwell, Kansas
This small park has preserved some of Johnson County’s natural features.
Trail Camp Branch Glade trail
Overview
Camp Branch Glade preserves a pocket of Johnson County’s native wildness. Its 58 acres include natural features rare to the county. These include a limestone glade, prickly pear cactus, a sinkhole, limestone boulders and a rocky, clear tributary to Camp Branch Creek and the Blue River. It’s a small park that’s big on natural wonders.
Length 1.5 miles total in three loops
Address and location 5151 W. 175th St., Stilwell, Kan., 66085
Conditions This is a rustic, dirt trail but it is well marked and has only moderate elevation changes.
Kid friendly? This trail is not suitable for strollers, but supervised children should do fine. There is a portable restroom.
How busy? Low to moderate traffic.
Pets Yes, on a leash (unless otherwise designated). Read Johnson County Park rules here.
Bikes Non-motorized bicycles are permitted.
A Heritage of Outdoor Recreation in Olathe
Olathe’s 1,200-care Heritage Park includes Heritage Lake and serves as a trailhead for the 3.4-mile Coffee Creek Trail. The lake, which is often frequented by kayakers, is a prime location to observe waterfowl. It’s also home to a golf course and many recreational areas.
Waterfowl are abundant at Heritage Lake at Olathe’s Heritage Park.
Circle Heritage Lake and experience wildlife in southern Johnson County.
Trail Heritage Park trails
Overview Olathe’s 1,200-care Heritage Park includes Heritage Lake and serves as a trailhead for the 3.4-mile Coffee Creek Trail. The lake, which is often frequented by kayakers, is a prime location to observe waterfowl. It’s also home to a golf course and many recreational areas.
Length The loop around the Heritage Lake area is about one mile. However, it connects with the 3.4-mile Coffee Creek Streamway Trail.
Address and location You can access the Heritage Lake loop from the main parking lot or anywhere near the lake.
Heritage Park, 16050 Pflumm Road, Olathe, Kan., 66062
Conditions Easy walk with minimal elevation changes. Paved. Significant portions of the trail are unshaded, so be mindful of heat and sun.
Kid friendly? This trail is paved and well maintained so it’s suitable for strollers and children on bicycles. The trail around Heritage Lake is busy, so caregivers will need to be attentive to children’s safety. In addition, walking near the lake requires parents to be mindful of small children and water safety. The park includes a playground.
Restrooms There are permanent and portable restrooms in the park.
How busy? This is a popular and often busy trail.
Pets Yes, on a leash (unless otherwise designated). Read Johnson County park rules here.
Bikes Non-motorized bicycles are permitted.
