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14 GRASSROOTS ART CAPITAL OF KANSAS Visit the City of Lucas, Kansas; named the Grassroots Art Capital of Kansas in 1996. Nationally ranked for Best Pheasant Hunting by The Pheasants Forever Organization. Russell County is a hunters paradise with a wide-variety of game. 21 A HUNTERS PARADISE Explore the welcoming and unique local businesses who call Russell County home. 25 EAT, SLEEP, SHOP Table of Contents 6 OPEN FOR BUSINESS Learn about our economic development, culture, and quality of life.
We provide millions of dollars in grants and scholarships to help our hospital, schools, churches, arts, parks, students and more achieve their dreams. Join our donors who are making a difference in Russell County. WWW.RCACF.ORG 785.445.3611 Preserving our rural way of life BEGINS WITH YOU 3
Greetings from Russell County, Kansas! Whether you're looking to relocate your business and family, or just exploring the vast attractions, businesses, and scenery of the area, we hope you feel right at home. As you will see throughout this guide, Russell County offers a unique lifestyle and experience! Although having the small-town feel, you will find access to high-quality education, healthcare options, and some of the best outdoor recreational opportunities in Kansas. If you're already here, welcome! If you're planning your next trip, we hope to see you soon! Please reach out if you have any questions. We're here to help! MIKE PARSONS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR MAGGIE HOLLOWAY TOURISM DIRECTOR
Russell County is located in North Central Kansas where two major Highways(Highway 281 and I-70) meet. Half of the communities are located along I-70, whilethe remaining communities can be found along Highway K-18. The communitieswithin Russell County offer small town charm, but are also in close proximity to acity when needed.North Central Kansas is known to have mild, yet distinct seasons, that offer everchanging beauty and comfortable temperatures.Tesla charging stations can be foundin the city of Russell along with ahistoric park, splash pad and visitorscenter located downtown.Kansas City Airport to Russell - 252 milesDenver Airport to Russell - 355 milesSalina to Russell - 72 milesHays to Russell - 28 miles
OPEN FOR BUSINESS
7 Russell County Economic Development & CVB is a valuable partner to several incentives and resources including: Business Startup, Relocation, Expansion, and Succession Planning Capital Access & Gap Funding Storefront/Signage Improvement Grant Opportunities Business Planning and Cost Benefit Analysis Tax Abatement Programs Local, Regional, State and Federal Incentives Commercial and Residential Development Sites are available. 4 INDUSTRIAL AND COMMERCIAL OPPORTUNITY WITH A HIGH QUALITY OF LIFE Russell County is centrally positioned with access to everywhere. Centered at the crossroads of Interstate 70 and U.S. Highway 281, approximately 230 miles west of Kansas City and 350 miles east of Denver, our location provides easy access across North America. Offering a variety of business benefits, options such as rail service and municipal airports, city owned utilities, public transportation, and technology resources (high speed fiber), we are open for business.
Russell County School District USD 407 USD 407, Russell County Schools, serves approximately 800 students and employs nearly 200 staff members. The four schools are a major fixture of the community. Simpson Elementary consists of grades PK-1, Bickerdyke Elementary consists of grades 2-5, Ruppenthal Middle School consists of grades 6-8, and Russell High School consists of grades 9-12. USD 407 is committed to providing 21st-century learning and expanding Career and Technical Education (CTE). Russell High School will implement a welding program this school year (2023-2024) and looks forward to beginning the year with a makeover to the CNA program that was partially implemented last school year. USD 407 has plans to further expand programming and looks to continue to partner with community members and organizations for support and to address workforce needs. USD 407 is proud of its programs and has dedicated staff members who make each day meaningful for students. You can learn more about our schools by visiting our website, www.usd407.org. Jordan Perez, USD 407 Superintendent EXCELLING IN EDUCATION
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THE SKILL TO HEAL. THESPIRIT TO CARE.surrounding areas. We believe that our special touch is in the providing of modern medicinewith old-fashioned care. As one of Russell County's largest employers, we work to innovateand grow healthcare services.Russell Regional Hospital offers 24 - hour physician coverage of the Emergency Department,Acute Care and Main Street Manor (21 bed long-term care facility), Russell Regional Hospital Physicians Clinic and Specialty Clinic are all located on the RRH health campus. Additionalservices include: Rheumatology, Radiology, Lab, Acute Care, Rehabilitation Services, General
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Surgery, Outpatient Services, Swing Bed, Massage Therapy, Respiratory Therapy, Wound Care Clinic, and Behavioral Health.
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Russell County Roots
Founded in 1867, Russell County is home to many historical structures, wellpreserved artifacts and popular figures in time including former United States Senators Bob Dole, Arlen Specter and Civil War Nurse Mary Ann "Mother" Bickerdyke. Tales of historic journeys, workmanship and economic victories can befound in the 10 museums and historic markers throughout Russell County.Ste bac i tim....13
Founded in 1867, Russell County is home to many historical structures, wellpreserved artifacts and popular figures in time including former United States Senators Bob Dole, Arlen Specter and Civil War Nurse Mary Ann "Mother" Bickerdyke. Tales of historic journeys, workmanship and economic victories can befound in the 10 museums and historic markers throughout Russell County.Ste bac i tim....13
Founded in 1867, Russell County is home to many historical structures, wellpreserved artifacts and popular figures in time including former United States Senators Bob Dole, Arlen Specter and Civil War Nurse Mary Ann "Mother" Bickerdyke. Tales of historic journeys, workmanship and economic victories can befound in the 10 museums and historic markers throughout Russell County.Ste bac i tim....13
Artistic VibesGrassrootsArt Capitalof KansasLocated in the northern part ofRussell County at Highway K-18and the 232 junction along side thePost Rock Scenic Byway sits thecommunity of Lucas; TheGrassroots Art Capital of Kansas,and the Second Best Small TownArt Scene by USA Today in 2023.Unique art lines the streets of townand guides you to a variety of one ofa kind artistic attractions includingthe Bowl Plaza, Garden of Eden,Grassroots Art Center, Millers Park,Switch-grass Art Coop and more.
15MuralsTake a stroll around Russell Countyand immerse yourself in our realisticand radiant murals. Learn about thehistory, patriotism, and love of localentities through the inspiring muralsfound throughout Russell County.Deines CulturalCenterLocated in Downtown Russell, Kansas,the Deines Cultural Center is anon-profit space for art exhibitions, livemusic, performances, and local arthistory. Each month the Deines exhibitsnew art from local, regional, andnational artists, as well as pieces fromthe permanent collection of historicPrairie Printmaker, E. Hubert Deines,and his contemporaries.820 N. Main Street,785-483-3742.Deinesculturalcenter.org
Scenic Views
17 Trails Find your outdoor adventure by checking out the trails of Russell County. Home to a wide variety of trails located at Wilson Lake and in the city of Russell. The trails of Russell County provide activities such as hiking, mountain biking, nature walks and general recreational use. The internationally award winning mountain bike trail Switchgrass consists of three loops suitable for different experience levels. Explore nature and hike the Rocktown Trail leading down to the beautiful one-of-a-kind sight known as Rocktown at Wilson Lake. The Dakota Trail shows off the immense beauty of Wilson Lake and the beautiful prairie that surrounds it. Other trails that can be found at Wilson Lake include the Bur Oak Trail, Cedar Trail and the Prairie Fire Hiking Trail at Minooka Park. Other trails in Russell County include the Memorial Park Walking Trail and the Russell Regional Hospital Walking Trail.
Wilson Lake offers over 9,000 water surface acres and over 100 miles of stunning shoreline. Recognized for it's boating, camping, fishing, hunting, swimming, hiking and bike trails, Wilson Lake is the leading recreational resource for many surrounding communities. Fishing License Fees Resident: Fishing $27.50 Lifetime Fishing - $502.50 Combo Hunt & Fish - $47.50 Non- Resident Fishing: $52.50 5-day Fishing - $27.50 Combo Hunt & Fish - $137.50 Boats | Repairs Dock's Boat's & RV | Russell Wilson Lake Marina | Wilson Lake Rentals Wilson Lake Marina Knotheads Baitshop at Wilson Lake Epic Outdoors
19 Switchgrass Mountain Bike Trail at Wilson Lake State Park is 21.5 miles long and can take up to 2-5 hours to complete. Featuring spectacular scenic views, turns of all sorts with rock drops and rock gardens. Complete with three main loops: Golden Belt Loop, Marina Loop, and Hell Creek Loop. The trails are also great for hiking and running. Switchgrass Mountain Bike Trail was awarded an "Epic Award" from the International Mountain Bicycling Association. Enjoy boating on the clearest lake in Kansas! On the water conveniences such as snacks, ice and more are available at the Lake Wilson Marina. Wilson Lake is home to two state record fish. A 13.16-pound walleye and a 44-pound striped bass. A variety of species can be found at Wilson Lake, including walleye, catfish, stripers, bass, and crappie. Soak up scenic views and experience a one-of-a-kind kayaking experience in Russell County. Kayak through coves of limestone bedrock and the beauty of nature while enjoying the clear waters of Wilson Lake. Fishing Biking Kayaking Boating
Vehicle PermitsDaily: $5.00 park office$6.00 on-lineAnnual: $25.00Senior/Disabled Daily : $3.25Senior/Disabled Annual: $13.75Camping PermitsDaily: $10.00Annual: $202.50-$252.50Fourteen Day: $112.50Additional Fee's may applyHunting FeesResident Hunt: $27.50Under 16: No license requiredCombo Hunt & Fish: $47.505 Year: $102.50Multi-Year Youth:$45.50-$72.50Non-Resident Hunt:$97.50Under 16: $42.50 ComboHunt & Fish: $137.50
Kansas Wildlife and Park Fees
21A Hunter's PARADISEA wonderland for the wild, filled with Kansas upland game,deer and turkey that roam the countryside of RussellCounty, ranked #18 of the 35 best hunting and fishingtowns throughout the United States Outdoor Life haslabeled Russell County a hunters & fisherman's paradise. Guided HuntsLaSada Lodge785-483-3725Guided upland, turkey and deer hunting in the heart of Kansas. Full-service lodge, event center,shooting range, wedding venue and more.www.lasada.comLast Chance Wings & Labs, LLC785-483-0248Winner of the 2022 and 2023 Venku Hunters Choice Award.Ensuring each and every hunter the ultimate chance to bag a native pheasant, turkey, or shootseveral waterfowl species in the central flyway! Each hunt includes a guide, dogs, transportationto field, bird processing and lunch for full day hunts. For more information on the hunting ratesplease contact Stuart.Wolf Creek Outfitters785-658-5208Entering their 20th year of guided hunts, Wolf Creek Outfitters specialize in muzzle loader,archery, and rifle hunts. Each hunt is a full five-day hunt. Meals, lodging and transportation areincluded. Kansas has earned nationwide recognition as one of the best opportunities to harvest atrophy buck, and north central Kansas produces the kind of monsters that only dreams are madeof. At Wolf Creek Outfitters, we strive to make your dream a reality. Experience the thrill ofharvesting a Kansas monster buck or a prize turkey! Wolf Creek Outfitters has everything youwill need included in your hunt.
BUNKER HILL | DORRANCE | GORHAM | LUCAS | LURAY | PARADISE | RUSSELL | WALDOBunker HillLocated at exit 193 off of I-70 is the town of Bunker Hill. Founded in 1871 Bunker Hillholds a tremendous amount of Russell County history. Attractions found in Bunker Hillinclude a historic gas station, the original county jail, the headstone of Chief SpottedHorse, the Bunker Hill Museum and a beautiful buffalo statue marking the location ofthe first county courthouse.DorranceThe city of Dorrance can be found at the 199 exit off of I-70. Welcoming you to town isthe veterans memorial and the city park. Along Main Street you can find the DorranceMuseum and the Dorrance Bankery. A couple miles outside of town is Granny Mae'sPumpkin Patch. Rated #7 in the Best 25 Pumpkin Patches in the Untied States.GorhamEstablished in 1879 the city of Gorham; a farming community, can be found off of exit175 on I-70. In the 1920's discovery of oil deposits found near Gorham in RussellCounty lead to an oil boom stimulating Gorham's economic growth. Today, oil andfarming are still two of Gorham's main industries. Attractions around Gorham includethe Gorham City Park and the Carrie Oswald Monument which is located on FairportRoad 9 miles north of Gorham, marking the location of the first oil well struck inRussell County.LucasLucas, named the Grassroots Art Capital of Kansas in 1996 is tucked along side thePost Rock Scenic Byway in Russell County at the intersection of K-18 and Hwy 232.Filled with multiple unique art attractions and approximately 12 miles from WilsonLake, Lucas offers a wide variety of amenities for both locals and visitors. Lucas is alsohome to one of the oldest meat markets in the United States, Brant's Market.Explore
LurayLocated half way between Paradise and the Garden of Eden on Hwy K-18 sitsthe community of Luray. This farming community is home to the Play LuraySand Green Golf Course and the First Log Cabin in Russell County which wascompleted in the winter of 1871.ParadiseLocated on Hwy K-18 is the community of Paradise. The first sight you'll seewhen you enter town is the Paradise Water Tower, constructed during the GreatDepression. The water tower was built out of limestone and is the only watertower of it's kind in Kansas. In 2007 the Paradise Water Tower was named tothe National Registrar of Historic Places by the U.S. Department of the InteriorNationals Parks Service.RussellThe city of Russell, conveniently located on Hwy 281 and I-70 is the largest city inthe county and the county seat. Home to a bustling and beautiful downtown, youcan find a variety of retail, lodging, and dining options within the city of Russellalong with other attractions such as a sports complex, the Russell Golf Course,Fossil Lake, Playdium Bowl, multiple museums and more! The city of Russell isalso the hometown to United States Senator's Bob Dole and Arlen Specter.WaldoTucked in between Paradise and Luray on Hwy K-18 you'll find Waldo. The smallrural community of Waldo is home to the Waldo After Harvest Fireworks Showwhich draws thousands to town the second Saturday of July. Waldo's history canbe found at the Waldo Museum located in the Waldo Senior Center.23
THE BEST EATERIES AROUND! You can find a variety of delicious eateries around Russell County. From home-style cooking, delightful paninis, saucy BBQ and more, we invite you to stop by, grab a seat and maybe even enjoy a cold one! QUALITY REST FOR A QUALITY TRIP 25 FRIENDLY, CHARMING, WELCOMING
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