Photo credit:
LCCF
Monument Rocks
50 feet chalk formations with fossils
"Chalk" full of fossils and rising up to 50 feet above ground, and descending 300 feet below, this natural formation was created during the late Cretaceous Period of geologic history. The area was covered by the Western Interior Seaway which extended from the present day Gulf of Mexico north through Canada. When the sea receded, it left behind these magnificent marine sedimentary deposits that have eroded over time. Every inch represents 700 years of history!
In 1968 Monument Rocks was designated as the first National Natural Landmark in Kansas and in 2006 was voted one of the 8 Wonders of Kansas
Monument Rocks plays an important role in the history of the Smoky Hill Valley area. In the 1860's, The Butterfield Overland Despatch (BOD) trail, also known as the Smoky Hill Trail, used these rocks as a landmark to guide travelers through the region along the trail. Fort Monument (1865-1868) was established about one mile southwest to protect the trail, but there are no remains of the "fort" today.
Experience the striking beauty of these rock outcroppings on the Kansas prairie, weather permitting, from dawn till dusk.
Monument Rocks are on unpaved roads in Gove County, 20 miles south of Oakley off Hwy 83. GPS Coordinates: N 38º 44.578' W 100º 76.236
Please Note: Monument Rocks is located on private property. The owners graciously allow any and all to come see and view this wonderful landmark. Please adhere to the guidelines set forth. No climbing. No fossil hunting. No camping. No horses. No littering. No campfires. Take only pictures, leave only footprints. For up-to date regulations, please refer to the Monument Rocks:
