Syracuse Sand Dune Park, Syracuse, KS
In the summer of 2007, 1,280 acres of prime dunes in Syracuse, Kansas, opened up for ATV riding and it's a great place.
Syracuse is just 15 minutes south of the Colorado border along Highway 50. Less than 27 years ago, these exceptional sand dunes were closed to the public and leased to a local rancher. The lease has since expired and the local community foresees a strong financial recovery for Syracuse due largely to the park’s tourism and the revenue it will generate.
Gate fees are $7 daily for each rider. Seasonal passes are available. RV and tent sites will vary in cost.
At first glance, the park appears to be nothing more than several hundred
acres of grass and sage brush. But that's a thin coat of growth over some
amazing dunes. During the 2007/2008 season, most of the top coat will get
churned down by both visitors riding the park and staff labor.
The site features rolling hills, bowls and some fast flat areas that will appeal to the sand drag enthusiasts.
Over the next two seasons, some elaborate sand trails will be created to
weave through the park. Currently in the park there are no dunes higher than
50 feet. But the the city is considering buying adjoining sections of land
that would not only include several more play areas but could increase the
overall size of the park to about 1,600 to 2,000 acres, making it the
largest sand park in the Midwest.
While the RV Park is in its infancy and still requires the finishing design and development, visitors will find themselves right at home camped next to a fishing lake that will eventually include paddle boats and swimming. Just a few hundred feet north, visitors will find the Arkansas River that originates in Colorado.
The Syracuse Sand Dune Park Steering Committee is striving to achieve a wholesome environment for its new tourists. Among the many attractions the park will offer, families will enjoy a night at the local old-time theater where vintage and new releases can be seen.
This community of 1,800 people also supports amenities such as a grocery
store, restaurants, gas stations, motel, airport, hospital and a historic
museum.
Although you will find hardware and auto parts stores in town you won’t find any ATV or off-road shops yet. For now, it’s a good idea to bring a few spare parts. Fuel can only be purchased in town because there are no pumps at the park.
You don’t need a crystal ball to realize that the Syracuse Sand Dune Park will become a favorite among sand dune enthusiasts in over 10 surrounding states. As the park settles in, you can bet its enthusiastic steering committee will mold this riding area into a world-class destination.
Riders 15 years old and younger are required to wear helmets. All vehicles are required to have whip antennas with orange flags reaching 10 feet high from the ground up. Night riders are required to have both a headlight and tail light. No glass or alcoholic beverages are allowed on the dunes.
For more information, visit the Syracuse Sand Dune Park website or call toll free: (888) 501-SAND (7263).