Coronado Heights

Wow! Visiting Coronado Heights was one of the highlights of my trip to south central Kansas. Kansas isn't known for its elevation, but this is one place in the area where you can feel like you're up high. In reality, it's just a hill, sitting in front of a plain, asking you to love it. But it's a pretty neat hill, Coronado Heights is. And on the top of the hill is a castle!Yes, there's a real castle here, which you can explore. It's believed that Spanish explorer Francisco Vasquez de Coronado and his soldiers used this area as a lookout point because it sits about 300 feet above the prairie. All kinds of historical items have been found in this area that back up this idea, including bits of chain mail and Spanish coins.I visited around sunset, which is a beautiful time to visit. There are a few picnic areas that you can use, with fire pits, grills and tables. The people I was with had the foresight to bring some marshmallows, chocolate and graham crackers, so we made some s'mores and enjoyed them in the twilight near the castle. It was a beautiful time.One thing to note: The restrooms are primitive (aka port-a-potties).

Created as part of a WPA project this historic spot is a must visit when in the area. You drive up the winding hill and at the top you'll find a really cool "castle" built by the WPA for enjoyment by the public. It's surrounded by the regional folklore that Coronado made it this far north before turning around and subsequently returning to Spain. There's a lot to love here, from the spectacular views, to the surrounding nature, to the history of the building itself. Below are my tips for optimal enjoyment: 1. Use the restroom before you get here. I think there are some on site, but they don't look great, and while the local municipalities try to keep this place up to snuff it's frequently vandalized by teens so I have very little confidence in the restrooms being super clean. 2. Wear good shoes! There are a few great little trails up top and it's fun to explore. 3. Bring your camera. The views from up top are really spectacular. 4. Keep your eyes peeled for native plants and wildlife. Last time I was here I saw a horn toad! 5. Have fun! Keep small kiddos close by as the top of this structure does not have great barriers, and I bet there are snakes about.

Coronado is a great spot for pictures or a midday walk. The view is incredible. Please relieve yourself before you go! (Theres one "bathroom" and its not for the faint)

This place is a must see if haven't seen. There's a potty for bathroom, but it was to dirty, so use the bathroom beforehand. Great place to stop and relax for a while. They have tables for picnic. Bring food and drinks. There's a fireplace if needed to set a fire going. Great place for parties or dates. Last 3 miles of gravel road to get here, but I seen Tesla's drive through. Great place for sunsets and sunrises.

My husband and I stopped by this roadside attraction during our short getaway to Lindsborg. We went to the top of the castle and you can see the countryside for miles! There are hiking trails for you to go in which we plan to do next time when I'm wearing appropriate shoes! There are a dozen or more picnic table areas set up and each also have a fire pit area. It's pretty neat. The bathrooms there are pretty rough though. Lol. Can't wait to go back and show our kids.

Definitely a place to take the kids for a fun filled day. Wander around, it's worth it!

Apparently this spot got its name after a Spanish dubloon was found up on the hill. It was supposed this was the farthest north Coronado ventured. I came here with my boyfriend and we had to dodge a busload of tots who were jumping through the little castle, but it was well worth the adventure. The lichen-covered rocks that were laid down with such purpose by the Work Progess Administration in the 1930s... The ridiculously cute matching BBQ pit across the site... The view of giant Kansas sky... The fact that you're in the middle of nowhere (pardon the exaggeration, folks) on top of a miniature castle and you've just climbed through a hole in the ceiling to get to where you're at. If you don't enjoy the legend, you've got to enjoy that.If you're coming through the Salina/Lindsborg area you should check it out-- weather permitting, of course. There are some steep hills so rain and ice could make this place tricky. Great place to stop and picnic, rest from the road or bring the kids. Even a whole busload of them.

Really dug this. It was a neat place to stop off on our road trip New Year's Day 2016. It's not very well marked at all. Another reviewer did an excellent job with the details so I won't be long winded with this one. But it's a neat place with a lovely view and some space to stretch your legs and take a short walk or hike. Plenty of picnic tables, a few inside the castle and several more outside. There are a few different spots where guests can build a small fire as well. Very crude restroom facilities with no stalls or door, but better than having to go behind a bush at least! Almost no signage here as I mentioned earlier. There is a circular winding, narrow, but well cared for road leading up to the park and castle. We had a very windy picnic and enjoyed a bit of exploring. I'd come back!

Are dogs allowed in the castle and everywhere else? Let me know please. Thanks have a great day

Great views of the countryside, and nice trails you can walk or ride bikes on. Has a few tables for picnicking.