The article "What States Border Kansas?" provides a comprehensive overview of the states that share a border with Kansas. This informative piece aims to highlight the geographical significance of Kansas by examining its neighboring states and their respective boundaries. By exploring the states that border Kansas, readers will gain a deeper understanding of the state’s location and its role in the broader regional context.
States that border Kansas
Nebraska
Nebraska is one of the states that shares a border with Kansas. Located to the north of Kansas, Nebraska forms a significant part of the state’s eastern boundary. The border between Kansas and Nebraska stretches for approximately 359 miles, making it one of the longest borders that Kansas shares with its neighboring states. The border region is characterized by diverse landscapes, including rolling plains, fertile farmlands, and scenic rivers.
Missouri
To the east of Kansas lies Missouri, another state that borders Kansas. The Kansas-Missouri border extends for about 200 miles, forming a significant portion of both states’ boundaries. This border region is known for its historical significance, particularly during the Civil War era. Today, it offers a blend of urban and rural landscapes, with bustling cities like Kansas City on the Missouri side and vibrant communities on the Kansas side.
Oklahoma
Kansas shares a southern border with Oklahoma, making it one of its neighboring states. The Kansas-Oklahoma border spans approximately 75 miles, primarily in the southern region of Kansas. This border region is characterized by a mix of grasslands, agricultural areas, and small towns. The unique blend of cultures and landscapes in this area provides opportunities for outdoor activities and exploration.
Colorado
To the west of Kansas lies Colorado, forming a border that stretches for around 178 miles. This Kansas-Colorado border region features diverse landscapes, including the vast prairies of western Kansas and the majestic Rocky Mountains of Colorado. The border area is known for its natural beauty, offering opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to indulge in activities like hiking, camping, and wildlife spotting.
These neighboring states play a significant role in shaping Kansas’ culture, economy, and history. The borders they share with Kansas create a sense of connection and provide opportunities for trade, tourism, and cultural exchange. Whether it’s exploring the historical landmarks, enjoying the natural wonders, or experiencing the unique charm of each state, the borders of Kansas offer a gateway to a diverse range of experiences.
Nebraska
Counties that border Nebraska
Nebraska, a state located in the Midwestern United States, shares borders with several counties that are adjacent to Kansas. These counties include:
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Richardson County: Situated in the southeastern part of Nebraska, Richardson County forms a border with Kansas. It is known for its scenic beauty and offers various recreational activities like camping, fishing, and hiking.
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Pawnee County: Located in the southeastern corner of Nebraska, Pawnee County shares a border with Kansas. This county boasts a rich history and is home to attractions such as the Pawnee City Historical Society Museum and the Pawnee City Bridge.
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Nemaha County: Nemaha County, positioned in the southeastern part of Nebraska, also shares a border with Kansas. This county offers a blend of small-town charm and natural beauty, with opportunities for outdoor activities like boating, hunting, and birdwatching.
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Otoe County: Situated in the southeastern part of Nebraska, Otoe County forms a border with Kansas. This county is known for its vibrant communities, historic sites, and recreational areas such as Wildwood Lake and the Indian Cave State Park.
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Johnson County: Located in the southeastern corner of Nebraska, Johnson County shares a border with Kansas. This county offers a mix of rural landscapes and modern amenities, with attractions like the Tecumseh State Correctional Institution and the Nemaha Valley Museum.
These counties form the border between Kansas and Nebraska, creating a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. Visitors to the region can explore the diverse offerings of both states while enjoying the scenic landscapes and engaging in various recreational activities.
Missouri
Counties that border Missouri
Missouri shares borders with a total of nine counties in Kansas. These counties are:
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Atchison County: Located in the northeastern part of Kansas, Atchison County is adjacent to Missouri’s Holt County. The Missouri River separates the two counties, offering picturesque views and recreational opportunities.
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Doniphan County: Situated in the northeastern corner of Kansas, Doniphan County is bordered by Missouri’s Buchanan County. The Missouri River acts as a natural boundary between these two counties.
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Leavenworth County: Found in the northeastern part of Kansas, Leavenworth County shares a border with Missouri’s Platte County. The mighty Missouri River flows between the two counties, creating a scenic backdrop.
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Wyandotte County: Located in the northeastern corner of Kansas, Wyandotte County is adjacent to Missouri’s Jackson County. The Kansas and Missouri Rivers converge near these counties, adding to the beauty of the region.
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Johnson County: Situated in the eastern part of Kansas, Johnson County shares a border with Missouri’s Cass and Jackson Counties. The county line runs along the Kansas and Missouri Rivers, providing a natural division between these areas.
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Miami County: Found in the eastern part of Kansas, Miami County is bordered by Missouri’s Bates County. The counties are separated by rolling hills and picturesque landscapes.
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Linn County: Located in the eastern part of Kansas, Linn County shares a border with Missouri’s Bates County. The Marais des Cygnes River flows through both counties, offering recreational opportunities.
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Bourbon County: Situated in the southeastern part of Kansas, Bourbon County is adjacent to Missouri’s Vernon County. The Marmaton River meanders through these counties, providing a scenic route for outdoor enthusiasts.
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Cherokee County: Found in the southeastern part of Kansas, Cherokee County shares a border with Missouri’s Jasper County. These counties are connected by the Spring River, which adds to the natural beauty of the region.
These counties that border Missouri not only contribute to the geographical diversity of Kansas but also foster cultural and economic exchange between the two states. Whether it’s exploring the riverfront areas or enjoying the scenic landscapes, these bordering counties offer plenty of opportunities for residents and visitors alike.
Oklahoma
Counties that border Oklahoma
Kansas shares its southern border with the state of Oklahoma. There are six counties in Kansas that directly border Oklahoma:
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Cowley County: Located in the south-central part of Kansas, Cowley County is the northernmost county that shares a border with Oklahoma. It is known for its beautiful landscapes, including the scenic Flint Hills and the Arkansas River.
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Chautauqua County: Situated just east of Cowley County, Chautauqua County is another Kansas county that borders Oklahoma. It offers a mix of rolling prairies, forests, and picturesque lakes, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
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Elk County: Located to the northeast of Chautauqua County, Elk County is another county in Kansas that shares a border with Oklahoma. It is known for its diverse wildlife and stunning natural beauty, including the Elk City Lake and Elk River.
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Montgomery County: Situated in the southeast corner of Kansas, Montgomery County is adjacent to Oklahoma. It is home to the scenic Elk City State Park, which offers opportunities for camping, hiking, and fishing.
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Labette County: Located to the northeast of Montgomery County, Labette County is another Kansas county that borders Oklahoma. It is known for its vibrant agricultural community and charming small towns.
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Cherokee County: Situated in the extreme southeast corner of Kansas, Cherokee County shares a border with Oklahoma. It is home to the beautiful Big Brutus, the world’s largest electric shovel, and offers a mix of scenic landscapes and historical attractions.
These counties serve as gateways between Kansas and Oklahoma, providing opportunities for cultural exchange, trade, and tourism. They showcase the unique charm and natural beauty of both states, making them worth exploring for visitors and locals alike.
Colorado
Counties that border Colorado
Colorado is one of the neighboring states that border Kansas. It shares a significant boundary with several counties in Kansas. These counties act as a link between the two states, facilitating various interactions and exchanges.
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Cheyenne County: Located in the far northwest corner of Kansas, Cheyenne County shares a border with Colorado. It is known for its beautiful landscapes, including the Arikaree Breaks and St. Francis Lake. The county’s proximity to Colorado offers residents and visitors easy access to attractions and activities in both states.
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Kit Carson County: Situated in the eastern region of Colorado, Kit Carson County forms a border with Kansas. This county is home to diverse landscapes, including vast plains and picturesque farmlands. The shared border with Kansas allows for seamless travel and trade opportunities between the two states.
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Sherman County: Positioned in the northwest corner of Kansas, Sherman County shares a border with Colorado. This county is characterized by its rural charm, with rolling plains and agricultural communities. The proximity to Colorado brings additional recreational options and economic benefits to the residents of Sherman County.
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Wallace County: Located in the westernmost part of Kansas, Wallace County is adjacent to Colorado. This county boasts stunning prairies and the Smoky Valley Ranch, a nature preserve offering excellent opportunities for outdoor activities. The border with Colorado enhances the cultural and economic ties between these neighboring regions.
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Greeley County: Situated in southwest Kansas, Greeley County shares a border with Colorado. This county is known for its unique combination of farmland and sand dunes, offering visitors a diverse natural environment to explore. The proximity to Colorado opens up avenues for tourism and trade between the two states.
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Hamilton County: Positioned in the southwestern region of Kansas, Hamilton County borders Colorado. This county is characterized by its rural landscapes and agricultural productivity. The shared border facilitates easy access to resources and services available in both Kansas and Colorado.
These counties, bordering Colorado, play a significant role in connecting Kansas with its neighboring state. The shared boundaries promote the exchange of culture, trade, and tourism, fostering a sense of unity and mutual growth between Kansas and Colorado.
The state of Kansas shares its borders with several states in the United States. To the north, it is bordered by Nebraska, while to the east it is bordered by Missouri. Oklahoma lies to the south, and to the west, Colorado is the neighboring state. These bordering states play a significant role in the cultural, economic, and social interactions between Kansas and its neighbors. Understanding the geographic connections and relationships between Kansas and its surrounding states is essential for comprehending the state’s history, demographics, and regional influences.