Rock Springs, Junction City, Kansas

## Overview Rock Springs is a natural spring located within the Rock Springs 4-H Center, a sprawling outdoor education and conference facility situated in the scenic Flint Hills region south of Junction City in Geary County, Kansas. The 4-H Center encompasses over 700 acres of rolling tallgrass prairie, wooded ravines, and limestone outcroppings — and the spring itself is one of the area's defining natural features, lending its name to the entire facility. The Rock Springs 4-H Center has served as a gathering place for Kansas youth programs, retreats, and outdoor education since the mid-20th century. The spring emerges from the limestone geology characteristic of the Flint Hills, where layers of Permian-age rock create natural aquifers that feed surface springs. Historically, springs like this one were vital water sources for early settlers and travelers crossing the Kansas plains. As this spring is situated on the grounds of a private facility, visitors should be aware that access may require permission or coordination with the Rock Springs 4-H Center staff. ## Directions 1. From Junction City, head south on **Kansas Highway 57 (K-57)**. 2. Continue south for approximately 8–10 miles into the Flint Hills. 3. Look for the entrance to the **Rock Springs 4-H Center** along **K-157 Highway** near the address **1027 K-157 Hwy, Junction City, KS 66441**. 4. The spring is located on the grounds of the 4-H Center. Check in at the main office or visitor area for guidance on accessing the spring. **GPS Coordinates:** 38.870587, -96.90156 ## What to Expect The spring is nestled within the beautiful Flint Hills landscape — one of the last remaining expanses of tallgrass prairie in North America. The surrounding terrain features native grasses, limestone ledges, and wooded creek bottoms that make the area a rewarding destination for nature lovers. Because Rock Springs is located on the private grounds of the Rock Springs 4-H Center, access is not guaranteed for casual visitors. The facility hosts camps, conferences, and educational programs throughout the year, so it's advisable to contact the center in advance to ask about visiting the spring. The water has historically been used as a natural water source in the area, though visitors should not assume it is safe to drink without proper testing or treatment. The Flint Hills region is especially stunning in spring and early summer when the prairie grasses are green and wildflowers are in bloom, and again in autumn when controlled burns reveal the dramatic contours of the landscape.