The Smoky Hills stretch like a soft spine across central Kansas—an unexpected geography of limestone outcrops, velvet ridges, and the kind of vistas that make you reconsider everything you thought you knew about the Plains. This isn’t a land of wide emptiness; it’s a quiet swell of earth holding onto the memory of ancient seas, wind-worn prairie, and old limestone towns that carry both character and calm. In these hills, the sky feels more like a ceiling than a dome.
The region’s name—evocative of a bluish haze that settles over the hills at twilight—feels earned, not imagined. Out here, you’re more likely to pass a hawk than a highway sign, and the rhythm of life favors windbreaks, silo shadows, and the long view.
Tucked into this rolling geography are neighborhoods that hum with understatement: places like Brookville’s hill-wrapped outskirts or the wooded pockets around Wilson Lake, where driveways curve like creeks through cottonwoods. The road narrows near Assaria, where the air smells faintly of wheat and river rock, and Lindsborg’s outer valleys blend cultural legacy with rural stillness. These aren’t ghost towns or boomtowns. They’re lived-in landscapes with porches, work gloves, and calendars pinned beside coffee pots.
This article maps out 10 of the most secluded neighborhoods in Kansas’ Smoky Hills—locales shaped more by geology and grit than by zoning boards or cul-de-sacs. It’s a survey of the slow and the steady, of communities where time pools rather than races. Here, the edges blur: between sky and field, between past and present, between solitude and connection.
10. Hinterlands of Saline County
The Hinterlands of Saline County offer a peaceful escape amid vast stretches of natural landscapes. This area is dotted with secluded properties where residents enjoy the quietude of rural life away from city crowds.
With a small population spread across large land parcels, it’s ideal for those who appreciate open spaces and privacy. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore local hiking trails, observe wildlife, or enjoy the stunning sunsets over the plains. The area’s rich agricultural heritage adds charm, making it a unique spot in the Smoky Hills.
Where is the Hinterlands of Saline County?
Located in central Kansas, Saline County’s hinterlands lie west of Salina. The geography here is characterized by gently rolling plains and expansive farmland that stretch as far as the eye can see.
Its distance from major highways enhances the area’s seclusion, offering a truly off-the-beaten-path experience. Visitors can reach the hinterlands by taking rural routes off Interstate 70 or Highway 140, weaving through scenic country roads highlighting the region’s natural beauty.
9. Assaria Enclave
Assaria Enclave is a quaint and secluded neighborhood located just south of Salina, Kansas. With its small-town charm and serene surroundings, it offers a peaceful retreat for those looking to escape the busyness of urban life.
The area has a population of fewer than 500 residents, creating a tight-knit community where neighbors often know each other by name.
The economy of Assaria primarily revolves around agriculture and small businesses. Many residents are engaged in farming, while others work in local enterprises or commute to nearby Salina for employment opportunities.
The community also takes pride in its local events and gatherings, which help foster a strong sense of belonging among its inhabitants.
Nature lovers will appreciate Assaria’s proximity to rolling hills, wide-open fields, and rural landscapes. The area is ideal for leisurely walks, birdwatching, and enjoying the simple beauty of the Kansas countryside.
Where is Assaria Enclave?
Assaria Enclave is situated about 10 miles south of Salina, Kansas, along Old Highway 81. Its location near major roads ensures accessibility while maintaining its tranquil, off-the-beaten-path character.
Visitors driving to Assaria will pass through charming rural scenery, with endless fields and open skies accompanying them along the journey.
For those looking to experience small-town life surrounded by natural beauty, Assaria Enclave offers a perfect balance of solitude and connection. It remains one of the most idyllic spots in central Kansas, cherished for its quiet charm and warm community spirit.
8. The Valleys near Lindsborg
The valleys surrounding Lindsborg are home to secluded homesteads that boast tranquility and natural beauty. Known as “Little Sweden USA,” Lindsborg’s outskirts offer a peaceful rural setting with a touch of cultural heritage.
The area is dotted with charming homes tucked away in valleys, where residents can enjoy hiking, bird watching, and exploring local art galleries and studios. With a modest population, the community maintains a friendly atmosphere without the bustle of larger towns, making it a delightful spot in the Smoky Hills.
Where is Lindsborg?
Lindsborg is in McPherson County, central Kansas, just off Interstate 135. The town lies along the Smoky Hill River, contributing to the fertile valleys surrounding it.
Lindsborg’s unique Swedish heritage adds an interesting dimension to its geography, with traditional architecture and cultural sites nestled amid the hills. Visitors can reach the secluded valleys by taking local roads east or west of the town, immersing themselves in the picturesque landscapes that define the area.
7. Rural Kanopolis, Kansas
Rural Kanopolis is a picturesque neighborhood located near Kanopolis Lake, one of Kansas’ hidden treasures. This neighborhood provides a serene and secluded atmosphere, ideal for those who value privacy and a connection to nature.
With its sparse population, the area is perfect for individuals and families looking to escape the hustle of city life.
The neighborhood’s proximity to Kanopolis Lake and State Park is a major draw for outdoor enthusiasts. Residents and visitors alike can enjoy activities such as fishing, hiking, boating, and camping.
The stunning sandstone bluffs and rugged terrain of the area add to its natural allure, creating opportunities for adventure and relaxation alike.
Where is Rural Kanopolis?
Rural Kanopolis is located near Kanopolis Lake, approximately 30 miles west of Salina, Kansas. The area can be accessed via Highway 140 and smaller country roads that wind through scenic farmland and rolling hills. This quiet location provides a sense of escape without being entirely isolated from nearby towns and services.
For anyone yearning for peaceful surroundings and easy access to outdoor activities, Rural Kanopolis is an ideal choice. Its blend of natural beauty and rural charm creates a perfect environment for rest and rejuvenation.
6. The Rolling Hills around Brookville
The homes nestled among the rolling hills around Brookville offer a secluded living experience amid Kansas’s natural beauty. With expansive properties and minimal development, residents enjoy a peaceful environment where nature takes center stage.
The area is ideal for outdoor activities such as horseback riding, hiking, and wildlife observation. Brookville’s small population contributes to a close-knit community feel, while the surrounding hills provide a sense of isolation and serenity that’s hard to find elsewhere.
Where is Brookville?
Brookville is located in Saline County, just west of Salina, Kansas. Situated along Kansas Highway 140, it’s easily accessible yet maintains a secluded atmosphere due to its rural setting.
The rolling hills are part of the Smoky Hills region, offering unique geological features and scenic vistas. Visitors can reach Brookville by driving west from Salina, with the journey showcasing the gradual transition from urban areas to the peaceful countryside that defines the town and its surroundings.
5. Remote Residences near Mushroom Rock State Park
Near Mushroom Rock State Park, remote residences offer a unique living experience surrounded by extraordinary geological formations. The secluded properties here provide residents with solitude and a daily connection to nature’s wonders.
The park is a highlight, featuring rare rock formations that attract geology enthusiasts and hikers alike. With a small community and limited development, this area allows for peaceful living amid one of Kansas’s most intriguing natural sites.
Where is Mushroom Rock State Park?
Mushroom Rock State Park is located in Ellsworth County, central Kansas, between Kanopolis and Marquette. The park is accessible via Kansas Highway 140 and paved county roads.
The area’s interesting geography, marked by unique rock formations shaped over millennia, adds to the seclusion and charm of the nearby residences. Visitors can reach the remote homes by exploring the rural roads branching off the main highways, leading them deeper into the quiet landscapes of the Smoky Hills.
4. Wooded Areas near Wilson Lake
The wooded areas near Wilson Lake are home to secluded residences that offer privacy and a strong connection to nature. Large lots are nestled among forests and overlooking the lake’s pristine waters.
Residents enjoy activities such as boating, fishing, hiking, and camping right at their doorstep. With natural barriers like dense woodlands and water bodies, the area ensures a peaceful environment. The small local population adds to the tranquility, making it a perfect spot for those seeking solitude in the Smoky Hills.
Where is Wilson Lake?
Wilson Lake is located in Russell and Lincoln counties, in central Kansas. Known as the “Clearest Lake in Kansas,” it’s accessible via Interstate 70 and Kansas Highway 232.
The lake’s rugged shoreline and surrounding hills provide a striking backdrop for the secluded homes in the area. To reach these wooded retreats, visitors can follow scenic byways that wind through the Smoky Hills, leading to hidden residences tucked away among the trees and near the water’s edge.
3. Marquette Countryside
Marquette Countryside is a charming and secluded neighborhood nestled in the Smoky Hills region of central Kansas. Known for its small-town warmth and stunning natural surroundings, this area is perfect for those who cherish quiet living and a connection to the great outdoors.
The community of Marquette is small but vibrant, with fewer than 1,000 residents. It is home to local artists, craftsmen, and farmers who contribute to its unique character. The area also boasts a rich history, which is preserved through local museums and historic sites.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to love about Marquette Countryside. The nearby Smoky Hills provide opportunities for hiking, wildlife watching, and photography.
In addition, the neighborhood’s proximity to Kanopolis Lake ensures access to water-based recreation such as fishing, boating, and picnicking by the shore.
Where is Marquette Countryside?
Marquette Countryside is located about 15 miles east of Kanopolis Lake, along Kansas Highway 4. The drive to this serene neighborhood is a picturesque journey through rolling hills, farmland, and open skies. Visitors often remark on the area’s natural beauty and the sense of calm that envelops them upon arrival.
For those who dream of escaping to a rural haven steeped in history and natural splendor, Marquette Countryside is a perfect match. Its welcoming community and tranquil environment make it a standout location in central Kansas.
2. Pleasant Valley Acres
Pleasant Valley Acres is a peaceful, rural neighborhood near the Smoky Hill River, south of Salina, Kansas. With a population of approximately 300-500 residents, this community offers seclusion and privacy, making it ideal for those living near nature.
The area is known for its farmland, with many residents working in agriculture or running small farms. Outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing are popular in the area, especially along the river and nearby nature reserves.
Pleasant Valley Acres is a perfect blend of privacy and natural beauty, with its wooded areas and river setting offering a serene atmosphere for residents. Its secluded nature is enhanced by the winding rural roads that lead into the neighborhood, ensuring a quiet, peaceful lifestyle.
Where is Pleasant Valley Acres?
Pleasant Valley Acres is located south of Salina, Kansas, near the Smoky Hill River. Its seclusion is evident from its location, with only a few small county roads providing access to the neighborhood.
The nearby river, combined with the surrounding forests and farmland, ensures that this area remains a quiet retreat. Visitors can follow rural highways south of Salina to get to Pleasant Valley Acres, turning onto local roads that wind through the countryside, offering scenic views along the way.
1. Rural Homesteads near Kanopolis Lake
The rural homesteads surrounding Kanopolis Lake offer a perfect blend of seclusion and natural beauty.
Homeowners here enjoy large acreages set against the backdrop of Kansas’s oldest state park. The area boasts numerous outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, boating, and exploring the nearby sandstone canyons.
With a small, dispersed population, residents experience a peaceful environment away from urban centers. The serene landscapes and recreational opportunities make this area stand out in the Smoky Hills.
Where is Kanopolis Lake?
Kanopolis Lake is located in Ellsworth County, central Kansas, southwest of Salina. The lake and state park are accessible via Kansas Highway 141, which connects to Interstate 70.
The geography is notable for its rolling hills, bluffs, and wooded areas, offering diverse landscapes uncommon in other parts of the state. Visitors can take rural roads that encircle the lake to reach the rural homesteads, providing access to secluded properties nestled amid nature’s splendor.
