The shared border between Oklahoma and Kansas, though often rural, features distinct communities that bridge the two states. These areas carry a unique character, shaped by their geographical position and the blending of cultures that naturally occurs at state lines, creating places with a charm all their own.
Exploring these unique areas, we’ve compiled a list of the Oklahoma – Kansas Bordering Towns. There are exactly 4 such towns, ranging from the historic Baxter Springs to the smaller community of Treece. For each, you’ll find below key details including its State, County, and Population (2020 est.), providing a clear snapshot of these fascinating border communities.
What defines an Oklahoma – Kansas Bordering Town for this list?
For the purpose of this list, an Oklahoma – Kansas Bordering Town refers to municipalities that are directly adjacent to or straddle the geographical state line. While many other towns exist near the border, these specific communities are identified by their immediate proximity, often with parts of their municipal limits directly touching or crossing the state boundary.
Oklahoma – Kansas Bordering Towns
| Town Name | State | County | Population (2020 est.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| South Haven | Kansas | Sumner | 320 |
| Baxter Springs | Kansas | Cherokee | 3,888 |
| Treece | Kansas | Cherokee | 0 |
| Picher | Oklahoma | Ottawa | 0 |
Images and Descriptions
South Haven
A classic small farming town whose southern city limit is State Line Road, which marks the exact border with Oklahoma. Residents can literally step from their town into another state, offering a unique slice of rural border life.
Baxter Springs
The oldest cow town in Kansas, a small portion of its southern city limit directly touches the Oklahoma border. Nestled in the tri-state area, it’s a historic hub known for its Civil War history and its place on Route 66.
Treece
Now a ghost town, Treece was a mining community whose southern edge was the Oklahoma state line, directly adjacent to Picher, OK. It was disincorporated due to severe environmental contamination from its mining past, a cautionary tale.
Picher
The Oklahoma counterpart to Treece, Kansas, this former boomtown’s northern limit was the state line. It is now a famous ghost town and part of the Tar Creek Superfund site, with its story forever tied to its Kansas neighbor.
