[Objective] The gradient effects of different topographic factors on land-use patterns over 23 years from 2000 to 2023 at the arsenic sandstone area of the Yellow River were analyzed in order to provide theoretical guidance for vegetation restoration and land use optimization in this area. [Methods] Using remote sensing data to extract critical topographic factors, such as elevation, slope, and topographic position, and combining these with GIS-based quantitative analysis, the gradient effects of various topographic factors on land-use patterns were analyzed, and the graded evolution of land-use types according to a comprehensive topographic index was explored. [Results] ① Grassland was the dominant land use type in the study area, and from 2000 to 2023, the areas of forestland and construction land underwent the most significant change, followed by cultivated land and unused land. Forestland increased by 10.48 km², whereas construction land increased by 295.40 km², mainly from the cultivated land and grassland. The cultivated and unused land areas decreased by 1,716.52 km² and 758.89 km², respectively, while grassland increased by 548.12 km². ② The spatial distribution of land use in the study area exhibited distinct gradient characteristics: cultivated land, construction land, and unused land were primarily distributed in low topographic positions, forestland was mainly located in high topographic positions, and grassland was concentrated in mid-to high-elevation areas. Meanwhile, the water bodies were predominantly found in both low and high topographic positions. ③ In 2000, the highest comprehensive land use index was 220.99, and the lowest was 205.69. By 2023, the highest index was 230.17, and the lowest was 203.36. Except for Levels 1 and 2, the comprehensive land use index in 2023 was significantly lower than that in 2000. Over the past 23 years, land use changes have been closely related to human activities. [Conclusion] From 2000 to 2023, the arsenic sandstone area of the Yellow River exhibited evident topographic gradient characteristics, with significant spatiotemporal changes in land-use types along the topographic gradient. Considering the influence of local topographic factors, it is advisable to strengthen the implementation of policies, such as returning farmland to forests and grasslands, and to optimizing the land use layout continuously.