T
he Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism manages 25 state parks across the state. Most provide utility and primitive camping, and access to reservoirs, trails, and wildlife areas. A few are preserved natural areas, allowing visitors to enjoy unspoiled wild Kansas. Many parks host annual events such as concerts, festivals, and competitions. Whatever your outdoor interest — hiking, camping, wildlife observation, fishing, boating, bike riding, horseback riding, hunting, or just plain relaxing, a Kansas state park has what you’re looking for. If you’ve never been to a Kansas state park, use this guide to find the nearest one. Visit our website for current park fees at ksoutdoors.com or call one of the offices listed in the back of this publication. If you haven’t visited a state park recently, look again. There’s a rich collection of outdoor adventures waiting for you.
Kansas State Parks
Reservations Online
KDWPT’s Outdoor Recreation Management System (ORMS) makes reservations faster and easier. In addition to allowing customers to make reservations from the comfort of home, photos of each campsite and whether it’s available is hosted online. In most cases, ORMS saves park users money through reduced service fees and more efficient management. The system also allows staff to mark sites in need of repair until they can be fixed. ORMS data shows which sites are used the most, making management planning more efficient. ORMS also allows park staff to look within the system to see what sites are occupied and who is on those sites, making emergency notifications much faster. For those without computers or who still prefer using a phone, park staff can use the new system to help callers with reservations. To make reservations, visit the KDWPT website, ksoutdoors.com, where you’ll be directed to reservemerica.com, or call a KDWPT state park office or the Pratt Operations Office at 620-672-5911.
Beginning Jan. 1, 2013, Kansas residents will be able to purchase annual park vehicle entrance permits at a reduced price through the Department of Motor Vehicles when renewing vehicle registrations. For more information on Kansas state parks, hunting, fishing lakes, or wildlife areas visit our website: ksoutdoors.com
Park Visitors Hit the Trail! 159 PHILLIPS
383
RAWLINS
283
281
ROOKS
24
Osborne
Beloit
Oakley
Gove
Lincoln
LOGAN
18
147
RUSSELL
ELLIS RUSH
Scott
Leoti
Tribune
96
Dighton
Ness City
96
WICHITA
LANE
283
NESS
4
183
81
MORRIS
50
156
Syracuse
Marion
19
27
23 Ulysses
270
160
160
283
144
190
GRAY
GRANT
MORTON
190 270
154 54
FORD
Sublette HASKELL SEWARD
83
27
56
Hugoton
270
54
STEVENS
Meade
23 Liberal 83
MEADE
Coldwater
Ashland
34
283 CLARK
Wellington Medicine Lodge
14
281 1 8
81
44
15
177
Sedan
Arkansas City
99
7
47 37
3 Girard CRAWFORD
NEOSHO
57
160 Pittsburg 126
126
57
169 Parsons
103 59
160
96
7
Independence
166
54 Fort Scott
39
146 Erie
169 47 96
Elk City
15
166
SUMNER
81
38
77
179 HARPER
281
160 Winfield
7 69
Crawford 57
39
160
49
2 COMANCHE BARBER
183
Anthony
39
160
35
31
65 BOURBON
54
75
Fredonia
Howard
COWLEY
ELK CHAUTAUQUA
239
3
ALLEN Chanute
39
55
49
2
160
BUTLER
53 KINGMAN
52
57
99
Fall River
77 15
14
42
160
51
25 Elkhart
96
235 42
PRATT
183 KIOWA
52
31
ANDERSON
Iola
54
WILSON
54
54 64
Greensburg
34
98
57 COFFEY WOODSON
Cross Timbers
El Dorado
Wichita
Kingman
Meade
160 51
61
254
52
7
Mound City
59
169
75 MONTGOMERY Coffeyville
69 96
96 101 166
Oswego 59
Columbus 69 CHEROKEE
LABETTE
169
At one time, Kansas trails were essential to the state's pioneering economy. The Santa Fe, the Oregon, the Chisholm — these are just a few trails Kansas helped make famous. Although modern highway systems have made these trails obsolete, demand has increased for recreational trails: places to hike, bicycle, ride horses, and just plain enjoy nature. This shifting demand for access to the land has created a new interest in public trails. In response, the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism has put new emphasis on developing and maintaining trails at state parks and wildlife areas. Currently, the department maintains 480 miles of recreational trails, enhancing the economic and environmental value of the Sunflower State's park system. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers also maintains trails at many of the state's major reservoirs. Some of these trails dovetail with state park trails, creating expansive hiking experiences. Kansas trails provide a wide range of benefits. Many trails have historic value, tracing the footsteps of pioneers such as Lewis and Clark, Zebulon Pike, and John C. Fremont. Trails provide an economic boost to local communities because trail users spend money when they travel. Trails also provide people with a better appreciation for wildlife and natural resources. Trails get people close to flora, fauna, and natural geological formations that roads and highways just can't access. Not the least of trail benefits is personal health. Studies show that walking and bicycling can condition the heart and lungs, reduce weight, and lower blood pressure and cholesterol. And the natural settings of Kansas state park trails provide a renewing of the spirit and peace of mind seldom found in the urban landscape. So get in step with the future. Discover Kansas trails, truly a moving experience.
NUMBER OF TRAILS/ TOTAL MILES
LOCATION
135
LINN
Yates Center
Eureka
35W
296
17
154 Pratt
STANTON
51
281
96
Cheney
GREENWOOD
177
81
SEDGWICK
RENO
Paola
MIAMI
169
Prairie Spirit Trail
Burlington
CHASE
El Dorado 196
61
STAFFORD EDWARDS
68
Hillsdale
50
FRANKLIN
31 Garnet
35
MARION
Newton
50 Hutchinson
50 Kinsley
Dodge City
Cimarron FINNEY
68
75
57
LYON
77 HARVEY
14 ST. John
50 56
Johnson
Sand Hills 96
Jetmore
HODGEMAN
83
KEARNY
68
Emporia
Eisenhower
50 Cottonwood Falls
61
RICE
Larned
19
156
50 Garden City
Lakin
270 25
57 150
150
7 35 33
Ottawa 268
31 Lyndon
69
JOHNSON
59
15 156 PAWNEE
Olathe
56
170
56
Lyons
23 25
HAMILTON
56
Council Grove 177
SALINE
435
Clinton
OSAGE
31
Pomona
149
56
56
32 Lawrence 10
Topeka
DOUGLAS
15
4
McPHERSON 35W Mc Pherson
156 Great Bend
470 4
WABAUNSEE
4
Kanopolis
281 96
SCOTT
104
ELLSWORTH
4
La Crosse
83
GREELEY
140
141
14
Kaw
70
99
43
Salina
BARTON
4 Scott City
73 7 192 Leavenworth 92 59 LEAVENOskaloosaWORTH 635 WYANDOTTE 5 16 24 Kansas 40 City
Abilene
70
Mushroom Rock
Ellsworth
92
Perry
SHAWNEE
Alma
57
77 LINCOLN
156
Cedar Bluff
GOVE
27
177 40 Junction City GEARY
106
232
Russel
Hays
75
JACKSON
18
70
Sharon Springs WALLACE
4
63
Manhattan
113
Milford
181
18
281
Wilson
183
40
83
40
24
Atchison
4
JEFFERSON
Westmoreland
13
177
82 CLAY DICKINSON
9
Holton 116 ATCHISON
16
Tuttle Creek
16 24 82
TREGO
Wakeeney
25
15 Clay Center
OTTAWA
81 Minneapolis
73 159
62
POTTAWATOMIE
RILEY
9
MITCHELL
36
20 9 MARSHALL
9
14 281
DONIPHAN
120 Troy 20
159
9
Webster
18
187
77
CLOUD
28
Glen Elder
Hill City
73 Hiawatha
Seneca
87
75
Concordia
24 24
Hoxie
383 25 THOMAS
7
BROWN
75
63
36
148
JEWELL
OSBORNE
Stockton
Colby
70
99
Marysville WASHINGTON
9
GRAHAM
NEMAHA
77
Washington
36
128
SMITH
SHERIDAN
23
Goodland
27 SHERMAN
181
15
15
Belleville
Mankato
36
9
123 83
81
Lovewell
Smith Center
CHEYENNE
REPUBLIC
14
28
8
Philipsburg
24
281
183
60
Prairie Dog
(* ca m pi ng )
283
Norton
383
ES
NORTON
36
Oberlin
RV IC
DECATUR
83 Atwood
36
SE
117
161 ST. Francis
HI KI NG TR BI A KI NG ILS T R EQ UE AILS ST RI AN TR AI LS
25
27
26 66 66
166
Cedar Bluff Cheney Clinton Crawford Cross Timbers Eisenhower El Dorado Elk City Fall River Glen Elder Hillsdale Kanopolis Mushroom Rock Kaw River Meade Milford Perry Pomona Prairie Dog Prairie Spirit RT Sand Hills Scott Tuttle Creek Webster Wilson
1
1
1
3
1 trail, 5 miles 3 trails, 6.5 miles
3
1
3 trails, 29.75 miles
4
4
4 trails, 8.25 miles
5
4
2
1
1*
6
5
1*
4
2
5 trails, 10.75 miles
5
5
5 trails, 6.5 miles
5 trails, 15.75 miles
3
3 trails, 27.5 miles 6 trails, 19.2 miles
3 trails, 7.5 miles
2
2
1*
5
2
1*
1
2 trails, 39 miles 5 trails, 31.57 miles 1 trail, .5 miles
1
1
1
1
4
4
1*
4 trails, 13.6 miles
2
1
1*
2 trails, 40 miles
3
2
3 trails, 3 miles
1
1
1 trail, 1.4 miles
1
1
8
2 trails, 3.5 miles 1 trail, 1.4 miles
1 trail, 51 miles 5
8 trails, 15 miles 2 trails, 7.3 miles
2
1
1*
5
2
1*
1 3
6 trails, 22.5 miles 1 trail, 3 miles
1
3 trails, 22.75 miles
Essential Resources Fishing Forecast
Each year, KDWPT prepares a tool that answers every angler's most pressing question: "Where can I find the best fishing?" Called the Kansas Fishing Forecast, this indispensable tool forecasts fishing prospects in public waters throughout the state. The Fishing Forecast helps anglers select lakes that will most likely provide the best opportunity to catch the kind and size of fish they prefer. The information is formulated from data collected by fisheries biologists through annual lake monitoring. Each year, a new Kansas Fishing Forecast is available at the KDWPT website by late February. Click "Fishing" at the top of the home page, then "Fishing Forecast" in the left-hand column. Printed copies of the forecast are available at KDWPT offices. Whether the angler is after big fish or more fish, the forecast will help find them.
Weekly Fishing Reports
Want to know where the fish are biting? One of the most popular and useful tools provided by KDWPT is the weekly lake-by-lake fishing reports posted on the agency's website. While these reports complement the fishing forecast, they provide more timely information for the angler wanting to know where the fish are biting. Updated weekly by KDWPT fisheries biologists, these reports provide the latest ratings on fishing conditions at many department-managed lakes. Information includes a general rating of what the fishing is like — from poor to excellent — as well as the size range of fish being caught, and a description of successful baits, methods, and locations where anglers are having the most success. This detailed information is included for each species of sportfish in the lake. Water temperatures and lake elevations are also included, along with tips each biologist thinks might help anglers catch fish.
Public Fishing Reports
In addition to the Fishing Forecast and the Weekly Fishing Reports, a web blog entitled "Public Fishing Reports" enables an-
glers to provide timely reports and tips local biologists may not have heard about. Combined with the fishing forecast and the biologists' weekly fishing reports, the public fishing reports provide the most complete picture of angling conditions short of being on the lake.
Fishing Atlas
The Kansas Fishing Atlas pinpoints a variety of public fishing areas, including Fishing Impoundment and Stream Habitats (F.I.S.H.) waters. F.I.S.H. waters are privately-owned ponds or streams KDWPT has leased and opened to public fishing. F.I.S.H. sites are numbered in red on each map. Each map also shows all federal reservoirs, state fishing lakes, river access, and community lakes. With this atlas, anglers can locate just about any type of fishing desired. Available for viewing and download from the KDWPT website or in printed form from most KDWPT offices and license vendors, the Kansas Fishing Atlas is an invaluable tool for Kansas anglers.
Fishing Regulations
The Kansas Fishing Regulations Summary booklet contains new regulations as well as other essential laws and regulations the angler needs to know. It also features state park information and detailed regulations for each body of water managed by KDWPT. Anglers who want to contact a district fisheries biologist will find a listing of names and phone numbers of the nearest biologist, as well as regional supervisors. A listing of natural resource officer contacts is also included.
Kansas Travel Guide
Available wherever licenses are sold. Copies may also be downloaded from the KDWPT website. Need ideas on where to eat, things to do or places to stay? The Official Kansas Travel Guide will help answer those questions and much more. Local flavor, unique attractions, bed and breakfasts, or maybe antiques are on your mind. Pick up your free Kansas Travel Guide or log on to TravelKS.com for the information you need to make your Kansas travel plans.
3
Aquatic Nuisance Species IT IS AGAINST BOTH STATE AND FEDERAL LAW TO RELEASE ANY EXOTIC SPECIES IN KANSAS WATERS. It is simple to prevent the spread of aquatic nuisance species. Remember, it is illegal to transport certain species in Kansas. Protect yourself and your natural resources. Before Leaving a body of water: CLEAN Inspect all equipment and remove anything attached (plants, animals, or mud). DRAIN Drain all water from equipment (livewell, bilge, bait buckets) before using at a different location. DRY Dry all equipment for a minimum of 5 days before using again. If you need to use it sooner, wash with hot (140º) water. Livewells and bilges must be drained and drain plugs removed from all vessels being removed from waters of the state before transport on a public highway. No person may possess any live fish upon departure from any designated aquatic nuisance body of water. Wild-caught bait fish may only be used on the body of water where taken. If taken on a flowing stream or river, wild-caught bait fish shall not be transported upstream across any dam or natural barrier.
WHITE PERCH
Please Remember
CLEAN • DRAIN • DRY Boats and Equipment www.ksoutdoors.com
ANS Awareness Course
https://reserve.ksoutdoors.com/cert/ans
ZEBRA MUSSEL • Zebra mussels have been discovered in Cheney, Council Grove, El Dorado, John Redmond, Marion, Milford, Perry, and Wilson reservoirs, Winfield City Lake, Lake Afton, Coffey Co. Lake, Council Grove City Lake, and the Walnut, Neosho, and Arkansas Rivers.
• White perch have been found in Cheney, El Dorado, and Wilson reservoirs, as well as their confluent stream drainages, the Ninnescah River below Cheney dam, Kingman State Fishing Lake, Hoover Pond in Kingman, Lake Afton, Sedgwick Co. Park Lakes, and Browning Oxbow Lake. • White perch have been associated with declines in both walleye and white bass populations. • They out-compete native fishes for food and space. • They hybridize with white bass. • KDWPT has added white perch to the prohibited species list. The possession of live white perch is prohibited. Dead white perch may still be possessed or used as bait on the waters where they were taken.
4
• They filter vast quantities of water, which alters the entire food web within a waterbody. Although this filtering action may clear up the water in some instances, the clear water zebra mussels leave behind will often lead to algae blooms that are harmful to people. The clear water can also allow UV rays to damage fish eggs. • They can reach high densities, causing problems to water intakes, docks, and boat motors. Nationwide expenditures to control zebra mussels in industrial plants alone are estimated at $310 million per year. • They have sharp shells that can cut the unprotected skin of humans or pets. Shoes or other protective clothing are recommended when wading in zebra mussel infested water. • All anglers and boaters need to do their part to prevent the spread of zebra mussels. Follow control recommendations and tell others how to prevent the spread of zebra mussels.
ASIAN CARP
NEW ZEALAND MUD SNAIL • The New Zealand mudsnail has not been reported in Kansas, but is considered a priority species because of the late 2004 introduction into Colorado. • Mature New Zealand mudsnails average 5mm (2/10inch) in length and have brown or black cone-shaped shells with five whorls.
• Asian carp include bighead, silver, and black carp species. • Bighead and silver carp can be found in the Kansas, Missouri, Wakarusa, and Big Blue rivers. • These fish are highly adaptive, prolific spawners, and directly compete with other fish for food and space. • Silver carp pose a physical danger to boaters because of their leaping ability.
• NZMS disrupt the food chain by consuming algae in the stream and competing with native bottom-dwelling invertebrates. A population crash of invertebrates can follow the introduction of NZMS, which reduces fish forage. With a decrease in food availability, fish populations may decline as well. • Mudsnails can survive out of water, withstand a variety of temperatures, and are small enough that many types of water users (anglers, swimmers, pets) could inadvertently transfer them. It takes only one snail to start an infestation.
FERTILE GRASS CARP SALTCEDAR (TAMARISK)
• Grass carp that have not been bred for infertility may not be imported to Kansas or released in Kansas waters.
EURASIAN WATERMILFOIL • Eurasian watermilfoil forms dense mats on the water's surface. • It reproduces by fragmentation, and plant fragments can be transported by boaters. • It will shade out native vegetation and reduce oxygen levels during decomposition. • Eurasian watermilfoil forms a dense canopy that hinders recreational activities.
• Saltcedar is a small tree or shrub that produces pink flowers May through October and can be found in 49 Kansas counties. • It forms dense monocultures and dramatically changes vegetation structure and animal species diversity. • It accumulates salt in its tissues, which is later released, making soil unsuitable for many native plant species. • Infestations of saltcedar can reduce or eliminate water flow in streams. • Leaves, twigs, and seeds are extremely low in nutrients, and, as a result, very few insects or wildlife will use them.
KEEP THE WATER SAFE AND CLEAN FOR FUTURE FISHING Report dumping, pollution to the EPA at 1-800-223-0425
5
SE
RV IC
ES
LA ND A NU CRE MB S W ER AT O ER F A , S RE EW A W AT ER S ER ,& EL & E EL LE EC EC C TR .H TR I OO C NO AL IC H NOO KUP ON UT S RE IL K LY (B IT S (B UPS ) ) SH ERV Y SI (B ) OW AB TE BO ER LE S A H SI CO T RA OUS TES U M E (B ) BO RTE P L AT SY AN E I BO NG DO S A CK MA T RE S RI NT DU NA AL (B M ) TR P S AI TAT L HI S ION ST SH ORI E CA FI LTE L L SH RH A N RE CL OU DM NT EA SE AR 50 AL NIN S K A CA G SW MP BIN STA IM ELE S TIO MI C (B) NS NG TR BE ICA AC L ( H B)
A - Available B - Available at extra charge C - Limited times D - Fishing boats only E - In non-state areas
PARK Cedar Bluff Cheney Clinton Crawford Cross Timbers Eisenhower El Dorado Elk City Fall River Glen Elder Hillsdale Kanopolis Kaw River Lovewell Meade Milford Mushroom Rock Perry Pomona Prairie Dog Prairie Spirit Trail Sand Hills Scott Tuttle Creek Webster Wilson
6
1100
2
1913
2
1425
1
10
91
20
300
A
5
4
2
A
229
452
A 10 22 5
A
240
220
A
4 16 8
A
A
A
3
1
9
6
1
7 70 1
A
1
A
A
7
1
A
2
4
A
1
E
4
A
1
2
7
A
1
Kayak and Dock Rental, Yurts Diverse Trails, Kids Fishing Pond
A
4
A
10 1 10 A
2
Laundry Facility
2
A
3
1
Diverse Trails, Frisbee Golf 18-hole par 3 golf course
27
30
2
2
2
C
10
180
A
5
6
2
A
1785
1
37
81
68
A
A
5 18 2
A
4000
4
128
374
600
A 13 17 5
A
857
1
11
86
53
30
2
3
2
A
1107
3
45
93
A
3
4
4
A
1
A
1451
1
112
240
A
3
6
2
A
A
A
2
A
2830
5
175
3 10 5
A
A
A
1
A
1605
2
3
A
A
3
A
76
1
1126
1
443
1
1084
1
5
1
1597
2
490
1
1150
2
33 mi.
A
DAY USE AREA ONLY 28
51
48
80
42
0
90
306 69
6
3
4
6
4
A
1
54
26
2
1
D
120
A
3 10 3
A
45
200
97 58
12
E
5
1
A
A
2
A
1
A
E
A
2
A
A
14 1
3
A
1
1
2
A
1
Trails Under Development
A
1
Equestrian Campground, Windsurfer Beach
A
1
Equestrian Campground, Horse Rentals
A
1
9 A
5
2
6
Day Use Only Boating access to Kansas River
1
Archery Range Disc Gol Course
A
1
Visitor’s Center
A 33 1 10 A
1
Equestrian Campground, Viewing Tower, Horse & Hiking Trails
A
4
2 10 A
4
Historic Site Unusual Geologic Formations
A 5 10 2
A
E
2
A
A
2
A
2
A
200
A
3
5
2
A
75
A
2
3
1
A
Archery Range, Trout Pond, Childrens Fishing Pond
1
A
2
DAY USE AREA ONLY 110
7
27 2 A
48
223
A
Trout Pond, BMX bike trail, Youth/Handicap fishing Pond
A
37
73
1
A
15
44
A
4
1
16
6
2
5
40
2
A
530
8
4
A
1075
A
A
10 1 1 A
8
1
A
1
Horse, Biking and Hiking Trails
4
A
1
Disc Golf Course
4
A
1
Adobe House Museum
4
DAY USE AREA ONLY- per person permit required
Biking & Walking Trail Horse & Walking Trails
1123
1
DAY USE AREA ONLY
1120
1
5
50
1196
5
13
167
880
2
945
2
4
100 20
3
2
2
D
39
500
A
5 11 4
A
82
10
100
A
3
5
3
A
99
36
100
A
5
5
2
A
A
A
A
1
A
A
4
A
A
3
2
A
1
Historical Site
A
39 3 11 A
1
Equestrian Campground, Disc Golf Course,Canoe Rentals
1
A
18 1
2
A
1
2 Walk-out Fishing Docks
3
A
4
6
A
2
Biking & Walking Trail
1
Park Area
Information Center
Dumpster
Camping Area
Pay Stations
Concessions
Other Public Lands
Potable Water
Playground
Water
Shower/Toilet
Shelter
Dam or levee
Modern Toilet
Shelter Group
Private Lands
Vault Toilet
Cabin Modern
Paved Roads
Trailer Dump Station
Cabin Primitive
Gravel Roads
Boat Ramps
Camping Improved
Unimproved Roads
Dock/Pier
Camping Primitive
Park Entrance
Fish Cleaning Station
Trail/Trailhead Hike
Park Office
Swimming Area
Trail/Trailhead Bike
Parking Area
Marina
Trail/Trailhead Equestrian
ES SE
PR IM MO ITIV D E TO ERN CAB TA C IN L AB CA IN BI NS
RV I
C
Cabins Enhance Park Experience LOCATION
Complement any trip with a relaxing stay at a Kansas state park or wildlife area cabin. More than 90 cabins are available across the state, located at 20 state parks and five wildlife areas. The cabins offer a wide range of amenities. Deluxe cabins feature heating and air conditioning, and most have furnished kitchens with refrigerators, stoves, microwaves and coffee pots; separate bedrooms and full bathrooms with showers. Basic sleeper cabins are more rustic with fewer amenities. Most cabins can sleep four to six adults while others can sleep up to 10 adults. About half of the cabins are ADA accessible. Nightly rental rates vary depending on location, season, day of the week and available amenities. Reserve your cabin online at reserve.ksoutdoors.com. You can review cabin amenities, check prices and availability, and reserve a cabin up to a year in advance. Online instructions guide you through the reservation process. 159 25
27
117
161
DECATUR
NORTON
283
Atwood
281
Smith Center
181
123
9
GRAHAM
283
23
Webster
OSBORNE
Glen Elder
24
Osborne
Stockton
Colby
Beloit
70
24
Hoxie
383
27
TREGO
183
181 Lincoln
Wilson
70
LOGAN
Leoti
147
RUSH
Scott
4
Dighton
Ness City
96
WICHITA
LANE
283
NESS
4
19
HODGEMAN
50 25
83
KEARNY
Dodge City
Cimarron
EDWARDS
23
GRAY
GRANT
MORTON
283
144
STANTON
190 270
Sublette HASKELL SEWARD
83
154 54
FORD
PRATT
183
51 27
KINGMAN
56
Hugoton
270
51
STEVENS
160
54 Liberal 83
MEADE
Coldwater
Ashland
34
283
23
CLARK
Wellington Medicine Lodge
8
177
ALLEN Chanute 39 57
39
38
Arkansas City
2
Kanopolis
0
6
6
Kingman SFL Lovewell McPherson SFL Milford Mined Land WA Ottawa SFL Perry Pomona Prairie Dog Scott State Fair (Hutchinson) Tuttle Creek Webster Wilson
0
2
2
6
4 10
0
1
1
0 10 10 0
2
2
0
1
1
0
4
4
0
4
4
2
4
4
0
2
2
0
1
1
Modern (deluxe) Cabins Minimum amenities Beds, Heat/AC, Electricity, Water, Bathroom with toilet, shower, and sink, Kitchen with Stove, Oven, and Refrigerator. No linens provided Bring your own linens, toiletries, and food. No telephone or TV.
0 11 11 0
2
2
0
6
6
Howard
47 37
7 69 54 Fort Scott
NEOSHO
Sedan
57
160 Pittsburg 126
126
57
169 Parsons
Independence
15
7 3 Girard CRAWFORD
96
75 MONTGOMERY Coffeyville
169
103 59
160
96
99
239
BOURBON
39
47
96
ELK CHAUTAUQUA
166
52
Crawford 146 Erie
169 75
Fredonia
15
166
SUMNER
81
99
Fall River
77
179 HARPER
281
81
44 49
2 COMANCHE BARBER
183
Anthony
3
2
31
65
54
39
35 14
281 1
Iola
160
160 Winfield
3
0
52
3
57
COWLEY
160
0
135 7
52
54
55
49
2 160
COFFEY WOODSON
Cross Timbers
BUTLER
53
Fall River Glen Elder
No cooking facilities provided
68
31
ANDERSON
WILSON
96
15
5 10
150
Mound City
59
169
El Dorado
54
77
42
14
Meade
25 Elkhart
254
235
Kingman
KIOWA
98
35W
Wichita
Kingman
54
42
5
69
LINN
Burlington
Yates Center
Eureka
296
17
RENO
61
96
7
169
31 Garnet
GREENWOOD
81
SEDGWICK
4
Paola
MIAMI
50
57
177
196
Cheney
64
Greensburg
34
160 51
281 Pratt
160 190
61
154
Ulysses
270
Hutchinson
50 STAFFORD
FINNEY
27 Johnson
68
75
35
El Dorado
50
Kinsley
56
160
Newton
14 ST. John
270 HAMILTON
Pomona
CHASE
MARION
3
7
Eisenhower LYON
77 HARVEY
Eisenhower El Dorado
Minimum amenities Beds, Heat/AC, Electricity.
435
Olathe
68
FRANKLIN
57
Cottonwood Falls
Marion
61
State Fair 96
156
50 Garden City
Lakin
RICE
Larned
19
Jetmore
4
JOHNSON
15 156 PAWNEE
156
Syracuse
31 Lyndon
Emporia
50 150
Lyons
23 25 50
5
4
35 33
Ottawa 268
170 57
56
56
Great Bend
183
32 Lawrence 10
Clinton
56
31
56
Council Grove 177
MORRIS
56
5
0
73
59
McPherson SFL
81
McPHERSON 35W Mc Pherson
0
Cross Timbers
7 192 Leavenworth 92 59 LEAVENOskaloosaWORTH 635 WYANDOTTE 5 16 24 Kansas 40 City
Topeka
OSAGE
WABAUNSEE
149
SALINE
ELLSWORTH
156
Crawford
Primitive (sleeper) Cabins
Atchison
DOUGLAS
4
141
7
Perry
470 4
99
4
15
104
Kanopolis
281 96
SCOTT
Ellsworth
4
La Crosse
83
GREELEY
140
7
70 Alma
57
43
Salina
14
Scott City
177 40 Junction City GEARY
Milford 18
BARTON
SHAWNEE
18
77
RUSSELL
ELLIS
92
Abilene
70 156
GOVE
27
106
LINCOLN
Russel
Hays
75
JACKSON
113
CLAY DICKINSON
232
Gove
Cedar Bluff
18
281
Wakeeney
40
83
Sharon Springs
4
63
Manhattan
9
0
4
JEFFERSON
Westmoreland
13 24
82
6
2
36
9
Holton 116 ATCHISON
16
16
177
OTTAWA
81
Minneapolis
Oakley
25
Ottawa SFL
MITCHELL
3
7
73 159
62
Tuttle Creek
24
82 14 281
18
40
Tribune
15 Clay Center
Hill City
25 THOMAS
WALLACE
96
Concordia
9
24
Goodland
24
SHERMAN
9 MARSHALL POTTAWATOMIE
3
Cheney Clinton
DONIPHAN
120 Troy 20
20
9
RILEY
Cedar Bluff
Atchison SFL
159
77 9
1
7
187 75
CLOUD
28
JEWELL
1
73
Seneca
87
148
SMITH ROOKS
36
0
BROWN
75
63
Hiawatha Marysville WASHINGTON
9
Prairie Dog
SHERIDAN
83
99
Washington
36
128
281
CHEYENNE
NEMAHA
77
15
15
Belleville
Mankato
36
Philipsburg
81
Lovewell
8
383
RAWLINS
REPUBLIC
14
28
183
60
Norton
36
Oberlin
36
PHILLIPS
383
83 ST. Francis
Atchison SFL
69
Columbus 69
26
Mined Land WA
101 166
7
Oswego 59
CHEROKEE
LABETTE
66
96 66 166
7
Cedar Bluff State Park ocated south of I-70 in Trego County, this western Kansas park consists of two areas comprising 1,100 acres on the 6,000-acre Cedar Bluff Reservoir. The Bluffton Area, located on the lake’s north shore, is the most developed and receives extensive use. The Page Creek Area, on the south shore, offers beautiful primitive camping , 20 electrical sites and 16 water/electric sites and is home of the 5-mile Agave hiking/biking trail. Park campgrounds offer 121 utility sites, and a group campground contains 12 utility sites. Expansive areas are set aside for primitive camping; the park is equipped to suit nearly anyone’s preference. Six rental cabins are available in a variety of styles and amenities. Each cabin is equipped with electricity, water, air conditioning and heating, beds, tables, chairs, and a fantastic view of the state park and reservoir area. Three cabins – two two-bedroom facilities and one one-bedroom facility with loft for additional sleeping quarters - also include refrigerators, showers, bathrooms and electric stove tops. The other three are newly remodeled rustic 2-bedroom cabins, equipped with electric heat and air, beds, table, chairs, and a microwave. A charcoal grill and water hydrant are just outside and a modern heated shower house is located near by. Other facilities include five showerhouses, two reservable shelters, three vault toilets, numerous picnic shelters, two
L
13 Miles to Ogallah
Butterfield Campground Wagon Rut Campground
Cedar Bluff State Park (785) 726-3212 CedarBluffSP@ksoutdoors.com fishing docks, two fish cleaning stations, BMX bike trail, basketball court, and horseshoe pit. On the lake, fishing, boating, windsurfing, and skiing are popular. In the stilling basin just below the Cedar Bluff Dam, anglers may fish for the rainbow trout stocked in the spring and fall. Three boat ramps allow access to the water, one in the Bluffton Area and two in the Page Creek Area. The area around the park offers excellent wildlife watching opportunities, enhanced by food plots and a waterfowl refuge. Deer, turkey, pheasant, Canada geese, pelicans, eagles in the winter, and more can be seen in and near the park. A portion of the Page Creek Area is designated as a handicapped hunting access area. Threshing Machine Canyon, the site of an 1867 Indian attack on a wagon train bearing a threshing machine, is accessed by a road west of the park. In the historic canyon, you will find carvings dating back to the mid-1800s. For a stunning view of the area, take a drive to the top of the 150-foot tall, cedar-covered limestone bluffs. Cedar Bluff Reservoir
White Tail Campground Broken Spur
Horseshoe Pit
147
Apache Campground
Volleyball Area BMX Track Bycycle Motor Cross
Commanche Campground
Dispatch Campground
Prickly Pear Campground
Horseshoe Pit
Overland Campground
Boat Mooring
Basketball Court Arapahoe Campground
Page Creek Area Bluffton Area
Cedar Bluff Reservoir
8
Crooked Arrow Campground Pronghorn Campground
12 Miles to Brownell
Permit Booth
Muley Campground
Cheney State Park ADA Dock
Cheney State Park (316) 542-3664 CheneySP@ksoutdoors.com
Mr. D's
East Shore Area
Pay Station With Personnel Only
Jetties Wichita Point Campground
Electrical Hook-ups
Wichita Point Day-use Area
Heimerman Point Campground Lakeview Day-use Area
Jetties
Jetties
Jetties M&M Point Campground
Cheney Reservoir
to St. Joe
Lakeview Electrical Hook-ups Marina Electrical Hook-ups
East Boat Ramp
East Toadstool Loop Day-use Area
his 1,900-acre park comprises two areas at the south end of Cheney Reservoir, 20 miles west of Wichita. Since its completion in 1964, the park has grown to include more than 229 utility camping sites, as well as 452 designated non-utility campsites with amenities. The West Shore Area offers seven reservable modern cabins. Cheney State Park occupies the shores of one of the top sailing lakes in the U. S. The Ninnescah Sailing Center on the West Shore Area is the “headquarters” for sailing at Cheney. A marina is on the East Shore Area. The park is equipped with modern toilets, 10 restrooms with showers, a shelter house, four trailer dump stations, and four designated swimming areas, as well as several picnic/day use areas. The Giefer Creek and Spring Creek nature trails offer hiking. Fishing is productive for channel catfish, white bass, crappie, striped bass, wiper, and walleye. The park’s 22 boatlaunching lanes provide convenient access to the 9,500-acre lake. A handicapped-accessible fishing complex is available at the Toadstool Loop Jetty.
T Lakeshore Drive Day Use Only Jetties Ninnescah Sailing Association
NSA Afterdeck
Sailboat Cove Campground
Jetties
Cheney Reservoir
County Line Boat Ramp
North Electrical Hook-ups & Campground
Hobie Beach Campground Jetties
South Electrical Hook-ups & Campground
West Toadstool Loop Day-use Area
Smarsh Creek Campground With Hookups
Giefer Creek Day-use Area
West Shore Area Smarsh Creek Group Campground
4 miles to U.S. 54 Hwy
Handicap Fishing Jetty
Spring Creek Nature Trail Day-use Area
Cabin Area
Giefer Hill Day-use Area Harding Hill Campground
Church Shelter
Giefer Creek Nature Trail
West Boat Ramp
Giefer Hill Campground
21st. Street to Wichita
9
Clinton State Park linton State Park is located 4 miles west of Lawrence in the scenic Osage Questas region. The 1,425-acre park lies on the north shore of Clinton Reservoir, known for its clear water and good fishing. Modern facilities and an extensive hiking/biking trail system make this park and adjacent 9,200-acre wildlife area an attractive destination for all outdoors enthusiasts. Popular activities include picnicking, swimming, and camping in one of two cabins or on one of the nearly 500 campsites. Of these, 240 are water/electric utility sites; 70 provide 50-amp service; and 220 are primitive sites. Nearby restrooms and showers add a touch of comfort and convenience for park visitors. Visitors to the park can view white-tailed deer, wild turkey, waterfowl, bald eagles in spring and fall, and numerous species of songbirds in the carefully-managed habitats that make Clinton a distinctive outdoor destination. The Clinton Lake Marina offers boat slips, fishing and boating supplies, equipment rental, and a floating restaurant. Anglers are attracted to Clinton Reservoir for its good channel catfish, walleye, and crappie fishing. Well-known for its extensive trails system, Clinton
C
State Park is an outdoor mecca for hikers, nature photographers, mountain bicyclists, wildflower enthusiasts, wildlife observers, and cross-country snow skiers. Park staff work closely with Lawrence and University of Kansas individuals and organizations to present special events each year.
Clinton State Park (785) 842-8562 ClintonSP@ksoutdoors.com
Cross Country Ski Trail
Maintenance Building Kids Fishing Pond
Campground 3
Henry Lake
Archery Range
Clinton Reservoir
Campground 1
10
Crawford State Park ich in history and spectacular scenery, Crawford State Park has a flavor all its own. This southeast Kansas treasure, located 9 miles north of Girard in Crawford County, resides on a 150-acre lake built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s. There are two recorded archaeological sites within the park’s boundaries, including remnants of a 19th-century U. S. military outpost. An interpretive trail connects the park with the Kansas Department of Wildlife & Parks’ Farlington Fish Hatchery, which was built shortly after the CCC completed construction of the lake. The 530-acre park features seven campgrounds with 74 water/electric utility campsites and 30 primitive campsites, four rental cabins, two boat ramps, three bathhouses, and a swimming beach. Hiking and mountain bike trails, horseshoe pits, and three playgrounds offer more recreational opportunities. Food, fuel, and convenience items are available at the full-service marina and restaurant located within the park. Anglers enjoy excellent fishing for channel catfish, largemouth and spotted bass, crappie and bluegill. Pleasure boating and scuba diving are favorite recreational pursuits. Located on the edge of the Ozarks, Crawford State Park displays the variety of landscapes available in Kansas state parks. Redbud trees offer spectacular beauty in spring, and the lush foliage of the surrounding forest is a naturalist’s delight.
R
Spider leg Bridge Trail
1 mile to highway K-7
CCC Trail
Rocky Cove Campground
Crawford Lake Evening Breeze Point Amphitheater
Oak Point Campground
South Shelter Group Use Area
Lonesome Point Osage Bluff Campground
Cherokee Landing
Crawford State Park (620) 362-3671 CrawfordSP@ksoutdoors.com
11
Cross Timbers State Park
C
hookups and primitive camping. Four modern cabins are also available for rent. All park campgrounds are served by modern bathroom and shower facilities. All park trails are open to hiking and backpacking. All but the Ancient Trees Trail are open to other non-motorized uses such as jogging and mountain biking. Backcountry camping is allowed by special permit on segments of the Chautauqua Hills Trail. Fishing in the river and on the reservoir can be excellent. Both are
Point Rd.
ross Timbers State Park is located in the Verdigris River Valley in southeast Kansas. Comprising 1,075 acres in the northern reaches of the physiographic region known as the Cross Timbers, this park provides access the 2,800-acre Toronto Reservoir. The park is located 12 miles west of Yates Center in Woodson County. The forested flood plains, surrounded by terraces of prairie and hills of oak savannah, provide visitors some of the most diverse flora and fauna in Kansas. Shaded campsites within easy access of the lake are available for both full RV
Cross Timbers State Park (620) 637-2213 CrossTimbersSP@ksoutdoors.com
noted for excellent white crappie, white bass, channel catfish, and flathead catfish angling. Black bass, bluegill, and sunfish round out the diverse fishing opportunities available here. The adjacent 4,600-acre Toronto Wildlife Area is a diverse collection of habitats, including forests, grasslands, farmlands, and marshes. Species common to the area include white-tailed deer, wild turkey, quail, squirrel, rabbit, dove, and raccoon.
Chautauqua Hills Trail (Yellow)
Coyote Rd.
Chautauqua Hills Trail (Blue)
Osage Plains Campground Ball Courts
Handicapped Fishing Pier
Ancient Trees Trail Hiking Only
Cross Timbers Campground Amphitheater
Sandstone Campground Blackjack Campground
Group Camp
Toronto Point Area
Blackjack Trail
Access Point Blackjack & Oakridge Trails
Holiday Hill & Dam Site Area
Toronto Reservoir
Oakridge Trail
Toronto Reservoir
Overlook Trail
Woodson Cove Area
12
Chautauqua Hills Trail
Manns Cove Area
Eisenhower State Park amed after native son President Dwight Eisenhower, this 1,785acre park features 1,000 acres of tallgrass prairie, 440 acres of woodland, and a complete range of recreational facilities. The park lies on the north shore of the 6,900-acre Melvern Reservoir, in southern Osage County. The park provides 186 utility sites: 81 with water, 37 with sewer hookups, and five showerhouses. Non-utility sites are available in four camping areas throughout the park. Contact the park office for information on reservable campsites that are available. Laundry facilities are also available at the Doud shower building. The park offers four modern cabins, one primitive cabin, and two primitive
N
yurts. Ike’s Shelterhouse is an exEisenhower State Park cellent area for family reunions (785) 528-4102 within the Jones Family Activity EisenhowerSP@ksoutdoors.com Area. Other recreation facilities include a swimming beach, horseshoe pits, playgrounds, volleyball courts, picnic shelters, and an Wildlife include white-tailed deer, 18-hole disc golf eastern wild turkey, bobwhite quail, course. Kayak and dock rentals available. squirrels, furbearers, and waterfowl. Eisenhower is also home to a burHunting within the state park is by geoning trails system for horseback ridwritten permit only. ing, biking, and hiking. Crooked Knee Anglers seek walleye, crappie, smallHorse Trail offers equestrians a 20-mile mouth bass, sauger, white bass, and chanexcursion through the undeveloped nel catfish. Two nine-lane boat ramps offer west side of the park. Biking and hiking excellent access. is available on the horse trails.
278
16 15
18-hole Frisbee Golf Course
17 14 13
18 12
3 1 2
Fivestar Campground
Crooked Knee
4 5
8
11 9
7
6
10
North Loop Horse Camping Abilene Group Area Campground
Cowboy Campground
HUNTING AREA Archery & Shotgun Only by Written Permission Only HORSEBACK RIDING AREA Westpoint Campground
IKE’s General Store
Camp Host Mamie's Cabin
Yurts
Amphitheater
Camp Host
Day Use Only
Interpretive Trail Doud Campground Churchill Campground
Ike’s Shelterhouse
Sailboat Beach Campground Blackjack Campground
Melvern Reservoir 13
El Dorado State Park
E
l Dorado State Park is located north and east of the city of El Dorado on the edge of the scenic Flint Hills. Kansas’ largest state park, El Dorado’s four units sprawl across 4,000 acres along the eastern and western shores of El Dorado Reservoir. El Dorado contains 1,100 campsites that offer visitors a range of choices. Other facilities include two swimming beaches, 10 group shelters, and a 24site group campground. The Shady Creek Marina, Walnut Valley Sailing Club, and six boat ramps offer amenities and facilities for boaters of every stripe. Crappie fishing is good in standing timber and around fish attractors. Walleye, wiper and white bass fishing is good along the face of the dam and on the old railroad bed. Channel cat fishing is good lakewide, as well as in the river below the outlet. Flathead fishing is good in a variety of areas, especially Old Bluestem Lake. The 8,000-acre El Dorado Reservoir has approximately 98 miles of shoreline. About 6,000 acres of land are available for public hunting, including 2,000 acres within the state park. All hunting within the park requires a state park vehicle permit for entry. A large amphitheater with dual stages accommodates a variety of concerts and festivals conducted at the park each year. Seven trails offer outdoor adventure for hikers, bikers, and horse riders. A modern equestrian campground with full-sized arena and attached corrals. It offers 23 utility sites with attached corrals, 2 non-utilty campsites with corrals and water, 26 non-utility sites, as well as a reservable shelter near the arena. Ten cabins are available for reservation year-round, offering a variety of comfortable accommodations to suit any preference. Two laundry facilities are also located in the park for campers’ convenience.
14
Rock Quarry Area
Boulder Bluff Area
Bluestem Point Area
Walnut Valley Sailing Club
Satchel Creek Cove Campground
Box Turtle Point Campground Pelican Point Campground Goose Cove Campground
El Dorado Reservoir
Bait Shop
Pintail Lane Campground
Fisherman's Point Campground
Horse Arena
Laundry Big Pine Campground
Equestrian Campground
Area #3
Quail Run Campground Bluestem Cabin Area
Sunflower Meadow Campground
Youth Fishing Pond
Ice Sales
Wildlife Area Office Bemis Creek Campground
Area #4
El Dorado Reservoir
El Dorado Reservoir
Sunset Cove Campground
Picnic Area #1
El Dorado Reservoir
Shady Creek Marina & Sales Black Diamond Trail El Dorado Linear Trail
Ice Sales
Amphitheater
Shady Creek Hiking Trail
Eagle Pass
Walnut Hollow (Day Use Area)
Walnut River Area
ADA Trail
Frontieer Refinery Campground Big Oak Campground
Patriot Lane Ice Campground Sales
Shady Creek Area
Laundry
Walnut Ridge Hiking Trail
Veterans Point Campground
Honor Camp
ek
mis
Be
Cre
Teter Nature Trail
El Dorado State Park (316) 321-7180 EldoradoSP@ksoutdoors.com
Elk City State Park ense oak-hickory woodlands meet rolling meadows of big bluestem and Indiangrass at this striking 857-acre park located west of Independence in Montgomery County. The 4,500-acre Elk City Reservoir and 12,000-acre Elk City Wildlife Area adjacent to the park offer outdoors lovers ample room to pursue their pastimes. A nationally-recognized trails system invites visitors to take a closer look at the rich variety of flora and fauna in and around Elk City State Park. The Green Thumb Nature Trail is a 1-mile loop that begins in the state park campground and rewards hikers with a panoramic vista of the lake, framed by ash and oak trees. Table Mound Hiking Trail and Post Oak Nature Trail are also park attractions. Park users can also enjoy the 4-mile Eagle Rock Mountain Bike Trail, 6 miles of hiking/nature trails, and a 1-mile exercise trail. A frisbee golf course and par-3 golf course is also available. Campgrounds at Elk City offer an array of well-shaded sites appealing to recreational vehicle or primitive campers. Conveniently located restrooms and showers, swimming beach, group shelter, fishing piers, and three-lane boat ramps
D
offer popular amenities for park visitors. Elk City Wildlife Area harbors white-tailed deer, wild turkey, bobwhite quail, cottontail, fox and gray squirrels, and prairie chickens. Common furbearers include beaver, raccoon, bobcat, coyote, gray fox, opossum, mink, and muskrat. The world record 123-pound flathead catfish was taken from Elk City Reservoir, and anglers also pursue channel catfish, white bass, crappie, largemouth bass, and saugeye. A handicapped-access fishing dock is located in the state park.
To Overlook & Outlet Areas To Independence
To Hwy 75 N Green Thumb Nature Trail Timber Road Area
Comfort Cove Area Gatehouse & Self Pay
Table Mound Hiking Trail Basketball Court
Camp Host
To Hwy 160 & Hwy 75 S Junction 13
15
18-hole Golf Course
16
14
Elk City State Park (620) 331-6295 ElkCitySP@ksoutdoors.com
12
11
Sunset Point Area
17 10 18
Basketball Court
Handicap Accessible Fishing Dock
4
8 57
6
9 1
3 2
Kids Fishing Pond Limited Access Ages 15 & Under
Basketball Court Prairie Meadow Area
Jetties
Archery Range
Day Use Area "NO CAMPING" Frisbee Golf Course
Exercise Trail
Elk City Reservoir
Squaw Creek Trail
15
Fall River State Park ositioned between the Cross Timbers region and the grasslands of the Flint Hills, Fall River State Park is home to a remarkable diversity of plant and animal life. The 1,107-acre park is a unique blend of forested flood plains, blackjack savannahs, and tallgrass prairie. Outdoor enthusiasts looking to get off the beaten track will find much to their liking at this park, located in southeastern Greenwood County on the shores of Fall River Reservoir. Camping, swimming, boating, water skiing, hiking, and picnicking are popular pursuits at Fall River. Three modern rental cabins and developed campsites include modern restroom and shower facilFall River State Park ities. Forty-five (620) 637-2213 electric/water hookups are FallRiverSP@ksoutdoors.com available, plus more than 100 primitive campsites. Six hiking trails and an orienteering course offer visitors an up-close and personal perspective on this unique area. A favorite pastime here is canoeing Fall River, which feeds into the 2,450-acre reservoir of the same name. Bird watchers, photographers, and naturalists enjoy a Casner Creek Campground variety of native plants and aniSouth Rock mals here. More than 8,000 acres Camping Area of public wildlife area next to the park are managed for a variety of game and nongame species. Dove, quail, deer, turkey, rabbit, Amphitheater squirrel, waterfowl, and prairie chicken are common. Fall River offers good fishing opportunities for channel catCasner fish, white bass, crappie, flatCreek Trail head catfish, largemouth bass, and walleye. White bass fishing can be excellent in early spring, particularly in Otter Creek and Fall River above the reservoir.
P
16
Bluestem Trail
Catclaw Trail
Fall River Reservoir
Maintenance Building
Post Oak Trail
Quarry Bay Area
Fredonia Bay Campground
Fall River Reservoir
Gobbler's Knob Campground
Turkey Run Trail
Fredonia Bay Area
Glen Elder State Park len Elder State Park offers abundant recreational opportunities. Located 12 miles west of Beloit in Mitchell County, Glen Elder was honored as one of America’s top five best state parks by Field & Stream magazine, August 2004. The park offers two modern cabins, and modern restroom/shower buildings are usually open from May through September. The Kanza shower is open, depending on the weather, during winter and early spring. Two modern cabins are available to rent year round. A full-service marina operates from April through October. Three campgrounds offer 121 electrical hookups (most with water), as well as more than 300 primitive sites and two modern cabins. Boat ramps in Kanza and Osage offer excellent lake access and ADA courtesy docks. The park offers convenient access to the 12,500-acre Glen Elder Reservoir where crappie, walleye, white bass, saugeye, channel catfish, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, and flathead catfish attract anglers. Swimming, boating, hiking, volleyball, softball, and bicycling accommodations are all available at the park. The Osage Area has sand volleyball courts, a reservable group shelter, and a swimming beach. The Pawnee Overlook provides shoreline fishing, primitive camping, picnicking — and an excellent view. The Chautauqua Fishing Pond offers easy access for individuals with
G
Glen Elder State Park (785) 545-3345 GlenElderSP@ksoutdoors.com disabilities and children. The pond is stocked with trout in the winter. A trout permit is required. The west part of the park is managed primarily as a waterfowl refuge including large agricultural fields, demonstrating the area’s agricultural heritage. These fields provide habitat, food, shelter, and water for wildlife. They are key to enhancing special hunting opportunities for waterfowl , upland birds, and deer. Waconda Heritage Village, featuring the historic Hopewell Church, offers visitors a glimpse into the area’s past. The facility provides historical displays and a room reservable for group events. Current development includes a Waconda Springs replica.
13 miles to Downs
24 5 miles to Cawker City
Waterfowl Blind
128 Waconda Springs Replica
Waterfowl Blind
Takota Point
Hopewell Church
Uskuts Campground Kiowa Campground
Chautauqua Fishing Pond
24 Visitor's Center 12 miles to Beloit
Arikaree Campground
8-50 amp Sites No Water
Kaw
50 amp Electrical Sites
Kanza Campgound Sioux Campground 50 amp Electric Sites
Amphitheater
Cheyenne Campground 12-50 amp Sites
Pawnee Overlook Osage Campground Pawnee Campground
Glen Elder Reservoir
17
Hillsdale State Park ocated in the rolling hills of Miami County, Hillsdale State Park offers a broad array of outdoor recreation opportunities. Campers, anglers, boaters, hunters, swimmers, horseback riders, model airplane flyers, hikers, naturalists, picnickers, photographers, and sightseers all enjoy special opportunities at Hillsdale. Located in the fastest-growing area of the state, the park is heavily used by residents of nearby Kansas City. Camping is allowed in the 200 designated camp sites in the Russell Crites Area. About half of those sites have electric/water hookups available. Campsite reservations are available for select camping sites with 14 days advanced notice. Two restroom/shower houses are conveniently located for campground users. The park features a beach area that is open from sunrise to sunset. The Saddle Ridge Equestrian Area on the east side of the reservoir has 32 miles of marked trails. Model airplane flying is a popular activity in a specially designated area just south of the dam. Anglers find ample sport in the 4,500-acre Hillsdale Reservoir. Fishing is allowed on all 51 miles of shoreline, and seven boat ramps in the state park and Marysville adjacent wildlife area provide Ramp convenient access to the water. When the lake was filled in the early 1980s, more Saddle Ridge than 70 percent of the standHorse Camping & Trailhead ing timber in the lake basin was left to provide fish habiWindsurfer Beach tat. As a result, walleye, catfish, largemouth bass, 255th St. crappie, and bluegill are Hillsdale abundant. The adjacent 7,700Reservoir acre public wildlife area offers hunters and wildlife observers a variety of enjoyable outdoor opportunities. Harmony Rd.
L
Quail Run Campground Crappie Cove Campground
Russell Crites Ramp
Pintail Point Campground
Oultet
PWC Ramp & Beach Jayhawk Ramp Rabbit Ridge Campground
Scott Creek Campground Sunflower Day-Use
Youth Scout Camping
18
R.C. Flying Field
Hillsdale State Park (913) 783-4507 HillsdaleSP@ksoutdoors.com
Kanopolis State Park anopolis State Park started it all. The first Kansas state park has drawn visitors to eastern Ellsworth County since 1959. Situated in the rolling hills, bluffs, and woods of the scenic Smoky Hills region of Kansas, Kanopolis is 33 miles southwest of Salina. The park features a fullservice marina; beaches; picnic areas; six modern cabins; and trails for horseback riding, mountain biking, and hiking. More than 200 primitive campsites and 133 utility sites are located in the 14 campgrounds in the Langley Point and Horsethief areas. Buffalo Track Nature Trail is an enthralling 1-mile route rich in native plants and wildlife, as well as Native American history. Kanopolis offers 27.4 miles of multi-use trails, all of which start in the state park. The Rockin’ K Trail takes visitors to and from the Rockin’ K Campground. The Horsethief Trail loops through canyons and trees. Farther north and west, the Prairie Trail traverses high prairie and Red Rock Canyon. The Alum Creek Trail takes visitors across vast prairie and through many water crossings. Be aware that it can take more than a day to complete some trails on foot. The 3,500-acre Kanopolis Reservoir offers excellent fishing opportunities. White bass fishing can be good soon after ice-out and in April during the spawning run. The best crappie fishing occurs from March through May. In addition, anglers will find walleye, saugeye, wiper, largemouth bass, and channel catfish. More than 12,500 acres of public wildlife area add to Kanopolis’ appeal. The Mushroom Rock area is a geological phenomenon of sandstone spheres balanced on softer pedestals of sandstone 7.75 miles north of the Kanopolis SP office. Mushroom The power of erosion weathered Rock away the softer portions of Area sandy rock. The spheres of the Pulpit naturally-cemented portions of Rock Formation the sandstone are what we see today. Ave. K To K-141 These unusual formations, which resemble giant mushFoot rooms reaching for the sky, Bridge served as landmarks and meeting places for Native Americans and pioneers. The Smoky Hill Wagon Trail also crossed in this Mushroom vicinity. Devil's Rock
K
Oven Formation
Formation
Kanopolis State Park (785) 546-2565 KanopolisSP@ksoutdoors.com Water Crossing Trails Extend onto the Wildlife Area
Horsethief Area
Corral Group Shelter Prairie Dog Town
Amphitheater Rockwall Burr Oak Rockin' K Horse Campground
Eagle Point Wildlife Viewing Area
ADA Trail
Sandyshore
Kanopolis Reservoir
Buzzard Bay
Kanopolis Reservoir
Caving Banks
Ball Field
Switchgrass Sandstone Yucca Sandplum
Little Bluestem
Cottonwood Sumac
Mulberry
Langley Point Area Amphitheater
Kid's Fishing Pond
19
Kaw River State Park
K
aw River State Park is Kansas’ newest state park and is the only urban park in the state park system. The property was aquired by donation in 2005, and the park officially opened to public use on September 4, 2010. Park is open 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily. No camping. The park property presently consists of 76 acres of land on the south bank of the Kansas River in west Topeka. The area is mostly hardwood forest overlooking the Kansas (Kaw) River and is adjacent to MacLennan Park and Cedar Crest (the Kansas Governor’s residence) to the east. The Kansas Department of Wildlife, Park and Tourism Region 2 Office is also adjacent to the park property. Additional property west of the Region 2 Office building will also include public access for trails. Deer, turkey, and numerous other wildlife species are common in the oak and hickory forest of the area. Eagles and various species of waterfowl are common visitors on the river through winter. Trail usage includes walking, hiking, running and mountain-biking. There is a wide range of trail types of various skill
levels, and are designed and constructed for erosion protection, sustainability, and access. Trail access is available at the 6th Avenue parking area and the Region 2 Office. Access also exists directly from MacLennan Park and Cedar Crest trails. The park will eventually have both double-wide gravel surface trails and dirt-surface single-track trails. Some of the more remote areas of the park provide some interesting natural features and views. The single-track trails will also include varied skill levels. The Kansas River is accessible from a boat ramp and parking area. This river access is available for canoes, kayaks, and other small craft. Two miles downstream is Portage Park, which provides a portage Kaw River State Park around the city water wier (785) 273-6740 (low-head dam). Learn KawRiverSP@ksoutdoors.com about river conditions and know your skill level and abilities before entering the water.
Kansas River
State Park Governor's Residence
Area Closed to Public Access
KTWU Property
SW Fairlawn Rd.
Closed Area inside Fence
SW 4th St.
Wanamaker Rd.
to Kansas History Center
MacLennan Park
SW 6th Ave. SW 6th Ave.
70
70
20
70
Lovewell State Park ocated off the beaten track in northern Jewell County, Lovewell offers an enticing blend of camping, fishing, wildlife watching, and special events. The park features excellent shade and 28 full utility, 48 water/electric, 80 electric-only, and 306 primitive campsites, as well as ten rentalable cabins. Designated electrical sites may be reserved. Bluebird and Buffalo primitive campgrounds are reservable for groups. Four shower/toilet buildings, two vault Lovewell State Park toilets, year-round freeze-proof water hydrants, two (785) 753-4971 trailer dump stations, and fish cleaning stations are cenLovewellSP@ksoutdoors.com trally located in the park. A historic limestone school hosts summer church 4 Miles services, and an archery to K-14 range is located north of the Cottonwood Shower Building. The Pioneer Day-use Area features a playground, sand volleyball court, disc golf course, and horseshoe pits. Two basketball goals are located west of the marina. The Southwinds SwimArchery ming Beach offers plenty of Range sun and shade. Picnic facilities are available throughout the day-use areas. Reservable group shelters include Southwind, Beach, Walleye Willow Twin Coves Campground Point, and Willow. Leased Mobile Home Spaces Lovewell hosts several South Willow Utility annual special events, inCampground Cottonwood Utility cluding a Kids Fishing Derby Campground Cottonwood in early June, and sand castle Campground contest in July. Lovewell Fun Bluebird Group Camp Area Day and Campground Basketball Court Christmas events in August, Cemetery archery shoot and chili Cedar Point cookoff in September. Utility Campground The 2,900-acre Lovewell Pioneer Reservoir is popular with Cabin Lovewell Frontier anglers. The south shore Cedar Point Cabin Campground Reservoir features high bluffs that Sunrise Cabin block summer winds. The Southwinds 2,200-acre Lovewell East/West Cabins Volleyball Court Wildlife Area invites Baseball Field hunters, wildlife watchers, Pioneer Campground Pine Ridge Horseshoe Pit and other wildlife enthusiCabin asts to experience a variety Walleye Point Utility Campground of well-managed habitats.
L
Walleye Point Campground
21
Meade State Park
Improved Camping Area
Primitive Camping Area Improved Camping Area Improved Camping Area
Cattails Marsh
Meade SFL
Primitive Camping Area
Primitive Camping Area
Improved Camping Area
Primitive Camping Area
23
Primitive Camping Area
22
he only state park in southwest Kansas, Meade State Park is an oasis in the shortgrass prairie region of the state. The park comprises 440 acres of land and recreational facilities situated around the 80-acre Meade State Fishing Lake. The nature trail offers visitors an up-close look at the shortgrass prairie. Utility and primitive camping, day use areas, swimming beach, and boating and fishing access make this a popular destination. Campgrounds provide 42 water/electric utility sites and 54 primitive campsites. The lake invites anglers to sample excellent fishing for bluegill, crappie, channel cat, and largemouth bass. No skiing or pleasure boating is allowed; boats with motors must be used for fishing only. The adjacent 360-acre wildlife area, although modestly-sized, offers good opportunities for dove and quail hunters. Deer, turkey, rabbit, and squirrel also inhabit the area and offer hunters an occasional mixed bag. Naturalists will enjoy a nature trail at the northwest corner of the lake.
T
Meade State Park (620) 873-2572 MeadeSP@ksoutdoors.com
Milford State Park ocated near Junction City on the Many game species are present on shores of the state’s largest lake – the 18,800-acre Milford Wildlife Area, 16,000-acre Milford Reservoir – and a permanent 1,100-acre Milford State Park is a favorite getaway. wildlife refuge has been estabPark facilities include modern camplished on the northern end of the grounds, shower buildings, toilets, reservoir for waterfowl manageswimming beaches, boat ramps, picnic ment. shelters, a full-service marina, and a Nearby Milford Nature Cenmulti-purpose trails system. The park ter and Milford Fish Hatchery offer a Milford State Park also houses a large yacht club. variety of interpretive exhibits and (785) 238-3014 The park comprises seven campdisplays. grounds with 141 electric and water MilfordSP@ksoutdoors.com hookups. Fifty-one of these sites also include sewer hookups. A total of 108 primitive campsites are availWalnut Grove able throughout the park. A reCampground Yacht cently completed horse Club campground is very popular and Woodland Hills consists of 20 campsites with full Campground hook-ups, covered corrals with lighting, and two wash bays. The Cedar Point park also has a laundry. The park Campground currently has 10 modern cabins Crystal Trailhead for rent. Contact the park for 2.1 miles reservation information. The state park is a popular destination for anglers eager to experience the excellent fishing available in Milford Reservoir. Walleye concentrate along the Hickory Hollow Campground face of the dam in early April to spawn, then move to the flats at Farnum Creek and mud points near School Creek. Nearly all of Old the brushy and rocky coves conSchool House tain crappie and largemouth bass, but coves in the Rolling Hills and Eagle Ridge Trailhead Curtis Creek areas are traditional 8 miles Waterfall Trailhead hot spots for crappie. White bass 0.6 mile and catfish are plentiful in a variEagle Ridge Equestrian & ety of locations, and smallmouth Sunset Ridge Campgrounds bass frequent the face of the dam, as well as rocky points in the lower half of the lake. Prairie View
L
Campground Old River Bluff Trail 1.5 miles (To Riverwalk Trail)
Milford Reservoir
23
Perry State Park erry State Park comprises two areas covering 1,250 acres on the shores of Perry Reservoir in Jefferson County. With the 12,500-acre reservoir and an 11,000-acre wildlife area nearby, this state park is well-situated to accommodate any outdoor preference. The park’s four campgrounds provide four rental cabins, 110 electric/water campsites and 200 primitive campsites. Showers and toilets are conveniently located for all campers. A swimming beach and beach house serve summertime funseekers. Day-use areas of the park offer seven picnic shelters, three of which are available by reservation.
P
The marshes at Perry Wildlife Area provide early migrant bird hunting, and deep water areas supply late-season mallard and diving duck hunting. In dry years, water is pumped to some of the area’s 10 marshes to ensure adequate water levels. White-tailed deer, cottontails, wild turkeys, coyotes, raccoons, and doves are common on the area. Perry Reservoir is best known for its crappie and channel cat fishing. Best angling opportunities for crappie are in the Slough Creek, Rock Creek, and Old Town areas. The best areas for channel catfish are on mud flats in the upper end of the reservoir and in the Delaware River.
Perry State Park (785) 246-3449 PerrySP@ksoutdoors.com
Delaware Area
Wild Horse
Eagle Landing
Perry Reservoir
Electrical Hookups
Turkey Run Lakeview Mulberry Grove
Pelican Point
Catfish Alley
Electrical Hookups Hobie Cove
Jefferson Point Area
24
Cottonwood Bridge Cougar Pass
Electrical Hookups
Hideaway
Pomona State Park ell-known by northeast Kansas residents for shady campsites and a great family atmosphere, the 490-acre Pomona State Park is located in Osage County, 30 miles south of Topeka. Recreation opportunities at the park include camping, picnicking, fishing, boating, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The park has 142 water/electric campsites and more than 200 primitive campsites and two cabins. Lighthouse Bay Marina provides full services to boaters, anglers, skiers, and campers. Four boat ramps are available in the park, and the lake’s generally calm waters are popular with skiers. Southwind Shelter House is a group facility equipped with restrooms, a kitchenette, a large multi-purpose room, and restful porch areas. Call the
W
park office for availability and reservations. A swim beach Pomona State Park and bath house are lo(785) 828-4933 cated in the park, as well as picnic shelters, PomonaSP@ksoutdoors.com playgrounds, volleying above the lake. A popular destination ball courts, horseshoe for fishermen, the 4,000-acre Pomona pits, a nine-hole disc golf course, and Reservoir offers some of the best crappie 2.5 miles of trails. Four modern cabins and catfish angling in Kansas, as well as are available for reservation yeargood populations of walleye, white bass, round. and largemouth bass. Nearby wildlife areas offer upland bird and waterfowl hunting. Bald eagles visit the lake in the winter and are often seen perching in shoreline trees or soar-
Pomona Reservoir
Kansa Campground
Waucondah Campground
Red Oak Campground Park Office Disc Golf Area
Lighthouse Bay Marina
Southwind Shelter House
Osage Campground Bunkers Cove Campground Four Winds Campground White Feather Campground
2 1
Cedar Wind Campground
3
Big Bear Campground
Burning Heart Campground Cafe Motel Golf Course 368
AH-KET-AH Area
Hedge-wood Trail 1.1-mile Evening Star Campground
4 Heart Stays Campground
Rising-sun Trail 0.5-mile
25
Prairie Dog State Park rairie Dog State Park occupies 1,150 acres on the shores of Keith Sebelius Reservoir in Norton County. The park is home to a thriving prairie dog colony and is the site of one of the last remaining adobe houses in Kansas. Camping at Prairie Dog include 58 electric/water sites, 12 electric-only sites, more than 75 primitive sites and four reservable cabins. Reservable campsites are available. Camping areas offer nearby shower and restroom facilities and and two RV dump stations. A 1.4-mile nature trail complete with in-
terpretive signs is a great Prairie Dog State Park place to explore the park and (785) 877-2953 observe wildlife. PrairieDogSP@ksoutdoors.com Two vintage 19th century buildings are preserved here, including a one-room school and renovated adobe house. Sebelius Reservoir Sebelius Reservoir is well known for its excellent fishing opportuoffers good prospects for pheasant, nities. In recent years, anglers have waterfowl, turkey, and rabbits. Both found productive fishing for black bass, white-tailed and mule deer can be wiper, crappie, catfish, and saugeye. found here, as well as a variety of The 6,400-acre Norton Wildlife Area furbearers.
P
261
Bureau of Reclamation HQ
To Highway 36
One Room Schoolhouse
Prairie Dog Town
Adobe Home Cedar Crest Cabin Cottonwood Cabin
Archery Range
Meadowlark Campground Branded Cedar Campground
Prairie Dog Cabin Eagle View Cabin
Prairie Dog Campground
Shady Rest Campground
West Shoreline Loop Camping
Sebelius Reservoir
26
Prairie Spirit Trail State Park LOMAX S Oak St.
PEORIA
23rd St. E 7th St.
35
50 Kingman Rd.
50
273
W 19th St.
Hamilton Rd.
59
John Brown Rd.
King St.
Ellis Terr.
Finney Terr.
94th Ellis Rd.
Butler Rd.
RICHMOND
GLENLOCH
Pine St.
Montana Rd.
1500 Rd.
31
800 Rd. 700 Rd.
Maple St.
Ransom Ave.
Chanute Ave.
S Cherry St.
Scott Ave. . Ti og
aS
t.
St la
t.
Io
tS ld bo m Hu
t.
169
VANCE
St
WELDA
SELMA
31
KINCAID 31
SW Idaho Rd.
200 Rd.
59
ANDERSON CO. ALLEN CO.
West Virginia Rd.
169
Patterson Ave. MILDRED
Utah Rd.
57
CARLYLE
IOLA
COLONY Cottonwood St.
St.
eS
.
59
LONE ELM
GENEVA CARLYLE
Northwestern St.
3
White Blvd.
WISE
Texas Rd.
Jim St.
RAYARD
South Dakota Rd.
PIQUA
Jefferson St.
North Dakota Rd.
Buchanan St.
Carpenter St.
Breckenridge St.
Lincoln St.
54
BASSETT
State St.
Rhode Island Rd. Oregon Rd.
Walnut St.
CR 1800
Marshmallow Ln.
Texas Rd. Dunlap St. Kentucky St.
Garfield St.
CR 1600
169
4th St.
St
vid
le
Miller Rd.
100 Rd.
NEOSHO FALLS
1000 Rd.
ett
Di
rly
300 Rd.
WOODSON CO.
Ga
rn
Ca
576th St. Cherry St.
COLONY
WELDA
5th St.
COFFEY CO.
South St.
169
500 Rd.
4th St.
Pine
St.
600 Rd.
Depot
Beech St.
Broad St.
SW Indiana Rd.
2nd St.
SW Kentucky Rd.
50th Rd. 1st St.
Main St.
BUSH CITY
169 1100 Rd.
Kiowa Rd.
169 US
Elm St.
900 Rd.
Old
Indiana Rd.
1000 Rd.
Smith St.
1300 Rd.
Maryland Rd.
169
Missouri Rd. Mitchell Rd.
MONT IDA
14th Ave.
3rd St.
Mulberry St.
59 169
1700 Rd.
SW Iowa Rd.
Walnut St.
Elm St.
GARNETT
WESTPHALIA
ALICEVILLE
59
South St.
169
Maryland Rd.
Main St.
Morris Rd.
Elm St.
9th Ave.
169
E Minnie St.
GARNETT 1750 Rd. 1400 Rd.
CENTRAL 7th Ave.
SANTA FE DEPOT
59
Central Ave.
31 5th Ave. 6th Ave.
11th Ave.
S Ranson St.
Oak St. Walnut St.
Maple St.
169
HARRIS
7th Ave.
N Kallock St.
59
3rd Ave.
Ruth St.
S Baldwin St.
Applegarth St.
1st Ave. Vine St.
1st Ave.
GREELEY
SCIPIO
Missouri Terr.
AMIOT
t.
2400 Rd.
Spruce St.
31
North St. E Hubert St.
ANDERSON CO.
Park Rd.
RICHMOND Allen Rd.
nt S
FRANKLIN CO.
Fro
AGRICOLA
N Ransom St.
Clark Rd.
Nebraska Rd.
Missouri Rd.
Douglas Rd.
35
E 23rd St. SILKVILLE
COFFEY CO.
59
Prince Ct. Lawrence St.
59
WAVERLY
High St.
Finney Rd.
Cloud Rd.
31
59
Green St.
PRINCETON
WILLIAMSBURG
S Elm St.
Princeton Circle Dr. Greenwood Rd.
John Brown Rd.
Haskell Rd.
HOMEWOOD E 15th St. Montana Rd.
W 17th St.
Jackson Rd.
Main St.
S Mulberry St.
S Walnut St.
Marshall Rd.
S Eisenhower St.
S Burrough St.
S Willow St.
S Elm St.
W 13th St.
RANTOUL PRINCETON
Rock Creek Rd. E 11th St.
1600th St.
T
15th St.
W 9th St.
Covert Rd.
he 51-mile Prairie Spirit Trail was constructed between Ottawa and Iola in three phases. The 17-mile middle section, from Richmond through Garnett to Welda, was opened in 1996. The northern 16-mile section, from Ottawa through Princeton to Richmond, opened in 1998. The southern 18mile section, from Welda through Colony to Iola, opened in 2008. The railbanked railroad corridor of the Kansas City Terminal Railway (KCT), formerly operated by ATSF, is now managed by the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Park and Tourism. The trail has a strong volunteer support base known as the Friends of the Prairie Spirit Trail.
W 5th St.
59
OSAGE CO.
Prairie Spirit Trail State Park (785) 448-6767 PrairieSpiritSP@ksoutdoors.com
Neosho Rd.
68
E 3rd St. S Cherry St.
68
68
RICHTER
E 1st St.
3rd St.
68
QUENEMO
OTTAWA
E Keokuk St.
OTTAWA
Galveston St.
68
POMONA
OLD DEPOT MUSEUM
Lincoln St.
54
IOLA
GAS
LA HARPE
MORAN
3 54
27
Sand Hills State Park unique natural area, Sand Hills State Park is a wildlife watcher’s delight. Located northeast of Hutchinson in Reno County, the park features excellent trails that wind through 1,123 acres of sand dunes, native prairie, wetlands, and woodlands. Visitors are limited to walk-in and horse trail access to help protect the area’s natural features. A vehicle permit is required, and modern horse campground is provided. Two wildlife observation blinds allow visitors a close-up
A
view of ducks, geese, songbirds, deer, muskrats, and more. The most popular activities at Sand Hills are hiking and horseback riding. Eight different trails provide hikers and horseback riders a variety of natural environments. The trails range from 1 mile to almost 4 miles and are open throughout the year. Most trails start from four parking lots located on 56th Street or 69th Street. Archery deer and turkey and upland game hunting are available only by special permit. Contact the Cheney State Park office for information.
69th Street
Cottonwood Trail
Prairie Trail
61
Pond Trail
Bluestem Spur Trail
Woodland Trail Dune Trail
Dune Trail Overlook
Rolling Hills Trail
Tallgrass Trail
To H
utc hin
so
n
56th Street
28
Sand Hills State Park (316)542-3664 SandHillsSP@ksoutdoors.com
Scott State Park idden in the western Kansas prairie, Scott State Park is a startling oasis of natural springs, deep wooded canyons, and craggy bluffs. The 1,020-acre park surrounds the 100-acre, spring-fed Scott State Fishing Lake. Rich in history, this park provides an ideal setting for camping, boating, swimming, hiking, hunting, fishing, and wildlife observation. The Steele home, the dwelling of the original settlers on the area, has been preserved much as it was more than 100 years ago. The park also boasts the northernmost pueblo in the U. S. – El Cuartelejo. The park has two cabins, 55 utility campsites, including some with 50-amp service and water hookups. Three modern shower buildings, 100 primitive campsites, and several vault toilets are also available. Visitors enjoy a swimming beach and playground, and a concessions building stocks camping and fishing supplies. Canoe and paddleboat rentals are available seasonally. Nature trails accommodate hikers, horseback riders, and naturalists and provide excellent opportunities to observe wildlife in natural habitats. Wild turkey, deer, bobcat, and beaver are common in the area. A horse camp area provides amenities for equestrian visitors.
H
Bull Canyon South Campground
Scott SFL Lake View Campground (Utilities available) Timber Canyon Campground
To Hwy 83 N Oakley 34 miles
Lakeside Campground
Horse Unloading & Camp Area
Methodist Church Camp Lakeside
Horse Thief Canyon
95
Circle Drive Campground (Utilities available)
Steele Monument
El Cuartelejo Pueblo
Steele Home Museum Shop/Volunteer Center
Boy Scout Camp Buffalo Pasture Elm Grove Camping Area
Big Springs Nature Trail & Picnic Area
Barrel Springs Trout Pond
95
Scott State Park (620) 872-2061 ScottSP@ksoutdoors.com
To Hwy 83 S Scott City 14 miles
29
Tuttle Creek State Park ocated near Manhattan in northeast Kansas, Tuttle Creek State Park offers visitors a broad variety of outdoor recreation possibilities and plenty of room to roam. Tuttle Creek Reservoir, the state’s second largest impoundment, offers 12,500 acres of water and about 100 miles of rugged, wooded shoreline to explore. Four units – River Pond, Cedar Ridge, Fancy Creek and Randolph – make up the 1,250-acre park. Electric and water hookups, a swimming beach, boat ramps, courtesy docks, and dump stations are available. Eleven modern cabins are available to rent. Campgrounds contain 39 electric-only campsites, 167 water/electric campsites, 13 water/electric/sewer campsites and space for up to 500 primitive camping units. The newest campground – Rocky Ford – can be ac-
L
Fancy Creek Area
Cedar Ridge Area
Tuttle Creek Reservoir
Cedar Ridge Trail ADA Accessible
Maintenance Building Shooting Range
Tuttle Creek Reservoir
Tuttle Creek Reservoir
Tuttle Creek Reservoir
Disc Golf Trailhead
el
nn
ha
C ay
w ill
Sp Tuttle Creek River Pond
a Ch
el nn
River Pond Area Western Heritage Trail
30
Barnes Dy er Rd.
Willow Lake (Trout Pond)
Cottonwood Nature Trail
Ou tl e t
Tuttle Creek State Park Telephone: (785) 539-7941 TuttleCreekSP@ksoutdoors.com
Randolph Area
cessed through the River Pond area, and offers 40 designated utility campsites in a shady, wooded setting with many directly adjacent to the waters of River Pond. This campground contains a new showerhouse, dump station, and a trailhead that allows easy access to the 1.5-mile long Western Heritage Trail. This concrete trail lies adjacent to the Big Blue River for hikers and bikers, as well as access for anglers. Numerous nature trails, a mountain biking trail, and a scenic equestrian trail offer explorers a variety of routes to experience the aesthetic Flint Hills. Scenic picnic areas, an 18-hole disc golf course, volleyball courts, horseshoe pits, and convenientlyplaced restroom and shower facilities accommodate park visitors. The state-of-the-art Fancy Creek Shooting Range is open the first and third weekends of each month. The River Pond area also offers a laundry facility, archery range, and rental of canoes, kayaks, and paddle boats for use on River Pond. Excellent channel cat and flathead fishing is available in the lake and in the river above and below the lake. Fair numbers of bass and crappie are caught near standing timber and brush piles, and saugeye can be taken off the face of the dam, as well as in the river below. The 12,000-acre wildlife area adjacent to the park offers excellent hunting and wildlife watching.
Webster State Park ebster State Park offers a prairie setting of rolling hills and spacious skies. The park occupies 880 acres contained in two tracts on the shores of Webster Reservoir. Campers can choose from 93 utility campsites and more than 100 primitive campsites. In addition to boating and fishing, campers at Webster choose from recreational opportunities provided by swimming beaches, a sand volleyball court, horseshoe pits, playgrounds, and a hiking trail. Five boat ramp lanes and three courtesy docks offer boaters ample launching facilities. Pleasure boating, fishing, water skiing, and windsurfing are popular activities at Webster. Primary sportfish include walleye, wiper, largemouth bass, crappie, channel catfish, and flathead catfish. The park offers floating fishing docks, and there is an easily-accessible fishing pier at the nearby stilling basin. The 5,750-acre Webster Wildlife Area is home to white-tailed and mule deer, pheasants, quail, waterfowl, wild turkey, squirrels, and numerous songbirds.
Webster State Park (785) 425-6775 WebsterSP@ksoutdoors.com
W
To Stockton 24
To Hill City
Rock Point Campground
Mushroom Camping Area
Webster Reservoir
(at conservation pool)
Lake View Camping Area
Oldtown Area (North Shore)
Webster Reservoir
Old Marina Campground Eagle Landing Campground
Canada Campground
232
Marina Point Campground
Goose Flat Area (South Shore) To Zurich 11 miles
31
Wilson State Park
Wilson State Park (785) 658-2465 WilsonSP@ksoutdoors.com
et in the scenic Smoky Hills region of Kansas, Wilson State Park provides convenient access to one of the state’s prime water recreation areas. The park’s 945 acres consist of two areas – Hell Creek and Otoe – both situated on the south side of the 9,000-acre Wilson Reservoir. Utility and primitive campsites, day-use areas,
S
a swimming beach, boating access, a marina, and trails provide enjoyable alternatives for visitors. Water hookups and shower buildings are available April through September. Frost-free water hydrants and several vault toilets are open through the winter. For RV campers, the park has three dump stations – two in Hell Creek and one in Otoe. The park offers four modern cabins for rent by visitors. The Dakota Trail gives visitors one of the best views of the Kansas prairie and Wilson Reservoir. The Switchgrass Bike Trail offers bicyclists a scenic 20-mile route. Cedar Trail in the Otoe area is a handicapped-accessible, 3/4-mile loop with an concrete surface. Wilson State Park offers excellent opportunities to view and photograph wildlife, including deer, bobwhite quail, waterfowl, numerous songbirds, and migratory birds. The adjacent 8,000-acre Wilson Wildlife Area offers an array of hunting opportunities. Famous for its striped bass and walleye fishing, Wilson attracts thousands of anglers each year.
Goldenrod Campground
Yarrow Campground
Otoe Area To Dam
Wilson Reservoir
Elm Campground Cabin Use Only
Sunflower Campground
Cedar ADA Trail
Yucca Campground
Side Oats Campground Foxtail Campground
232 Sagewort Campground
Big Bluestem Campground
Bait Shop
Coneflower Campground Lovegrass Campground
Boat Ramp Cove
Little Bluestem Campground Dakota Nature Trail
Buffalograss Campground
Indiangrass Campground
Hell Creek Cove
Marina Cove
6 miles to I-70 Exit 206
Wheatgrass Campground
Grama Campground
NO WAKE AREA Dropseed Campground
Switchgrass Campground
State Park Cove
Switchgrass Bike Trail
Area Office
Hell Creek Area
32
Scenic Route to I-70
State Park Regulations 1. A current motor vehicle permit is required for every motorized vehicle entering the park. 2. Vehicles are permitted on improved roads and parking areas only. 3. A camper may stay at one campground up to 14 consecutive days and may extend an additional 14 days only with written permission from the manager. Some parks also have long term camping programs. 4. Fires are allowed in fireplaces, firerings, and cooking grills only. 5. Swimming is at your own risk and recommended only at swimming beach areas. 6. Pets must be restrained on a leash not longer than 10 feet or otherwise confined.
7. A special event permit is required for any event involving entrance fees, sales, organized competition, amplified sound, use of temporary structures (does not include common camping gear or blinds), or reservation of a specific site or facility. 8. Quiet hours are 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. Actions that alarm, anger, or disturb others are prohibited. Failure to comply may result in expulsion from the park and a notice to appear in court. This summary highlights only a portion of the current regulations. For a complete listing of the state park rules and regulations, contact a state park office or KDWPT, 512 SE 25th Ave., Pratt, KS 67124-8174; (620) 672-5911. Complete regulations are also available at the KDWPT website, ksoutdoors.com.
Equal opportunity to participate in and benefit from programs described herein is available to all individuals without regard to race, color, national origin, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, political affiliation, and military or veteran status. Complaints of discrimination should be sent to Office of the Secretary, Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism, 1020 S Kansas Ave., Topeka, KS 66612-1327. 09/12
33
State Park Contacts Cedar Bluff (785) 726-3212 32001 Hwy 147 Ellis, KS 67637 E-mail: CedarBluffSP@ksoutdoors.com
Glen Elder (785) 545-3345 2131 180 Rd. Glen Elder, KS 67446 E-mail: GlenElderSP@ksoutdoors.com
Pomona (785) 828-4933 22900 S Hwy 368 Vassar, KS 66543-9162 E-mail: PomonaSP@ksoutdoors.com
Cheney/ Sand Hills (316) 542-3664 16000 NE 50th St. Cheney, KS 67025-8487 E-mail: CheneySp@ksoutdoors.com
Hillsdale (913) 783-4507 26001 W 255th St. Paola, KS 66071 E-mail: HillsdaleSP@ksoutdoors.com
Prairie Dog (785) 877-2953 PO Box 431 Norton, KS 67654 E-mail: PrairiedogSP@ksoutdoors.com
Clinton (785) 842-8562 798 N 1415th Rd. Lawrence, KS 66049 E-mail: ClintonSP@ksoutdoors.com
Kanopolis/Mushroom Rock (785) 546-2565 200 Horsethief Rd. Marquette, KS 67464 E-mail: KanopolisSP@ksoutdoors.com
Prairie Spirit Trail (785) 448-6767 419 S Oak St. Garnett, KS 66032 E-mail: PrairieSpiritSP@ksoutdoors.com
Crawford (620) 362-3671 1 Lake Rd. Farlington, KS 66734-4045 E-mail: CrawfordSP@ksoutdoors.com
Kaw River (785) 273-6740 300 SW Wanamaker Rd. Topeka, KS 66606 E-mail: KawRiverSP@ksoutdoors.com
Scott (620) 872-2061 101 W Scott Lake Dr. Scott City, KS 67871-1075 E-mail: ScottSP@ksoutdoors.com
Cross Timbers/Fall River (620) 637-2213 144 Hwy 105 Toronto, KS 66777 E-mail: CrossTimbersSP@ksoutdoors.com
Lovewell (785) 753-4971 2446 250 Rd. Webber, KS 66970 E-mail: LovewellSP@ksoutdoors.com
Tuttle Creek (785) 539-7941 5800-A River Pond Rd. Manhattan, KS 66502 E-mail: TuttleCreekSP@ksoutdoors.com
Eisenhower (785) 528-4102 29810 S Fairlawn Rd. Osage City, KS 66523-9046 E-mail: EisenhowerSP@ksoutdoors.com
Meade (620) 873-2572 13051 V Rd. Meade, KS 67864 E-mail: MeadeSP@ksoutdoors.com
Webster (785) 425-6775 1210 Nine Rd. Stockton, KS 67669-8834 E-mail: WebsterSP@ksoutdoors.com
El Dorado (316) 321-7180 618 NE Bluestem Rd. El Dorado, KS 67042-8643 E-mail: EldoradoSP@ksoutdoors.com
Milford (785) 238-3014 3612 State Park Rd. Milford, KS 66514 E-mail: MilfordSP@ksoutdoors.com
Wilson (785) 658-2465 #3 State Park Rd. Sylvan Grove, KS 67481 E-mail: WilsonSP@ksoutdoors.com
Elk City (620) 331-6295 4825 Squaw Creek Rd. Independence, KS 67301 E-mail: ElkCitySP@ksoutdoors.com
Perry (785) 246-3449 5441 West Lake Rd. Ozawkie, KS 66070-9802 E-mail: PerrySP@ksoutdoors.com
35
Wildlife, Parks and Tourism Offices Office of the Secretary 1020 S Kansas, Suite 200 Topeka, KS 66612-1327 (785) 296-2281 Pratt Operations Office 512 SE 25th Ave. Pratt, KS 67124-8174 (620) 672-5911 Region 1 Office 1426 Hwy 183 Alt., PO Box 338 Hays, KS 67601-0338 (785) 628-8614 Region 2 Office 300 SW Wanamaker Topeka, KS 66606 (785) 273-6740 Region 3 Office 1001 W McArtor Rd. Dodge City, KS 67801-6024 (620) 227-8609 Region 4 Office 6232 E 29th St. North Wichita, KS 67220 (316) 683-8069 Region 5 Office 1500 W 7th St., PO Box 777 Chanute, KS 66720-0777 (620) 431-0380 Emporia Research & Survey Office 1830 Merchant, PO Box 1525 Emporia, KS 66801-1525 (620) 342-0658 Kansas City District Office 8304 Hedge Lane Terr. Shawnee, KS 66227 (913) 422-1314
State Parks in Kansas