Kansas State Parks Guide

Page 1

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

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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

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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.

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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

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Campground Old River Bluff Trail 1.5 miles (To Riverwalk Trail)

Milford Reservoir

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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.

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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

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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.

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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

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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.

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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-

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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,

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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

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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

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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


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