Top 20 Lakes in Kansas
Best lakes in Kansas offer diverse recreational opportunities across a landscape primarily known for its prairies. Many of these bodies of water were initially constructed for flood control, evolving into popular destinations for outdoor enthusiasts. The region features a variety of lakes, from large man-made reservoirs to smaller recreational spots. These lakes provide a range of activities, including water sports, hiking, and wildlife viewing.
Best lakes in Kansas
- The most popular lakes is Shawnee Mission Lake, a lake that…
Last updated: May 4, 2026
Shawnee Mission Lake
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Peter Pan Park
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Corporate Woods Park
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Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park
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Elk River Memorial Overlook
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Lake Olathe
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Margaret's Pond
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Elk City State Park
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Augusta City Lake and Garvin Park
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Perry Lake
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Tips from the Community
From the Emporia website Peter Pan Park, located on the south side of Emporia between South Congress and South West Streets, is a 51.7-acre park with a rich history. Donated by William Allen White in memory of his daughter, Mary, the park includes a 4-acre lake and features several historically significant elements, such as a memorial to White and a bronze bust by sculptor Jo Davidson. The park was also once home to Monkey Island, a refuge for freed circus monkeys. Over the years, it has served as a filming location and venue for various events. The picturesque Boathouse is a popular spot for weddings, while the adjacent Amphitheater hosts concerts, plays, and other performances. Peter Pan Park offers numerous amenities, including picnic areas like the Kiwanis shelter, a "Toadstool" shelter, and the renovated Arbor, all equipped with charcoal burners. The park also features a Splash Pad, an 18-basket disc golf course, ball fields, playground equipment, a comfort station, and drinking fountains with bottle fillers. Recent revitalization efforts have included the reconstruction of the lake, which now offers excellent fishing opportunities. Future plans aim to further improve accessibility, rebuild structures, and enhance the park's overall aesthetics.
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Peter Pan park has a former monkey enclosure a big pond several playgrounds horseshoe pits picnic shelters and more
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Explore Corporate Woods Park, a 200-acre urban oasis. This park offers a mix of natural beauty with diverse wildlife, hiking and biking trails, and family-friendly amenities. Don't miss the outdoor sculptures, including the iconic "Corporate Woods Totem Pole" by artist Jon Barlow Hudson. This former corporate office park has a fascinating history, including a lake that was once a limestone quarry. Enjoy the blend of nature, art, and history at Corporate Woods Park.
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Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park has something for everyone. There's trails, of course, but also playgrounds, a skate park, disc golf course, a pond, and more.
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Augusta’s largest park, Garvin Park, is located off Washington Lane at the south end of Augusta City Lake. Garvin Park is the center of outdoor activity during the spring and summer months. It is a truly unique setting for summer baseball with fields surrounded by mature shade trees and the occasionally flowing Elm Creek. Grab your favorite game snack at the newly constructed concession stand. Climb to the top of the dam and take in the beautiful lake views (the dam is a popular location to view the annual Fourth of July fireworks show).
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This 57-acre lake, named for the beautiful town of Olathe, offers plenty of outdoor recreation. It is surrounded by 258 acres of open park spaces, including a disc golf course, playgrounds, event space, a marina, and a beach with a swim area. A well-maintained paved path surrounds the lake, with nice picnic benches, perfect for a spot to stop and take a break, or you can head to the beach area and take a dip to cool off on a hot day.
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Shawnee Mission Lake is a popular recreational spot. At 120 acres in size, the lake provides opportunities for fishing, boating, kayaking, and canoeing. The surrounding park area features scenic trails for hiking, biking, picnicking areas, and birdwatching.
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Margaret's Pond features highly accessible paved trails through numerous garden exhibits around the arboretum. There is a boardwalk, amphitheater, and many benches from which to sit and admire the pond and the gardens.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of outdoor activities can I enjoy at Kansas lakes?
Kansas lakes offer a wide array of outdoor activities. You can find opportunities for fishing, boating, kayaking, canoeing, and swimming. Many lakes also feature extensive trail systems for hiking, biking, and even horseback riding. For example, Shawnee Mission Lake is popular for water sports and its surrounding trails. Milford Lake is known for fishing and birdwatching, while Wilson Lake attracts sailors and hikers. You can also explore various road cycling routes, running trails, and gravel biking paths near many of these lakes.
Are there family-friendly lakes in Kansas?
Yes, many lakes in Kansas are excellent for families. They often provide amenities like swimming beaches, picnic areas, and easy trails. Shawnee Mission Lake and Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park are great examples, offering playgrounds, trails, and various recreational facilities. El Dorado Lake also features scenic coves and sandy swimming beaches, perfect for a family day out.
Which lakes are best for hiking and biking?
For hiking and biking, Clinton Lake stands out with its extensive trail systems within Clinton State Park. Wilson Lake is also home to the challenging 24.5-mile Switchgrass Mountain Bike Trail. Perry Lake offers the nationally recognized 47-kilometer Perry Lake Trail for hiking. Additionally, Tuttle Creek State Park features a 13-kilometer mountain bike trail at Fancy Creek State Park. You can find more specific routes in the Running Trails in Kansas guide.
What natural features can I expect to see at Kansas lakes?
Kansas lakes, many of which are reservoirs, offer diverse natural beauty. Wilson Lake is famous for its exceptionally clear blue waters and rugged shoreline with rocky limestone cliffs. Kanopolis Lake, located in the Smoky Hills region, features rolling hills, bluffs, woods, red rock outcrops, and sandy beaches. You can also find viewpoints like Elk River Memorial Overlook, providing excellent views of Elk City Lake.
Are there opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife viewing?
Absolutely. Milford Lake is a favorite for birdwatching, and its Milford Nature Center provides educational exhibits about local wildlife. Wilson Lake and Kanopolis Lake also offer great opportunities for wildlife viewing. Fall River Lake's surrounding area is excellent for birdwatching, making many Kansas lakes ideal spots for nature enthusiasts.
Which lakes are known for good fishing?
Milford Lake is often called the 'Fishing Capitol of Kansas,' known for species like wipers, walleye, crappie, bass, and catfish. Perry Lake is particularly known for its large catfish. Other popular fishing spots include Clinton Lake (bass, catfish, crappie), El Dorado Lake (walleye, crappie, largemouth bass, channel catfish), Cheney Reservoir, and Fall River Lake (white bass, crappie, bluegill, channel catfish).
What makes Wilson Lake unique among Kansas lakes?
Wilson Lake is widely considered the 'prettiest lake in Kansas' due to its exceptionally clear blue waters and rugged shoreline characterized by rocky limestone cliffs. It's a prime destination for sailing, hiking, and wildlife viewing, and hosts the challenging Switchgrass Mountain Bike Trail.
Can I find places to swim at Kansas lakes?
Yes, many Kansas lakes offer designated swimming areas and beaches. Wilson State Park, Tuttle Creek State Park, El Dorado Lake, and Cheney Reservoir all provide swimming beaches. Clinton Lake is also ideal for swimming, offering refreshing waters for visitors.
Are there any lakes suitable for a quiet escape or less crowded experience?
While many lakes are popular, Kanopolis Lake offers tranquil areas designated for fishing, alongside its water sports zones, providing a balance for those seeking quieter moments. For a weekend escape, Perry Lake, known as 'Paradise on the Plains,' is a popular but accessible option, especially for residents of Topeka and Lawrence.
What is the largest man-made lake in Kansas?
Milford Lake holds the title of the largest man-made lake in Kansas. It spans 6,400 hectares (15,709 acres) with 163 miles of shoreline, offering extensive recreational opportunities near Junction City.
Are there any lakes with facilities for camping?
Yes, camping is a popular activity at many Kansas lakes. Wilson State Park, Milford State Park, Tuttle Creek State Park, Perry State Park, Kanopolis State Park, El Dorado State Park, Cheney State Park, and Fall River State Park all provide camping facilities, allowing visitors to extend their stay and enjoy the natural surroundings.
What are some notable events or unique attractions near Kansas lakes?
Tuttle Creek Lake hosts the annual Country Stampede Music Festival, drawing many visitors. Clinton Lake is the annual site of the Ironman Kansas 70.3 triathlon. The Milford Nature Center near Milford Lake offers educational exhibits about local wildlife, providing an enriching experience for visitors.
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Most popular attractions in Kansas
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