8 Refreshing Natural And Manmade Swimming Lakes You’ll Definitely Want To Visit This Summer In Kansas
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Lisa Sammons
Author
Summer in Kansas is a blast, but it can also get quite warm, to say the least. If you’re looking for the perfect way to cool off, why not go for a swim by a beach? We’re about as land-locked as it gets here in the Sunflower State, but that doesn’t mean we don’t have some amazing places for a day out on the water. Here are a few of our favorite natural and manmade swimming lakes in Kansas that are just perfect for summer frolicking!
1. Cedar Bluff State Park: Ellis
Cedar Bluff State Park- Bluffton Area, 32001 KS-147, Ellis, KS 67637, USA
Cedar Bluff State Park is an amazing place to visit at any time of year. This epic state park has amazing limestone bluffs, miles of hiking trails, over 100 campsites, and an array of wildlife-spotting opportunities. However, what's really special here in the summer is the 6,000-acre reservoir that shares the park's name. The swim beach here has soft sand and will make you forget you're in a land-locked state. Whether you're looking to relax by the water, take a dip to cool off, or enjoy a bit of fishing, there's so much to love about this great state park in Ellis, KS.
2. HorseThief Reservoir: Jetmore
HorseThief Reservoir, 19005 SW, KS-156, Jetmore, KS 67854, USA
HorseThief Reservoir is one of the gems of Central Kansas. This sprawling lake has tons to do along the shore, with campsites and a frisbee golf course to check out. Some of the state's best fishing can be enjoyed here, and it's a popular spot for boating and kayaking. Don't miss the swimming beach, though - it's perfect for the whole family and a great way to cool off on a hot day!
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3. Eisenhower State Park: Osage City
Eisenhower State Park, 29810 S Fairlawn Rd, Osage City, KS 66523, USA
Eisenhower State Park is not among the state's most-visited state parks, but it's a wonderful place for a day of adventure, especially in the warm months! Miles of trails are perfect for explorers, and you can also enjoy archery and kayaking. The park is home to Melvern Lake, a huge reservoir. There's a sandy beach, swimming area, and even a sand volleyball court to enjoy by the lake - needless to say, it's a great summer destination.
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4. Lovewell State Park: Webber
Lovewell State Park, 2446 250 Rd, Webber, KS 66970, USA
Lovewell State Park offers up over 1,100 acres of fun, and Lovewell Reservoir is the perfect place to enjoy an afternoon on the water. The campground here is great, and you'll also find an archery range, playgorund, sand volleyball court, disc golf course, and more. There's a marina here with boat ramps and fish-cleaning stations if you prefer to be out on a boat instead of swimming.
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5. El Dorado State Park: El Dorado
El Dorado State Park, 618 NE Bluestem Rd, El Dorado, KS 67042, USA
El Dorado State Park is the largest state park in Kansas, with more than 4,000 acres of protected lands. The park surrounds El Dorado Lake, a beautiful reservoir in the Flint Hills. It's a popular spot for fishing, and a variety of species live in the reservoir, including catfish, crappie, and rainbow trout. The park is divided into four areas, each of which has camping areas, boat ramps, and trails. It's at Bluestem Point Area where you'll find a swimming beach, and the Walnut River Area has a little swimming pond.
6. Cheney State Park: Cheney
Cheney State Park, 16000 NE 50 St, Cheney, KS 67025, USA
Cheney State Park is a lovely spot with hundreds of primitive campsites and miles of trails, but it's also home to an immense lake perfect for recreation. It's actually the windiest lake in the continental U.S., making it great for sail boating and windsurfing. There's tons of fish and wildlife here, and this is a wonderful place for spending time out on the water. There are several beaches for those seeking relaxation by the lake.
7. Crawford State Park: Farlington
Crawford State Park, 1 Lake Rd, Farlington, KS 66734, USA
If you've never been to Crawford State Park, it's definitely worth a visit! This 500-acre oasis has a six campgrounds, and the 150-acre lake is one of our favorites in the Sunflower State. There are two boat ramps here and ample populations of catfish, crappie, and bass, but the lake is also great for swimming. The park offers up beautiful scenery and is an amazing place to visit any time of year, but the lake is definitely a summer gem.
8. Hillsdale State Park: Paola
Hillsdale State Park, Paola, KS 66071, USA
Hillsdale State Park is a sprawling preserve that is home to tons of wildlife, including an abundant supply of fish. There's a lot to do here, with an equestrian area, shooting range, archery range, campgrounds, and plenty of opportunities for fishing, and it doesn't get much better than a visit to the beach here in the summer months.
Which of these swimming lakes in Kansas is your favorite? Any that you love that we didn’t mention? Share your thoughts in the comments!
When enjoying summer fun, make sure to stay safe and protect your skin with a high quality sunscreen. I love Sun Bum from REI – it’s lightweight and not greasy!
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