Rathbun Lake 

Rathbun Project Office
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
20112 Hwy J5T
Centerville, IA 52544

Phone: 641-647-2464

Email: Rathbun@usace.army.mil

Clinton Lake

Clinton Project Office
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
872 N. 1402 Rd
Lawrence, KS 66049

Tel: 785-843-7665

Email: Clinton@usace.army.mil

Hillsdale Lake

Hillsdale Lake Project Office
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
26000 W. 255th St
Paola, KS 66071

Tel:  913-783-4366
Fax: 913-783-4425

Email: Hillsdale@usace.army.mil

Kanopolis Lake 

Kanopolis Project Office
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
105 Riverside Drive
Marquette, KS 67464

Tel: 785-546-2294
Fax: 785-546-2200

Email: Kanopolis@usace.army.mil

Melvern Lake

Melvern Lake Project Office
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
31051 Melvern Lake Parkway
Melvern, Kansas 66510

Tel: 785-549-3318
Fax: 785-549-3611

Email: Melvern@usace.army.mil

Milford Lake 

Milford Project Office
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
5203 North K-57
Junction City, Kansas 66441

Phone: (785)238-5714

Email: Milford@usace.army.mil

Perry Lake 

Perry Project Office
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
10419 Perry Park Drive
Perry, KS 66073

Phone: (785) 597-5144

Email: perry.lake@usace.army.mil

Pomona Lake 

Pomona Project Office
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
5260 Pomona Dam Road
Vassar, Ks 66543

Phone: 785-453-2201
Fax: 785-453-2203

Email: Pomona@usace.army.mil

Tuttle Creek Lake

Tuttle Creek Project Office
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
5020 Tuttle Creek Blvd
Manhattan, KS 66502

Phone:  785-539-8511

Email: Tuttle.Creek@usace.army.mil

Wilson Lake 

Wilson Project Office 
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers 
4860 Outlet Blvd. 
Sylvan Grove, KS 67481 

Phone:  785-658-2551 
Fax: 785-658-2554 

Email: wilson.lake@usace.army.mil

Blue Springs Lake

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
10698 East 109 St.
Kansas City, MO 64134

Tel: 816-761-6194

Email: Smithville@usace.army.mil

Harry S. Truman Lake

Harry S. Truman Project Office
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
15968 Truman Road
Warsaw, MO 65355

Tel:  660-438-2836 extension 1

Email: Harry.S.Truman@usace.army.mil

Long Branch Lake

Long Branch Project Office & Visitor Center
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
30174 Visitor Center Road
Macon, MO 63552

Tel:  660-385-2108

Email: long.branch@usace.army.mil

Longview Lake

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
10698 East 109 St.
Kansas City, MO 64134

Tel: 816-761-6194

Email: Longview@usace.army.mil

Pomme de Terre Lake

Pomme de Terre Project Office
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
23697 County Road 218
Hermitage, MO 65668

Tel: 417-745-6411

Email: Pomme.De-Terre@usace.army.mil

Smithville Lake

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers-Smithville Lake
Jerry Litton Visitor Center
16311 County Rd DD
Smithville, MO 64089

Tel: 816-532-0174

Email: Smithville@usace.army.mil

Stockton Lake

Stockton Project Office
16435 E Stockton Lake Drive
Stockton, MO  65785-9416

Tel:  417-276-3113

Email: Stockton@usace.army.mil

Missouri River Sites

Napoleon, MO 64074

Tel: 816-240-8131

Email: MissouriRiverAreaOffice@usace.army.mil

Harlan County Lake

Harlan County Project Office
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
70788 Corps Road A
Republican City, NE 68971

Tel: 308-799-2105

Email: harlan.county@usace.army.mil 

USACE Annual Pass = $40. Pass holders receive free entrance to U.S. Army Corps of Engineers-operated sites nationwide that charge day use fees. The pass may not be used at areas operated by other agencies even if those areas may be located on USACE-owned property. Camping fees are not included. Pass valid for one year. Valid through month and year shown on the pass. Sold only at USACE projects, please call ahead to ensure the office is open to the public.

A USACE cost-shared lake is one that was built in accordance with the Water Resources Development Act of 1986, Public Law 99-662. These projects were partially funded by government dollars and partially funded by non-federal public interests. These non-federal entities may operate recreation areas at these cost-shared lakes and are authorized to charge entrance and user fees accordingly. They are not authorized to sell/issue the Interagency or USACE passes and therefore are not required to accept them in lieu of entrance or user fees.

Cost-Shared Locations

Hillsdale Lake, Kansas

Long Branch Lake, Missouri

Longview Lake, Missouri

Milford Lake, Kansas

Smithville Lake, Missouri

Approximately 240 USACE recreation projects nationwide began issuing America the Beautiful National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Interagency Passes on Jan. 1, 2016. These include:

1) Interagency Senior Lifetime Pass: $80, valid for lifetime of the pass owner, available to U.S. citizens and permanent residents age 62 or older.

2) Interagency Senior Annual Pass: $20, valid one year from month of purchase, available to U.S. citizens or permanent residents age 62 or older. The Senior Annual Pass can be upgraded to the Senior Lifetime Pass by exchanging four previously purchased Senior Annual Passes or paying the difference between the purchase of one to three Senior Annual Passes to equal the value of the Senior Lifetime Pass of $80.

3) Interagency Access Pass: free for lifetime of the pass owner, available to U.S. citizens or permanent residents with documentation of permanent disability. *Documentation required.

4) Interagency Annual Pass: $80, anyone can purchase this pass.

5) Interagency Military Pass: free to current U.S. military members and their dependents. *Documentation required.

6) Interagency Military Lifetime Pass: free to veterans and gold star family members. *Documentation required.

7)  Interagency Every Kid Outdoors Pass: free to current 4th grade students with valid Every Kid Outdoors voucher. Visit https://everykidoutdoors.gov/ for details.

8) Interagency Volunteer Pass: earned with 250-plus hours of volunteer service on public lands.

These passes allow their holders free access to boat launches and swimming beaches managed by USACE. Senior and Access America the Beautiful passes also provide holders a 50 percent discount on campsites at USACE-managed campgrounds. Additionally, USACE will continue to sell its own annual day use pass for $40, which allows visitors free access to boat launches and swimming beaches managed by USACE.

All America the Beautiful passes can be purchased online at http://store.usgs.gov/recreational-passes. There is an additional $10 processing fee for online purchases. They can also be obtained in person at many locations which can be found at https://www.nps.gov/. Please call ahead to ensure the office is open to the public and to ensure pass availability.

National Water Safety Program

Water Safety for Kids 

Recreation.gov

Plan a trip, buy a pass, make a reservation and more!

Corps Lakes Gateway

Get current recreation status and find recreation opportunities near you!

The Corps Foundation 

The Corps Foundation is a not-for-profit educational foundation incorporated in 2006 to support lakes and waterway sites located throughout the U.S. and managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers staff at Clinton Lake manages the lake to provide benefits to the nation in areas of Flood Damage Reduction, Recreation, Fish and Wildlife Management, Water Supply and Water Quality Improvement.

The Corps manages 7,000-acre Clinton Lake and an additional 15,000 acres of land around the lake.

The staff conducts dam safety inspections and maintains the dam and outlet works. Corps employees make water release changes to the Wakarusa River in coordination with the Kansas City District Water Management Section.

Five parks around the lake are managed and maintained by the Corps of Engineers. These parks include roads, utility systems, campsites, a beach, boat ramps, disc golf course and picnic grounds.

Many maintenance activities are contracted to the private sector. Mowing, trash collection, fee collection, and facility cleaning are just a few of the activities that are performed by private contractors for the Corps.

The Corps of Engineers manages the natural resources of Clinton Lake in cooperation with Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism through several techniques. Some of the land has been restored to native grassland and oak hickory forest, while other areas are leased for agricultural purposes, with wildlife management being a central theme.

Other activities by the Corps include public relations, visitor services, real estate management, emergency services, collection of weather data, tree planting, prairie management, wildlife food plot management, rescue and recovery operations, park patrol, buoy maintenance and management of concession leases.

Clinton Dam Fact Sheet

USACE Pass Information

USACE Annual Pass = $40. Pass holders receive free entrance to U.S. Army Corps of Engineers-operated sites nationwide that charge day use fees. The pass may not be used at areas operated by other agencies even if those areas may be located on USACE-owned property. Camping fees are not included. Pass valid for one year. Valid through month and year shown on the pass. Sold only at USACE projects, please call ahead to ensure the office is open to the public.

Federal Interagency Pass Information

Approximately 240 USACE recreation projects nationwide began issuing America the Beautiful National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Interagency Passes on Jan. 1, 2016. These include:

1) Interagency Senior Pass, $80, valid for lifetime of the pass owner and available to U.S. citizens and permanent residents age 62 or older. 

2) Interagency Senior Annual Pass $20, valid one year from month of purchase, available to U.S. citizens or permanent residents 62 or older, the Senior Annual Pass can be upgraded to the Lifetime Senior Pass by exchanging four previously purchased Senior Annual Passes or paying the difference between the purchase of one to three Senior Annual Passes to equal the value of the Senior Lifetime Pass, $80. 

3) Access Pass, free for lifetime with documentation of permanent disability for U.S. citizens or permanent residents. *Documentation required.

4) Interagency Annual Pass, $80, anyone can purchase this pass.

5) Interagency Military Pass, free to current U.S. military members and their dependents. *Documentation required.

6)  Interagency Every Kid in a Park 4th Grade Pass, free to current 4th grade students with valid Every Kid in a Park voucher (visit: https://everykidoutdoors.gov/ for details).

7) Interagency Volunteer Pass, earned with 250-plus hours of volunteer service on public lands. 

8) Interagency Military Lifetime Pass, free to gold star families and veterans. *Documentation required. 

These passes allow their holders free access to boat launches and swimming beaches managed by USACE. Senior and Access America the Beautiful passes also provide holders a 50 percent discount on campsites at USACE-managed campgrounds. Additionally, USACE will continue to sell its own annual day use pass for $40, which allows visitors free access to boat launches and swimming beaches managed by USACE. 

All America the Beautiful passes can be purchased online at http://store.usgs.gov/. There is an additional $10 processing fee for online purchases. They can also be obtained in person at many locations which can be found at https://www.nps.gov/ Please call ahead to ensure the office is open to the public and to ensure pass availability.

Clinton Lake Maps

Clinton Lake Brochure

Lake Map

Campground Maps

Cedar Ridge Campground Map

Hickory Campground Map

Walnut Campground Map

Ash, Elm & Oak Campground Map

Rockhaven Park Campground Map

Woodridge Primitive Campground Map

Trail Maps

Clinton Lake Trails Brochure

Rockhaven Trails (South Shore Trail) Map

Hunting Map

Clinton Lake Hunting Areas & Regulations (USACE Managed Lands)

Orienteer Course Map

Woodridge Permanent Orienteer Course

Rules and Regulations

Title 36 CFR 327 (Governing use of USACE Public Lands)

Rockhaven Park Campground Rules

KDWPT Hunting Regulations

Natural resource management at Clinton Lake focuses on maintaining and restoring high quality habitat in order to benefit a diverse range of wildlife species.  Management activities are carefully considered in order to maximize wildlife benefits while providing high quality, diverse recreation opportunities for visitors.  Some common management activities performed by staff include, but are not limited to the following:

 ·     Prescribed burning

 ·     Mechanical and chemical invasive species control

 ·     Native grass restoration

 ·     Conservation tree and shrub plantings

 ·     Food plots

 ·     Promotion of species beneficial to pollinators

 ·     Special managed hunts

 ·     Fish habitat improvement

 ·     Wetland management

 ·     Wildlife inventories and surveys

 ·     Educational outreach and interpretive programs

 For more information about these activities or to volunteer, please contact the Clinton Lake Project Office at (785) 843-7665. You may also inquire about volunteer opportunities in person at the Clinton Lake Information Center at 872 N. 1402 Rd.  Lawrence, KS 66049.

Clinton Lake attracts boaters of all shapes and sizes. The main body of the lake is large enough for motor boaters, water skiers, sailboats and personal watercraft.

Fishermen enjoy the submerged timber in the Rock Creek, Deer Creek and the Wakarusa River arms. This makes boating in the arms more difficult, but the fishermen appreciate the fish habitat. Water skiing is not allowed outside of the main lake body, and buoys designate the non-skiing areas.

Sailboat operators have plenty of room to maneuver on the main body of the lake. Several sailing regattas are held each year. Windsurfers also find Clinton Lake to their liking with windy days quite common in Kansas.

Day use fees are required for launching at Corps of Engineers managed boat ramps. A daily fee of $5.00 can be paid on site. There is also an annual pass available for $40.00, which is accepted at any Corps of Engineers facility nationwide.

The Clinton State Park requires a vehicle permit to enter the State Park.  Contact the Clinton State Park for daily and annual vehicle permit prices (785-842-8562).

There are ten boat ramps located on Clinton Lake. Ramps #1 - #3 are located in the Clinton State Park, and require a State Park vehicle permit. Ramp #4, in Bloomington West, is free to the public. Ramps #5 - #7 are in Bloomington East and require a Federal Day Use pass (daily or annual), from April 1-31 October. Boat ramps #8, #9 and #10 are located in the Coon Creek Area, Wakarusa River arm and Rock Creek arms and are free to the public.

The Clinton Marina is located in the Clinton State Park on the north side of the lake. This full service marina offers fuel, bait, supplies, mooring, dry storage, restaurant and boat rentals.

Boaters should be aware of hazardous boating areas on Clinton Lake. For information, look at the Clinton Lake map. Also, be aware that lake conditions, such as elevation level, are constantly changing, and hazards change with those elevation changes.

Clinton Lake offers many opportunities for campers. Four parks offering camping are conveniently located around the lake. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers maintains Bloomington, Woodridge and Rockhaven Parks. In addition, The Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism maintains Clinton State Park. User fees are charged for camping in all of the parks except Woodridge Park which offers primitive camping only. The amount of these fees are based upon the type of facilities provided. Reservations can be made at www.Recreation.gov. 

Campgrounds 

Bloomington East 

Bloomington East Park, just west of Clinton Lake, between the Rock Creek and Wakarusa River arms of the lake, offers several different recreational options. Within Bloomington East Park, visitors have the opportunity to reserve picnic shelters and campsites, both for group camping and individual family camping. Bloomington Park is the Corps' largest and most developed park with over 400 campsites conveniently located near the swimming beach, picnic area with reservable picnic shelters, boat ramps, disc golf course, playgrounds and the Wakarusa River Valley Heritage Museum.

Cedar Ridge Campground

$22.00 - $24.00 per night (sites with 50 amp electrical service). This campground is open April 1 through 15 October and has 101 campsites with electric and water hookups. Sites 7-12 and 66-72 have 50/30/20 amp service, while the remainder have 20/30 amp service.  Many campsites have pull-through capabilities. There are three comfort stations, a shower building, playground, and a laundry facility.

View the Cedar Ridge Campground map here

Make reservations here

Hickory/Walnut Campgrounds

Hickory Walnut Campground is comprised of two big loops; Hickory and Walnut, and one smaller loop named Oak. 

Walnut - $26.00 per night (50 amp electrical, water & sewer hookups)/$22.00 per night (electrical & water hookups)/$20.00 per night (electrical hookup)/$16.00 per night (non-electric)/$14.00 per night (Oak Loop). This campground is open May 1 through September 30 and has 97 campsites. 5 sites are used by volunteers and contractors, so there are 42 sites with electrical hookups (10 of these have water hookups) and 50 without hookups. Walnut campground has two conveniently located comfort stations and shares a playground and a shower building/laundry facility with Hickory campground. Oak Loop, somewhat separated from the Walnut campground, has 22 sites, all non-electric. Oak Loop has one vault toilet and two water hydrants. Campers from Oak Loop can drive approximately one mile to the Hickory/Walnut shower/laundry facility.

View the Walnut Campground map here

View the Oak Campground map here

Make Reservations here

Hickory - $24.00 per night (50 amp electrical & water hookups)/$20.00 per night (electrical & water hookups)/$20.00 per night (electrical -hookup)/$16.00 per night (non-electric). This campground is open May 1 through September 30 and has 101 campsites. 4 of the sites are used by volunteers and contractors, so there are 50 sites with electrical hookups (6 of these have water hookups) and 47 without hookups. Hickory campground has 2 conveniently located comfort stations, and shares a shower building/laundry facility and playground with Walnut campground. The Hickory, Walnut and Cedar Ridge campgrounds share the centrally located historic stone smokehouse amphitheater where evening programs are presented on many Saturdays, May through September.

View the Hickory Campground map here.

Make Reservations here

Group Camping - Elm and Ash

These group camps are open from May 1 through September 30 and cost $60.00 per day. These areas offer random camping for up to 75 people in a mowed grassy area. These areas are designed for tent camping, but a small number of wheeled camping units are allowed, as long as campers remain on gravel roadway. Facilities include picnic shelter, volleyball court, vault toilet, and drinking water. Campers can use the Hickory/Walnut campground shower building, just a short drive away. 

Elm and Ash Group Camps are reserved through the National Recreation Reservation Service www.recreation.gov, or by calling 1-877-444-6777, but depending on availability, can be accessed on a walk-in basis, through the Hickory/ Walnut Fee Booth. 

View the Elm and Ash Campground map here

Make reservations here

Bloomington West

This group camp is open from April 1 through October 15 and costs $150.00 per day. There are 24 campsites and can accommodate up to 150 people. Four of the camp sites have electrical and water hookups. This group camp is located within a heavily wooded area. Facilities include one picnic shelter with lights and electricity, shower building, playground, basketball goal, and a softball diamond. Boat ramp #4 is located a short distance from the group camp for convenient boat launching.
Bloomington West Group Camp can be reserved through the National Recreation Reservation Service www.recreation.gov, or by calling 1-877-444-6777, up to 12 months in advance.

Make reservations here

Rockhaven Park

Rockhaven Park has the only campground on Clinton Lake that allows people to camp with their horses or mules. In fact, a portion of the sites are considered "equestrian campers only" (sites 1-4 and 10-24) and are only to be used by people camping with horses and/or mules. All electric sites in this park are reserved for equestrian campers only. The main trailhead for the South Shore or Rockhaven Trail is located in Rockhaven Park. There is also a day use parking lot for those who wish to ride or walk the trails without overnight camping. We do ask that day use trail users park in the day use parking lot rather than on campsites.

Camping fees are $14.00 per night on non-electric sites and $20.00 per night on electric sites. This campground is open April 1 through November 30 and has 24 campsites. Rockhaven Park Campground is now included in recreation.gov and all campsites may be reserved for dates between 1 April and 30 September.  

Rockhaven Park has seen many improvements over the past few years; as a result, this equestrian park is becoming more popular and well-visited. The recent improvements include: a new vault toilet just outside the campground for those just spending the day at the park, a new four-unit shower and flush toilet restroom for the paid campers, a new group picnic shelter on the north side, new playground equipment, electric pedestals on twelve of the campsites, and several corrals have been built or setup around the perimeter of the campground and in the center of the area.

Rockhaven Park Campground Map

Make Reservations Here

Woodridge Park

Woodridge Park is a primitive camping area for tents only. The park is free of charge and open year-round.  Drinking water and a vault toilet are provided year-round.

Visitors can camp in the large, mowed area near the entrance to the park or along the 4.5-mile trail. There are numerous small clearings along the trail that make excellent camping spots, but the Corps of Engineers asks that people use only pre-existing, permanent campfire rings. The trail is quite scenic as it travels through woods, meadows and hay fields, and meets up with the lakeshore intermittently.

View the Woodridge Campground map here

Make Reservations here

Clinton State Park

The Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism manages the Clinton State Park with campgrounds, cabins, picnic areas, boat ramps, hiking/mountain biking trails, a beach and the Clinton Marina. 

Make Reservations Here

Fishing Regulations

Fishing Report

Stop Aquatic Nuisance Species

Clinton Lake Hunting

Clinton Lake Hunting Areas Map and Brochure

Clinton Lake Interactive Hunting Area Map

Hunting Regulations

Clinton Lake offers many hunting opportunities and a variety of game. The public land surrounding the lake is a mix of cropland, grassland and timber, providing excellent habitat for game species.  Deer, quail, turkey, waterfowl, dove, rabbit and squirrel may be found on these public hunting lands.

There are over 9,000 acres of public land available to hunting at Clinton Lake. The Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism manages much of the land, while the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers manages the remainder. The parks and the dam are closed to hunting, but most of the remaining land surrounding Clinton Lake is open to hunting.  However, some areas are designated for archery and/or shotshell only, so please be aware of the regulations for each individual unit.

In addition to the main body of water, waterfowl hunters can take advantage of the Coblentz Marsh, located near the Shawnee/Douglas County line on the Wakarusa River arm of the lake.

Most hunting accidents occur because of improper gun handling. Two of the most common accidents are caused by hunters swinging on game and hunters mistaken for game. Hunter Education training and the wearing of blaze orange can reduce the chances of being involved in an accident.ect "Edit Content" from the Edit (Pencil Icon) Action Menu.

Hunting Policies

To align with Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks public lands hunting regulations, an updated policy restricting certain hunting practices is in effect at Kansas lakes.

Updated hunting regulations apply to Kansas City District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers managed lakes in Kansas, which include Hillsdale, Clinton, Perry, Pomona, Melvern, Tuttle Creek, Milford, Kanopolis and Wilson lakes. The following restrictions apply to USACE managed public hunting lands at the aforementioned USACE lakes:

a. Baiting:

(1) No person shall place, deposit, expose, or scatter bait while hunting or preparing to hunt on lands and waters in the State of Kansas or place, deposit, expose, or scatter bait in a manner that causes another person to be in violation of this regulation.

(2) Hunting shall be prohibited within 100 yards of any bait placed, deposited, exposed, or scattered on lands or waters. Bait shall be considered placed, deposited, exposed, or scattered on department lands for 10 days following complete removal of the bait.

(3) Nothing in this regulation shall prohibit the hunting or taking of wildlife over standing crops, grain found scattered solely as the result of normal agricultural operations, or grain found scattered solely as the result of normal weather conditions.

(4) For the purpose of this regulation, “bait” shall mean any grain, fruit, vegetable, nut, hay, salt sorghum, feed, other food, or mineral that is capable of attracting wildlife. Liquid scents and sprays shall not be considered bait.

b. Night Hunting Equipment: The use of artificial light, scopes and equipment that amplify visible light, and thermal-imaging scopes and thermal-imaging equipment for hunting at night shall not be authorized on lands and waters.

c. Trail or Game Cameras and Other Devices:

(1) No person shall place, maintain, or use a trail or game camera on lands and waters, or any images or video from a trail or game camera including location, time, or date for any purpose.

(2) For the purpose of this regulation, “trail or game camera” shall include any remote motion-activated or infrared camera in which the shutter is activated by sound triggers, proximity sensation, radio transmitters, or a self-timer built into the trail or game camera.

(3) No person shall use any images of wildlife produced by or transmitted from a satellite to take or aid in the taking of wildlife or to locate wildlife to take or aid in the taking of wildlife on lands and waters.

(4) This shall not prohibit the use of mapping systems or programs.

(5) This regulation shall not apply to any trail or game camera that is owned by USACE and/or a USACE-approved designated party for operations or research on lands and waters.

d. Commercial Guiding of Hunters: The conduct, actions, or activities of persons on lands and waters shall be subject to provisions and restrictions as established by posted notice. The following general provisions and restrictions shall apply:

(1) No person shall advertise, engage in, or solicit any business, or make any charge for any event or service except as authorized by USACE.

e. Antlerless White-Tailed Deer Limit:

(1) The first whitetail antlerless only permit is valid for the hunting of antlerless whitetail deer statewide during the established season. Any subsequent whitetail antlerless only permit issued to the same applicant shall not be valid on USACE lands and waters.

(2) All USACE lands and waters are excluded from Unit 19, urban deer management unit, remaining open only under their original unit.

The Kansas City District, USACE at Hillsdale, Clinton, Perry, Pomona, Melvern, Tuttle Creek, Milford, Kanopolis and Wilson Lakes adopts these restrictions, under Title 36, CFR, Part 327.8 (d) Hunting, fishing, and trapping, to provide statewide consistency for public hunters.

Clinton Lake Waterfowl Hunting Information

Duck blinds and waterfowl hunting is allowed at Clinton Lake.  Hunters are asked to observe the following restrictions and safety precautions.

   1. Non-toxic shot is required to hunt all waterfowl at Clinton Lake.   Legal shot includes steel, tin, bismuth-tin, tungsten-polymer, tungsten-matrix and steel shot coated with copper, nickel, zinc chromate or zinc chloride.

   2. A refuge, established by the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks, extends ½ to ¾ mile on either side of the Wakarusa River bridge.  Any and all activity within the refuge is prohibited from October 1 to January 15.  

   3. All blinds must constructed of natural vegetation (dead brush, grass, cattails, etc.).  Do not cut living or standing dead trees.

   4. The use of blinds is on a first-come, first-served basis.  In other words, if someone arrives to the blind, that you built on a previous day, at 5:30 a.m. and you arrive at 6:00 a.m. then they have the right to use the blind.

   5. Land and boat blinds may not be closer than 150 yards to another blind.

   6. Hunting is not allowed within 200 yards of boat ramps or within 100 yards of the shoreline to any park.

   7. Boats that are used for hunting may not be left unattended on the project overnight or they will be considered abandoned and impounded.

   8. Vehicles must remain on established roadways.

   9. Pit blinds are not allowed.

   10. It would benefit hunters to scout the area prior to hunting.

   11. Hunters are reminded to observe ALL posted signs and Kansas hunting regulations.

   12. Be prepared for cold weather – dress in layers of clothing, wear rubber or water- proof boots, gloves that provide warmth and shed water.  Know the signs of hypothermia.  Wear a life jacket if you have to use a boat to get to the blind.  

    13. Cellular game cameras are not allowed.       

Helpful Information

Hunting Map (pdf)

Interactive Hunting Map

KDWPT Hunting Regulations

Clinton Wildlife Area

Clinton Lake Marina

Picnic Shelter Reservations/Availability

Bloomington East Shelters

Shelter 3: Shelter is available May 1st to September 30th daily from 9:00 am to 10:00 pm. Shelter may be reserved for parties of up to 100 guest Friday-Sunday for $35. This shelter provides electricity, water, a large grill for cooking, parking, numerous picnic tables, restrooms, sand volleyball pits, playground equipment as well as close proximity to a disc golf course and walking distance to the swimming beach that includes a shower house. Reserve Shelter 3. 

Shelter 4:  Shelter is available May 1st to September 30th daily from 9:00 am to 10:00 pm. Shelter may be reserved for parties of up to 100 guest Friday-Sunday for $35. This shelter provides electricity, water, a large grill for cooking, parking, numerous picnic tables, restrooms, sand volleyball pits, playground equipment as well as close proximity to a disc golf course and walking distance to the swimming beach that includes a shower house. Reserve Shelter 4. 

Shelter 5: Shelter is available May 1st to September 30th daily from 9:00 am to 10:00 pm. Shelter may be reserved for parties of up to 100 guest Friday-Sunday for $35. This shelter provides electricity, water, a large grill for cooking, parking, numerous picnic tables, restrooms, sand volleyball pits, playground equipment as well as close proximity to a disc golf course and walking distance to the swimming beach that includes a shower house. Reserve Shelter 5.

Shelter 6: Shelter is available May 1st to September 30th daily from 9:00 am to 10:00 pm. Shelter may be reserved for parties of up to 100 guest Friday-Sunday for $35. This shelter provides electricity, a large grill for cooking, parking, numerous picnic tables, restrooms, sand volleyball pits, playground equipment as well as close proximity to a disc golf course and walking distance to the swimming beach that includes a shower house. Reserve Shelter 6.

Overlook Park Shelters

Shelter 1: Shelter is available from April 1st - September 30th from 9:00 am-10:00 pm. Shelter can be reserved Monday-Friday for $35 and can accommodate parties of up to 100 people.  This shelter provides electricity, water, a large grill for cooking, a large fireplace, abundant parking, numerous picnic tables, restrooms, sand volleyball pits, horseshoes, playground equipment as well as close proximity to a softball field, hiking trails and the lake. This shelter has a scenic view of the lake. Reserve Shelter 1. 

Shelter 2: Shelter is available from April 1st - September 30th from 9:00 am-10:00 pm. Shelter can be reserved Monday-Friday for $35 and can accommodate parties of up to 100 people.  This shelter provides electricity, water, a large grill for cooking, a large fireplace, abundant parking, numerous picnic tables, restrooms, sand volleyball pits, horseshoes, playground equipment as well as close proximity to a softball field, hiking trails and the lake. This shelter has a scenic view of the lake. Reserve Shelter 2. 

Partner Agency Picnic Shelter Reservation/Availability

City of Lawrence Picnic Shelters

Clinton State Park Picnic Shelters

Bloomington Beach

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers manages the Bloomington East swimming beach. This large, sandy beach is open 1 May through 30 September, 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. The swimming area is marked with a yellow, floating buoy line that surrounds the area. Boats are prohibited from entering the area by buoys and signs and designated mooring areas are indicated. The parking lot is paved and large enough to accommodate users on all but the busiest of weekends. There are 2 waterborne restrooms located on opposite sides of the parking area and two small outdoor showers are located closer to the swimming area for a quick rinse off. A playground and four picnic shelters, each with a volleyball court, are available for use in this area. These shelters can be reserved by calling (877) 444-6777 or by going online at www.recreation.gov.

For people not camping in the Corps of Engineers campgrounds, there will be a $5.00/vehicle fee. The fee for buses or commercial vehicles is $20.00/vehicle. Beach users, 16 yrs. of age and older, that walk or bicycle in, will need to pay $2.00/person. Shelter users, with or without reservations, will still need to pay the day use fee if they use the beach or launch at a boat ramp. These day use fees can be paid at the Bloomington East entrance automatic self-pay station, or the automatic self-pay station located at the beach. These machines only accept credit/debit cards.

An annual Corps of Engineers day use pass can be purchased from the Clinton Lake Information Center/Project Office or from the automatic self-pay stations located in the park for an annual fee of $40.00. The annual day use pass is good at Corps of Engineers areas nationwide for one year from the purchase date. Holders of any America the Beautiful Pass (Annual, Senior, Access, Military, Every Kid in a Park 4th Grade Pass, Volunteer) or Golden Age and Golden Access Passports, can use the beach and boat ramps with no additional fee when pass is displayed on dash or rear view mirror. Any version of the America the Beautiful pass may be purchased/obtained at the Clinton Lake Information Center as well.

A few rules to remember when visiting the Bloomington Beach are:

Alcohol is not allowed on the beach.
Pets are not allowed on the beach.
All users must have a permit (see above).

Clinton Lake Trails Brochure

Clinton Lake is known for the many quality and diverse trails located around the lake. There are over 50 miles of trails around the lake which are quite popular with the various types of recreational users that utilize them.

North Shore Trail

The North Shore Trail has over 21 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails which begin in the Overlook Park and much of the north shore of the lake from the north end of the dam to the Coon Creek arm of the lake.

South Shore/Rockhaven Trail

The South Shore Trail contains over 30 miles of horseback riding and hiking trails which span from the south end of the dam into the Rock Creek arm of the lake. The main trailhead is located in Rockhaven Park, but the trail can be also be accessed at the south end of the dam or in the Rock Creek area. Rockhaven Park is the only area where campers with horses and/or mules are allowed to camp overnight.

George Latham Trail

The George Latham Trail is located in the Woodridge Park on the northwest side of the lake. This 4.5 mile trail offers excellent hiking opportunities as well as overnight camping along the trail, if desired.

Backwoods and Discovery Nature Trails

Two self-guided nature trails are located behind the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Information Center, near the north end of Clinton Lake dam. Both of these trails are for hiking only. The Backwoods Trail is 5/8 of a mile in length, and is self-guided with a pamphlet, which is available at the Information Center. The Discovery Trail is 1/2 mile in length and is self-guided by use of signs placed along the trail.

South Lawrence Trafficway
Hike/Bike Path

The most recent addition to trails at Clinton Lake is the South Lawrence Trafficway Hike/Bike Path. This concrete paved trail travels parallel to the new K-10 bypass road. The path travels about 8.5 miles from Highway 59, south of Lawrence, to Douglas County 438, northwest of Lawrence, in a westerly then northerly direction. This path crosses Clinton Lake property as it passes through the spillway area and is well suited to bicycle and roller blade traffic as well as walkers and joggers.

Helpful Links:

Kansas Trails Council

Lawrence Mountain Bike Club

Kansas Cyclist

Bloomington Disc Golf Course

Eagle Bend Golf Course

Jayhawk Model Masters Airport

Off-Leash Dog Park

Wakarusa River Valley Heritage Museum

Woodridge Orienteer Course

Clinton Lake is a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers operated reservoir located on Wakarusa River in northwestern Douglas County, Kansas. Congress used the Flood Control Act of 1962 to authorize the construction of Clinton Lake. USACE began work on the reservoir in December 1971, with multipurpose operation beginning in November 1977. The authorized purposes for the dam are flood risk reduction, water quality, water supply, fish and wildlife conservation and recreation. Clinton Lake is one lake in a network of lakes, including Perry Lake, Tuttle Creek Lake and Milford Lake, that operate in parallel with each other. This network functions as a system to play a vital role in managing water resources in the Kansas River Basin for their respective nearby and downstream communities.   

Congress provided direction and funding in Fiscal Year 2022 for USACE districts across the nation to update Water Control Manuals, or WCMs to evaluate whether any changes in physical, social and environmental conditions around the dam warrant updating the WCP, include a drought contingency plan and meet new requirements for formatting and updating information.

WHAT IS A WATER CONTROL MANUAL?

Water Control Manuals, or WCMs, are operating manuals for U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, or USACE, dams. USACE makes day to day decisions about releasing water through its dams according to Water Control Plans, or WCPs, that are included in dam specific-WCMs. The objective of all WCMs include operating the dam and reservoir for the purposes authorized by Congress and other applicable law, maintain the structural integrity and operation integrity of the dam (sometimes called a “project” to include reservoir operations) and avoid risk to public health and safety, life and property.

The WCMs are being updated because Congress provided direction and funding in Fiscal Year 2022 for USACE districts across the nation to update WCMs to evaluate and potentially update WCPs as necessary, include a drought contingency plan for managing water releases from dams when there is a drought and meet new requirements for formatting and updating information. Each WCM and its WCP was developed when each project was authorized. They are updated periodically to determine whether there are changes in the physical, environmental and social conditions that need to be accounted for in a dam’s operation.  

NEPA PROCESS

The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) is a law that requires all federal agencies to take a 'hard look' at how their actions may affect the human and natural environment. It spells out the steps an agency must take to identify environmental issues that need to be considered, identify options or alternatives that would correct the problems identified and explain its final decision while complying with environmental regulations. NEPA also gives the public a voice in the decision-making process about the proposed actions. The public is asked to provide input through public meetings and opportunities to provide written comments. The first opportunity happens during the scoping phase. Additional opportunities occur when the environmental review is complete and alternatives for action identified. These comments will be considered before the federal agency makes a final decision. 

Did you miss a public meeting? No problem! Click the presentation below to review the slideshow from previous public meetings. 

Clinton Lake Value to the Nation

ArcGIS StoryMaps is a web-based application designed to create interactive narratives by combining maps, multimedia content, and text to communicate stories in a visually engaging way. Developed by Esri, it allows users to transform geographic information system (GIS) work into compelling digital stories and presentations.

The primary purpose of ArcGIS StoryMaps is to help users effectively convey messages, educate audiences, and engage stakeholders through location-based narratives.

Click this link to learn and interact with the Water Control Manuals Update!

Partner?

Get a Job?

Volunteer?

Lease Agricultural Land?

Contract with USACE?

Day Use Fees

• Bloomington Beach (1 May thru 30 Sep): $2 walk-in, $5 per vehicle, or $20 per bus/commercial vehicle), Free w/ America the Beautiful/ Golden Age Pass or USACE Annual Pass
• Boat Ramps # 5, 6 & 7 (1 Apr thru 31 Oct): $5, Free w/ America the Beautiful/ Golden Age Pass or USACE Annual Pass

Boat Ramp # 4: Free

Shelter Reservations

Shelters 1-2 (1 Apr thru 30 Sep, Reservable 9am-10pm Monday-Sunday): $45

Shelters 3-6 (1 May thru 30 Sep, Reservable 9am-10pm Friday-Sunday): $45

Camping

• 50 Amp electric w/ water + sewage site- $26.00/day
• 50 Amp electric w/ water site- $24.00/day
• 30 Amp electric w/ water only site - $22.00/day
• 30 Amp electric only site - $20.00/day
• 30 Amp electric (Rockhaven) - $20.00/day
• Non-electric site (Hickory/Walnut) - $16.00/day
• Non-electric site (Oak/Rockhaven) - $14.00/day
• Woodridge - Free
• Bloomington West Group Camp - $150/day
• Ash Group Camp -$60/day
• Elm Group Camp -$60/day

Park Addresses 

Recreation.gov

America the Beautiful Passes

Clinton State Park

Douglas County, KS

USGS Water Data

KDHE Harmful Algal Blooms

Kansas City District Dam Safety Program

Kansas City District Water Management

Kansas City District Water Quality Program 

The US Army Corps of Engineers manages 13,250-acre Harlan County Lake and an additional 17,750 acres of land surrounding the lake.  The staff conducts dam safety inspections and maintains the dam and outlet works. Corps employees make water release changes to the Republican River in coordination with the Kansas City District Water Management Section.

Six parks around the lake are managed and maintained by the Corps of Engineers. These parks include roads, utility systems, campsites, beaches, boat ramps, fish cleaning station and picnic grounds.  Many maintenance activities are contracted to the private sector. Mowing, trash collection, fee collection, and facility cleaning are just a few of the activities that are performed by private contractors for the Corps.  The Corps of Engineers manages the natural resources of Harlan County Lake in cooperation with the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission through several techniques. Some of the land has been restored to native grassland, while other areas are leased for agricultural purposes, with wildlife management being a central theme.  Other activities by the Corps include public relations, visitor services, real estate management, emergency services, collection of weather data, tree planting, prairie management, rescue and recovery operations, park patrol, buoy maintenance and management of concession leases.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has the responsibility for managing the 31,000 acres of land and water surrounding Harlan County Lake. Lands around the lake are managed by the Corps of Engineers to preserve their natural value. Land management practices such as prairie restoration, prescribed burning and tree planting help conserve soil and benefit wildlife.

Harlan County Dam controls a drainage area of 7,164 square miles and is part of a network of Corps Lakes that help control flooding on the Republican, Kansas, Missouri and Mississippi Rivers.

Authorizations

Harlan County Reservoir was built to provide flood control and the authorized multipurpose uses of irrigation, recreation, fish and wildlife management and sediment accumulation.

Specific storage capacity was allocated by Congress for both flood control and irrigation. The U.S. Bureau of Reclamation coordinates the irrigation releases from Harlan County Reservoir. The Kansas City District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers coordinates the flood control releases, as well as operation and maintenance of the dam structure and surrounding land.

The top of the multipurpose pool at Harlan County Reservoir is 1,945.73 feet and has a total storage capacity of about 314,000 acre-feet. Irrigation has a dedicated storage capacity of 150,000 acre-feet within the multipurpose pool. The remaining available 164,000 acre-feet of multipurpose storage is shared between sediment accumulation, recreation and fish and wildlife management.

Daily releases from the multipurpose pool are coordinated by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation and the irrigation districts in Nebraska and Kansas. Releases to the river are not based on recreation activities like tubing, canoeing or fishing in the stilling basin below the dam.

Inflows this year are the lowest since 2006 and have not been sufficient to fill the multipurpose pool. During drought years, when the lake is unable to fill, the dwindling supply is shared among the authorized operating purposes under the terms of the Consensus Plan for Harlan County Reservoir.

To balance multipurpose pool needs, the Consensus Plan limits irrigation releases. In 2025, the lake is unable to provide irrigators with their maximum allowed volume of water (approximately 100,000 acre-feet is available versus 150,000 acre-feet maximum). Therefore, irrigation releases will shut off if the pool elevation drops to 1,929.3 feet.

Ultimately, as the Water Control Manual states, Harlan County Reservoir was built primarily to provide irrigation water and flood control. It also acknowledges irrigation drawdowns may have an adverse effect on recreation aspects of the reservoir.

USACE Pass Information

USACE Annual Pass = $40. Pass holders receive free entrance to U.S. Army Corps of Engineers-operated sites nationwide that charge day use fees. The pass may not be used at areas operated by other agencies even if those areas may be located on USACE-owned property. Camping fees are not included. Pass valid for one year. Valid through month and year shown on the pass. Sold only at USACE projects, please call ahead to ensure the office is open to the public.

Federal Interagency Pass Information

Approximately 240 USACE recreation projects nationwide began issuing America the Beautiful National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Interagency Passes on Jan. 1, 2016. These include:

1) Interagency Senior Pass, $80, valid for lifetime of the pass owner and available to U.S. citizens and permanent residents age 62 or older. 

2) Interagency Senior Annual Pass $20, valid one year from month of purchase, available to U.S. citizens or permanent residents 62 or older, the Senior Annual Pass can be upgraded to the Lifetime Senior Pass by exchanging four previously purchased Senior Annual Passes or paying the difference between the purchase of one to three Senior Annual Passes to equal the value of the Senior Lifetime Pass, $80. 

3) Access Pass, free for lifetime with documentation of permanent disability for U.S. citizens or permanent residents. *Documentation required.

4) Interagency Annual Pass, $80, anyone can purchase this pass.

5) Interagency Military Pass, free to current U.S. military members and their dependents. *Documentation required.

6)  Interagency Every Kid in a Park 4th Grade Pass, free to current 4th grade students with valid Every Kid in a Park voucher (visit: https://everykidoutdoors.gov/ for details).

7) Interagency Volunteer Pass, earned with 250-plus hours of volunteer service on public lands. 

8) Interagency Military Lifetime Pass, free to gold star families and veterans. *Documentation required. 

These passes allow their holders free access to boat launches and swimming beaches managed by USACE. Senior and Access America the Beautiful passes also provide holders a 50 percent discount on campsites at USACE-managed campgrounds. Additionally, USACE will continue to sell its own annual day use pass for $40, which allows visitors free access to boat launches and swimming beaches managed by USACE. 

All America the Beautiful passes can be purchased online at http://store.usgs.gov/. There is an additional $10 processing fee for online purchases. They can also be obtained in person at many locations which can be found at https://www.nps.gov/ Please call ahead to ensure the office is open to the public and to ensure pass availability.

Harlan County Lake Interactive Hunting Map

Harlan County Lake Map (pdf)

Harlan County Lake Brochure

Cedar Run ATV Trail - Call 308-799-2105 for information

Peckerneck Horse Trail

Pheasant Ridge Walking/Biking Trail

Republican River Water Trail

Located in South Central Nebraska, lands surrounding Harlan County Lake are primarily classified as mixed grass prairie land. Harlan County Lake grasslands are made up of Big and Little Bluestem, Indian grass, western wheatgrass, buffalo grass, blue gramma and switch grass.

Natural Resource management efforts at Harlan County Lake focus on maintaining and enhancing natural ecosystems. Native grasses are managed by controlled burning and hay production. These practices attempt to prevent envasion by introduced species, enhance prairie community health, and increase wildlife habitat value.

Harlan County Lake’s woodlands are restricted to locations providing sufficient moisture. A band of mature woodlands may be found along the Republican River and throughout the deeper drainages leading into the lake. Wood cutting permits are utilized to manage the woodland community. This practice assists with maintaining age and species diversity.

One of the most effective tools for enhancing wildlife populations and habitat at Harlan County Lake is the Agricultural Lease Program. Under this program several thousand acres of public lands are leased to farmers for the purpose of crop and hay production. Conditions of these lease agreements require the operator to incorporate specific wildlife management practices into their operation. These requirements often include specific crop rotations, food plots, and native grass and shrub establishment.

Boat Ramps & Day Use Fees

Due to fluctuations in lake levels, the Corps of Engineers at Harlan County Lake will not be collecting day use fees.   Annual day use passes are still available for purchase at the Corps of Engineers office for those users who may be traveling to other lakes.   

The Hunter Cove Low Water Boat Ramp and access road will be closed until further notice.  Due to rising lake levels the roadbed has become saturated and begun to erode.  To protect the ramp and road for future use, vehicle traffic and boat launching will be prohibited until further notice.

Update - Due to rising lake levels, the boat ramp at Methodist Cove has become usable.  Channel depth is less than 2'6" and boaters are urged to use caution.  A courtesy dock has been placed at the ramp.  The Corps of Engineers will monitor channel depth and lake elevations daily to determine ramp open periods. 

Public boat ramps at Gremlin Cove, Methodist and Patterson Harbor are all open.

Visitors searching for the perfect lake side retreat will find a wide range of camping opportunities available at the six Corps of Engineers parks.  In addition camping opportunities can be found at North Shore Marina, Patterson Harbor Marina and at the Alma City Park.  Designated campsites located in Methodist Cove and Hunter Cove parks are available for use from May through October. These parks offer sites with utilities, modern handicap accessible shower facilities, playgrounds and picnic shelters.

Gate Attendants are stationed at the entrance to these parks and are on duty to help you, our visitors, by assisting with your campsite registrations or reservations and to answer your questions during booth hours. Reservations for many of the sites in these parks can be made online at recreation.gov, by phone at 877-444-6777, or by clicking on the park name link listed on the left hand side of this page.

Hunter Cove Pork remains open during the months of April, October and November for a reduced fee to provide service to season campers. Gremlin Cove, North and South Outlets and Cedar Point Park offers more basic experiences to campers. Visitors to these parks are encouraged to select a campsite denoted by the presence of a fire ring and picnic table, and settle bock to enjoy the freedom of relaxing at the lake. Fees at these parks collected by park rangers on patrol the use of a self-pay vault.

Some additional rules to remember are-

Camping units (RV’s, tents, etc) will be restricted to one (1) per campsite.  Each paid camping unit will be allowed one (1) tent for storage, eating, or children whose residence is with that of the parent.  During holiday weekends (Memorial, Independence and Labor Day) one (1) additional tent will be allowed at campsites due to peak demand.  Appropriate fees will be collected for the additional tent at the full rate of the campsite fee.  This policy is being implemented to reduce the negative impacts due to overuse.        All campers shall be responsible for depositing their garbage in trash dumpsters provided in each park.  Campers who leave garbage at their campsite will be contacted and a warning or citation will be issued depending on the severity of the infraction in accordance with Title 36 Code of Federal Regulations 327.9 (a) & (c).  The objective of this policy is to keep the parks clean for everyone and keep the cost of operating your parks as low as possible to help avoid fee increases

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to call the Corps of Engineers office at 308-799-2105.

Make a Reservation

Methodist Cove Park

Hunter Cove Park

Campground Fees

Hunter Cove Park - $18.00 - $24.00 (October, November, and April Shoulder Season $16.00) 

Methodist Cove Park - $18.00 - $28.00

Gremlin Cove Park - $14.00

North and South Outlet - $12.00

Cedar Point - $12.00

Fishing in Nebraska

Hunters can find a wide variety of game animals at Harlan County Lake. White-tailed deer, wild turkey, ring-necked pheasants, ducks, and geese are found around the lake with other species including bobwhite quail, rabbit, squirrel, bobcat, and coyote rounding out the list of game species. Public access is available, but vehicles are restricted to authorized roadways only.  Hunting pressure can be high at times and the Corps encourages everyone to hunt safely and follow all regulations.   

Nebraska Game and Parks Commission rules and regulations apply to Corps of Engineers managed property at Harlan County Lake. Hunting is permitted on government land surrounding the lake, with the exception of parks and administrative areas.  Complete NG&PC regulations may be found by clicking on the links to the left. 

Waterfowl hunting information, waterfowl blind locations, and lake regulations, may also be found on the links to your left.

Hunting Links

Harlan County Lake Interactive Hunting Map

Purchase a Nebraska Hunting Permit

Big Game Guide NG&PC

Waterfowl Hunting Guide NG&PC

General Hunting Guide NG&PC

There are two marinas servicing Harlan County Lake:

Patterson Harbor Marina

North Shore Marina

The Corps of Engineers operates three picnic shelters.  These shelters can be reserved 360 days in advance by calling the Corps office at 308-799-2105.  Each shelter can be occupied from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily.  Those planning special events need to coordinate with the Harlan County Project Office and must reserve those days they plan to set up prior to the event day.

The following is a brief overview of each shelter house-

Gremlin Cove Shelter House – This shelter house is located in Gremlin Cove Park near the north end of Harlan County Dam.  This shelter house is enclosed and includes an open fireplace, picnic tables, restrooms, and grills.  A playground is also located near the shelter. 

Methodist Cove Shelter – This shelter is centrally located in Methodist Cove Park and is located closed to restrooms, playgrounds, and parking lots.  This open walled pavilion has picnic tables, pedestal grills, and is handicap accessible.  Many churches, reunions, and tournament events have been held at this location.

High Point Shelter House – With panoramic views of Harlan County Dam and Lake this shelter has been the location of many weddings, family reunions, and large gatherings.  This enclosed shelter includes a large open fireplace, picnic tables, pedestal grills, and restrooms.  Located on the south side of the lake.

Peckerneck Horse Trail - TrailMeister

Peckerneck Horse Trail - Horse Trails & Camping Across America

Cedar Run ATV Trail

Harlan Country Lake is U.S. Army Corps of Engineers operated reservoir located on the Republican River in southeastern Harlan County, Nebraska. In May 1935 a storm poured 24 inches on Republican City, Nebraska, killing over 100 people and destroying the town, causing over $26 million in damages. In response Congress used the Flood Control Act of 1938 to authorize the construction of Harlan County Lake and dam. USACE completed Harlan County dam in 1952. Harlan County Lake occupies 13,250 acres with a total capacity of 150,000 acre feet of water. The authorized purposes for the dam are flood risk reduction, water quality, water supply, fish and wildlife conservation and recreation. Harlan County Lake is located about 2 miles south of rebuilt Republican City, Nebraska and about 7 miles north of the Nebraska/Kansas state line.

Congress provided direction and funding in Fiscal Year 2022 for USACE districts across the nation to update Water Control Manuals, or WCMs to evaluate whether any changes in physical, social and environmental conditions around the dam warrant updating the WCP, include a drought contingency plan and meet new requirements for formatting and updating information.

WHAT IS A WATER CONTROL MANUAL?

Water Control Manuals, or WCMs, are operating manuals for U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, or USACE, dams. USACE makes day to day decisions about releasing water through its dams according to Water Control Plans, or WCPs, that are included in dam specific-WCMs. The objective of all WCMs include operating the dam and reservoir for the purposes authorized by Congress and other applicable law, maintain the structural integrity and operation integrity of the dam (sometimes called a “project” to include reservoir operations) and avoid risk to public health and safety, life and property.

The WCMs are being updated because Congress provided direction and funding in Fiscal Year 2022 for USACE districts across the nation to update WCMs to evaluate and potentially update WCPs as necessary, include a drought contingency plan for managing water releases from dams when there is a drought and meet new requirements for formatting and updating information. Each WCM and its WCP was developed when each project was authorized. They are updated periodically to determine whether there are changes in the physical, environmental and social conditions that need to be accounted for in a dam’s operation.  

NEPA PROCESS

The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) is a law that requires all federal agencies to take a 'hard look' at how their actions may affect the human and natural environment. It spells out the steps an agency must take to identify environmental issues that need to be considered, identify options or alternatives that would correct the problems identified and explain its final decision while complying with environmental regulations. NEPA also gives the public a voice in the decision-making process about the proposed actions. The public is asked to provide input through public meetings and opportunities to provide written comments. The first opportunity happens during the scoping phase. Additional opportunities occur when the environmental review is complete and alternatives for action identified. These comments will be considered before the federal agency makes a final decision. 

Did you miss a public meeting? No problem! Click the presentation below to review the slideshow from previous public meetings. 

April 14, 2025, Water Control Manual Update

Harlan County Lake Value to the Nation

ArcGIS StoryMaps is a web-based application designed to create interactive narratives by combining maps, multimedia content, and text to communicate stories in a visually engaging way. Developed by Esri, it allows users to transform geographic information system (GIS) work into compelling digital stories and presentations.

The primary purpose of ArcGIS StoryMaps is to help users effectively convey messages, educate audiences, and engage stakeholders through location-based narratives.

Click this link to learn and interact with the Water Control Manuals Update!

Volunteer?

Partner?

Get A Job?

Lease Agricultural Land?

Campground Open Seasons

The Harlan County Lake is regulated by Title 36 CRF 327 governing public use of Corps of Engineers water resources development projects.  For a list of all rules and regulations please reference this link.

Recreation.gov

America the Beautiful Passes

Corps Lakes

Bureau of Reclamation, Harlan County

Republican River Inflow

Kansas City District Dam Safety Program

Kansas City District Water Management

Kansas City District Water Quality Program 

The staff at Harry S. Truman Dam and Reservoir work together to manage the project in accordance with the authorized purposes: primarily flood control; and secondarily hydroelectric power generation, fish and wildlife management, and recreation.

Truman Reservoir is the largest flood control reservoir in Missouri, with a storage capacity of more than 5 million acre-feet (an acre-foot = 325,000 gal.). At normal pool (706 ft. above mean sea level) the reservoir has a surface area of about 55,600 acres – this surface area can grow to over 200,000 acres at the top of the flood control pool. During periods of flooding, Truman Reservoir, operating in conjunction with other reservoirs, helps protect the lower Osage, Missouri and Mississippi River floodplains.

The Truman Power Plant has six turbine generators and a rated capacity of 160,000 kilowatts. This electrical energy is used to meet peak electrical demands when conventional power plants cannot fulfill the public’s demand for electricity. Power plant operators are on duty around the clock to control the flow of water through Truman Dam. Additionally, the power plants located at Stockton and Mark Twain lakes are remotely controlled from Truman Dam.

The reservoir and more than 100,000 acres of land surrounding it is managed for fish and wildlife. Agricultural leases, prescribed burning, wetland development, food plot establishment, and native grass re-introduction are a few of the land management techniques used at Truman Reservoir. Over 55,000 acres are licensed to the Missouri Department of Conservation for fish and wildlife management, and approximately 8,800 acres of timber was left standing in the reservoir to improve fisheries habitat.

Recreational development is extensive. Twenty parks and access areas, managed by or leased from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, are conveniently located around the reservoir. Parks at Truman Reservoir offer a wide variety of recreation facilities including boat launching ramps, campgrounds, full-service marinas, picnic areas, sand swimming beaches, and a regional visitor center. Many routine maintenance items are contracted to the private sector. Mowing, refuse collection, and facility cleanup are just a few of the activities that are performed by private contractors for USACE. 

USACE Pass Information

USACE Annual Pass = $40. Pass holders receive free entrance to U.S. Army Corps of Engineers-operated sites nationwide that charge day use fees. The pass may not be used at areas operated by other agencies even if those areas may be located on USACE-owned property. Camping fees are not included. Pass valid for one year. Valid through month and year shown on the pass. Sold only at USACE projects, please call ahead to ensure the office is open to the public.

Federal Interagency Pass Information

Approximately 240 USACE recreation projects nationwide began issuing America the Beautiful National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Interagency Passes on Jan. 1, 2016. These include:

1) Interagency Senior Pass, $80, valid for lifetime of the pass owner and available to U.S. citizens and permanent residents age 62 or older. 

2) Interagency Senior Annual Pass $20, valid one year from month of purchase, available to U.S. citizens or permanent residents 62 or older, the Senior Annual Pass can be upgraded to the Lifetime Senior Pass by exchanging four previously purchased Senior Annual Passes or paying the difference between the purchase of one to three Senior Annual Passes to equal the value of the Senior Lifetime Pass, $80. 

3) Access Pass, free for lifetime with documentation of permanent disability for U.S. citizens or permanent residents. *Documentation required.

4) Interagency Annual Pass, $80, anyone can purchase this pass.

5) Interagency Military Pass, free to current U.S. military members and their dependents. *Documentation required.

6)  Interagency Every Kid in a Park 4th Grade Pass, free to current 4th grade students with valid Every Kid in a Park voucher (visit: https://everykidoutdoors.gov/ for details).

7) Interagency Volunteer Pass, earned with 250-plus hours of volunteer service on public lands. 

8) Interagency Military Lifetime Pass, free to gold star families and veterans. *Documentation required. 

These passes allow their holders free access to boat launches and swimming beaches managed by USACE. Senior and Access America the Beautiful passes also provide holders a 50 percent discount on campsites at USACE-managed campgrounds. Additionally, USACE will continue to sell its own annual day use pass for $40, which allows visitors free access to boat launches and swimming beaches managed by USACE. 

All America the Beautiful passes can be purchased online at http://store.usgs.gov/. There is an additional $10 processing fee for online purchases. They can also be obtained in person at many locations which can be found at https://www.nps.gov/ Please call ahead to ensure the office is open to the public and to ensure pass availability.

2023 Duck Blind Map (Google Earth required)

Berry Bend South B Loop Campground Map

Brry Bend Campground - C Loop

Bucksaw A Loop Campground Map

Bucksaw Campground - B Loop

Harry S. Truman Interactive Hunting Map

Longshoal Campground

Osage Bluff Campground Map

Sparrowfoot Campground

Thibaut Point Campground Map

Harry S. Truman Dam and Reservoir Official Brochure

Harry S. Truman Dam and Reservoir Official Map

Our recreation season is April 15 - September 30. The visitor center hours are 9:00am–4:00pm Friday through Sunday, as well as federal holiday Mondays. For more information, please call the visitor center at (816) 389-3952 or the project office at (660) 438-2836 extension 1.

The Harry S. Truman Regional Visitor Center, one of only a handful of Class A visitor centers in the United States, sits atop Kaysinger Bluff and provides a spectacular view of Truman Dam and Reservoir. Exhibits within the visitor center provide information about the rich history of the Osage River Valley from pre-civilization to modern day. Waterfowl, bald eagles, and turkey vultures can routinely be observed from the observation deck.

The architectural firm of Linscott, Haylett and Associates, AIA, of Kansas City, Missouri, designed the visitor center. Construction on the building began in 1975, and was completed in 1977 by Miller-Stauch Construction Company of Kansas City, Kansas. Kaysinger Bluff provides a natural setting for the structure's contemporary design, with the exterior and interior surface treatment developed to blend with the surroundings both in texture and color.

Upon entering the building, a large map greets the visitor, showing the location of all park areas at Truman Reservoir. Visitor Attendants are on duty at the reception desk to answer questions about the project and surrounding area. Brochures and other informational pamphlets are available to visitors. Directly behind the information desk is an orientation and welcome video. The paintings on display in the building are by the late E.M "Ike" Parker. Exhibits on the main floor provide information on the area, Harry S. Truman, Partnerships, Living History and westward expansion. Wildlife, history, and water safety videos are available by request for viewing in a 67-seat theater.

The rotunda area contains reproductions of archeological fossils and artifacts found in an area now covered by the waters of Truman Reservoir. On the south wall is a life-sized painting of the Missouri Leviathan, a creature once thought by scientist Albert E. Koch to have roamed the area. Actually, the bones of this extinct "creature" were that of many Mastodons and other creatures that Koch discovered in the area in 1840. Ramps on each side of the rotunda lead to the observation deck. A social history timeline depicting the exploration and settlement of the Osage River Valley is displayed on the north wall for viewing as visitors walk up the north ramp.

Exhibits on the upper deck provide information on cultural history, wildlife, and environmental management, the operation of the powerhouse, Corps of Engineers Missions, and Construction of the Harry S. Truman Project. Views from the upper deck allow visitors to see both Harry S. Truman Dam and Reservoir and the Lake of the Ozarks. Visitors get a sense of the construction and operation of Harry S. Truman Dam, which separates the two bodies of water.

Other items of interest within the Harry S. Truman Visitor Center Complex include a nature trail along Kaysinger Bluff (approximately 1.2 miles total), the Hooper House and Barn, the Log Cabin complex, the Kaysinger General Store and the Concord Schoolhouse located just off the Hooper House Trail.

Campers will find a variety of campgrounds conveniently located around the shoreline of Truman Lake.  Most campgrounds have paved roads, shower buildings, laundry facilities, and level campsites. Flush toilets and shower buildings are seasonal.  Many sites have electricity, fire rings, picnic tables, frost-free hydrants nearby, and lantern posts.

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Campground Rules:

1. Quiet hours are from 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. This includes turning off radios and generators at 10:00 p.m. Visitors are not permitted during this time.
2. All pets must be kept on a 6 foot leash at all times.
3. You may have 3 tents OR a wheeled camping unit and 2 tents on a site.
4. All vehicles must remain on paved or graveled surfaces. Parking of vehicles on the grass (or what should be grass) is not allowed. Extra parking is available at restroom facilities. Boat trailers may be parked on the grass adjacent to the campsite.
5. At the end of your stay please place trash in the dumpsters located at the park entrance.
6. Campground roads are for ingress and egress only and are only open to licensed vehicles.
7. Dispose of all wastewater and sewage at the sanitary dump station.
8. Dead and down wood may be used for firewood. Cutting of standing trees or brush is prohibited.
9. Fires must be confined to the fire rings.
10. Checkout is at 6:00 p.m. Please check out at the park attendant booth upon departure.
11. Campers, after the expiration of 14 days camping at one campsite, you must move to another campground. 

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Campgrounds

To reserve a campsite at a USACE campground, visit www.recreation.gov or call 877-444-6777 (877-833-6777 for TDD devices). Reservations with online payment are REQUIRED during the peak camping season, April 15 - September 30.

Shoulder season (October 1-November 30 and March 1-April 14) requires self-payment of winter rates at the fee vault, and campsites are walk in only. Waterborne facilities are closed, with the exception of dispersed frost free hydrants.

Campgrounds are closed December, January, and February.

Berry Bend Park is located on the Osage Arm, approximately 10 miles west of Warsaw, Missouri. Facilities include 91 electric sites, showers and laundry, dump station, children’s playground, boat ramp, two group picnic shelters (electric) and an equestrian riding area. The park and surrounding area have interesting topography and natural beauty.  The park is also popular with fishermen. Electric campsite options include 30 amp electric, 50 amp/water or 50 amp/water/sewer. 

Bucksaw Park is located on the Grand River Arm, approximately 16 miles southeast of Clinton, Missouri. Facilities include 131 electric sites, 17 nonelectric sites, showers and laundry, dump station, two children’s playgrounds, swimming beach and a marina concessionaire. Electric campsite options include 30 amp electric, 50 amp/water or 50 amp/water/sewer. 

Long Shoal Park is located on the Grand River Arm, approximately 8 miles west of Warsaw, Missouri. Facilities include 84 electric sites, 12 nonelectric sites, showers and laundry, dump station, children’s playground, boat ramp, swimming beach, group picnic shelter (nonelectric) and a marina concessionaire. Long Shoal is one of the more popular campgrounds on the reservoir. Electric campsite options include 30 amp electric, 50 amp/water or 50 amp/water/sewer.

Osage Bluff is located near the confluence of the Osage and Pomme De Terre Rivers, approximately 7 miles south of Warsaw, Missouri. Facilities include 56 electric sites, 4 nonelectric sites, showers and laundry, dump station, children’s playground, boat ramp and a marina concessionaire. Electric campsite options include 30 amp electric or 50 amp/water.

Sparrowfoot is located on the Grand River Arm, approximately 6 miles south of Clinton, Missouri. Facilities include 83 electric sites, showers and laundry, dump station, children’s playground, boat ramp and two group picnic shelters (nonelectric). Sparrowfoot is a popular campground for fishermen. Electric campsite options include 30 amp electric or 50 amp/water.

NOTICE: Sparrowfoot campground will not have a park attendant that operates the booth. Making reservations will be the responsibility of the customer, either by calling the reservation system or booking online. Reservations can be made in advance or at the time of arrival. There will be a volunteer on site who will post advance reservations, check customers in and out, and provide hangtags upon your arrival. If you have an advance reservation, you will proceed to your site and set up. If you wish to wait until you get to the park, please call or go online to make your reservation prior to setting up in order to make sure your stay doesn't interfere with another reservation.

Thibaut Point Park is located at the confluence of Little Tebo Creek and Sterett Creek, approximately 9 miles north of Warsaw, Missouri. Facilities include 39 electric sites, 5 nonelectric sites, two group camping areas (one electric and one nonelectric), showers and laundry, dump station, children’s playground, boat ramp, swimming beach and two group picnic shelters (electric). Electric campsite options include 30 amp electric or 50 amp/water.

NOTICE: Thibaut Point campground will not have a park attendant that operates the booth. Making reservations will be the responsibility of the customer, either by calling the reservation system or booking online. Reservations can be made in advance or at the time of arrival. There will be a volunteer on site who will post advance reservations, check customers in and out, and provide hangtags upon your arrival. If you have an advance reservation, you will proceed to your site and set up. If you wish to wait until you get to the park, please call or go online to make your reservation prior to setting up in order to make sure your stay doesn't interfere with another reservation.

Concessionaire Campgrounds on Truman Lake

• Bucksaw Resort
• Harry S Truman State Park
• Sterett Creek Resort
• City of Osceola

Fishing at Harry S. Truman Lake

Interactive Map

Waterfowl Hunting Blind Policy

Deer Stands, Blinds, Game Cameras and Hunting Policy 

Harry S. Truman Dam and Reservoir offer many opportunities for a variety of game. White-tailed deer, turkey, squirrel, rabbit, quail, duck and geese are favorites among sportsmen. Most project land is open to hunting in accordance with federal, state, and local laws, with the exception of public use and park areas, the corporate limits of municipalities, administrative areas, land leased to the Boy Scouts of America, the Lindon Q. Skidmore Wetland Management Area and other designated refuge areas, as well as other areas where hunting activities are incompatible or unsafe. Lake levels are subject to rapid fluctuations, which could result in blinds being inundated, damaged or destroyed.

Harry S. Truman Dam and Reservoir is located in an ecological transition area with oak-hickory forest to the east and prairie/farmland to the west. This diversity of land types creates a variety of wildlife habitat.

Waterfowl hunters can take advantage of several marshes located on the project. The Corps of Engineers manages approximately 50,000 acres for hunting and other outdoor recreation. Missouri Department of Conservation also manages an additional 55,000 acres . For more information regarding Missouri Department of Conservation managed areas, contact them at 660-885-6981.

The marshes on lands managed by the Corps of Engineers are:

Deepwater Marsh – located in Henry County, immediately adjoining 13 Highway south of Clinton, Missouri or east of Deepwater, Missouri.

Avery Bottoms – located in northwest Hickory County off B Highway.

AA Marsh – located in Henry County off AA Hwy.

Muddy Creek Marsh – located in St. Clair County on C Highway

Lindon Q. Skidmore Wetland Management Area – This area is a wildlife refuge and cannot be hunted. Visitors to the wetland have an excellent opportunity to view a variety of wildlife. The refuge is located near the southwest corner of the city of Clinton MO.

Most hunting accidents occur because of improper gun handling. Hunters swinging on game and hunters mistaken for game are two common accidents. Wearing blaze orange and completing hunter education training can reduce the chances of a hunting accident. Missouri law requires that any hunter born after January 1, 1967 complete a hunter safety education course before they can obtain a Missouri hunting license. 

For more information on Missouri hunting regulations, hunting reports and other hunting related information, visit http://www.mdc.mo.gov.

For questions regarding our policies or other USACE related questions, contact:

Harry S. Truman Project Office
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
15968 Truman Road
Warsaw, MO 65355

Phone: 660-438-2836 extension 1

Email: Harry.S.Truman@usace.army.mil

Five marinas are located on Harry S. Truman Reservoir offering a variety of boating supplies and services. Please call individual marinas for specific services offered at each.

Bucksaw Marina is located on the Grand River Arm, approximately 16 miles southeast of Clinton, Missouri.  

Harry S. Truman State Park Marina is located just west of the confluence of the Osage and Grand River Arms, approximately nine miles west of Warsaw, Missouri.

Long Shoal Marina is located on the Grand River Arm, approximately eight miles west of Warsaw, Missouri.

Osage Bluff Marina is located near the confluence of the Osage and Pomme De Terre Arms, approximately seven miles south of Warsaw, Missouri.

Sterett Creek Marina is located on the Tebo Arm, approximately six miles north of Warsaw, Missouri.

Cooper Creek ATV/Dirt Bike Area

Cooper Creek ATV Area is managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Harry S. Truman Project and is the only area that ATVs and dirt bikes are allowed. The area covers approximately 400 acres of hills, trails, and open riding. Use of the area is currently free of charge.

Cooper Creek ATV/Dirt Bike Area is located one mile east of the town of Deepwater and is easily accessible by State Highway 13 and Henry County Road SE700. The riding area’s boundaries are either fenced or signed.

Rules and Regulations

• This area is open to all-terrain vehicles (ATV) and dirt bikes only. No UTVs, dune buggies, four-wheel drive vehicles, etc. are allowed.
• An ATV is a motorized vehicle having a maximum width of 50 inches, designed to be operated off-road, with handle-bars for steering, and a seat that is straddled by the operator.
• All ATV’s and dirt bikes must be equipped with functioning brakes, muffler, and a spark arrester.
• Loading and unloading of ATVs and dirt bikes is permitted in the parking lot/staging area only.
• Speed limit in the parking lot/staging area is 5 mph.
• Exhibition driving is not allowed in the parking lot/staging area.
• Department of Transportation-approved helmets are required for all operators and passengers.
• One rider per ATV/dirt bike unless otherwise designed by the manufacturer.
• Ride in designated areas only! Riding on maintained roadways/right-of-ways, in the reservoir and/or streams, and in other unauthorized areas is prohibited.
• No Alcoholic beverages and/or firearms in the riding area or parking lot/staging area.
• Operation of ATVs and dirt bikes while under the influence of drugs or alcohol is prohibited.
• No overnight parking or camping.
• The riding area and parking lot/staging area close at dusk.
• Violation of any of the above rules may result in loss of riding privileges and/or fines.

Your cooperation and consideration of others will ensure this area stays open for future use.

Camping is not permitted anywhere in the Cooper Creek ATV/Dirt Bike Area. The nearest Corps of Engineers Campground is Sparrowfoot, just south of Clinton. Campground reservations can be made toll free at 1-877-444-6777 (877-833-6777 for TDD services) or by visiting http://www.recreation.gov.

Think! Medical help is at least 10 miles away. For emergency assistance, dial 911.

For additional information contact

Harry S. Truman Project Office
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
15968 Truman Road
Warsaw, MO 65355

Phone: 660-438-2836 extension 1

Email: Harry.S.Truman@usace.army.mil

Park Map

Biking and Hiking Trails

Shawnee Bend Trail 

Warsaw Biking/Hiking Park

Equestrian and Hiking Trails – Berry Bend Equestrian Park, located approximately 10 miles SW of Warsaw off Z Hwy. and Berry Bend Avenue. 

Berry Bend Equestrian Trail Map - West

Berry Bend Equestrian Trail Map - East

Hiking Trails

Bucksaw Park Trail

Visitor Center Trail - A short nature trail (up to 1.2 miles) is located adjacent to the Harry S. Truman Visitor Center, beginning just north of the employee parking lot (look for trailhead sign.) The trail runs roughly parallel to the shoreline and ends on a wooded point. There is an option to take the trail across the peninsula and/or take an alternate route back to the visitor center area, making the trail a loop. There are park benches located along the trail. Please see attendants at the Visitor Center for more information.

Partner?

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Get a Job?

Lease Agricultural Land?

Hours of Operation

Harry S. Truman Dam and Reservoir is regulated by Title 36 CFR 327 governing public use of Corps of Engineers water resources development projects. For a list of all rules and regulations please reference this link.

Master Plan Information (2022)

1988 Master Plan

Apply for a USACE Annual Day Use Pass

Recreation.gov

Recreation Fee Passes

Osage River Basin Operations

Kansas City District Dam Safety Program

Kansas City District Water Management

Kansas City District Water Quality Program 

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers staff at Hillsdale Lake manages the lake to provide benefits to the nation in areas of Flood Damage Reduction, Water Supply, Water Quality Improvements, Fish and Wildlife Management and Recreation. The Hillsdale Lake staff also operate the project Visitor Center.

The Corps manages 4,580 surface acres of water and over 8,000 acres of public land surrounding the lake. The staff conducts dam safety inspections and maintains the dam and outlet works. Corps employees make water release changes to Big Bull Creek which flows into the Marais des Cygnes River. All releases are conducted in coordination with the Kansas City District Water Management Section and the Missouri River Region Control center. Hillsdale Lake is part of the Osage River Basin along with Melvern, Pomona, Stockton, Pomme de Terre and Harry S. Truman Lake.

In 1989, the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism leased 12,880 acres of land and water at Hillsdale to be managed as a Kansas State Park & Wildlife Area. Today, all recreation facilities and wildlife management lands are managed by the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism.

The Corps of Engineers manages the Visitor Center located at the lake. They provide local, regional and national information to the visiting public. Adjacent to the Visitor Center is a 1.5 mile nature trail called "The Hidden Spring Nature Trail". The trail is managed as an extension of the Visitor Center. In addition to the Nature Trail, there is a Group Shelter house that can be reserved.

Other activities conducted by the Corps include: dam operations, natural resource management, water safety, public relations, visitor services, real estate management, noxious weed control, collection of weather data, lake patrol, buoy maintenance, and encroachment surveillance.

USACE Pass Information

USACE Annual Pass = $40. Pass holders receive free entrance to U.S. Army Corps of Engineers-operated sites nationwide that charge day use fees. The pass may not be used at areas operated by other agencies even if those areas may be located on USACE-owned property. Camping fees are not included. Pass valid for one year. Valid through month and year shown on the pass. Sold only at USACE projects, please call ahead to ensure the office is open to the public.

Federal Interagency Pass Information

Approximately 240 USACE recreation projects nationwide began issuing America the Beautiful National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Interagency Passes on Jan. 1, 2016. These include:

1) Interagency Senior Pass, $80, valid for lifetime of the pass owner and available to U.S. citizens and permanent residents age 62 or older. 

2) Interagency Senior Annual Pass $20, valid one year from month of purchase, available to U.S. citizens or permanent residents 62 or older, the Senior Annual Pass can be upgraded to the Lifetime Senior Pass by exchanging four previously purchased Senior Annual Passes or paying the difference between the purchase of one to three Senior Annual Passes to equal the value of the Senior Lifetime Pass, $80. 

3) Access Pass, free for lifetime with documentation of permanent disability for U.S. citizens or permanent residents. *Documentation required.

4) Interagency Annual Pass, $80, anyone can purchase this pass.

5) Interagency Military Pass, free to current U.S. military members and their dependents. *Documentation required.

6)  Interagency Every Kid in a Park 4th Grade Pass, free to current 4th grade students with valid Every Kid in a Park voucher (visit: https://everykidoutdoors.gov/ for details).

7) Interagency Volunteer Pass, earned with 250-plus hours of volunteer service on public lands. 

8) Interagency Military Lifetime Pass, free to gold star families and veterans. *Documentation required. 

These passes allow their holders free access to boat launches and swimming beaches managed by USACE. Senior and Access America the Beautiful passes also provide holders a 50 percent discount on campsites at USACE-managed campgrounds. Additionally, USACE will continue to sell its own annual day use pass for $40, which allows visitors free access to boat launches and swimming beaches managed by USACE. 

All America the Beautiful passes can be purchased online at http://store.usgs.gov/. There is an additional $10 processing fee for online purchases. They can also be obtained in person at many locations which can be found at https://www.nps.gov/ Please call ahead to ensure the office is open to the public and to ensure pass availability.

Hillsdale Lake Interactive Hunting Map

Hillsdale Lake Map

Hillsdale Lake Brochure

Hillsdale State Park Maps

Equestrian Blue Camp Trail Map

Equestrian Red Trail Map

Managing the natural resources at Hillsdale Lake is one of the Corps of Engineers project purposes.  The Corps manages natural resources in cooperation with the Kansas Dept. of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism.  Maintaining and improving healthy and sustainable habitat is conducted by Natural Resource Specialist, Wildlife and Fisheries Biologist.  Management practices include:  Wetland Development, Native Grass Planting, Agricultural Crop Production, Cedar Control, Invasive Species surveillance and control, Brush pile Construction, Food plot Planting, Dove Field Management, Fisheries Habitat Development, Timber Stand Improvements, Tree and acorn planting and prescribed burning. Hillsdale Lake is managed for multiple species; migratory birds, game and non-game, fish, reptiles and amphibians. We ask for your assistance in protecting our natural resources by following all fish and wildlife regulations and leaving the lake better than when you arrived.

Boating at Hillsdale Lake. 

Camping at Hillsdale Lake. 

Fishing at Hillsdale Lake. 

Hunting at Hillsdale Lake. 

Hunting Regulations. 

Hillsdale Lake Marina.

Swimming at Hillsdale Lake. 

Hillsdale Shooting Range

Hillsdale Lake is a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers operated multi-purpose use reservoir located in Miami County near Paola, Kansas on the Big Bull River in the Lower Kansas River Basin. The Flood Control Act of 1954 authorized Hillsdale reservoir for flood control, water supply, water quality, recreation and fish and wildlife use and has a 144 square mile drainage area. Hillsdale Lake is part of the Osage River Basin along with Melvern Lake, Pomona Lake, Stockton Lake, Pomme de Terre Lake and Harry S. Truman Lake. Together, these lakes function as a system to play a vital role in managing water resources. USACE is authorized to operate Hillsdale Lake using the current Water Control Manual that was prepared by the Kansas City District and is dated June 1985. 

Congress provided direction and funding in Fiscal Year 2022 for USACE districts across the nation to update Water Control Manuals, or WCMs to evaluate whether any changes in physical, social and environmental conditions around the dam warrant updating the WCP, include a drought contingency plan and meet new requirements for formatting and updating information.

WHAT IS A WATER CONTROL MANUAL?

Water Control Manuals, or WCMs, are operating manuals for U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, or USACE, dams. USACE makes day to day decisions about releasing water through its dams according to Water Control Plans, or WCPs, that are included in dam specific-WCMs. The objective of all WCMs include operating the dam and reservoir for the purposes authorized by Congress and other applicable law, maintain the structural integrity and operation integrity of the dam (sometimes called a “project” to include reservoir operations) and avoid risk to public health and safety, life and property.

The WCMs are being updated because Congress provided direction and funding in Fiscal Year 2022 for USACE districts across the nation to update WCMs to evaluate and potentially update WCPs as necessary, include a drought contingency plan for managing water releases from dams when there is a drought and meet new requirements for formatting and updating information. Each WCM and its WCP was developed when each project was authorized. They are updated periodically to determine whether there are changes in the physical, environmental and social conditions that need to be accounted for in a dam’s operation.  

NEPA PROCESS

The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) is a law that requires all federal agencies to take a 'hard look' at how their actions may affect the human and natural environment. It spells out the steps an agency must take to identify environmental issues that need to be considered, identify options or alternatives that would correct the problems identified and explain its final decision while complying with environmental regulations. NEPA also gives the public a voice in the decision-making process about the proposed actions. The public is asked to provide input through public meetings and opportunities to provide written comments. The first opportunity happens during the scoping phase. Additional opportunities occur when the environmental review is complete and alternatives for action identified. These comments will be considered before the federal agency makes a final decision. 

Did you miss a public meeting? No problem! Click the presentation below to review the slideshow from previous public meetings. 

March 12, 2024, Hillsdale Public Meeting Slides 

Hillsdale Lake Value to the Nation

ArcGIS StoryMaps is a web-based application designed to create interactive narratives by combining maps, multimedia content, and text to communicate stories in a visually engaging way. Developed by Esri, it allows users to transform geographic information system (GIS) work into compelling digital stories and presentations.

The primary purpose of ArcGIS StoryMaps is to help users effectively convey messages, educate audiences, and engage stakeholders through location-based narratives.

Click this link to learn and interact with the Water Control Manuals Update!

Volunteer?

Partner?

Get a Job?

State Park Fees

The Kansas State Park System operates the Fee program at Hillsdale Lake.

State Park Vehicle Permits are required for all vehicles entering park areas.

Annual vehicle permits are available through the State Park Office.

Camping fees and utilities can be paid at camp host sites within the park.

Hillsdale Master Plan

Recreation.gov

America the Beautiful Passes

Hillsdale State Park

Kansas Dept of Wildlife Parks & Tourism

Osage River Basin Operations

Kansas City District Dam Safety Program

Kansas City District Water Management

Kansas City District Water Quality Program 

Lands around the lake are managed by the Corps of Engineers to preserve their natural value. Land management practices such as prairie restoration, prescribed burning and tree planting help conserve soil and benefit wildlife.

Kanopolis Lake is one unit in a system of lakes in the Smoky Hill and Kansas River Basins. Kanopolis operates in tandem with upstream Cedar Bluff Reservoir, a Bureau of Reclamation project, to regulate flows in the Smoky Hill River Basin.

A portion of the lake storage is used to provide water to Post Rock Rural Water District, which in turn, supplies many Kansas farms and communities.

USACE Pass Information

USACE Annual Pass = $40. Pass holders receive free entrance to U.S. Army Corps of Engineers-operated sites nationwide that charge day use fees. The pass may not be used at areas operated by other agencies even if those areas may be located on USACE-owned property. Camping fees are not included. Pass valid for one year. Valid through month and year shown on the pass. Sold only at USACE projects, please call ahead to ensure the office is open to the public.

Federal Interagency Pass Information

Approximately 240 USACE recreation projects nationwide began issuing America the Beautiful National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Interagency Passes on Jan. 1, 2016. These include:

1) Interagency Senior Pass, $80, valid for lifetime of the pass owner and available to U.S. citizens and permanent residents age 62 or older. 

2) Interagency Senior Annual Pass $20, valid one year from month of purchase, available to U.S. citizens or permanent residents 62 or older, the Senior Annual Pass can be upgraded to the Lifetime Senior Pass by exchanging four previously purchased Senior Annual Passes or paying the difference between the purchase of one to three Senior Annual Passes to equal the value of the Senior Lifetime Pass, $80. 

3) Access Pass, free for lifetime with documentation of permanent disability for U.S. citizens or permanent residents. *Documentation required.

4) Interagency Annual Pass, $80, anyone can purchase this pass.

5) Interagency Military Pass, free to current U.S. military members and their dependents. *Documentation required.

6)  Interagency Every Kid in a Park 4th Grade Pass, free to current 4th grade students with valid Every Kid in a Park voucher (visit: https://everykidoutdoors.gov/ for details).

7) Interagency Volunteer Pass, earned with 250-plus hours of volunteer service on public lands. 

8) Interagency Military Lifetime Pass, free to gold star families and veterans. *Documentation required. 

These passes allow their holders free access to boat launches and swimming beaches managed by USACE. Senior and Access America the Beautiful passes also provide holders a 50 percent discount on campsites at USACE-managed campgrounds. Additionally, USACE will continue to sell its own annual day use pass for $40, which allows visitors free access to boat launches and swimming beaches managed by USACE. 

All America the Beautiful passes can be purchased online at http://store.usgs.gov/. There is an additional $10 processing fee for online purchases. They can also be obtained in person at many locations which can be found at https://www.nps.gov/ Please call ahead to ensure the office is open to the public and to ensure pass availability.

Kanopolis Lake Digital Brochure 

Kanopolis Lake Area Map

Venango Camping Information

Riverside Camping Information

Legacy Trail Auto Tour Guide

Loder Point Nature Trail

Sand Creek Area Guide

Interactive Hunting Map

Hunting Map (pdf) and Regulations

Disc Golf Guide

Natural resource management at Kanopolis Lake focuses on maintaining and restoring high quality habitat in order to benefit a diverse range of wildlife species.  Management activities are carefully considered in order to maximize wildlife benefits while providing high quality, diverse recreation opportunities for visitors.  Some common management activities performed by staff include, but are not limited to the following:

 ·     Prescribed burning

 ·     Mechanical and chemical invasive species control

 ·     Native grass restoration

 ·     Conservation tree and shrub plantings

 ·     Food plots

 ·     Promotion of species beneficial to pollinators

 ·     Special managed hunts

 ·     Fish habitat improvement

 ·     Wetland management

 ·     Wildlife inventories and surveys

 ·     Educational outreach and interpretive programs

For more information about these activities or to volunteer, please contact the Kanopolis Lake Project Office at 785-546-2294. 

Four developed campgrounds are conveniently located around Kanopolis Lake. The Corps manages two of these campgrounds - Venango and Riverside. The Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism manage Horsethief and Langley state parks. A private concessionaire manages the Tower Harbor Marina.

Fees for Venango and Riverside Campgrounds (1st May - 30th September) include $24.00 electric/water, $22.00 electric, and $18.00 non-electric. There is a $18 per night utility fee at sites with electrical hook-ups from the 1st October – 30th November and 1st April - 30th April in Riverside Campground. During the months of 1st October - 30th April in Venango Campground utilities are unavailable; with primitive camping available free of charge.

The Venango campground is located on the northwest end of the dam and the facilities include: 126 camping sites (81 electric hookups with 30 having both water and electricity), boat ramp, dump station, primitive group camp area with shelter house, reservable picnic shelters, shower house, swimming beach, playgrounds, ATV area and nature trail. The Riverside campground is located on the southeast end of the dam along the Smoky Hill River and the facilities include: 25 camping sites (16 electric and 9 non-electric), dump station, shower house, playground, 9 hole disc golf course, and river access.

Campgrounds contain level campsites, picnic tables, and fire rings. Shower buildings, sanitary dump stations, playgrounds, and drinking water are located in most parks.

Entrance stations are located at most campgrounds and all campgrounds are patrolled routinely by Park Rangers.

Make a Reservation at Venango Campground

Make a Reservation at Riverside Campground

Off Season Camping

OFFSEASON VENANGO CAMPGROUND (OCTOBER 1 - APRIL 30)

Utilities will be unavailable at all campsites in the Venango campground. Primitive camping in the park will remain free and open for the public. Restrooms may be limited to vault toilets.

OFFSEASON RIVERSIDE CAMPGROUND (October 1 - April 30)

From October 1st - November 30th and April 1st - April 30th, electric sites are available on a reservation or walk in basis and require an offseason camping fee of $10/night.

From December 1st - March 31st utilities will be unavailable at all campsites in Riverside. Primitive camping in the park will remain free and open for the public. Restrooms may be limited to vault toilets.

The 3,400 acres of Kanopolis Lake provide anglers with a wide variety of fishing opportunities. The most sought after species include saugeye, white bass and channel catfish. Crappie, and Wipers, a White Bass/Striped Bass hybrid, are also caught.

White bass may be taken soon after the ice melts in the shallows near Bluff Creek. When river conditions allow, the white bass fishing during their March-April up-river spawn can be fantastic.

The best saugeye fishing occurs during their spawning period in late March/early April along the face of the dam or other rocky points. Saugeye may also be taken in the flats from Bluff Creek to Yankee Run Point as the water warms in late April and May.

Most channel cats are caught during summer nights at the upper end of the lake. Fishing just after the spring ice melt or using setlines throughout the lake are also popular techniques which can produce good results.

For the hardy angler, good ice fishing for crappie and white bass can also be found when conditions allow.

Rainbow trout are stocked yearly in the seep stream below the dam. The trout season runs from 1 Nov- 15 April and a special trout permit is required to possess trout during this time. Trout are stocked only in the seep stream by KDWPT.

KDWPT - Kansas Fishing Information

Kanopolis Lake offers hunting opportunities for a variety of game animals. Pheasant, quail, prairie chicken, whitetail deer, turkey, waterfowl, rabbit and squirrel can be found in huntable populations. Fur harvesters may also find coyote, bobcat, beaver, muskrat, mink, raccoon and opossum to pursue.

The Corps of Engineers manages approximately 11,000 acres of land open to Public Hunting. The majority of this acreage is located at the upper end of the lake along the Smoky Hill River. 4,000 thousand acres have also been licensed to the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism for management as a waterfowl refuge. Land management practices such as prescribed burning, tree and grass planting, food plot establishment and timber stand improvement are performed to enhance wildlife habitat. One of the Corps' most important wildlife management tools is the agricultural lease program. Tracts of public land are leased to farmers who incorporate specific wildlife management practices into their farming operation. Public access is available to a majority of these lands, but vehicles are restricted to existing roads. Nearly all Federally owned land is open to hunting, with the exception of the developed parks and portions of the waterfowl refuge. We encourage all hunters to visit the Project Office for further information and guidance.

All Federal and state hunting regulations are enforced. Sportsmanship and safety should be considered at all times. Kansas law requires that any hunter born after 1 July 1957 must complete a Hunter Education course before they can obtain a Kansas hunting license.

Kanopolis Lake Interactive Hunting Map

KDWP - Kansas Hunting Information

Kanopolis Lake Marina 

Day Use

Bald eagles, white-tailed deer, Canada geese, wild turkey, pheasant, quail, crappie, walleye, channel catfish and other wildlife can be found at Kanopolis Lake. The lake's fish and wildlife resources provide sightseers, fisherman, and hunters ample opportunities to pursue their sports.       

Four parks have been developed for public recreation. Two are managed by the Corps of Engineers and two state parks are managed by Kansas Wildlife and Parks. Recreation facilities include hiking trails, an atv riding area, boat ramps, courtesy docks, campgrounds, picnic areas and playgrounds. The marina concessionaire provides a full line of marina services.

Did you miss a public meeting? No problem! Click the presentation below to review the slideshow from previous public meetings. 

Kanopolis Lake Value to the Nation

ArcGIS StoryMaps is a web-based application designed to create interactive narratives by combining maps, multimedia content, and text to communicate stories in a visually engaging way. Developed by Esri, it allows users to transform geographic information system (GIS) work into compelling digital stories and presentations.

The primary purpose of ArcGIS StoryMaps is to help users effectively convey messages, educate audiences, and engage stakeholders through location-based narratives.

Click this link to learn and interact with the Water Control Manuals Update!

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Recreation Season

Kanopolis Lake is regulated by Title 36 CFR 327 governing public use of U.S. Army Corps of Engineers water resources development projects. For a list of all rules and regulations please reference this link.

Weather Information

Recreation.gov

America the Beautiful Passes

Kanopolis Seep Stream Trout Stocking

Kanopolis State Park

Kansas City District Dam Safety Program

Kansas City District Water Management

Kansas City District Water Quality Program 

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers staff at Long Branch Lake manages the lake to provide benefits to the nation in areas of Flood Damage Reduction, Water Supply, Natural Resource Management, and Downstream Water Quality Improvement.

The Corps has direct responsibility at Long Branch for management of the 2,400 acre lake and 1,200 acres of adjacent project land. In addition to those lands under direct Corps management, the Corps outgrants approximately 1,830 acres of Long Branch project lands to the Missouri Department of Natural Resources for Long Branch State Park and 2,450 acres to the Missouri Department of Conservation for the Long Branch Conservation Area.

The Corps of Engineers at Long Branch has natural resource management responsibility on approximately 1,190 acres of public land. Resource management efforts focus on habitat improvement of both forest and grassland environments.

Maintenance and operation of the dam is one of the more important duties for Corps personnel at Long Branch. The integrity of the dam is maintained through regular inspections and maintenance activities. The Corps staff also regulates outflow through operation of gates within the dam outlet works.

The Corps operates a visitor center at the east end of the dam that is a source of information to the visiting public about local history, natural features and recreation opportunities. The visitor center is also the base of operation for a variety of interpretive programs conducted by Corps rangers for schools and organizations in surrounding communities.

USACE Pass Information

USACE Annual Pass = $40. Pass holders receive free entrance to U.S. Army Corps of Engineers-operated sites nationwide that charge day use fees. The pass may not be used at areas operated by other agencies even if those areas may be located on USACE-owned property. Camping fees are not included. Pass valid for one year. Valid through month and year shown on the pass. Sold only at USACE projects, please call ahead to ensure the office is open to the public.

Federal Interagency Pass Information

Approximately 240 USACE recreation projects nationwide began issuing America the Beautiful National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Interagency Passes on Jan. 1, 2016. These include:

1) Interagency Senior Pass, $80, valid for lifetime of the pass owner and available to U.S. citizens and permanent residents age 62 or older. 

2) Interagency Senior Annual Pass $20, valid one year from month of purchase, available to U.S. citizens or permanent residents 62 or older, the Senior Annual Pass can be upgraded to the Lifetime Senior Pass by exchanging four previously purchased Senior Annual Passes or paying the difference between the purchase of one to three Senior Annual Passes to equal the value of the Senior Lifetime Pass, $80. 

3) Access Pass, free for lifetime with documentation of permanent disability for U.S. citizens or permanent residents. *Documentation required.

4) Interagency Annual Pass, $80, anyone can purchase this pass.

5) Interagency Military Pass, free to current U.S. military members and their dependents. *Documentation required.

6)  Interagency Every Kid in a Park 4th Grade Pass, free to current 4th grade students with valid Every Kid in a Park voucher (visit: https://everykidoutdoors.gov/ for details).

7) Interagency Volunteer Pass, earned with 250-plus hours of volunteer service on public lands. 

8) Interagency Military Lifetime Pass, free to gold star families and veterans. *Documentation required. 

These passes allow their holders free access to boat launches and swimming beaches managed by USACE. Senior and Access America the Beautiful passes also provide holders a 50 percent discount on campsites at USACE-managed campgrounds. Additionally, USACE will continue to sell its own annual day use pass for $40, which allows visitors free access to boat launches and swimming beaches managed by USACE. 

All America the Beautiful passes can be purchased online at http://store.usgs.gov/. There is an additional $10 processing fee for online purchases. They can also be obtained in person at many locations which can be found at https://www.nps.gov/ Please call ahead to ensure the office is open to the public and to ensure pass availability.

Long Branch Lake Map

Boating at Long Branch Lake

The Bloomington Area of Long Branch State Park offers the only campground, shelter houses and swim beach facilities at Long Branch Lake. If you need additional information about the Long Branch State Park facilities call the park office at 660-773-5229 between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.

 Long Branch State Park campground offers improved sites with electricity available, picnic tables and fire rings.  The campground also features a shower house and dump station during the camping season.  Waterborne facilities are closed during the winter months.  Campsite reservation can be made by calling 877-422-6766 between the hours of 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. seven days a week or by visiting mostateparks.com at the following link: Long Branch State Park Camping. 

Fishing at Long Branch Lake

Opportunities for hunting at Long Branch Lake can be found on over 5,500 acres managed by the Corps of Engineers and the Missouri Department of Conservation. The Corps manages approximately 1,000 acres on the east and west side of the lake that are open to public hunting. The Corps licensed 2,454 acres at the north end of the lake to the Missouri Department of Conservation for wildlife management purposes. Adjacent to this area is the 2,040 acre Department of Conservation owned Atlanta Conservation Area. These two areas are managed as one 4,500 acre unit that makes up the Atlanta/Long Branch Conservation Area.

Macon County is a popular Missouri destination for deer and turkey hunters. Numbers of deer taken each season consistently places Macon county in the top three Missouri counties.

Long Branch has grown in popularity with waterfowl hunters. The Corps of Engineers holds an annual duck blind drawing the last Saturday of September to allow permits for the placement of seasonal duck blinds on certain areas of the lake.  There is no hunting allowed in the State Park areas, as well as the refuge area located on the southern portion of the lake near the Long Branch Dam.  Contact the Corps Office at (660) 385-2108 if interested in a obtaining information on a waterfowl blind permit.

Hunting Areas and Maps

Long Branch Lake Interactive Hunting Map

Long Branch / Atlanta Conservation Area

Long Branch Duck Blind Locations Map

Fish Attractor/Brush Pile Map

Picnic at Long Branch Lake

Swimming at Long Branch Lake

Long Branch Lake offers four different trail experiences to whether you enjoy hiking, bird watching, plant identification or just enjoy being in the great outdoors there is a trail to suit you.  The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers offers one Nature Trail that meanders 0.25 mile through the wooded area between the Long Branch Lake Visitor Center and lake.  The Missouri Department of Natural Resources Long Branch State Park offers three different trail experiences.  The Lakeview Trail is a 0.60 mile trail that provides great views of the lake and highlights by ending at a scenic lake point.   The Little Chariton Prairie Trail is a 1.5 mile trail that cuts through a restored prairie area.  The Bee Trace Trail can be found on the Bee Trace Peninsula and is approximately 7.5 miles in length.  This trail is divided up into two loops, a blue loop and a brown loop.

Long Branch U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Nature Trail Map

Missouri Department of Natural Resources Long Branch State Park Trails

            Bee Trace Trail Map           

            Lakeview Trail Map           

            Little Chariton Prairie Trail Map

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Hours of Operation 

The Long Branch Lake Visitor Center is open 9:00 am - 3:00 pm Monday through Friday.

Rules and Regulations

Recreation.gov

America the Beautiful Passes

Long Branch State Park

Missouri Department of Conservation

USGS Water Data Missouri

Kansas City District Dam Safety Program

Kansas City District Water Management

Kansas City District Water Quality Program 

Located in Kansas City, Grandview and Lee's Summit, Missouri. Longview, a 930 acre lake provides recreational facilities including camping, 14 picnic shelters, swimming beach, 27 hole golf course, softball fields, 6 miles of bicycle trail, equestrian show area and marina all operated by Jackson County Parks and Recreation.

USACE Pass Information

USACE Annual Pass = $40. Pass holders receive free entrance to U.S. Army Corps of Engineers-operated sites nationwide that charge day use fees. The pass may not be used at areas operated by other agencies even if those areas may be located on USACE-owned property. Camping fees are not included. Pass valid for one year. Valid through month and year shown on the pass. Sold only at USACE projects, please call ahead to ensure the office is open to the public.

Federal Interagency Pass Information

Approximately 240 USACE recreation projects nationwide began issuing America the Beautiful National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Interagency Passes on Jan. 1, 2016. These include:

1) Interagency Senior Pass, $80, valid for lifetime of the pass owner and available to U.S. citizens and permanent residents age 62 or older. 

2) Interagency Senior Annual Pass $20, valid one year from month of purchase, available to U.S. citizens or permanent residents 62 or older, the Senior Annual Pass can be upgraded to the Lifetime Senior Pass by exchanging four previously purchased Senior Annual Passes or paying the difference between the purchase of one to three Senior Annual Passes to equal the value of the Senior Lifetime Pass, $80. 

3) Access Pass, free for lifetime with documentation of permanent disability for U.S. citizens or permanent residents. *Documentation required.

4) Interagency Annual Pass, $80, anyone can purchase this pass.

5) Interagency Military Pass, free to current U.S. military members and their dependents. *Documentation required.

6)  Interagency Every Kid in a Park 4th Grade Pass, free to current 4th grade students with valid Every Kid in a Park voucher (visit: https://everykidoutdoors.gov/ for details).

7) Interagency Volunteer Pass, earned with 250-plus hours of volunteer service on public lands. 

8) Interagency Military Lifetime Pass, free to gold star families and veterans. *Documentation required. 

These passes allow their holders free access to boat launches and swimming beaches managed by USACE. Senior and Access America the Beautiful passes also provide holders a 50 percent discount on campsites at USACE-managed campgrounds. Additionally, USACE will continue to sell its own annual day use pass for $40, which allows visitors free access to boat launches and swimming beaches managed by USACE. 

All America the Beautiful passes can be purchased online at http://store.usgs.gov/. There is an additional $10 processing fee for online purchases. They can also be obtained in person at many locations which can be found at https://www.nps.gov/ Please call ahead to ensure the office is open to the public and to ensure pass availability.

Longview Lake Map

Boating at Longview Lake

Camping at Longview Lake

Fishing at Longview Lake

Longview Lake Marina

Picnic at Longview Lake

Swimming at Longview Lake

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Recreation.gov

America the Beautiful Passes

Corps Lakes

Oh, Ranger

DontMoveFirewood.org

StopAquaticHitchhikers.org

Kansas City District Dam Safety Program

Kansas City District Water Management

Kansas City District Water Quality Program 

The U. S. Army Corps of Engineers planned, designed, constructed, and today manages Melvern Lake, located in east central Kansas. The Corps of Engineers is authorized to operate Melvern Dam and Lake to benefit the nation by providing flood damage reduction, recreation, water supply storage, fish and wildlife management, and downstream water quality improvement.

Melvern Lake was designed, constructed, and is operated by the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers. Operations and maintenance activities are conducted out of the Project Office and Information Center, which is located at the east end of the dam. Melvern Lake’s staff has a wide variety of responsibilities including:

1. Dam Operations and Maintenance - Duties include operation of the outlet gates which control the flow of water from the lake to the river, and maintenance of the dam, control tower, stilling basin and spillway.
2. Park and Campground Operations and Maintenance - The Corps operates and maintains five parks at Melvern Lake. Each park containing a campground. Operation and maintenance activities include: Camping and day use fee collection; visitor assistance and protection; operation and maintenance of electrical, water supply and sewage treatment systems; maintenance of roads, parking lots, campsites, boat ramps, various buildings and picnic shelters and courtesy docks; and park area mowing and tree maintenance.
3. Natural Resource Management activities including fish and wildlife, and cultural resource management.
4. Service Contracts – A large portion of the maintenance and administrative services at Melvern Lake are provided by small business contractors. These contracts included but are not limited to: park mowing, park attendants, park custodians, vegetative management, and refuse collection.

Melvern Lake’s staff is supplemented by a small staff of temporary employees and a variety of contractors during the busy recreation season. There are also several other organizations involved in lake area operations.

• Kansas Wildlife and Parks - Enforces State fish and game laws and provides fisheries and wildlife management for the lake.
• Osage County Sheriff's Department - Enforces the laws of the State of Kansas and provides additional park security through a contract with the Corps of Engineers during the recreation season.

USACE Pass Information

USACE Annual Pass = $40. Pass holders receive free entrance to U.S. Army Corps of Engineers-operated sites nationwide that charge day use fees. The pass may not be used at areas operated by other agencies even if those areas may be located on USACE-owned property. Camping fees are not included. Pass valid for one year. Valid through month and year shown on the pass. Sold only at USACE projects, please call ahead to ensure the office is open to the public.

Federal Interagency Pass Information

Approximately 240 USACE recreation projects nationwide began issuing America the Beautiful National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Interagency Passes on Jan. 1, 2016. These include:

1) Interagency Senior Pass, $80, valid for lifetime of the pass owner and available to U.S. citizens and permanent residents age 62 or older. 

2) Interagency Senior Annual Pass $20, valid one year from month of purchase, available to U.S. citizens or permanent residents 62 or older, the Senior Annual Pass can be upgraded to the Lifetime Senior Pass by exchanging four previously purchased Senior Annual Passes or paying the difference between the purchase of one to three Senior Annual Passes to equal the value of the Senior Lifetime Pass, $80. 

3) Access Pass, free for lifetime with documentation of permanent disability for U.S. citizens or permanent residents. *Documentation required.

4) Interagency Annual Pass, $80, anyone can purchase this pass.

5) Interagency Military Pass, free to current U.S. military members and their dependents. *Documentation required.

6)  Interagency Every Kid in a Park 4th Grade Pass, free to current 4th grade students with valid Every Kid in a Park voucher (visit: https://everykidoutdoors.gov/ for details).

7) Interagency Volunteer Pass, earned with 250-plus hours of volunteer service on public lands. 

8) Interagency Military Lifetime Pass, free to gold star families and veterans. *Documentation required. 

These passes allow their holders free access to boat launches and swimming beaches managed by USACE. Senior and Access America the Beautiful passes also provide holders a 50 percent discount on campsites at USACE-managed campgrounds. Additionally, USACE will continue to sell its own annual day use pass for $40, which allows visitors free access to boat launches and swimming beaches managed by USACE. 

All America the Beautiful passes can be purchased online at http://store.usgs.gov/. There is an additional $10 processing fee for online purchases. They can also be obtained in person at many locations which can be found at https://www.nps.gov/ Please call ahead to ensure the office is open to the public and to ensure pass availability.

Melvern Lake Map

Melvern Lake Brochure

Melvern Lake Interactive Hunting Map

Melvern Lake Camping Map

River Bottom Trail

Tallgrass Heritage Trail

The Corps of Engineers and the Kansas Dept. of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism work together to create and manage the natural resources at Melvern Lake. Wetlands, native grasslands, dove fields, youth-mentoring areas, waterfowl refuges, agricultural crops, upland areas and timber stands are all available at the lake.

-Invasive Species-

Boaters on Melvern Lake will enjoy the large main body of the lake on calm days for water skiing.  Sailboat enthusiasts can find plenty of room to maneuver on the ten miles of open water.  The Melvern Lake Marina is located on the southeast side of the lake. It provides fuel, mooring facilities and other supplies necessary for boaters as well as campers.   For the main lake, boat ramps are located in all Corps of Engineers parks (Arrow Rock, Coeur d'Alene, Sun Dance, and Turkey Point), two at Eisenhower State Park, and two maintained gravel boat ramps (one off Urish Road on the north side of the lake and the other off Docking Road up on the river end of the lake).  The Outlet has a boat ramp to launch non-motorized boats in the River Pond. No boats are permitted on the Swim Pond in Outlet Park.

Day use fees are required for launching at Corps managed boat ramps. A daily fee of $5.00 is charged to launch at ramps. In lieu of the daily permit an annual pass may be purchased for $40.00. This pass is good at any Corps of Engineers Day use facility nationwide. Golden Passport or America the Beautiful Cardholders now receive free day use if card is displayed. Please note that the Coeur d’ Alene boat ramp parking lot is for vehicles with trailers only. This restriction is enforced to help alleviate the congestion issues that occur on this ramp on a weekly basis. Vehicles without trailers may park in the marina parking lot down the road. The fee season for Corps-managed boat ramps in the parks is April 1st through October 31st annually.

Due to fluctuations in lake elevations, partially submerged and submerged hazards may be encountered. Boat operators should exercise extreme caution at all times while underway on the lake.

-Melvern Lake Marina-

-Information on Boating in Kansas-

-Boating Education-

-US Coast Guard-

Five campgrounds are conveniently located around Melvern Lake. The Corps manages four out of the five campgrounds. They are: Outlet, Coeur d' Alene, Arrow Rock, and Turkey Point Parks. The State of Kansas manages the Eisenhower State Park campground.

User fees are charged for camping in parks that the Corps of Engineers operates. The amount of the fee is based on the type of facilities provided.

Campgrounds contain level campsites, many with electrical hookups, picnic tables, and fire rings. Shower buildings, sanitary dump stations, playgrounds, and fish cleaning stations are located in most parks. Please click on campground specific information for a complete list of amenities and fees for each campground.

Entrance stations are located at most campgrounds and all campgrounds are patrolled routinely by Park Rangers and Osage County Sheriff's Deputies.

For additional information about camping opportunities click on the Kansas City District home page. For reservations call 1-877-444-6777 or www.recreation.gov 

Arrow Rock Park

Located about halfway up the south side of the lake, Arrow Rock is perhaps our most scenic park. There are 43 campsites: 19 with water/30 amp electric hookups, and 24 basic campsites. The picnic area on the central hilltop in the park provides users with an excellent panoramic vista of the lake. There is a shelter in this picnic area that is available on the first-come, first-served basis. There is another small picnic area adjacent to the boat ramp.

The Tall Grass Heritage Trail can be accessed from the campground at the trailhead behind the shower facilities and from access points off of the boat ramp parking lot.

During the recreation season, the entrance booth is open:

Su/M/F 3:00-5:00 pm

Th/Sa 4:00-6:00 pm

Tu/W CLOSED

-Make a Campsite Reservation-

Coeur d'Alene Park

Coeur d' Alene Park is located on the southeast corner of the lake. It is a 56 site campground including 26 sites with electric hookups, 7 sites with electric and water hookups, 22 basic campsites, and one handicap accessible site with water/50 amp electric/sewer hookups. At least one handicapped person must be present on the site in order to reserve. The park also includes the lake's overlook area, a swimming beach, several playgrounds, two reservable picnic shelters, two nature trails, a picnic area, a boat ramp with two courtesy docks, and the Melvern Lake Marina.

During the recreation season, the entrance booth is open:

Su/M/F 3:00-5:00 pm

Th/Sa 4:00-6:00 pm

Tu/W CLOSED

-Make a Campsite Reservation-

Outlet Park

The Outlet Park is situated below the dam. It has 150 campsites; 89 full hookup sites with 50 amp service, and 61 sites with water and 30 amp electric hookups.  In 2006, a group pavilion was constructed that is equipped with a grill/smoker, restrooms, sink, ceiling fans, and a serving table.  The pavilion can only be reserved by a registered camper in Outlet Park. The campsites surround a 90 acre pond that was closed for renovation in 2002 and was catch and release only in 2003. In 2004, special length and creel limits were applied and are strictly enforced. The pond is open year round for your fishing enjoyment. The campground is open from April 1 to October 31.

The use of gasoline motors is prohibited in this pond. There is another pond of 27 acres in this area for swimming only along with a reservable shelter, two playgrounds, a softball field, two sand volleyball courts, three miles of pedestrian and/or bicycle trails and a historical suspension bridge. This is our most intensively used park.

To reserve a shelter or pavilion please contact the Melvern Lake Project Office at 785-549-3318.

During the recreation season, the entrance booth is open:

M/Sa 3:00-5:00 pm

Th/F 3:00-7:00 pm

Su 4:00-8:00 pm

Tu/W CLOSED

-Make a Campsite Reservation-

-Outlet Park River Pond Brochure-

Turkey Point Park

Turkey Point is located on the north side of the lake. Turkey Point Park has 48 camp pads (18 with water/50 amp electric hookups, 16 with water/30 amp electric hookups, and 14 basic campsites). Turkey Point has a boat ramp, the Waterfront Day Use Area, and two group camp areas: the Turkey Point Group Camp and the Lake View Group Camp. The Turkey Point Group Camp can be reserved for $40.00 per night. The area includes a privy, a shelter, a water hydrant, several large gravel pads, and is isolated from the rest of the park, so your group can have its fun and not bother or be bothered by other visitors.  The Lake View Group Camp can be reserved for $160.00 per night. The area includes a flush restroom, a shelter with electricity and a family size fire ring, a playground, and 12 - water and 50 amp electric campsites.  There is a gate to isolate it from the rest of the park.

During the recreation season, the entrance booth is open:

M/Sa 3:00-5:00 pm

Thu/F 3:00-7:00 pm

Su 4:00-8:00 pm

Closed Tuesday and Wednesday

-Make a Campsite Reservation-

Eisenhower State Park

Melvern Lake is a 6,930-acre impoundment on the upper reaches of the Marais des Cygnes River Valley nestled into the eastern fringes of the beautiful Flint Hills Region. Opportunities abound for any angler who may gain easy access to the lake at any of the six large boat ramps located strategically on the northern and southern shores.

The game fish that are available in Melvern Lake include: walleye, crappie, channel catfish, flathead catfish, black bass, white bass and small mouth bass.

Check current State Regulations for all length and creel limits.  *Note there are special regulations specific to the Outlet Park River Pond which differ from those pertaining to Melvern Lake.

On the Outlet Park River Pond setlines and gas powered motors are prohibited.  All other State guidelines, rules, regulations and laws remain in effect.

-Information on Fishing in Kansas-

-Outlet Park River Pond Brochure-

-Fishing Report-

-Melvern Lake Fish Habitat Map-

Melvern Lake offers many opportunities for a variety of game. Deer, quail, turkeys, ducks, rabbits and squirrels may be found on public hunting lands.

The north side of Melvern Lake has more wooded areas and blocks of timber than the south side. The south shore of the lake has more areas of warm season grass and smaller woodlots. The upper reaches of Melvern Lake are also excellent habitats featuring many game friendly crop fields surrounded by timber and brushy growth.

Over 10,000 acres of wildlife habitat are managed for the outdoorsman by the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks. Management activities include marsh development, food plots, boundary plantings, cover plots and brush piles.

No camping or fires are permitted in the wildlife areas. Camping is permitted on designated campsites within the park areas.

Most hunting accidents occur because of improper gun handling. Hunters swinging on game and hunters mistaken for game are two of the most common causes of accidents. The wearing of blaze orange and Hunter Education training can reduce the chances of being involved in an accident.

Kansas law requires that any hunter born after July 1, 1957, must complete a Hunter Education course before they can obtain a Kansas hunting license.

-Information on Hunting in Kansas-

-Melvern Wildlife Area-

Melvern Lake Interactive Hunting Map

Melvern Lake Marina

There are three shelters and one pavilion available for reservations. These facilities are located in the Outlet Day Use Area, the Overlook and the Coeur d' Alene Picnic Area.

Coeur d' Alene has two reservable picnic shelters. One is located at the Overlook and another may be found in the picnic area. The Outlet Park Shelter is located at the east end of the day use area.

The Outlet Park Pavilion is located at the entrance of B-Loop in Outlet Park and offers kitchen and restroom facilities.

Individual picnic area sites are also available throughout Melvern Lake Parks on a first-come, first-served basis.

Picnic shelters may be reserved for $20.00 from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and the Outlet Park Pavilion may be reserved for $40 from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on www.recreation.gov or calling the toll free number at 877-444-6777.

Never swim alone! This is the first and most important rule when swimming. First, find a friend, and then find a safe swimming place.

The safest places to swim at Melvern Lake are at one of the three designated swimming beaches. Two are located on the main part of the lake, at Eisenhower State Park and at Coeur D'Alene Waterfront Day Use Area. One swimming beach is located below the dam, in the Outlet Park. Designated beaches are designed and constructed to eliminate hazards and underwater obstructions. These beaches have ample parking and toilet facilities. The Outlet Beach and Coeur D' Alene beaches have volleyball nets for beach users.

At Melvern Lake, day user fees are charged at both designated swimming beaches maintained by the Corps of Engineers. The fee for swimming is $5 per vehicle regardless of number in car load, $2.00 for a walk/bike-in, and children under 16 free. An annual non-transferable pass may be purchased at the Melvern Lake Information Center or park attendant booths (in season). The cost of the pass is $40.00. This pass is good at any Corps of Engineers day use facility nationwide. Golden Passport or America the Beautiful Cardholders now receive free day use if pass is displayed.  The fee season for the Corps-managed swim beaches is May 15th through September 15th annually.

You are invited to enjoy a relaxing and refreshing afternoon swim at Melvern Lake. But, please, think about water safety as you are having fun in the sun.

Being water safe is a high priority for the Corps of Engineers and Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks.

Melvern Lake visitors have shown a growing interest in land-based recreation opportunities. One such opportunity is exploring the native habitat adjacent to Melvern Lake's many trails. If you are interested in learning more about our natural resources or just interested in healthy exercise, Melvern Lake is the place for you. Below is a partial description of these trails.

 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Trails

The Outlet Park has three miles of nature trails including a half-mile paved surface trail accessible to the physically challenged. A two-mile gravel trail connects to the paved trail to allow users to explore the entire oxbow that exists as a result of the Melvern Dam construction as well as the perimeter of the Outlet River Pond. It interconnects with several sanitary facilities and allows fishermen, hikers, and bicyclists safe access to the river pond shoreline and other park features.

The River Bottom Nature Trail is a primitive trail that passes through an area representative of the river biosphere. It is located in the northeast portion of the Outlet Park.

-River Bottom Nature Trail Brochure-

Coeur d' Alene Park has two nature trails with easy to navigate gravel surfaces. The Overlook Trail is only two hundred yards long but serves to connect two picnic areas and playground facilities. The Breakwater Trail is a half-mile long and provides access to the lake and native flora and fauna between the Coeur d' Alene campground and the marina cove.

The Tallgrass Heritage Trail, located on the south side of Melvern Lake, extends from Arrow Rock Park to Coeur d' Alene Park. This new trail originates in the Arrow Rock Park campground and extends east to Coeur d' Alene Park. Hikers and mountain bike riders will enjoy woodland and grassland ecosystems as the trail extends nearly four miles between the two parks. The 2.2 mile trail from Arrow Rock Park to Coeur d' Alene Park offers a mowed grass path with several challenging hills. The 1.8 mile path in Arrow Rock offers a packed gravel surface ideal for hikers and bike riders.

-Tallgrass Heritage Trail Brochure-

 Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism Trails

A self-guided nature trail is located in the Eisenhower State Park that allows users to explore native eastern Kansas prairie grasses. A seventeen-mile Bridle Trail initiates in the west portion of the campground in the state park and traverses through the scenic undeveloped native terrain typical of the nationally acclaimed Kansas Flint Hills. For the hiking/biking enthusiast there is a five mile trail located in the east side of the park.

-Eisenhower State Park-

Melvern Lake is a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers operated multi-purpose use reservoir located in Osage County near Melvern, Kansas on the Marais des Cygnes River in the Lower Kansas River Basin. The Flood Control Act of 1954 authorized Melvern reservoir for flood control, water supply, water quality, recreation and fish and wildlife use and has a 349 square mile drainage area. Melvern Lake is part of the Osage River Basin along with Hillsdale Lake, Pomona Lake, Stockton Lake, Pomme de Terre Lake and Harry S. Truman Lake. Together, these lakes function as a system to play a vital role in managing water resources. USACE is authorized to operate Melvern Dam and Lake using the current Water Control Manual that was prepared by the Kansas City District and is dated June 1985.

Congress provided direction and funding in Fiscal Year 2022 for USACE districts across the nation to update Water Control Manuals, or WCMs to evaluate whether any changes in physical, social and environmental conditions around the dam warrant updating the WCP, include a drought contingency plan and meet new requirements for formatting and updating information.

WHAT IS A WATER CONTROL MANUAL?

Water Control Manuals, or WCMs, are operating manuals for U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, or USACE, dams. USACE makes day to day decisions about releasing water through its dams according to Water Control Plans, or WCPs, that are included in dam specific-WCMs. The objective of all WCMs include operating the dam and reservoir for the purposes authorized by Congress and other applicable law, maintain the structural integrity and operation integrity of the dam (sometimes called a “project” to include reservoir operations) and avoid risk to public health and safety, life and property.

The WCMs are being updated because Congress provided direction and funding in Fiscal Year 2022 for USACE districts across the nation to update WCMs to evaluate and potentially update WCPs as necessary, include a drought contingency plan for managing water releases from dams when there is a drought and meet new requirements for formatting and updating information. Each WCM and its WCP was developed when each project was authorized. They are updated periodically to determine whether there are changes in the physical, environmental and social conditions that need to be accounted for in a dam’s operation.  

NEPA PROCESS

The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) is a law that requires all federal agencies to take a 'hard look' at how their actions may affect the human and natural environment. It spells out the steps an agency must take to identify environmental issues that need to be considered, identify options or alternatives that would correct the problems identified and explain its final decision while complying with environmental regulations. NEPA also gives the public a voice in the decision-making process about the proposed actions. The public is asked to provide input through public meetings and opportunities to provide written comments. The first opportunity happens during the scoping phase. Additional opportunities occur when the environmental review is complete and alternatives for action identified. These comments will be considered before the federal agency makes a final decision. 

Did you miss a public meeting? No problem! Click the presentation below to review the slideshow from previous public meetings. 

March 14, 2024, Melvern Public Meeting Slides 

Melvern Lake Value to the Nation

ArcGIS StoryMaps is a web-based application designed to create interactive narratives by combining maps, multimedia content, and text to communicate stories in a visually engaging way. Developed by Esri, it allows users to transform geographic information system (GIS) work into compelling digital stories and presentations.

The primary purpose of ArcGIS StoryMaps is to help users effectively convey messages, educate audiences, and engage stakeholders through location-based narratives.

Click this link to learn and interact with the Water Control Manuals Update!

Volunteer?

Partner?

Get a Job?

Contract with the Corps?

Lease Government Land?

Fees

Hours of Operation

The Information Center is open to the public from 8:00am - 3:00pm Monday - Friday.

Day-Use picnic areas are open daily from 6:00am - 10:00pm.

Rules and Regulations

The Melvern Lake Project is regulated by Title 36 Code of Federal Regulations governing public use of Corps of Engineers water resources development projects. For a list of all rules and regulations please reference the link below.

-Title 36 CFR-

Please observe the following rules while in the park.  Keep in mind that these rules not only protect park resources and visitor safety,  but also reflect common courtesy toward other park visitors.  

-  Campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, unless a reservation has been made through the NRRS. Check-in & check-out time is 6:00 p.m.  

-  Campers should check at the fee booth for site availability.  Campsites might be reserved.  If booth is closed, refer to the campsite reservation board, select site, make camp and return to fee booth when open.     

-  Camping fees are collected per campsite.  To avoid overcrowding sites a maximum of 2 units is allowed per campsite (2 tents or 1 tent and 1 RV) and a maximum of 2 vehicles is allowed per campsite. 

-  Travel and parking are only allowed on park roadways.  When parking at campsites, keep at least 2 wheels on the road or camp pad.  

-  Use of the Golden Age/Golden Access Passport or the America The Beautiful Pass is restricted to the cardholder and his/her immediate campsite only. Discounts can not be applied to more than 1 campsite and can not be given to friends, relatives, etc.  

-  Wading pools, water slides and other large water toys are not allowed in park areas, due to water waste, turf degradation and the potential drowning hazard.  

-  Beer kegs or party balls are not allowed in the campgrounds or on the beach.  

-  Quiet hours are from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.  Visitors must be out of the campgrounds by 10 p.m.   

 -  All pets must be kept on a leash not more than 6 feet in length.  Pets are not allowed in shower buildings, restrooms or on the swimming beach.  

-  Please keep a clean campsite.  Trash bags are provided and should be deposited in the dumpsters upon departure.  

- When departing the campsite please stack any leftover firewood, off the grass, next to the fire ring.  

-  Please report any theft, loss, accident or disturbance to Lake Patrol, Park Rangers or the Park Attendants.  

A complete set of park Title 36 Rules and Regulations is available from a Park Ranger or the Park Attendant.    

Tenga en cuenta las siguientes reglas mientras que en el parque. Tenga en cuenta que estos normas no sólo protegen los recursos del parque y seguridad de los visitantes , pero también reflejan cortesía hacia otros visitantes del parque.

-Los campamentos están disponibles en un primer llegado primer servido base, a menos que una reserva se ha hecho a través de la NRRS. El registro y la hora de salida es 18:00.

-Los campistas deben comprobar en el stand de cuota por la disponibilidad del sitio. Algunos campings podría ser reservado. Si la cabina está cerrada , consulte la Tabla de Reservas camping , seleccione sitio, hacer un campamento y volver a la cabina de cuota cuando está abierto.

-Tarifas para acampar son recogidos por camping. Para evitar los sitios de hacinamiento una Se permite un máximo de 2 unidades por camping (2 tiendas de campaña o 1 tienda y 1 RV) y una máximo de 2 vehículos está permitido por camping.

-Viajes y aparcamiento sólo se les permite en las carreteras del parque. Al aparcar en campings, tenga al menos 2 ruedas en la plataforma de la carretera o el campo.

-El uso de la edad de oro / oro de acceso Passport se limita a la titular de la tarjeta y su / su camping inmediata solamente. Los descuentos no se pueden aplicar a más de 1 camping y no se puede dar a los amigos , familiares , etc.

-Piscinas , toboganes y otros juguetes de agua grandes vadear no están permitidos en el parque áreas , debido al desperdicio de agua , la degradación del territorio y el posible riesgo de ahogamiento.

-Barriles de cerveza o bolas de partido no están permitidos en los campamentos o en la playa.

-Las horas de silencio son de 10 p.m. a 6 a.m. Los visitantes deben estar fuera de los campamentos por 10 p.m.

-Todas las mascotas deben mantenerse con una correa no más de 6 pies de longitud. Las mascotas no son permitido en los edificios de ducha , baños o en la playa de la piscina.

-Por favor, mantenga limpio el lugar . bolsas de basura se proporcionan y se deben depositar en el contenedores de basura a la salida.

-Al salir del camping favor apilar cualquier leña de sobra, de la hierba , junto al anillo de fuego.

- Por favor reporte cualquier robo , pérdida, accidente o perturbación de la Patrulla Lake Park Rangers , o los asistentes Park.

Un conjunto completo de parque Título 36 Normas y Reglamentos está disponible a partir de un guarda del parque o el encargado del aparcamiento.

Melvern Lake Facts

Melvern Lake and Dam were constructed at a cost of $37,436,530.00 for the primary purpose of providing flood control on the lower Marais Des Cygnes River. As of 2005, Melvern Lake has prevented approximately $220,637,400.00 in downstream flood damages.

Melvern Dam is a rolled earthfill embankment with an impervious clay core making the dam nearly watertight. The dam extends 9,700 feet and rises nearly 125 feet above the river valley. The lake elevation is maintained via a series of hydraulically operated gates located at the bottom of the control tower. The lake water passes through a conduit for approximately 754 feet before entering the Marais Des Cygnes River.

Other authorized purposes include recreation, water supply and fish and wildlife management. The 349 square miles of drainage basin above Melvern Lake is composed primarily of warm-season grasses intermixed with agriculture and hardwood forests. The presence of an upstream prairie ecosystem provides a better than average water quality for Melvern Lake.

Authorized by Congress: 1954
Authorized use: Flood control and water resource development
Drainage basin: Marais des Cygnes River
Tangible benefits: water supply, recreation, fish and wildlife conservation
Under construction: 1967-1972
First recreation season: 1974
Dedication: 1975
Elevation, feet above mean sea level
Top of flood control pool: 1,057
Top of multipurpose pool: 1,036

Surface area, acres
Top of flood control pool: 13,950
Top of multipurpose pool: 6,930

Shoreline, miles (multipurpose pool): 101
Maximum depth, ft. (multipurpose pool): 74
The Dam Type: Rolled earthfill
Length, ft. (overall): 9,700
Height, ft. (above streambed): 125
Width, ft. (base): 915
Width, ft. (crown): 30
Emergency spillway: Uncontrolled chute
Outlet works: Single Horseshoe conduit (11.5 ft.)
Gates: 2 Hydraulically operated gates (6 ft. x 12 ft.)

Emergency Phone Numbers

In Case of Emergency (Ambulance, Fire, Crime, Emergency): 911

Osage County Sheriff’s Office: 785-828-3121

In Case of Poison Intake: 800-322-6633

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers: 785-549-3318

Eisenhower State Park:  785-528-4102

Melvern Lake Marina:  620-256-6566

KDWPT - Operation Game Thief: 877-426-3843

Policía-Fuego-Médico: 911  

Oficina del Sheriff del Condado de Osage: 785-828-3121  

Lago de Melvern, Corps de Ingenieros del Proyecto Oficina:  785-549-3318  

Lago de Melvern Marina:  620-256-6566

Eisenhower Parque Estatal:  785-528-4102

History

In 1954, Congress authorized the construction of Melvern Lake as a multipurpose project for flood damage reduction and water resource development. While most of the lake's tangible benefits are attributed to its ability to prevent flood damage, lake storage also supplies water for several local communities. Recreation, fish and wildlife conservation, and water quality are other important benefits of the lake. Following construction and impoundment, the lake was dedicated in 1975.

The Melvern Project consists of 23,362 acres of federal owned lands. The lake itself comprises 6,930 acres. The remaining acreage has been devoted to park development and wildlife management. Melvern is a key unit in the system of flood damage reduction projects within the Marais des Cygnes River Basin. It is also part of the network of lakes that provide flood damage reduction on the Osage, Missouri, and Mississippi Rivers.

The earliest known inhabitants of the Melvern Lake area was the Kansa Indians. They occupied the Melvern Lake area for nearly a century when, in 1825, they ceded most of their territory to the United States. In 1864, a reservation for the Sac and Fox Indians was established in the southern two-thirds of Osage County and parts of Lyon, Coffey and Franklin counties. In 1867, the area was opened to white settlement and the reservation was removed from the Marais des Cygnes River Valley.

In 1868, a town called Olivet sprang up in the Marais des Cygnes valley. This new town was established by the Swedenborgian Followers from England. It was proposed by the founders of the town to build a college and make Olivet the headquarters for the Swedenborgian Chuch for the entire western United States. The town grew to over 300, but later struggled because the proposed railroad went another route. In 1873, a prairie fire swept through the town destroying part of it. The town was completely gone by 1885.

Arvonia was the second town to be founded in the river valley. Originally settled by Welsh farmers and coal miners in 1869, the town was settled, like Old Olivet, in anticipation of the railroad which was to run adjacent to the Marais Cygnes River. Unfortunately, the line did not run to Arvonia. Though it did grow to over 300 people by 1879, it slowly dwindled to just a handful today.

Recreation.gov

America the Beautiful Passes

Eisenhower State Park

Melvern Wildlife Area

USGS Water Data

Osage County, KS

Kansas City District Dam Safety Program

Kansas City District Water Management

Kansas City District Water Quality Program 

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Kansas City District welcomes you to Milford Lake.  Milford Lake has 15,700 surface acres of water and 163 miles of shoreline, making it the largest in Kansas.  Further information may be obtained at the project office/information center located at the south end of the dam.

Multipurpose lake projects such as Milford are authorized by Congress only when the anticipated benefits are substantially greater than the costs.  Since the Milford Lake and dam began operating in 1967, it has prevented an estimated $165 million in flood damages, over 3 times the initial cost of the project's construction.  

While most of the lake's tangible benefits are credited to its ability to prevent flood damages in the Kansas and Missouri River basins, the lake also releases water for  municipal and industrial needs, navigation and downstream water quality.  The Kansas Water Office and the Corps work together to regulate water releases through the dam.

The lake provides excellent habitat for many types of wildlife, a fact that contributes to its reputation as one of the prime hunting and fishing areas in Kansas.

Each year the lake attracts thousands of visitors who enjoy and take advantage of the many recreational opportunities available.

USACE Pass Information

USACE Annual Pass = $40. Pass holders receive free entrance to U.S. Army Corps of Engineers-operated sites nationwide that charge day use fees. The pass may not be used at areas operated by other agencies even if those areas may be located on USACE-owned property. Camping fees are not included. Pass valid for one year. Valid through month and year shown on the pass. Sold only at USACE projects, please call ahead to ensure the office is open to the public.

Federal Interagency Pass Information

Approximately 240 USACE recreation projects nationwide began issuing America the Beautiful National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Interagency Passes on Jan. 1, 2016. These include:

1) Interagency Senior Pass, $80, valid for lifetime of the pass owner and available to U.S. citizens and permanent residents age 62 or older. 

2) Interagency Senior Annual Pass $20, valid one year from month of purchase, available to U.S. citizens or permanent residents 62 or older, the Senior Annual Pass can be upgraded to the Lifetime Senior Pass by exchanging four previously purchased Senior Annual Passes or paying the difference between the purchase of one to three Senior Annual Passes to equal the value of the Senior Lifetime Pass, $80. 

3) Access Pass, free for lifetime with documentation of permanent disability for U.S. citizens or permanent residents. *Documentation required.

4) Interagency Annual Pass, $80, anyone can purchase this pass.

5) Interagency Military Pass, free to current U.S. military members and their dependents. *Documentation required.

6)  Interagency Every Kid in a Park 4th Grade Pass, free to current 4th grade students with valid Every Kid in a Park voucher (visit: https://everykidoutdoors.gov/ for details).

7) Interagency Volunteer Pass, earned with 250-plus hours of volunteer service on public lands. 

8) Interagency Military Lifetime Pass, free to gold star families and veterans. *Documentation required. 

These passes allow their holders free access to boat launches and swimming beaches managed by USACE. Senior and Access America the Beautiful passes also provide holders a 50 percent discount on campsites at USACE-managed campgrounds. Additionally, USACE will continue to sell its own annual day use pass for $40, which allows visitors free access to boat launches and swimming beaches managed by USACE. 

All America the Beautiful passes can be purchased online at http://store.usgs.gov/. There is an additional $10 processing fee for online purchases. They can also be obtained in person at many locations which can be found at https://www.nps.gov/ Please call ahead to ensure the office is open to the public and to ensure pass availability.

Milford Lake Fee Brochure

Milford Lake Map (pdf)

Milford Lake Interactive Hunting Map

Milford Lake Day-Use Map

West Rolling Hills Park Brochure

Farnum Creek Park Brochure

Curtis Creek Park Brochure

School Creek Park/ORV Brochure

Timber Creek Park

Milford Lake Fee Brochure

Milford Lake Fish Structure Map

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers manages six boat ramps on Milford Lake. Below is a list of all ramps on the lake with approximate elevations.

These elevations are not exact but close enough to assist boaters in launching during high or low water conditions. Please be aware that naturally occurring debris such as rocks, limbs, etc. may gather at the end of ramps and may hinder launching operations. Prop wash, undercutting and settlement may also create voids at the end of the concrete ramp or uneven concrete slab transitions on the ramp itself. During abnormal lake elevations please use extreme caution.

Multipurpose Pool Elevation: 1144.40 msl
Flood Pool Elevation: 1176.20 msl
Recorded High Lake Elevation: July 25, 1993 1182.02 msl
Recorded Low Lake Elevation: January 13, 2003 1136.88 msl

*This ramp is the longest and should remain viable under low lake conditions.

** This ramp has frequent obstructions and should be visually inspected for safe conditions prior to launching

The Corps of Engineers manages five campgrounds at Milford Lake. Curtis Creek, Farnum Creek and West Rolling Hills are class A parks.  These parks all offer full hookup sites, shower buildings and are available to make reservations. Please visit the links on the right to make a reservation in these parks.

School Creek and Timber Creek parks are class C parks that offer camping in a more rural setting. Timber Creek has water available but no electricity and School Creek has no utilities.  Both parks are now available to make reservations online by clicking the link to the right.  Next to School Creek Park is the School Creek ATV area that offers nearly 300 acres for riders to take advantage of, but please no riding in the campground area.

Make a Reservation

Curtis Creek

Farnum Creek

West Rolling Hills

School Creek

Timber Creek

Fishing at Milford Lake

Milford Lake Interactive Hunting Map

For information on hunting Kansas Department of Wildlife & Parks managed land click here.  All people accessing KDWP managed lands must be signed into their Go Outdoors Kansas account.

Milford Lake: Policy on trail cameras, blinds, tree stands, decoys and baiting on U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Managed Wildlife Areas

Trail cameras.  Trail cameras are prohibited on all USACE managed lands at Milford Lake.

Blinds, tree stands, and decoys.  Subject to provisions and restrictions as established by posted notice, blinds, tree stands, and decoys shall be allowed on public property as follows:

(a) Portable tree stands used for hunting may be placed not more than 14 days before the hunting season for which the blind or stand will be used and shall be removed from public property within 14 days after the hunting season for which the blind or stand was placed has ended.

(b) Portable tree stands used for purposes other than hunting may be placed for a period not to exceed 14 days and shall be removed from public property at the conclusion of 14 days or after the intended use of the blind or stand has ended, whichever time period is less.

(c) Ladders, screw in metal steps, and steps attached by ropes, cables or chains may be used for access to portable tree stands and shall be removed when the portable tree stand is removed as required by subsection (a) or (b).

(d) Natural blinds may be used for any authorized activity and shall be constructed of natural herbaceous materials or woody debris, or both, that are dead and down and that are present at the site of the natural blind.  Live trees and standing dead trees may NOT be cut.

(e) Any individual may use a placed portable blind, portable tree stand, or natural blind when the blind or stand is not occupied.

(f) Any blind, stand, or climbing device not in conformance with regulations or posted notice provisions or restrictions may be removed/impounded or destroyed by the government.

(g) Each portable blind and portable tree stand shall be marked with either the user’s name and address or the user’s Kansas Department of Wildlife & Parks (KDWP) department-issued identification number in a visible, legible, and weatherproof manner.

(h) No individual shall place more than two portable blinds or tree stands on any single corps owned project (including KDWP department-managed property on that same project).

(i) Portable blinds shall not be left unattended overnight

(j) Decoys shall not be left unattended overnight

Bait; hunting. (a) No person shall place, deposit, expose, or scatter bait while hunting or preparing to hunt on public lands or place, deposit, expose, or scatter bait in a manner that causes another person to be in violation of this policy.

(b) Hunting shall be prohibited within 100 yards of any bait placed, deposited, exposed, or scattered on public lands.  Bait shall be considered placed, deposited, exposed, or scattered on public lands for 10 days following complete removal of the bait.

(c) Nothing in this policy shall prohibit the hunting or taking of wildlife over standing crops, grain found scattered solely as the result of normal agricultural operations, or grain found scattered solely as the result of normal weather conditions.

(d) For the purposes of this policy, “bait” shall mean any grain, fruit, vegetable, nut, hay, salt, sorghum, feed, or other food, or mineral that is capable of attracting wildlife.  Liquid scents and sprays shall not be considered bait.

Violations of this policy are subject to a written warning or citation in accordance with Title 36 CFR 327.8 Hunting, fishing, and trapping – (d) Additional restrictions pertaining to these activities may be established by the District Commander.

For additional information regarding hunting on Corps of Engineers managed ground please call the project office at 785-238-5714.

Milford Lake Marina

Thunderbird Marina & Resort

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers manages four day-use parks at Milford Lake. These include: North Overlook, East Rolling Hills, Outlet and South Outlet Parks. These parks are free to use. Those individuals wanting to reserve a shelter or swim at the East Rolling Hills beach will be required to pay the associated fees.

In these parks there are nine picnic shelters available for reservations. All shelters are $25 a day, except for shelter one in East Rolling Hills which is $50 a day. If the shelter is not posted RESERVED for the day, you are free to use it at no charge. Shelters are available for reservations April - September, to make a reservation click here or call 1-877-444-6777. East Rolling Hills also has a swim beach available, for a flat fee of $5 per vehicle. Fees are charged May 15 - September 15. East Rolling Hills also offers a boat ramp that is free of charge.

Milford State Park

Eagle Ridge Equestrian Trail - 6 miles of horseback riding, mountain biking, or hiking on some of the most scenic and diverse areas that Milford Lake has to offer. 

Crystal Trail - This trail is 2.2 miles. It passes by an old quarry where small geode rocks can be found. Deer viewing is good along open fields and by food plots. Viewing of bald eagles is excellent from November through March along the water's edge.

Radio Tower Trail - This trail is 1.93 miles long.

Dogwood Trail - A 0.6 mile walk that leads you through woodland and prairie habitats.

Pipeline Trail - This trial is 0.5 miles long. A good trail for a quick walk or ride.

Wildlife Viewing Tower & Trail - The tower is accessed from a wrap-around staircase, which rises 21' to the top platform. Excellent wildlife viewing is made available with nearby food plots. The best time to visit is near dusk and dawn when most animals are active. Stargazing is excellent on clear nights. Bring your binoculars! 

Junction City Parks & Recreation Department

Riverwalk Trail - A 4.8-mile route along the Republican River between Outlet Park at Milford Lake and Fort Riley, KS. The trail is open to hikers, bicycles, equestrian use, and snowmobiles when appropriate. 

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

ORV Trails - The School Creek ORV area consists of approximately 287 acres of trails restricted to vehicles that are 50 inches wide or less. No side-by-side vehicles are allowed.

Outlet Park/Old River Bluff Trail - 1 1/4 mile connecting the Riverwalk Trail to the Milford State Park Eagle Ridge Equestrian Trail creating over 14 miles of equestrian trails. 

Milford Nature Center

Tallgrass Trail - A 1/2-mile loop or a longer 1 1/2-mile hike takes you through wooded areas, native prairie grass, and down to a nearby pond. 

Kansas Landscape Arboretum

Meadow Willow Trail - A 1/2 mile trail with 7 bridges to cross, one of which is a covered bridge. 

Wild Acres Trail - A 1/4 mile walk to discover Kansas' wildflowers. 

Woodland Trail - A 1-mile trail that travels through a bird sanctuary and down to a small pond oasis.

Milford Lake is a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers operated reservoir located on the Republican River, a tributary to the Kansas River, near Junction City, Kansas. Milford Lake was authorized under the Flood Control Act of 1954. The authorized purposes are flood risk reduction, water quality, water supply, fish and wildlife conservation and navigation (authorized but not an operating purpose). Construction of the reservoir began in 1962 and operation of the dam began 1967. Milford Lake is one lake in a larger network of lakes, including Clinton Lake, Perry Lake and Tuttle Creek Lake, that operate in parallel with each other. This network functions as a system to play a vital role in managing water resources in the Kansas River Basin for their respective nearby and downstream communities.   

Congress provided direction and funding in Fiscal Year 2022 for USACE districts across the nation to update Water Control Manuals, or WCMs to evaluate whether any changes in physical, social and environmental conditions around the dam warrant updating the WCP, include a drought contingency plan and meet new requirements for formatting and updating information.

WHAT IS A WATER CONTROL MANUAL?

Water Control Manuals, or WCMs, are operating manuals for U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, or USACE, dams. USACE makes day to day decisions about releasing water through its dams according to Water Control Plans, or WCPs, that are included in dam specific-WCMs. The objective of all WCMs include operating the dam and reservoir for the purposes authorized by Congress and other applicable law, maintain the structural integrity and operation integrity of the dam (sometimes called a “project” to include reservoir operations) and avoid risk to public health and safety, life and property.

The WCMs are being updated because Congress provided direction and funding in Fiscal Year 2022 for USACE districts across the nation to update WCMs to evaluate and potentially update WCPs as necessary, include a drought contingency plan for managing water releases from dams when there is a drought and meet new requirements for formatting and updating information. Each WCM and its WCP was developed when each project was authorized. They are updated periodically to determine whether there are changes in the physical, environmental and social conditions that need to be accounted for in a dam’s operation.  

NEPA PROCESS

The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) is a law that requires all federal agencies to take a 'hard look' at how their actions may affect the human and natural environment. It spells out the steps an agency must take to identify environmental issues that need to be considered, identify options or alternatives that would correct the problems identified and explain its final decision while complying with environmental regulations. NEPA also gives the public a voice in the decision-making process about the proposed actions. The public is asked to provide input through public meetings and opportunities to provide written comments. The first opportunity happens during the scoping phase. Additional opportunities occur when the environmental review is complete and alternatives for action identified. These comments will be considered before the federal agency makes a final decision. 

Did you miss a public meeting? No problem! Click the presentation below to review the slideshow from previous public meetings. 

Milford Lake Value to the Nation

ArcGIS StoryMaps is a web-based application designed to create interactive narratives by combining maps, multimedia content, and text to communicate stories in a visually engaging way. Developed by Esri, it allows users to transform geographic information system (GIS) work into compelling digital stories and presentations.

The primary purpose of ArcGIS StoryMaps is to help users effectively convey messages, educate audiences, and engage stakeholders through location-based narratives.

Click this link to learn and interact with the Water Control Manuals Update!

Partner?

Volunteer?

Get a Job?

Hours of Operation

Visitor Center:

7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Campground Fee Booths:

Wednesday - Sunday 7 a.m. to 8 a.m / 12 p.m. to 10 p.m. April 15th - September 30th.

Recreation.gov

America the Beautiful Passes

Milford State Park

Milford Lake Nature Center

Acorns Resort

Clay County Park

Flagstop Park

Kansas City District Dam Safety Program

Kansas City District Water Management

Kansas City District Water Quality Program 

The US Army Corps of Engineers constructed and operates Perry Dam. Located on the Delaware River in Jefferson County, Perry Lake is the fourth largest lake in the state of Kansas. The Delaware River and its tributaries Slough Creek, Rock Creek, and Evans Creek provide the inflow and valleys that form the lake area. The lake possesses over 160 miles of shoreline, 25,389 acres of flood control pool, 11,150 surface acres of multipurpose pool, and controls a drainage area of about 1,117 square miles in the comparatively humid region of northeast Kansas. Flood protection includes over three thousand acres downstream of the dam along the Delaware River and contributes to the protection of the Kansas River, Missouri River, and the Mississippi River. The communities of Perry, Lawrence, Bonner Springs, and Kansas City benefit from the flood control protection.

The dam consists of a rolled earth-fill embankment about 7,750 feet long, constructed to an elevation approximately 95 feet above the streambed with gated outlet works and a gated chute-type spillway in the left abutment. The outlet works is located in the center of the dam and includes several features. The outlet conduit, which is 23.5 feet in diameter and 564.25 feet long, extends through the earth embankment with approach and outlet channels. It is preceded by two rectangular passages of 11.75 feet wide and 23.5 feet high. Each passage contains an emergency gate and a service gate. Both gates are hydraulically operated. Discharges enter a concrete stilling basin immediately downstream of the outlet conduit. Two rows of staggered baffle blocks reduce the velocity of the water before it goes into the outlet channel. The intake structure and control tower contain all of the operating machinery and equipment.

The Perry Project Staff maintain the lake for the purpose of providing flood control, water storage, and recreation. The staff maintains nearly 39,311 acres of land for recreation and wildlife management. Over 11,000 acres of water provides many challenges in fisheries management for the State of Kansas.

The staff conducts dam safety inspections and maintains the dam and outlet works. Corps employees make water release changes to the Delaware River in coordination with the Kansas City District Water Control Section and the Missouri River Region Reservoir Control Center.

Eight parks around the lake are managed for day use and camping. These parks include paved roads, common utilities, campsites, designated beaches, boat ramps, fish cleaning stations, and picnic areas. Contract gate attendants are in residence at four of the Corps park facilities during the recreational season. Park Rangers routinely provide visitor assistance throughout the recreational season.

Many maintenance activities are contracted to the private sector. Mowing, trash collection, fee collection, facility cleaning, and noxious weed control are just a few of the activities performed by private contractors.

Several agricultural leases exist throughout the lake region. Benefits of such leases include erosion control and wildlife management.

Other activities include public relations, real estate management, collection of weather data, native grass management, wildlife food plot establishment, rescue and recovery operations, flood emergency assistance, park patrol, boat dock inspections, and management of concession leases.

USACE Pass Information

USACE Annual Pass = $40. Pass holders receive free entrance to U.S. Army Corps of Engineers-operated sites nationwide that charge day use fees. The pass may not be used at areas operated by other agencies even if those areas may be located on USACE-owned property. Camping fees are not included. Pass valid for one year. Valid through month and year shown on the pass. Sold only at USACE projects, please call ahead to ensure the office is open to the public.

Federal Interagency Pass Information

Approximately 240 USACE recreation projects nationwide began issuing America the Beautiful National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Interagency Passes on Jan. 1, 2016. These include:

1) Interagency Senior Pass, $80, valid for lifetime of the pass owner and available to U.S. citizens and permanent residents age 62 or older. 

2) Interagency Senior Annual Pass $20, valid one year from month of purchase, available to U.S. citizens or permanent residents 62 or older, the Senior Annual Pass can be upgraded to the Lifetime Senior Pass by exchanging four previously purchased Senior Annual Passes or paying the difference between the purchase of one to three Senior Annual Passes to equal the value of the Senior Lifetime Pass, $80. 

3) Access Pass, free for lifetime with documentation of permanent disability for U.S. citizens or permanent residents. *Documentation required.

4) Interagency Annual Pass, $80, anyone can purchase this pass.

5) Interagency Military Pass, free to current U.S. military members and their dependents. *Documentation required.

6)  Interagency Every Kid in a Park 4th Grade Pass, free to current 4th grade students with valid Every Kid in a Park voucher (visit: https://everykidoutdoors.gov/ for details).

7) Interagency Volunteer Pass, earned with 250-plus hours of volunteer service on public lands. 

8) Interagency Military Lifetime Pass, free to gold star families and veterans. *Documentation required. 

These passes allow their holders free access to boat launches and swimming beaches managed by USACE. Senior and Access America the Beautiful passes also provide holders a 50 percent discount on campsites at USACE-managed campgrounds. Additionally, USACE will continue to sell its own annual day use pass for $40, which allows visitors free access to boat launches and swimming beaches managed by USACE. 

All America the Beautiful passes can be purchased online at http://store.usgs.gov/. There is an additional $10 processing fee for online purchases. They can also be obtained in person at many locations which can be found at https://www.nps.gov/ Please call ahead to ensure the office is open to the public and to ensure pass availability.

Lake Map

Park Information Guide

Perry Lake Interactive Hunting Map

Perry Lake Trail Map

Slough Creek Park Map

Rock Creek Park Map

Old Town Park Map

Watchable Wildlife Brochure

Title 36 Rules and Regulations

Perry Lake Master Plan, December 1991

The objective of natural resource management at Perry Lake is to fully consider the recreation and resource potential that may be afforded on project property and to capitalize on that potential for the benefit and enjoyment of the public and wildlife on a sustained basis. The following are the primary goals of our natural resource management program at Perry Lake:

• Provide an economical and quality program that will afford the public with a diversity of recreational opportunities in harmony with the wise use of the natural resources.
• Implement sound planning, development, and management strategies that optimize the use of available resources while limiting adverse environmental impacts and operation costs.
• Develop the project lands for the purpose of protecting the natural resources and to enhance their qualities.
• Protect the soil and natural resources base by limiting encroachment and vehicular access, while promoting the establishment of native grasses.
• Solicit input from shareholders to facilitate effective natural resource management objectives.
• Monitor and analyze the effects of natural resource management objectives.

Boat Ramps

Devil's Gap Boat Ramp: Devil's Gap is located at the end of Slough Creek Park Drive. The boat ramp offers a central access to Perry Lake. The boat ramp offers a courtesy dock and restroom. Effective 1 April 2019, Day-Use fees at USACE operated facilities on Perry Lake will no longer be charged.

Longview Boat Ramp: Longview Boat Ramp is located at the end of Hamilton Road. The boat ramp can be accessed by taking 86th Street west from Ferguson Road. The boat ramp offers a courtesy dock and restroom. Effective 1 April 2019, Day-Use fees at USACE operated facilities on Perry Lake will no longer be charged.

Old Town Boat Ramp: Old Town Boat Ramp is located in Old Town Park just south of 92 Highway on the east side of the 92 Bridge. The boat ramp offers a courtesy dock and restroom. Effective 1 April 2019, Day-Use fees at USACE operated facilities on Perry Lake will no longer be charged.

Rock Creek Boat Ramp: Rock Creek Boat Ramp is located within Rock Creek Park just off of Rock Creek Park Dr. The boat ramp can be easily accessed from 24 Highway and 237 Highway. The boat ramp offers a courtesy dock and restroom. Effective 1 April 2019, Day-Use fees at USACE operated facilities on Perry Lake will no longer be charged.

Slough Creek Bridge Boat Ramp: Slough Creek Bridge boat ramp is located just north of the Big Slough Creek Bridge on the west side of Ferguson Road. The boat ramp offers a courtesy dock and restroom. Effective 1 April 2019, Day-Use fees at USACE operated facilities on Perry Lake will no longer be charged.

Worthington Boat Ramp: Worthington Boat Ramp is located within Slough Creek Park. The boat ramp is conveniently available for use from Slough Creek Park Campers ONLY, visitors may not use the boat ramp. No fees are charged to campers for use of Worthington Boat Ramp.

Marinas and Yacht Clubs

Lake Perry Yacht & Marina

Rock Creek Marina & Resort

Perry Yacht Club

Perry Lake offers many opportunities for campers. Five campgrounds are conveniently located around the lake. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers maintains Rock Creek, Slough Creek, Longview, and Old Town. In addition, the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism maintains Perry State Park. A private concessionaire manages the Rock Creek Marina Campground. User fees are charged for camping in all of the parks. The amount of the fee is based upon the type of facilities provided. Reservations can be made at www.Recreation.gov.

*ALL CAMPGROUND ENTRANCE GATES ARE CLOSED ON FRIDAY AND SATURDAY NIGHT FROM 10PM TO 6AM.  PLEASE PLAN ACCORDINGLY TO ARRIVE AT THE PARK ON THOSE NIGHTS PRIOR TO 10PM.  GATES WILL BE CLOSED ON FRIDAY, SATURDAY AND SUNDAY NIGHTS OVER HOLIDAY WEEKENDS FROM 10PM TO 6AM.  

Campgrounds

Longview Group Camp: Longview Group Camps offer 26 electric campsites with 30-amp hookup for $125.00/night as well as a primitive camping area for $50.00/night from May 1st through September 30th. The 316-acre park is located on the east side of the lake and facilities include: boat ramp with courtesy dock, dump station, shower house, disc golf course, hiking trails, and picnic area. The group camp sets on top of a wooded ridge line giving campers great views of the lake and wonderful sunsets.

Campsite Map

Make a Reservation

Old Town Park: Old Town Park offers 38 campsites with 30 amp electric and water for $22.00 per night and 6 primitive campsites for $16.00 per night from May 1st to September 30th. The 113-acre park is located on the east side of the lake along Kansas State Highway 92 and facilities include: 38 campsites, boat ramp with courtesy dock, dump station, a reservable day use shelter house, shower house, and picnic area.

Campsite Map

Make a Reservation

Rock Creek Park: Rock Creek Park is a 568-acre park located on the west side of the lake. The park offers 79 designated campsites (59 with electrical and water and 20 primitive sites), boat ramp with courtesy dock, two dump stations, reservable picnic shelter, shower house, restrooms, and a modern playground located within Peninsula Loop. Campsite fees are $24.00 for 50-amp electrical/water sites, $22.00 for 30-amp electric/water sites, and $16.00 for non-electric sites from May 1st through September 30th.

Campsite Map

Make a Reservation

Slough Creek Park: Campsite fees are $26.00 for 50-amp electrical/water/sewer sites, $24.00 for 50-amp electrical/water sites, $22.00 for 30-amp electric/water sites, $20.00 for 30-amp electric only sites, and $16.00 for non-electric sites from April 15 through October 15. The 833-acre park is located on the east side of the lake and facilities include: 173 campsites (3 with electricity/water/sewer, 86 with electricity and water, 40 with electricity only, and 44 primitive sites), two boat ramps with courtesy docks, 2 dump stations, 3 reservable group camp areas, 3 shower houses, picnic area, and a modern playground located at the entrance to Worthington Loop. The park also includes the 2½ mile Thunder Ridge educational trail as well as access to the Perry Lake Trail.

Group Camp Areas

Limestone Cove Group Camp being located within Slough Creek Campground and the East and West Group Camps located near Devil’s Gap Boat Ramp. Fees include $50.00 per night from April 15 through October 15. A shower house is conveniently located at the entrance to the East and West Group Camp areas.

Campsite Map

Make a Reservation

Perry State Park: Camping permits available include daily permits, fourteen day permits, and annual permits. Perry State Park’s 1597 acres are located on the west-side of the lake on the Rock Creek Arm. The park offers 102 sites with water and electricity, 200 tent camping sites and 4 reservable cabins. Facilities available include a swimming beach, bathhouse, equestrian trail, and mountain bike trail. Additional information can be obtained through Perry State Park website or by calling the office phone number at 785-246-3449.

Make a Reservation

Firewood Ban

The Secretary of the Kansas Department of Agriculture has issued a quarantine on all wood that originates in Johnson and Wyandotte Counties in order to prevent the spread of Emerald Ash Borer. Due to the state mandated quarantine no wood from Johnson or Wyandotte Counties will be allowed at Perry Lake. The quarantine includes firewood of all hardwoods, ash nursery stock, any live ash tree and any other living material from an ash tree. 

Fishing Regulations

Fishing Report

Stop Aquatic Nuisance Species

Perry Lake Interactive Hunting Map

Use of Tree Stands, Blinds, Baits and Decoys Portable Tree Stands and Portable Blinds:

1. Portable tree stands and ground blinds used for hunting may be placed not more than 14 days before the hunting season for which the blind or stand will be used, and shall be removed from public property within 14 days after the hunting season for which the blind or stand was placed has ended.

2. Ladders and steps attached by ropes, cables, or chains may be used for access to portable tree stands and shall be removed when the portable tree stand is removed. All such stands and accessories must be non-bark penetrating only (i.e. no screw in or nail on stands or accessories).

3. Natural blinds may be used for any authorized activity and shall be constructed of natural herbaceous materials or woody debris, or both, that are dead and down and that are present at the site of the natural blind. Live trees and standing dead trees may NOT be cut and used for natural blinds.

4. Each portable blind and portable tree stand shall be marked with the user’s name, address, phone number and the user’s Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks & Tourism (KDWPT) department-issued identification number in a visible, legible, and weatherproof manner.

5. Permanent hunting stands or blinds are not permitted.

6. The cutting of trees and/or tree limbs is not permitted.

7. Any individual may use a placed portable blind, portable tree stand, or natural blind when the blind or stand is not occupied.

8. Any blind, stand, or climbing device not in conformance with regulations or posted notice provisions or restrictions may be removed/impounded or destroyed by the government.

Baiting and Decoys

1. For the purposes of this policy, “bait” shall mean any grain, fruit, vegetable, nut, hay, salt, sorghum, feed, other food, or mineral that is capable of attracting wildlife. Liquid scents and sprays shall not be considered bait.

2. No person shall place, deposit, expose, or scatter bait while hunting or preparing to hunt on USACE lands in the State of Kansas or place, deposit, expose, or scatter bait in a manner that causes another person to be in violation of this policy.

3. Hunting shall be prohibited within 100 yards of any bait placed, deposited, exposed, or scattered on USACE lands in the State of Kansas. Bait shall be considered placed, deposited, exposed, or scattered on public lands for 10 days following complete removal of the bait.

4. Nothing in this policy shall prohibit the hunting or taking of wildlife over standing crops, grain found scattered solely as the result of normal agricultural operations, or grain found scattered solely as the result of normal weather conditions.

5. Decoys shall not be left unattended overnight. Violations are subject to a written warning or citation in accordance with Title 36, Chapter III, Part 327, Rules and Regulations governing public use of Corps of Engineers Water Resource Development Projects.

All federal and state game laws apply to U.S. Army Corps of Engineers land. If you have any questions contact the Perry Lake Project Office at (785) 597-5144.

Download policy HERE.

State Regulations

Perry Wildlife Area

Lake Perry Yacht & Marina

Perry Yacht Club

Rock Creek Marina & Resort

Beach Shelter

Shelter available through Lake Perry Yacht and Marina. The shelter may be reserved at $50.00 per day. The shelter is non-electric and provides picnic tables, a large grill for cooking, and parking for up to 30 vehicles. The shelter is located within walking distance from the beach that includes restrooms. Reserve the Beach Shelter.

Dedication Point Shelter

Shelter available from May 1st to September 30th daily from 9:00am to 10:00pm. The shelter may be reserved at $30.00 per day. The shelter is non-electric and provides eight picnic tables, a large grill for cooking, a playground, and parking for up to 30 vehicles. The shelter is located at the southeast side of the dam close to the water. The restroom is located approximately 200 yards away.  Reserve Dedication Point Shelter.

Old Town Shelter

Shelter available from May 1st to September 30th daily from 9:00am to 10:00pm. The shelter may be reserved at $30.00 per day. The shelter is non-electric and provides eight picnic tables, a large grill for cooking, a playground, and parking for up to 20 vehicles. The shelter is located within Old Town Park and within walking distance of a showerhouse with restrooms. Reserve Old Town Shelter.

Rock Creek Shelter

Shelter available from May 1st to September 30th daily from 9:00am to 10:00pm. The shelter may be reserved at $50.00 per day. The shelter has electricity and water, provides eight picnic tables, a large grill for cooking, and parking for up to 15 vehicles. The shelter is located next to the Rock Creek Boat Ramp near the water and within walking distance of a restroom.  Reserve Rock Creek Shelter.

There are 2 swim beaches on Perry Lake. One is located in Perry Park (near Perry Marina) that is under the management of Lake Perry Yacht and Marina. The other is located in Perry State Park. If you decide to swim or picnic at the Perry State Park beach, please be aware that a vehicle permit is required. Vehicle Permits are $5 for daily entrance, or an annual pass may be purchased at the Perry State Park Office for $25.

Trails 

ATV Trail:

The Perry Lake ATV and Motorcycle Trail encompasses over 140 acres of easy to difficult terrain. The Perry Lake ATV and Motorcycle Trail was officially recognized as a ride area in 1988 when a cooperative volunteer agreement was reached with the Kansas All Terrain Vehicle Association for maintenance and management of the trail area. Soon after, volunteers built unloading/loading ramps, accomplished tree plantings, and outlined the perimeter with fencing.

In 2002, a partnership agreement was reached between Hamm Companies, the Kansas ATV Association, and the US Army Corps of Engineers to renovate the ride area using a Recreational Trail Grant administered by the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism. Recent renovation of the area included a parking area, establishment of a Children’s Ride Area, and a new vault toilet. Volunteers contributed nearly $24,000 of labor to improve trails, renovate the perimeter fence, and add benches around the parking area. In 2003, the partners welcomed the addition of a local motorcycle chapter to the partnership agreement. Riders now enjoy the addition of another vault toilet, a picnic shelter, creek crossings, and tree plantings around the parking area. A perimeter road wasalso constructed for emergency and maintenance access. A sediment control structure was constructed to reduce downstream sediment released from the ride area. 

Please see the map below for features of the ATV and Motorcycle Trail.

Rules: 

1.ATV's, Motorcycles & UTV vehicles Only.

2.An ATV is a motorized vehicle having a maximum width of 50 inches, designed for off road use, with handle bars for steering, and a seat that is straddled by the operator. UTV's must be 50 inches or less in width, have bucket seats, seat belts & certified roll-over protection.

3.ATV's, Motorcycles & UTV's must have functioning brakes, muffler, & spark arrester.

4.Loading ramp; unloading of ATV's & motorcycles & UTV's permitted only in the parking area.

5.Speed limit in the parking area is 5 mph.

6.DOT approved helmets required for ALL riders.

7.Passengers are only permitted on vehicles manufactured to carry more than 1 rider.

8.Riding out of bounds, on maintained roadways/right-of-ways, in streams, and in other unauthorized areas is prohibited.

9.No alcoholic beverages or firearms in the riding area.

10.Vehicles cannot be operated in a manner that could impose harm to oneself or others.

11.Operation of any vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol is prohibited.

12.No overnight parking or camping.

13.The riding & parking lot area is closed at dusk.

14.The ride area is subject to closure during wet conditions or special events.

Violations of the above rules or the regulations in CFR Title 36 can result in loss of riding privileges and/or fines.

Perry Lake Trail

Mountain Bike Trail

Thunder Ridge Trail:

Thunder Ridge Trail is located in Slough Creek Park. The trail offers visitors a self-guided hike with thirty stations on its two and a half miles of trail. Thunder Ridge boasts a variety of ecosystems to view on the trail. Trail spurs offer easy access to several of the camping loops within Slough Creek Park.

White blazes designate the main trail and yellow spurs indicate the spur trails to the camping loops. A trail brochure is available by contacting the Information Center.

Delaware Marsh Trail:

Perry Project staff constructed the Delaware Marsh in cooperation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Natural Resources Conservation Service. A low profile earthen fill levee was designed and built to catch natural runoff from the surrounding grasslands. Mounds of soil were placed in the middle of the wetland to provide nesting habitat for waterfowl and shorebirds.

Delaware Marsh Trail offers hikers a scenic hike through a wetlands ecosystem. The 1.75-mile self-guided hiking trail begins to the west of the parking area and migrates through interpretive stations along the way. Blue blazes mark the trail. Please click on the trail stops below for pictures of the trail!

Equestrian Trail:

There are two trailheads for the Perry Lake Equestrian Trail. They are located at Horse Trail Campground (Perry State Park) and at Thompsonville Park (Corps of Engineers managed). Most of the trail is located within Perry State Park and Rock Creek Park. Nearly 25 miles of the trail extends in a continuous loop throughout the area. Development and maintenance of the trial has been accomplished through the efforts of several equestrian groups.

White or red flags serve to blaze the trail. Trails located in the State Park area are suitable for the average horse and rider. The trail located in adjacent Rock Creek Park covers extremely rough terrain and is recommended for experienced riders. Riders are encouraged to remember the following guidelines:

• Ride on the designated trail only • No motorized vehicles are allowed on the trail • Do not ride on paved roads or shoulders of paved roads • Horses are only allowed in the Horse Trail Campground and trailheads • Please dispose of animal waste in provided cans when using Thompsonville Park Trailhead

• Ride on the designated trail only
• No motorized vehicles are allowed on the trail
• Do not ride on paved roads or shoulders of paved roads

Google Earth Data

Perry Lake Hiking Trail

Perry State Park Mountain Bike Trails

Thunder Ridge Hiking Trail

Delaware Marsh Hiking Trail

Longview Disc Golf Course

The Longview disc golf course is located in Longview Park on the way to the boat ramp. Longview Park is located west of Ferguson Rd and 86st St and south on Hamilton Rd. The course constists of 18 holes of some of the most challenging disc golf in Kansas. The course features steep topography changes, water hazards, heavily wooded tunnel shots, and other unique and interesting hole layouts. Each hole has three different basket placements, allowing the course to be altered to different configurations.

Perry Lake is a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers operated reservoir located on the Delaware River in northeast Jefferson County, Kansas. Its authorized purposes are flood risk management, water quality, water supply, fish and wildlife conservation, recreation and navigation (authorized but not an operating purpose). The lake is approximately 11,150 acres in size. Perry Lake is one lake in a larger network of lakes, including Clinton Lake, Tuttle Creek Lake, Milford Lake, Kanopolis Lake and Wilson Lake, that operate in parallel with each other. This network functions as a system to play a vital role in managing water resources in the Kansas River Basin for their respective nearby and downstream communities. Perry Lake is located about 40 miles west of Kansas City, just northwest of Lawrence, Kansas. Its close proximity to Kansas City, Lawrence and the state capitol, Topeka, make it a very popular destination. 

Congress provided direction and funding in Fiscal Year 2022 for USACE districts across the nation to update Water Control Manuals, or WCMs to evaluate whether any changes in physical, social and environmental conditions around the dam warrant updating the WCP, include a drought contingency plan and meet new requirements for formatting and updating information.

WHAT IS A WATER CONTROL MANUAL?

Water Control Manuals, or WCMs, are operating manuals for U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, or USACE, dams. USACE makes day to day decisions about releasing water through its dams according to Water Control Plans, or WCPs, that are included in dam specific-WCMs. The objective of all WCMs include operating the dam and reservoir for the purposes authorized by Congress and other applicable law, maintain the structural integrity and operation integrity of the dam (sometimes called a “project” to include reservoir operations) and avoid risk to public health and safety, life and property.

The WCMs are being updated because Congress provided direction and funding in Fiscal Year 2022 for USACE districts across the nation to update WCMs to evaluate and potentially update WCPs as necessary, include a drought contingency plan for managing water releases from dams when there is a drought and meet new requirements for formatting and updating information. Each WCM and its WCP was developed when each project was authorized. They are updated periodically to determine whether there are changes in the physical, environmental and social conditions that need to be accounted for in a dam’s operation.  

NEPA PROCESS

The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) is a law that requires all federal agencies to take a 'hard look' at how their actions may affect the human and natural environment. It spells out the steps an agency must take to identify environmental issues that need to be considered, identify options or alternatives that would correct the problems identified and explain its final decision while complying with environmental regulations. NEPA also gives the public a voice in the decision-making process about the proposed actions. The public is asked to provide input through public meetings and opportunities to provide written comments. The first opportunity happens during the scoping phase. Additional opportunities occur when the environmental review is complete and alternatives for action identified. These comments will be considered before the federal agency makes a final decision. 

Did you miss a public meeting? No problem! Click the presentation below to review the slideshow from previous public meetings. 

Perry Lake Value to the Nation

ArcGIS StoryMaps is a web-based application designed to create interactive narratives by combining maps, multimedia content, and text to communicate stories in a visually engaging way. Developed by Esri, it allows users to transform geographic information system (GIS) work into compelling digital stories and presentations.

The primary purpose of ArcGIS StoryMaps is to help users effectively convey messages, educate audiences, and engage stakeholders through location-based narratives.

Click this link to learn and interact with the Water Control Manuals Update!

Volunteer?

Partner?

Get a Job?

Lease Agricultural Land?

Contract with the Corps

Blue-Green Algae Information

There is currently NO active watch at Perry Lake.

**UPDATED-September 1, 2023**

For more information please visit https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/480/Harmful-Algal-Blooms-Information-Assista

Fees

Camping

• 50 Amp electric w/ water site- $24.00/day
• 30 Amp electric w/ water site- $22.00/day
• 30 Amp electric only site - $20.00/day
• Non-electric site - $16.00/day

Day-Use

• Effective April 1st 2019 fees at U.S. Army Corps of Engineers day use areas on Perry Lake will no longer be charged

Shelters

• All non-electric - $30.00/day
• Rock Creek shelter electric - $50.00/day

Hours of Operation   

The Information Center is open to the public from 7:30am - 4:00pm Monday - Friday. Day-Use picnic areas are open daily from 6:00am - 10:00pm. For campground park attendant hours please go to our Camping page for more information.

Rules and Regulations

The Perry Lake Project is regulated by Title 36 CFR 327 governing public use of U.S. Army Corps of Engineers water resources development projects. For a list of all rules and regulations please reference this link.

Hunting regulations

Recreation.gov

America the Beautiful Passes

Perry State Park

KDHE Harmful Algal Blooms

Jefferson County, KS

Kansas City District Dam Safety Program

Kansas City District Water Management

Kansas City District Water Quality Program 

Pomme de Terre Lake is located in the rugged, tree covered hills of the west central Missouri Ozarks on the Pomme de Terre River. The Pomme de Terre Project was authorized by Congress in 1938 as part of a comprehensive flood control plan for the Missouri River Basin. Project Planning was initiated in 1947 and actual construction began in 1957. The lake was completed in 1961 at a cost of $14,946,784.

 At multipurpose pool Pomme de Terre Lake covers 7,820 acres and can expand to as much as 16,100 acres during periods of heavy rain as excess runoff is impounded to prevent downstream flooding. Pomme de Terre Lake works in conjunction with several other Corps of Engineers operated lakes to provide flood protection for the Osage River Basin and the lower Missouri and Mississippi Rivers. Other benefits of the lake include recreation, fish and wildlife management and water quality improvement.

The Pomme de Terre Dam is an earth and rockfill embankment, is 7,240 feet long and stands 155 feet above the streambed. The dam's impervious core was made of heavily compacted clay and is virtually watertight. The outlet works, consisting of the control tower, tunnel and stilling basin. The control tower is equipped with two hydraulically operated gates which controlled release of water through the dam and reduces the force of the water flowing downstream. 

The phrase "Pomme de Terre" is French for "Apple of the Earth" or "potato". The Pomme de Terre River was probably named after plants that resembled potatoes that grew on this banks. This plant was probably an Apios Americana or Potato Bean and was used for food by the Indians.

USACE Pass Information

USACE Annual Pass = $40. Pass holders receive free entrance to U.S. Army Corps of Engineers-operated sites nationwide that charge day use fees. The pass may not be used at areas operated by other agencies even if those areas may be located on USACE-owned property. Camping fees are not included. Pass valid for one year. Valid through month and year shown on the pass. Sold only at USACE projects, please call ahead to ensure the office is open to the public.

Federal Interagency Pass Information

Approximately 240 USACE recreation projects nationwide began issuing America the Beautiful National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Interagency Passes on Jan. 1, 2016. These include:

1) Interagency Senior Pass, $80, valid for lifetime of the pass owner and available to U.S. citizens and permanent residents age 62 or older. 

2) Interagency Senior Annual Pass $20, valid one year from month of purchase, available to U.S. citizens or permanent residents 62 or older, the Senior Annual Pass can be upgraded to the Lifetime Senior Pass by exchanging four previously purchased Senior Annual Passes or paying the difference between the purchase of one to three Senior Annual Passes to equal the value of the Senior Lifetime Pass, $80. 

3) Access Pass, free for lifetime with documentation of permanent disability for U.S. citizens or permanent residents. *Documentation required.

4) Interagency Annual Pass, $80, anyone can purchase this pass.

5) Interagency Military Pass, free to current U.S. military members and their dependents. *Documentation required.

6)  Interagency Every Kid in a Park 4th Grade Pass, free to current 4th grade students with valid Every Kid in a Park voucher (visit: https://everykidoutdoors.gov/ for details).

7) Interagency Volunteer Pass, earned with 250-plus hours of volunteer service on public lands. 

8) Interagency Military Lifetime Pass, free to gold star families and veterans. *Documentation required. 

These passes allow their holders free access to boat launches and swimming beaches managed by USACE. Senior and Access America the Beautiful passes also provide holders a 50 percent discount on campsites at USACE-managed campgrounds. Additionally, USACE will continue to sell its own annual day use pass for $40, which allows visitors free access to boat launches and swimming beaches managed by USACE. 

All America the Beautiful passes can be purchased online at http://store.usgs.gov/. There is an additional $10 processing fee for online purchases. They can also be obtained in person at many locations which can be found at https://www.nps.gov/ Please call ahead to ensure the office is open to the public and to ensure pass availability.

Nemo Brochure

Nemo Park

Pomme de Terre Lake Map (pdf)

Pomme de Terre Interactive Hunting Map

Damsite Brochure

Damsite Park Map

Lightfoot Brochure

Lightfoot Park

Outlet Brochure

Outlet Park Map

Wheatland Brochure

Wheatland Park Map

Pomme de Terre River Access Map

Pomme de Terre Multipurpose Trail

The objective of natural resource management at Pomme de Terre Lake is to fully consider the recreation and resource potential that may be afforded on project property and to capitalize on that potential for the benefit of the wildlife and the enjoyment of the public on a sustained basis. The following are the primary goals of our natural resource management program at Pomme de Terre Lake:

• Develop and maintain wildlife food plots to increase carrying capacity where winter food sources are low or not available.
• Provide access for fishing, hunting and non-comsumptive recreation activities.
• Maintain the areas carry capacity at optimum levels to insure successful natural propagation of white-tailed deer, wild turkey, bobwhite quail and other game and non-game species of mammals and birds.
• Sustain mast producing woody species to provide habitat and food for wildlife.
• Develop and maintain native warm season grass fields in suitable areas.
• Maintain the projects natural resources and public lands for future generations.
• Provide nesting, loafing and escape cover for fish species through underwater structure development.
• Control various invasive species such as; Serecia Lespedeza, Johnson Grass, Musk Thistle, Autumn Olive, Eastern Red Cedar, Honey Locust, Zebra Mussel, and Fescue, through various methods including; Mechanical, Chemical, Prescribed burning and other management practices as may be applicable to the situation.

Pomme de Terre Water Control Manual Update

Bolivar Landing Boat Ramp

This boat ramp is located within Bolivar Landing and offers access to the upper end of the Pomme de Terre River Arm of the Lake. The boat ramp offers a courtesy dock and restroom. Boaters must pay a $5.00 Day-Use fee to launch your boat from this ramp. Day-Use permits are available in the yellow vault near the boat ramp with instructions on how to fill it out. Please display Day-Use permits in your vehicles. Annual Day-Use passes are honored and must also be displayed.

Lightfoot Boat Ramp

This boat ramp is located within Lightfoot Park and offers access to the middle portion of the Pomme de Terre River Arm of the Lake. The boat ramp offers a courtesy dock and restroom. Boaters must pay a $5.00 Day-Use fee to launch your boat from this ramp. Day-Use permits are available at the Automated Pay Station near the boat ramp.  Instruction on use are on the machines.  The receipt must be displayed in your vehicle.  Annual Day-Use passes are honored and must also be displayed.

Nemo Boat Ramp

This boat ramp is located within Nemo Park and offers access to the middle portion of the Lindley Creek Arm of the Lake. The boat ramp offers a courtesy dock and restroom. Boaters must pay a $5.00 Day-Use fee to launch your boat from this ramp. Day-Use permits are available at the Automated Pay Station near the boat ramp.  Instruction on use are on the machines.  The receipt must be displayed in your vehicle.  Annual Day-Use passes are honored and must also be displayed.

Outlet Boat Ramp

This boat ramp is located within Outlet Park and offers access to the Pomme de Terre River below the dam. Boaters do not  pay a fee to launch your boat from this ramp and there are bathrooms within walking distance from the ramp.

Pittsburg Boat Ramp

This boat ramp is located within Pittsburg Park and offers access to the upper end of the Lindley Creek Arm of the Lake. The boat ramp offers a courtesy dock and restroom. Boaters do not  pay a fee to launch your boat from this ramp.

Wheatland Boat Ramp

This boat ramp is located within Wheatland Park and offers access to the lower end of the Pomme de Terre River Arm of the Lake. The boat ramp offers a courtesy dock and restroom. Boaters must pay a $5.00 Day-Use fee to launch your boat from this ramp. Day-Use permits are available at the Automated Pay Station near the boat ramp.  Instruction on use are on the machines.  The receipt must be displayed in your vehicle.  Annual Day-Use passes are honored and must also be displayed.

The clear water of Pomme de Terre Lake and the rolling Ozark hills provide an excellent setting for camping. The lake offers ten campgrounds conveniently located around Pomme de Terre Lake. The Corps of Engineers operates six of these campgrounds; Nemo Park, Damsite Park, Outlet Park, Wheatland Park and Lightfoot Park. Two are operated by marina concessionaires. They are the Harbor Campground and Marina and Hickory Ridge Highway 83 Campground. The Missouri Department of Natural Resources, Division of State Parks also operates two campgrounds. The following information pertains only to campgrounds managed by the Corps of Engineers, user fees are charged for camping in all parks at Pomme de Terre. The amount of the fee is based on the type of facilities provided. Reservations are accepted for campsites and group camps. While reservations are not required for any of our campgrounds, they are advisable during peak use (holidays) or if you desire a specific site. 

USACE Campgrounds

Camping Fees

• Group camp site -
  • Nemo Park $200/day
  • Outlet Park $50/day
• Electric with water site - $26/day
• Premium Electric site - $26/day
• Basic Electric site - $24/day
• Premium Non-electric site - $18/day
• Basic Non-electric site - $16/day
• Shoulder Season  - $10/day (All Sites)
  • (Oct.1 - Nov. 30 and Mar. 15 - Apr. 15)
• Off-season camping (Nov. 1 - Mar. 15) - free

Damsite Park

Visitors head to Damsite Park for days of enjoyable boating, fishing and swimming. Just as the name implies, Damsite Park is just above the dam, at the confluence of Lindley Creek and the Pomme de Terre River. The Park has 80 sites with electric hookups and 8 non-electric sites. Amenities include a dump station, two shower houses and a playground. There are also fishing docks and boat ramps nearby.

Campground Map

Make a Reservation

Lightfoot Park

Lightfoot Landing is a smaller campground compared to neighboring park areas, making it a more quiet and peaceful location for boating and fishing on Pomme de Terre Lake. The park has 35 sites with electric and water hookups, including one that is accessible. Additional amenities include a shower house, boat ramp with courtesy dock, dump station, playground and picnic shelter. 

Campground Map

Make a Reservation

Limited Camping Season

Limited Camping Season

The limited season will be from October 1 – November 30 and March 15 – April 15.

Limited amenities will be available. Drinking water and RV dump station will only be available in the Outlet Park.  Nemo, Damsite, Wheatland, Outlet and Lightfoot Park will only have electricity available. All other amenities (showers, flush toilets, RV Dump Station, dumpster, etc.) will not be available. Campers will be responsible for removing their own refuse, and using the dump station in Outlet Park.

Fee will be $10 per night (50% Senior/Access Discount available) and paid utilizing a self-deposit box that will be located at the Entrance Booth.

Nemo Park

Nemo Landing is located on the Lindley Creek arm of the lake. Among the many campsites at the park, 38 have electric and water hookups and another 25 have solely electric hookups. The other 16 sites are non-electric. New in 2020 there has been a Group Camp built featuring 11 water and electric sites and a shelter. Other perks at the campground are hot showers, a swimming beach, boat ramp, picnic shelter, playground and a small basketball court.

Campground Map

Make a Reservation

Outlet Park

Outlet Park, situated below the Pomme de Terre dam, provides a picturesque setting for fishing, canoeing, hiking and wildlife viewing on the Pomme de Terre River. The park has 20 campsites, 19 have water and electric hookups and the other 1 is non-electric. The park also provides hot showers, a boat ramp, two picnic shelters, a ball field, the Running River Trail and a multipurpose playing court. There is also a group campsite. It can hold up to 50 guests, has bathrooms and a picnic shelter with electricity located right in the camping area.

Campground Map

Make a Reservation

Wheatland Park

Wheatland Park sits along the sparkling shores of the Pomme de Terre River Arm of the Lake. The Park has 39 campsites with electric and water hookups, 26 sites with electric hookups only and an additional 3 non-electric sites. Additional amenities include two shower houses, large picnic shelter, laundry facilities, a boat ramp with courtesy dock, playground and a swim beach.

Campground Map

Make a Reservation

Other Campgrounds

State Park Campgrounds

The Harbor Campground

Hickory Ridge Highway 83 Campground: For more information please call 417-282-6341

How to become a park attendant or custodian

We have five campgrounds that require a Park Attendant and Park Custodian contracts. Three parks have individual Park Attendant and Custodian contracts while two smaller parks have a combination Park Attendant/Custodian contract. If you are interested in becoming a Park Attendant/Custodian please contact our Project Office at 417-745-6411. Also please view the general information for each of these positions.

Park Attendant

Park Custodian

Also we have a volunteer Park Host position at Pittsburg Park. Please view the job duties below. If this interests you or any other volunteer opportunities here at Pomme de Terre Lake please call our Project Office at 417-745-6411. 

 Volunteer Opportunities

Fishing at Pomme de Terre Lake

Hunters will find a variety of game, including rabbit, dove, squirrel, turkey, deer, and waterfowl at Pomme de Terre Lake. Most of our hunting areas have small parking lots and behind the gates have access roads leading into the hunting areas. Hunters and Outdoor Enthusiasts should always be respectful of crops planted and others who might be using the area. Motorized vehicles are prohibited from operating on any government land surrounding Pomme de Terre Lake. Hunting is permitted in most of the areas around the lake with the exception of the park areas and administration areas. To view hunting areas click on the following link.

Pomme de Terre Lake Map (pdf)

Pomme de Terre Lake Interactive Hunting Map

Hunting on the waters and land of Pomme de Terre Lake is regulated by the Missouri Wildlife Code and enforced by the Missouri Department of Conservation. It is the responsibility of the hunter to ensue that they are in compliance with all federal and state regulations pertaining to hunting methods, limits, and seasons when they are on government land.

Hunting Rules and Regulations

Nemo Marina

Harbor Campground and Marina

Pittsburg State Park Marina

Hickory Ridge Highway 83 Marina: For more information please call Hickory Ridge Highway 83 Marina at 417-282-6341

We have 14 picnic shelters spread around the lake in our parks and day-use areas. Many of the shelters are reservable for $20-$30 per day depending on the location.. If you are interested in reserving a Picnic Shelter please call the Pomme de Terre Project Office - 417-745-6411.

Reservable Shelters

Administration Shelter

The shelter is located at the northeast end of the dam adjacent to the Administrative Office.  It can be reserved from March 15th to October 31th from 9:00am to 10:00pm for $30 per day. This popular shelter provides a pictorial view of the lake has plenty of parking and can seat 150 people. A playground and horseshoe pit are located adjacent to the shelter and flush toilets are just across the road. Amenities include electrical receptacles, lights, drinking water, and two charcoal grills. To reserve this shelter call the Project Office at 417-745-6411.

Beach Shelters

These shelters are located at the beaches of Nemo and Wheatland Park. They can be reserved from March 15th to October 31th from 9:00am to 10:00pm for $30 per day and with these reservations you will receive 5 day use hang tags to allow for 5 vehicles to park in day use parking lot the day of your reservation. Each park has two small shelters that would seat a maximum of 20 people. They are within walking distance of flush toilets and showers. For more information please call the Project Office at 417-745-6411. 

Lightfoot Shelter

The shelter is located within Lightfoot Park. It can be reserved from March 15th to October 31th from 9:00am to 10:00pm for $20 per day. This shelter will seat approximately 50 people. Amenities include drinking water, lights, a charcoal grill and electrical receptacles. A playground and horseshoe pits are located nearby. To reserve this shelter call the Project Office at 417-745-6411.

Nemo Shelter

The shelter is located within Nemo Park. It can be reserved from March 15th to October 31th from 9:00am to 10:00pm for $30 per day.  It will seat approximately 50 people. Parking is often limited.  Amenities include drinking water, lights, charcoal grill, and electrical receptacles. A small basketball court, playground, and horseshoe pits are located nearby. For more information please call the Project Office at 417-745-6411.

Outlet Ball Field Shelter

The shelter is located below the dam near the ball field. It can be reserved from March 15th to October 31th from 9:00am to 10:00pm for $30 per day. There is a large parking area nearby that serves the shelter and running river trail access below Pomme de Terre Dam. A playground and walking trail are located adjacent to the shelter. Other amenities include lighting, electrical receptacles, drinking water, two large charcoal grills/smoker. A vault toilet is located nearby. Within walking distance from this shelter is another playground, vollyball area, tennis/basketball court, horse shoe pits and the Running River walking trail. This shelter will comfortably seat 40 people. To reserve this shelter call the Project Office at 417-745-6411.

Outlet Shelter

The shelter is located below the dam near the multipurpose (tennis/basketball) courts. It can be reserved from March 15th to October 31th from 9:00am to 10:00pm for $30 per day. There is a large parking area nearby that serves the shelter and river fishing access below Pomme de Terre Dam. A playground and sand volleyball court are located adjacent to the shelter. Other amenities include lighting, electrical receptacles, drinking water, one large charcoal grill and horseshoe pits. A flush toilet is located nearby. Within walking distance from this shelter is another playground, softball/baseball field and the Running River Trail. This shelter will comfortably seat 50 people. To reserve this shelter call the Project Office at 417-745-6411.

Overlook Shelter #1

This shelter is located on the east end of the dam in Overlook Picnic Area.  It can be reserved from March 15th to October 31th from 9:00am to 10:00pm for $20 per day. It is an older, smaller shelter that will seat approximately 30 people. Amenities include a charcoal grill, drinking water, lights, electrical receptacles, and a playground. A composting toilet is located nearby. To reserve this shelter call the Project Office at 417-745-6411.

Overlook Shelter #2

This shelter is located on the east end of the dam in Overlook Picnic Area. It can be reserved from March 15th to October 31th from 9:00am to 10:00pm for $30 per day. It is a large shelter and will seat 100-150 people. The shelter is located close to the water and provides a great view of the lake and Pomme de Terre Dam. Amenities include electrical receptacles, lights, food serving shelf, one large charcoal grill and one large smoker grill. A playground and 24’ x 33’ basketball court is located adjacent to the shelter. Horseshoe pits are located nearby and the composting toilet is within easy walking distance. To reserve this shelter call the Project Office at 417-745-6411.

Wheatland Shelter

The shelter is located within Wheatland Park. It can be reserved from March 15th to October 31th from 9:00am to 10:00pm for $20 per day. This shelter will seat approximately 50 people. Amenities include drinking water, lights, electrical receptacles, and a charcoal grill. A playground and horseshoe pit are located adjacent to the shelter while vault toilets, flush toilets and the swimming beach are only a short walk away. To reserve this shelter call the Project Office at 417-745-6411.

Non-Reservable Shelters

Bolivar Landing Shelter

The shelter is located within Bolivar Landing. This shelter is non-reservable and only available on a first come first serve basis. The shelter has two concrete tables and will seat a maximum of 20 people. A children’s playground is located adjacent to the shelter. A vault toilet is located nearby. For more information please call the Project Office at 417-745-6411.

Pittsburg Park

The shelter is located within Pittsburg Park. This shelter is non-reservable and only available on a first come first serve basis. The shelter is located on a hill top overlooking the Lindley Creek Arm of Pomme de Terre Lake and will seat approximately 30 people. A playground, water faucet and vault toilet are located nearby. For more information please call the Project Office at 417-745-6411.

The Corps of Engineers Beaches are OPEN April16th to September 30th. Our beaches are located in Nemo Park and Wheatland Park.

The beaches offer swimmers at Pomme de Terre Lake a relaxing area to cool off from the summer heat. Each beach has a large parking lot, two picnic shelters, bathrooms with showers and lots of sand to play on. A Day-Use fee is charged for people swimming at the beach, $5.00/per vehicle and children 12 and under are free. Day-Use permits are available at the Automated Pay Station near the boat ramp.  Instruction on use are on the machines.  The receipt must be displayed in your vehicle.  Annual Day-Use passes are honored and must also be displayed. A life jacket loaner boards can be found at the beaches which offers life jackets free of use to the public. We just ask that you please return the life jackets when you leave.

 Beach Rules

• No Alcohol
• No Glass Containers
• No Pets

Running River Trail

The Running River Trail is located in Outlet Park just below Pomme de Terre Dam. The looped trail meanders along the Pomme de Terre River and then takes you through Oak, Hickory, and Eastern Red Cedar Forest. The trail is approximately 3.1 miles long however a short cut-off is available to those who want to enjoy the outdoors but not the rolling terrain.

The trail is eight feet wide and was designed for walking, jogging, and biking. All motorized vehicles are prohibited. Thank you for your cooperation.

Trail Map

Multipurpose Trail

This trail is located on the southern portion of the lake in Bolivar Landing. This multipurpose trail provides enjoyment for horseback riding, mountain biking, and hiking. This scenic trail is nearly 20 miles long and winds through various types of terrain making it a challenge for users. This is the only trail on the lake that allows the use of horses. Please stay on the designated trail and no motorized vehicles are allowed.

The trail is closed during the youth and regular firearms deer seasons and until 1pm during spring turkey season.

Trail Map 

State Park Trails

The Pomme de Terre Rendezvous is held in Outlet the first weekend in May. The campground will be closed to public camping from Wednesday prior to that weekend through the Tuesday after.

Please click on the following links for more information.

Facebook Page

History of the Rendezvous

Volunteer?

Partner?

Get a Job?

Lease Agricultural Land?

Fees

Camping

• Electric with water site - $26/day
• Premium Electric site - $24/day
• Basic Electric site - $24/day
• Premium Non-electric site - $18/day
• Basic Non-electric site - $16/day
• Shoulder Season - $10/day (All Site)   
  •  All Parks - (Oct. 1 - Nov. 1 and Mar. 15 - Apr. 15)
• Off-season camping (Nov. 1 - Mar 15) - free
  • Outlet Park will stay open from (Nov. 1 thru Mar. 15) - $10/day

Day-Use

• Corps boat ramps - $5.00/day
• Corps beach - $5.00/vehicle
• children 12 and under are free
• Annual Day-Use Permit - $40.00/year

Shelters

• Shelters - $20 or $30/day

Hours of Operation

The Project Office is open to the public Monday - Friday from 9:00am - 3:00pm or by appointment only.

Rules and Regulations

The Pomme de Terre Lake Project is regulated by Title 36 CFR 327 governing public use of Corps of Engineers water resources development projects. For a list of all rules and regulations please reference this link.

Recreation.gov

America the Beautiful Passes

Pomme de Terre State Park

Missouri Department of Conservation

Pomme de Terre Lake Master Plan

USGS Water Data

Kansas City District Dam Safety Program

Kansas City District Water Management

Kansas City District Water Quality Program 

Shoreline Management at Pomme de Terre Lake

The purpose of the Shoreline Management Plan is to establish policy; provide guidance for the management and protection of the shoreline; establish and maintain acceptable fish and wildlife habitats; maintain aesthetic quality and natural environment conditions; promote the safe, healthful use of the shoreline for recreational purposes; and achieve a balance between permitted private use and resource protection for general public use.

Shoreline Management Plans are to be reviewed periodically, but at least every five years to determine the need for an update. When changes to the Shoreline Management Plan are needed, the plan will be formally updated through the public involvement process. Maximum public participation should be encouraged throughout the revision process and can be accomplished through focus groups, public workshops, public meetings, comment periods, open houses, and/or other public involvement techniques.

 Factors used in formulating the Shoreline Management Plan included:

• Accommodating the increasing demand for water oriented recreational facilities while limiting the amount of shoreline designated for that purpose.
• Efficiency in administration of all components of the Shoreline Management Plan.
• Limiting the proliferation of individually owned private boat docks by providing for the expansion of marina boat storage through satellite concession operations. Community docks may also be a viable alternative in those instances or at those locations where satellite concession docks are not practical.
• The ownership of property adjoining Pomme de Terre Project land does not convey any special rights or privileges to use government property.
• The Shoreline Management Plan should not create an undue hardship on individual or private industries dependent upon private recreation facilities.
• Private floating facilities should be designed, constructed, and maintained so that they are structurally sound and do not pose a threat to the recreating public, project resources, or esthetics.
• Vegetative modification of project land should be closely controlled to limit infringement upon natural resources and wildlife habitat management programs.

USACE Pass Information

USACE Annual Pass = $40. Pass holders receive free entrance to U.S. Army Corps of Engineers-operated sites nationwide that charge day use fees. The pass may not be used at areas operated by other agencies even if those areas may be located on USACE-owned property. Camping fees are not included. Pass valid for one year. Valid through month and year shown on the pass. Sold only at USACE projects, please call ahead to ensure the office is open to the public.

Federal Interagency Pass Information

Approximately 240 USACE recreation projects nationwide began issuing America the Beautiful National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Interagency Passes on Jan. 1, 2016. These include:

1) Interagency Senior Pass, $80, valid for lifetime of the pass owner and available to U.S. citizens and permanent residents age 62 or older. 

2) Interagency Senior Annual Pass $20, valid one year from month of purchase, available to U.S. citizens or permanent residents 62 or older, the Senior Annual Pass can be upgraded to the Lifetime Senior Pass by exchanging four previously purchased Senior Annual Passes or paying the difference between the purchase of one to three Senior Annual Passes to equal the value of the Senior Lifetime Pass, $80. 

3) Access Pass, free for lifetime with documentation of permanent disability for U.S. citizens or permanent residents. *Documentation required.

4) Interagency Annual Pass, $80, anyone can purchase this pass.

5) Interagency Military Pass, free to current U.S. military members and their dependents. *Documentation required.

6)  Interagency Every Kid in a Park 4th Grade Pass, free to current 4th grade students with valid Every Kid in a Park voucher (visit: https://everykidoutdoors.gov/ for details).

7) Interagency Volunteer Pass, earned with 250-plus hours of volunteer service on public lands. 

8) Interagency Military Lifetime Pass, free to gold star families and veterans. *Documentation required. 

These passes allow their holders free access to boat launches and swimming beaches managed by USACE. Senior and Access America the Beautiful passes also provide holders a 50 percent discount on campsites at USACE-managed campgrounds. Additionally, USACE will continue to sell its own annual day use pass for $40, which allows visitors free access to boat launches and swimming beaches managed by USACE. 

All America the Beautiful passes can be purchased online at http://store.usgs.gov/. There is an additional $10 processing fee for online purchases. They can also be obtained in person at many locations which can be found at https://www.nps.gov/ Please call ahead to ensure the office is open to the public and to ensure pass availability.

Pomona Lake Brochure

Pomona Lake Map

Pomona Lake Interactive Hunting Map

Carbolyn Park Map

Cedar Park Map

Michigan Valley Park Map

Outlet Park Map

Wolf Creek Park Map

Rules & Regulations

 The Corps has paved boat ramps at the following locations: Management Park, North Shore Marina, Adams Grove, 110–Mile Park, Carbolyn Park and the Dragoon Access area. The Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism operates several boat ramps within the Pomona State Park. An unimproved launch is located in Cedar Park. Day use fees are collected at Management and Adams Grove.

Michigan Valley Park

Campsite fees are $26.00 sewer hookups, $24.00 prime, $22.00 electric and $14.00 for primitive. The campground is located adjacent to Pomona Dam on the north side of the lake. If you are looking for a campground where there is something for every member of the family, then Michigan Valley Park is the place. This park offers 51 sites with water and electric hookups and 25 primitive sites. All sites with electrical utilities also have water. There are nine sites with sewer hook-ups and eight prime sites offering pull through access - 50-amp electrical service and 13 sites with 30-amp electrical service.  All campsites have a picnic table, fire ring and lantern holder. The campground has a swim beach and nice shoreline views of Pomona Lake. All campsites are within easy walking distance of lakeshore fishing. The campground includes two shower buildings, dump station, two reservable group picnic shelters playgrounds, a basketball court and an accessible fishing dock near B loop. All sites and shelters are reservable except for those on F-loop, which are on a first come first serve basis. Sites are available from May 1 through September 30.

Wolf Creek Park

Campsite fees are $22.00 per night for electric and $14.00 per night for non-electric sites from May -September. The campground is located a few miles west of Pomona Dam Road on the north side of the lake. The facilities include 36 electric and 16 primitive sites, shower house, reservable group camp with 23 electric and water sites, playground and a dump station and 18-hole disk golf course. Sites are available from May 1 through September 15.

Wolf Creek Group Camp

By reservation only for $175.00 per night. The group camp has 23 sites with 50-amp electric and water. There is a large picnic shelter adjacent to the group camp area and a new shower/restroom  facility. This area is reservable from April 1 through September 15.

Outlet Park

Campsite fees are $22.00 per night with electric and water. The campground is located below the dam on the south side of the lake. The park offers 36 electric and water sites. The campground includes a shower house, dump station, playgrounds and two reservable picnic shelters, Outlet number 2, and Management number 1. The Management shelter has recently been improved with a new restroom facility. All sites and shelters are reservable from April 1 through October 31.

Carbolyn Park

Campsite fees are $20.00 per night from May - September. The campground is located on the west side of the lake just off U.S. Hwy 75. The campground has a total of 27 sites. Sites 21 - 28 offer electric only. Carbolyn Park offers a boat ramp, dump station, a new shower building and a playground. All sites must be reserved online or by phone from 1 May until 30 September.

Fishing at Pomona Lake

Interactive Hunting Map

Pomona Lake Marina

Picnic Shelter Reservations/Availability

Bloomington East Shelters

Shelter 3: Shelter is available May 1st to September 30th daily from 9:00 am to 10:00 pm. Shelter may be reserved for parties of up to 100 guest Friday-Sunday for $35. This shelter provides electricity, water, a large grill for cooking, parking, numerous picnic tables, restrooms, sand volleyball pits, playground equipment as well as close proximity to a disc golf course and walking distance to the swimming beach that includes a shower house. Reserve Shelter 3. 

Shelter 4:  Shelter is available May 1st to September 30th daily from 9:00 am to 10:00 pm. Shelter may be reserved for parties of up to 100 guest Friday-Sunday for $35. This shelter provides electricity, water, a large grill for cooking, parking, numerous picnic tables, restrooms, sand volleyball pits, playground equipment as well as close proximity to a disc golf course and walking distance to the swimming beach that includes a shower house. Reserve Shelter 4. 

Shelter 5: Shelter is available May 1st to September 30th daily from 9:00 am to 10:00 pm. Shelter may be reserved for parties of up to 100 guest Friday-Sunday for $35. This shelter provides electricity, water, a large grill for cooking, parking, numerous picnic tables, restrooms, sand volleyball pits, playground equipment as well as close proximity to a disc golf course and walking distance to the swimming beach that includes a shower house. Reserve Shelter 5.

Shelter 6: Shelter is available May 1st to September 30th daily from 9:00 am to 10:00 pm. Shelter may be reserved for parties of up to 100 guest Friday-Sunday for $35. This shelter provides electricity, a large grill for cooking, parking, numerous picnic tables, restrooms, sand volleyball pits, playground equipment as well as close proximity to a disc golf course and walking distance to the swimming beach that includes a shower house. Reserve Shelter 6.

Overlook Park Shelters

Shelter 1: Shelter is available from April 1st - September 30th from 9:00 am-10:00 pm. Shelter can be reserved Monday-Friday for $35 and can accommodate parties of up to 100 people.  This shelter provides electricity, water, a large grill for cooking, a large fireplace, abundant parking, numerous picnic tables, restrooms, sand volleyball pits, horseshoes, playground equipment as well as close proximity to a softball field, hiking trails and the lake. This shelter has a scenic view of the lake. Reserve Shelter 1. 

Shelter 2: Shelter is available from April 1st - September 30th from 9:00 am-10:00 pm. Shelter can be reserved Monday-Friday for $35 and can accommodate parties of up to 100 people.  This shelter provides electricity, water, a large grill for cooking, a large fireplace, abundant parking, numerous picnic tables, restrooms, sand volleyball pits, horseshoes, playground equipment as well as close proximity to a softball field, hiking trails and the lake. This shelter has a scenic view of the lake. Reserve Shelter 2. 

Partner Agency Picnic Shelter Reservation/Availability

City of Lawrence Picnic Shelters

Clinton State Park Picnic Shelters

Contact the Pomona Lake project office at 785-453-2201 for more information about our trails. 

Pomona Lake is a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers operated multi-purpose use reservoir located in Osage County near Lawrence, Kansas on the Hundred and Ten Mile Creek River in the Lower Kansas River Basin. The Flood Control Act of 1954 authorized Pomona reservoir for flood control, water supply, water quality, recreation and fish and wildlife use and has a 322 square mile drainage area. Pomona Lake is part of the Osage River Basin along with Hillsdale Lake, Melvern Lake, Stockton Lake, Pomme de Terre Lake and Harry S. Truman Lake. Together, these lakes function as a system to play a vital role in managing water resources. USACE is authorized to operate Pomona Lake using the current Water Control Manual that was prepared by the Kansas City District and is dated December 1972.

Congress provided direction and funding in Fiscal Year 2022 for USACE districts across the nation to update Water Control Manuals, or WCMs to evaluate whether any changes in physical, social and environmental conditions around the dam warrant updating the WCP, include a drought contingency plan and meet new requirements for formatting and updating information.

WHAT IS A WATER CONTROL MANUAL?

Water Control Manuals, or WCMs, are operating manuals for U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, or USACE, dams. USACE makes day to day decisions about releasing water through its dams according to Water Control Plans, or WCPs, that are included in dam specific-WCMs. The objective of all WCMs include operating the dam and reservoir for the purposes authorized by Congress and other applicable law, maintain the structural integrity and operation integrity of the dam (sometimes called a “project” to include reservoir operations) and avoid risk to public health and safety, life and property.

The WCMs are being updated because Congress provided direction and funding in Fiscal Year 2022 for USACE districts across the nation to update WCMs to evaluate and potentially update WCPs as necessary, include a drought contingency plan for managing water releases from dams when there is a drought and meet new requirements for formatting and updating information. Each WCM and its WCP was developed when each project was authorized. They are updated periodically to determine whether there are changes in the physical, environmental and social conditions that need to be accounted for in a dam’s operation.  

NEPA PROCESS

The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) is a law that requires all federal agencies to take a 'hard look' at how their actions may affect the human and natural environment. It spells out the steps an agency must take to identify environmental issues that need to be considered, identify options or alternatives that would correct the problems identified and explain its final decision while complying with environmental regulations. NEPA also gives the public a voice in the decision-making process about the proposed actions. The public is asked to provide input through public meetings and opportunities to provide written comments. The first opportunity happens during the scoping phase. Additional opportunities occur when the environmental review is complete and alternatives for action identified. These comments will be considered before the federal agency makes a final decision. 

Did you miss a public meeting? No problem! Click the presentation below to review the slideshow from previous public meetings. 

March 14, 2024, Pomona Public Meeting Slides 

Pomona Lake Value to the Nation

ArcGIS StoryMaps is a web-based application designed to create interactive narratives by combining maps, multimedia content, and text to communicate stories in a visually engaging way. Developed by Esri, it allows users to transform geographic information system (GIS) work into compelling digital stories and presentations.

The primary purpose of ArcGIS StoryMaps is to help users effectively convey messages, educate audiences, and engage stakeholders through location-based narratives.

Click this link to learn and interact with the Water Control Manuals Update!

Volunteer?

Partner?

Get a Job?

Hours of Operation

Visitor Center Hours

Monday thru Friday 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Fees

Michigan Valley

A1-A8 - $20.00/night

A12-A19 - $22.00/night

A23-A31 - $24.00/night

All C and G Loops - $18.00/night

B, D, E and F Loops - $14.00/night

Wigger Group Camp - $40.00/night

Shelter #3 - $30.00/day

Shelter #4 - $60.00/day

Shelter #5 - $40.00/day

Wolf Creek Park

A1-A32 - $20.00/night

D1-D13 - $20.00/night

B, C, & E Loops - $14.00/night

Group Camp - $150.00/night

Outlet Park

Sites 1-34 - $20.00/night

Shelters 1&2 - $30.00/day

Rules and Regulations

Pomona Lake is regulated by Title 36 CFR 327 governing public use of U.S. Army Corps of Engineers water resources development projects. For a list of all rules and regulations please reference this link.

***America The Beautiful Passes are sold by appointment only***  To schedule an appointment, call 785-453-2201.  Cash or check only.  Must bring ID. Available passes include, America the Beautiful Annual, Access, Senior Lifetime, Senior Annual, Veteran and Uniformed Military.

Recreation.gov

America the Beautiful Passes

Pomona State Park

Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism

Kansas City District Dam Safety Program

Kansas City District Water Management

Kansas City District Water Quality Program 

Authorized by the River and Harbor Flood Control Act of 1954, Rathbun Dam construction began in 1964. The dam was completed in 1969 with multi-purpose operation beginning in October 1970.

Rathbun Dam was dedicated by President Richard Nixon on July 31^st, 1971. The Dam, which is located in Appanoose County, Iowa, is 142.3 river miles north of the confluence with the Missouri River.  Rathbun Dam is a constructed earth-fill embankment and measures ~2 miles in length at a height of ~101 feet.  Rathbun Project is approximately 34,000 acres of water (~11,000 ac) and land (~23,000 ac).  Rathbun Lake, which has 155 miles of shoreline at full pool, extends westward approximately 18 miles into Lucas, Wayne, and Monroe Counties, Iowa. The Chariton River and the South Fork tributary of the Chariton River are the major water sources into the Lake.

The US Army Corps of Engineers constructed and operates Rathbun Lake. Rathbun’s authorized purposes include:  Flood Risk Management, Recreation, Fish and Wildlife Management, Water Quality, Water Supply and Navigation.

There are 10 parks located around Rathbun Lake for camping and day use activities. Six parks are operated directly by the US Army Corps of Engineers.

USACE Pass Information

USACE Annual Pass = $40. Pass holders receive free entrance to U.S. Army Corps of Engineers-operated sites nationwide that charge day use fees. The pass may not be used at areas operated by other agencies even if those areas may be located on USACE-owned property. Camping fees are not included. Pass valid for one year. Valid through month and year shown on the pass. Sold only at USACE projects, please call ahead to ensure the office is open to the public.

Federal Interagency Pass Information

Approximately 240 USACE recreation projects nationwide began issuing America the Beautiful National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Interagency Passes on Jan. 1, 2016. These include:

1) Interagency Senior Pass, $80, valid for lifetime of the pass owner and available to U.S. citizens and permanent residents age 62 or older. 

2) Interagency Senior Annual Pass $20, valid one year from month of purchase, available to U.S. citizens or permanent residents 62 or older, the Senior Annual Pass can be upgraded to the Lifetime Senior Pass by exchanging four previously purchased Senior Annual Passes or paying the difference between the purchase of one to three Senior Annual Passes to equal the value of the Senior Lifetime Pass, $80. 

3) Access Pass, free for lifetime with documentation of permanent disability for U.S. citizens or permanent residents. *Documentation required.

4) Interagency Annual Pass, $80, anyone can purchase this pass.

5) Interagency Military Pass, free to current U.S. military members and their dependents. *Documentation required.

6)  Interagency Every Kid in a Park 4th Grade Pass, free to current 4th grade students with valid Every Kid in a Park voucher (visit: https://everykidoutdoors.gov/ for details).

7) Interagency Volunteer Pass, earned with 250-plus hours of volunteer service on public lands. 

8) Interagency Military Lifetime Pass, free to gold star families and veterans. *Documentation required. 

These passes allow their holders free access to boat launches and swimming beaches managed by USACE. Senior and Access America the Beautiful passes also provide holders a 50 percent discount on campsites at USACE-managed campgrounds. Additionally, USACE will continue to sell its own annual day use pass for $40, which allows visitors free access to boat launches and swimming beaches managed by USACE. 

All America the Beautiful passes can be purchased online at http://store.usgs.gov/. There is an additional $10 processing fee for online purchases. They can also be obtained in person at many locations which can be found at https://www.nps.gov/ Please call ahead to ensure the office is open to the public and to ensure pass availability.

Rathbun Lake Map

2023 Rathbun Brochure

Campground Maps

Bridge View Campground Map

Buck Creek Campground Map

Island View Campground Map

Prairie Ridge Campground Map

Rathbun Marina Campground Map

Honey Creek State Park Campground Map

Trail Maps

Gene Paris Snowmobile Trail Map

North Shore Trail Map

Rathbun Water Trail

Rathbun Lake Staff uses prescribed burns to help manage native grasslands around the lake.  Approximately 125 acres are still occupied by some combination of the original prairie species that once clothed much of Rathbun Lake Project's 33,909 acres. These scattered patches are being augmented by past and present prairie reestablishment plantings on the land surrounding Rathbun Lake.

Boat Ramps are available for usage at all eight parks and Honey Creek Resort. The Corps of Engineers manages six boat ramps.  A day use pass is required at Corps of Engineers managed boat ramps.  South Fork Park boat ramp is now available year round. 

Sail boaters can find plenty of room to maneuver on Rathbun Lake’s nine-mile fetch of open water on the main body of the lake. The size of the lake combined with the prevailing winds makes Rathbun Lake one of the best sailing lakes in Iowa.

 Buck Creek Marina provides fuel mooring facilities and other supplies.

Day use fees are required for launching at Corps managed boat ramps. A daily fee of $5.00 is charged to launch at ramps. In lieu of the daily permit an annual pass may be purchased for $40.00. This pass is good at any Corps of Engineers facility nationwide.  Buck Creek Marina lessees now manage both ramps at their facility.  Buck Creek Marina has launching fees that differ from the fees at Corps managed ramps.  Annual Day Use Passes and Corps Camper Passes are not honored at the Buck Creek Marina ramps.

Boaters should be aware that hazardous boating areas do occur on Rathbun Lake. Use caution at all times while boating. Remember to follow safety rules while boating at Rathbun Lake.

Handicapped Docks and Loading Facilities

The Corps of Engineers has a handicapped loading facility available near the Island View Park Dedication Site boat ramp. This facility provides a three level loading ramp, which provides easier and better boating access to everyone.

A handicapped accessible fishing dock is available at the Island View Dedication Site boat ramp located closest to the main dam.

Six campgrounds are conveniently located around Rathbun Lake. The Corps manages four of these campgrounds; Buck Creek, Prairie Ridge, Bridge View, and Island View Parks. The Iowa Department of Natural Resources manages Honey Creek campground and a private concessionaire manages the Buck Creek Marina campgrounds.

User fees are charged for camping in parks that the Corps of Engineers operates. The amount of the fee is based on the type of facilities provided.

Campgrounds contain level campsites, many with electrical hookups, lantern hanging posts, picnic tables, and fire rings. Shower buildings, sanitary dump stations, playgrounds, and fish cleaning stations are located in most parks. Please click on campground specific information for a complete list of amenities and fees for each campground.

Entrance stations are located at most campgrounds and all campgrounds are patrolled routinely by Park Rangers and Appanoose County Sheriff's Deputies.  To reserve a Corps of Engineers campsite visit www.recreation.gov or call 1-877-444-6777.

EMERALD ASH BORER/FIREWOOD WARNING

Campgrounds

Bridgeview Campground

Fees include 30 amp electric sites for $22.00 and 50 amp electric sites for $25.00 and non electric sites for $15.00 from May 1 through September 30.  This park is located on the northwest end of the lake and facilities include: 104 reservable campsites (92 electric sites), boat ramp, dump station, shelter, shower houses, fish cleaning station, and playground.

Campsite Map

Make a Reservation

Buck Creek Campground

Fees include 30 amp electric sites for $22.00 and 50 amp electric sites for $25.00 from May 8 through September 30.  This park is located on the east end of the lake and facilities include: 42 electric reservable campsites, dump station, shower house, fish cleaning station, and playground.

Campsite Map

Make a Reservation

Island View Campground

Fees include 30 amp electric sites for $22.00 and 50 amp electric sites for $25.00 from May 1 through September 30.  This is the largest campground at Rathbun and is located on the southeast end of the lake.  Facilities include: 192 electric campsites, boat ramp, dump station, shower houses, 2 reservable shelters, playground, swimming beach and fish cleaning station.

Group Camp

Fees include $150.00 per night Sunday through Thursday and $230.00 per night Friday and Saturday.  The area is located within the Island View Campground and includes 12 electric sites, picnic shelter, shower house, and dump station.

Campground Map

Make a Reservation

Prairie Ridge Campground

Fees include 50 amp electric sites for $25.00 from May 15 though September 15.  This campground is located on the north side of the lake and facilities include: 56 reservable electric sites, boat ramp, dump station, shower houses, playground, fish cleaning station, and shelter.

Group Camp

Fees include $70.00 per night Sunday through Thursday and $120.00 per night Friday and Saturday.  The area is located within Prairie Ridge campground and includes 9 non-electric campsites and a picnic shelter nearby.

Campground Map

Make a Reservation

Rathbun Lake is an 11,000-acre lake that provides a variety of fishing opportunities for any angler. This primarily includes crappie, channel catfish, walleye, and largemouth bass.

 The Rathbun Fish Hatchery is located below the main dam and is a warm-water fish hatchery. That is, the fish would grow best between 50 and 90 degrees F. The hatchery is designed to raise channel catfish, walleye, saugeye (a hybrid walleye/sauger cross) and largemouth bass. Fish produced at the Rathbun Hatchery are stocked statewide.

Visitors are welcome at the hatchery. Tours of the visiting facilities are generally made on a self-guided basis. Employee-guided tours for large groups can be scheduled. Visiting hours are Monday through Friday; 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.  For more information on the fish at Rathbun Lake visit http://www.iowadnr.gov/InsideDNR/DNRStaffOffices/FishHatcheries/RathbunFishHatchery.aspx .

Fishing Information

Rathbun Lake is an 11,000 acre on-stream impoundment built by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The gently rolling hills of the Chariton River valley surround this southeast Iowa lake. There are over 900 campsites, 13 boat ramps, 3 swimming beaches, a marina and Honey Creek Resort available for the recreational enthusiast at various sites around the reservoir.

Fishing for crappie is very popular on Rathbun Lake. These fish are most vulnerable in the spring. Crappie become shore-bound by late April and fishing becomes hot and heavy by May. Spring fishing methods differ from summer because the crappie are spawning near shore among submerged brush and rocks. If conditions are right, one might try quietly easing up to the brush and presenting a minnow directly among the limbs. This method usually works when all else fails. Jigs may also be fished with white or chartreuse twister grubs.

Summer crappie fishing will mean new techniques. Crappie move offshore after spawning and suspend. However, they still must feed and are susceptible to hook and line. They are present in deeper bays and in the main lake near underwater structure, such as flat areas near drop-offs, along deep shorelines, and points. A good place to start is along the 15 to 20 foot contour. Crappie often suspend from the surface to the bottom with prime depths between 10 and 15 feet. A depth sounder can be an invaluable tool to help locate these fish.  Probably the best bait presentation is to drift minnows at these depths during early morning and evening hours. When a crappie is caught, you can bet it will have a few friends down there, so anchor (quietly) and fish until the action dies down, then begin to drift again. Sometimes drifting the same area several times will work to fill a stringer. When fishing the bays, keep your eyes along the shore and watch for fish feeding on schools of young shad that concentrate among the partially submerged willows to feed. Minnows fished with bobbers near the brush can produce crappie and bonus fish, such as white bass and channel catfish.

Ice fishing for crappies is not only very productive, but also a good way to prevent cabin fever. Early and late winter offer the best action. Look for crappies to hang out in about 15 feet of water near the old creek channel. Much like open water, crappies are generally found suspended, and it may be necessary to experiment at several depths until they are located. Small minnows are the most common wintertime bait.

Crappie can be caught throughout the lake; however, there are several areas that are better than most. The number of fish harvested will depend upon wind conditions, depth occupied by the crappie, and water clarity. Start searching where all of the above conditions will be at their best. A few examples of good crappie fishing areas include the face of the dam, points and bays of Honey and Buck Creek, and the timber areas of Crappie Cove and Bridgeview.

Walleye fishing is in its prime from the first part of June until the end of July. Trolling artificial lures is one of the more productive methods to fish walleye. Artificial favorites include bomber baits, crank baits (either deep or shallow runners). Colors that seem to turn the walleye on include crappie colors - silver background with black spots or stripes, crawdad colors, chartreuse and lures with orange or red on them. Trolling or drifting worm harnesses is another good fishing method on Rathbun Lake. One other trick is to drift jigs or spoons and bounce them on the bottom as the boat moves over different types of structure. The best areas to fish appear to center around the lower lake area. Fishing is good around Island View, the face of the dam, the "cut" (Buck Creek Connecting Channel) into the main lake and the points and drop-offs along the northern shoreline.

White bass are caught on a variety of spoons, jigs and plugs. Watch for schools of these aggressive fish to break the surface as they feed. Popular spots include Island View, Honey Creek, face of the dam, and the "cut" (Connecting Channel). Channel catfish angling becomes very productive from the end of June until September. These whiskered wonders can be caught just about anywhere on the lake. Bays are probably the best place to fish. Favorite baits include night crawlers, cut-bait (cut up fish), chicken liver, and stink baits. Channel catfish can be caught during the day but most of the action occurs after dark. A very good tactic to try later in the summer is to fish feeder streams after a good hard rain. As the streams rise, they collect and carry food organisms that draw the channel catfish near and into the mouth of these streams.

Largemouth bass can be found throughout the lake near several types of cover. Bass in the two major forks of the reservoir will be associated with the old stream channel and vast amounts of standing timber. Main lake bass are more oriented to rocky points, drop-offs, old river channels and coves. The location of largemouth bass in the main reservoir and the two forks will depend on the time of year, water quality, and level of the lake. Prime times for bass fishing at Rathbun Lake are during late April through the middle of June and again during late September and October.

The most effective bass lures include artificial night crawlers, shallow and deep running crank baits, buzz baits and spinner baits. Darker colored artificial night crawlers and crank baits in the colors of silver, blue or black over silver and crawdad appear to be the way to go. Buzz baits fished with trailer hooks late in the summer and early fall during early morning or late evening hours can be effective. Spinner bait colors will vary with water quality and time of day.

Rathbun Lake fishing reports are available to the angling public by contacting the Iowa DNR Website: https://programs.iowadnr.gov/lakemanagement/FishingReport/Reporting.aspx Or calling the Rathbun Hatchery at 641-647-2406

GPS Locations of Fish Attractors:

Cedar trees, South Fork N 40° 50.700 W 93° 01.184

Cedar trees, South Fork N 40° 50.990 W 93° 01.459

Berkley fish habitat, Honey Creek N 40° 51.723 W 92° 55.120

Berkley fish habitat, Prairie Ridge N 40° 51.557 W 92° 53.640

Pallet structures, Buck Creek N 40° 50.217 W 92° 52.405

Berkley fish habitat, Buck Creek N 40° 50.294 W 92° 52.217

Rathbun Lake offers many opportunities for a variety of game.  Deer, pheasant, quail, turkey, duck, geese, rabbit and squirrel may be found on public hunting lands.

The north side of Rathbun Lake has more wooded areas and blocks of timber than the south side. The oak-hickory stands of the north side provide excellent habitat for turkey, deer and squirrel. The south shore of the lake has more areas of warm season grass and smaller woodlots. Upland species such as pheasant and quail are hunted here.

Waterfowl hunters can take advantage of the six marshes located on the two forks of the lake. Consult the Rathbun Lake map for hunting and refuge areas.

The Corps of Engineers issues permanent duck blind permits for sites located east of Highway S70.  Permitees may construct a permanent blind and leave decoys in designated areas for hunting during regular seasons.

For information on this years duck blind drawing please contact Scott Frieden at 816-389-3106. 

Rathbun Lake Interactive Hunting Map

Duck Blind Map

For State Regulations http://www.iowadnr.gov/Hunting/HuntingLicensesLaws.aspx

To Turn in Poachers https://www.iowadnr.gov/tip

For U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service https://www.fws.gov

Tree Stand Policy

The US Army Corps of Engineers encourages the wise use of public lands for hunting.  In order to protect our forests for future generations, the following restrictions for tree stands placed on Corps Managed property will be enforced:

1.      Only portable stands are allowed on US property.

2.      Stands may not alter the tree in any way.  The use of any spike, nail, pin, or other object which is driven or screwed into a tree is prohibited.

3.      Stands may be placed 7 days before the 1st deer hunting season begins, and must be removed within 7 days after the last deer season ends.Stands in place outside of the designated times may be confiscated.

4.      Stands left on US property do not guarantee the owner exclusive use of the blind when unattended, or exclusive use of the site.

If you have any questions, please contact the Ranger staff at the Rathbun Project Office at 641-647-2464.

Rathbun Marina (Buck Creek Area)

21646 Marina Place

Moravia, Iowa 52571-8939

Phone: 641-724-3212

Open April 1 thru October 31

Offers covered slips, open slips, buoy ties, bank ties, snack bar, campground, grocery store fuel services, boat rental, restaurant, motel, boat mechanic, and boat sales.

For more information on the marinas at Rathbun Lake visit www.rathbunlakemarina.com/

The picnic shelters in the parks surrounding Rathbun Lake are available on a first come first serve basis. However, the shelters below can be reserved for that family reunion or large group outing you are planning.   In addition to picnic shelters, group camp areas can also be reserved.

Individual picnic area sites are also available throughout Rathbun Lake parks on a first come first serve basis.

The Corps of Engineers Park shelters can be reserved by going to www.recreation.gov or by calling 877-444-6777.

Reservations must be made at least 48 hours in advance.

The three picnic shelters in Honey Creek State Park may also be reserved by calling 1-877-iaparks (877-427-2757) or on the web at: www.reserveiaparks.com.

Reservable Picnic Shelters

Bridgeview Shelter (Bald Eagle Circle)

$25.00

Island View 5

$50.00 - Includes water, electric, and a playground.

Island View Dedication Site

$50.00 - Includes water, electric, and a playground.

Island View Peninsula

$25.00 - Water available.

Prairie Ridge Shelter (Perch Place)

$25.00

There are three designated swimming beaches located at Rathbun Lake. One is located in Buck Creek Park, one is located in Island View Park, and one at Honey Creek Resort. Designated beaches are designed and constructed to eliminate hazards and underwater obstructions. These beaches are buoyed each summer to delineate the usable portion and to exclude boats. These beaches also have parking, change houses and vault toilets. The Island View 5 beach has a volleyball net for beach users.

At Rathbun Lake, day use fees are charged at designated swimming beaches maintained by the Corps of Engineers. The fee for swimming is $2 per person for walk-ins for those 13 and older or $5 per vehicle.  There is also a $20 fee for buses.  An annual non-transferable pass may be purchased at the Rathbun Lake Information Center or park attendant booths for $40.00.

Several areas at Rathbun Lake are permanently closed to swimming because of their inherent risks. The area around the control tower, at the boat ramps, courtesy docks, and the marina boat mooring facilities make those areas too hazardous for safe swimming.

You are invited to enjoy a relaxing and refreshing afternoon swim at Rathbun Lake with your friends at a safe swimming area. But, please, think about water safety as you are having fun in the sun.

Being water safe is a high priority for the Corps of Engineers and Iowa Department of Natural Resources.

Many Rathbun Lake visitors have shown a growing interest in land based recreation activities. "Off the beaten path" opportunities may be found in the designated trails located on public lands adjacent to Rathbun Lake.

Rathbun Trails Map

Gene Paris Snowmobile Trail

The Gene Paris Snowmobile Trail is a 47 mile trail that circles Rathbun Lake and is maintained by the Rathbun Snow Riders Snowmobile Club.  The trail is currently closed with the exception of the North Shore Trail section from Honey Creek Resort to Prairie Ridge Campground. 

Trail Map

North Shore Trail

Completed in April 2012, the Rathbun North Shore Trail consists of an 8.2 mile surfaced trail.  The trail connects Prairie Ridge Park to Honey Creek Resort State Park.  Designed for hiking, biking, and snowmobiling, the trail offers vistas of the lake and tours through Southern Iowa prairie and woodlands.

Trail Map

OHV Trail

Rathbun Lake has Southern Iowa’s only Off Highway Vehicle (OHV) Park. Access to the area is approximately 3 miles south of Bridge View Park on Highway S70. Located on the south bank of the South Fork Chariton River, the area encompasses nearly 125 acres in an abandoned rock quarry on government land.

The Rathbun OHV Park is maintained by the volunteers of the South Central Dirt Riders ATV club. The Iowa DNR provides financial support through the disbursement of ATV Registration fees to the club.

The area is open to the public year round. Vehicles are limited to motorcycles, ATVs and UTVs. Full size vehicles are prohibited on the trails.

Regulations require helmets, mufflers, and current Iowa ORV registration. ORV registration can be obtained at county recorder’s offices.

Iowa law states a person under eighteen years of age shall not operate an all-terrain vehicle on public land or land purchased with all-terrain vehicle registration funds in this state without obtaining a valid safety certificate issued by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and having the certificate in the person’s possession.

To check on park open/closed status, go to the Iowa OHV Website at: www.iowaohv.com . For additional information, please go to the IOWA DNR ATV Website

Rathbun Water Trail

 The Rathbun Water Trail has over 20 miles of water trails mapped for self-guided paddling from beginner to expert level enthusiasts.  The map identifies trail heads and access points or with GPS coordinates and describes amenities available near the trail.  Road signs direct users to the trail heads as well. Users can plan a short outing to an overnight camping trip at one of the park campgrounds.  Appanoose County Trails, Inc. maintains the trail and encourages users to “leave no trace”. 

Trail Map

Volunteer?

Partner?

Get a Job?

Contact with the Corps?

Hours of Operation

Rathbun Project Office hours are Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.  We are closed on the holidays.

Rules & Regulations

Rathbun Lake is regulated by Title 36 CFR 327 governing public use of U.S. Army Corps of Engineers water resources development projects. For a list of all rules and regulations please reference this link.

DRAFT Rathbun Lake Master Plan

Rathbun Lake Master Plan (1989)

Recreation.gov

America the Beautiful Passes

Rathbun Regional Water Association

Rathbun Land & Water Alliance

Rathbun Fish Hatchery

Honey Creek Resort State Park

USGS Water Data

Kansas City District Dam Safety Program

Kansas City District Water Management

Kansas City District Water Quality Program 

Eagle Days 

Eagle Days are held each year in January at the Paradise Pointe Golf Course Complex in Little Platte Park. 

Managed Deer Hunt

The World's Largest Managed Deer hunt for hunters that use a wheelchair for their primary source of mobility is held annually in November.

The application period is July 1-31. If you would like to register for the hunt and meet the requirements listed above, call 816-389-3947.

USACE Pass Information

USACE Annual Pass = $40. Pass holders receive free entrance to U.S. Army Corps of Engineers-operated sites nationwide that charge day use fees. The pass may not be used at areas operated by other agencies even if those areas may be located on USACE-owned property. Camping fees are not included. Pass valid for one year. Valid through month and year shown on the pass. Sold only at USACE projects, please call ahead to ensure the office is open to the public.

Federal Interagency Pass Information

Approximately 240 USACE recreation projects nationwide began issuing America the Beautiful National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Interagency Passes on Jan. 1, 2016. These include:

1) Interagency Senior Pass, $80, valid for lifetime of the pass owner and available to U.S. citizens and permanent residents age 62 or older. 

2) Interagency Senior Annual Pass $20, valid one year from month of purchase, available to U.S. citizens or permanent residents 62 or older, the Senior Annual Pass can be upgraded to the Lifetime Senior Pass by exchanging four previously purchased Senior Annual Passes or paying the difference between the purchase of one to three Senior Annual Passes to equal the value of the Senior Lifetime Pass, $80. 

3) Access Pass, free for lifetime with documentation of permanent disability for U.S. citizens or permanent residents. *Documentation required.

4) Interagency Annual Pass, $80, anyone can purchase this pass.

5) Interagency Military Pass, free to current U.S. military members and their dependents. *Documentation required.

6)  Interagency Every Kid in a Park 4th Grade Pass, free to current 4th grade students with valid Every Kid in a Park voucher (visit: https://everykidoutdoors.gov/ for details).

7) Interagency Volunteer Pass, earned with 250-plus hours of volunteer service on public lands. 

8) Interagency Military Lifetime Pass, free to gold star families and veterans. *Documentation required. 

These passes allow their holders free access to boat launches and swimming beaches managed by USACE. Senior and Access America the Beautiful passes also provide holders a 50 percent discount on campsites at USACE-managed campgrounds. Additionally, USACE will continue to sell its own annual day use pass for $40, which allows visitors free access to boat launches and swimming beaches managed by USACE. 

All America the Beautiful passes can be purchased online at http://store.usgs.gov/. There is an additional $10 processing fee for online purchases. They can also be obtained in person at many locations which can be found at https://www.nps.gov/ Please call ahead to ensure the office is open to the public and to ensure pass availability.

History

Prior to the first white settlement, the Smith Fork region of the Platte River country was largely inhabited by the Missouri Indian Tribe. Once one of the most power-full Indian tribes in the region, it was this tribe that lent its name to the Missouri River.

One of the first settlers in the Little Platte Valley was Humphrey Smith. Smith found a suitable fall in the creek and built a water-powered mill, the first flour mill in Clay County. A town eventually grew up around the mill and the village became known as Smith's Mill. The site later became present day Smithville.

Undoubtedly, the most notorious men from the area were the James Gang of the post-Civil War period. Frank and Jessie James were sons of a respected Baptist minister of Clay County, and Jesse was born just a few miles from the Little Platte River. After the war, the James brothers robbed banks and railroads, and indulged in other acts of lawlessness that gained them an image as outlaw folk heroes. Jesse James' home, located near Kearney, Missouri, has been designated as a National Historic Site and is open to the public.

Smithville Dam is constructed of rolled earth and is 4,000 feet long and stands 90 feet above the streambed. The dam's impervious core consists of highly compacted clay that is virtually water tight. A sand drain allows any water that passes through the clay core to exit safely through the dam. The outlet works, consisting of the control tower, conduit and stilling basin, permits the controlled release of water through the dam. The control tower is equipped with two hydraulically-operated gates which regulate the flow of water through the conduit. The stilling basin reduces the force of the water flowing downstream into the river channel.

Dam

Length of dam: 4000 ft.
Height of dam above streambed: 90 ft.
Crown Width: 30 ft.
Base Width: 90 ft.
Volume of Concrete in dam: 12,000 cubic yards
Volume of Earth fill: 3,200,000 cubic yards

Outlet Works

Type: 8’x9’ concrete box
Capacity: 3490 cubic feet per second
Length of conduit: 664 ft.

Lake Map (.pdf)

2025 Brush Piles Map

2024 Brush Piles Map

2023 Brush Piles Map

2022 Brush Piles

2021 Brush Pile Maps   

2019 Brush Pile Map & Coordinates

Historic Brush Pile Coordinates

Clay County Parks: Clay County, Missouri

Horse Trails

Disc Golf

Wildflowers

Boat Rentals

Only at Camp Branch Marina.  Call 816-407-3420 for reservations or visit https://www.claycountymo.gov/200/Boat-Rentals 

A deposit is required for each rental and must be placed on a Visa, Mastercard or Discover card.  Debit and Check Cards will not be accepted for deposit.  All boats are rented with a full tank of fuel and lifejackets. Pets are not allowed.

There is a 2 Hour Minimum.  All boats must be returned by 6:00 pm. 

Anyone born after January 1, 1984, is required to have a Boating Safety Identification Card to rent a boat.

SLIP RENTALS

For Information and availability on slip rentals call Camp Branch Marina: (816) 407-3420.

Boat Slip Agreement license rentals are issued on an annual basis.

Clay County advises individuals to not purchase a boat, with the understanding the slip is part of the sale.

Slips are only available for lease through Camp Branch Marina. Covered overnight boat slips and 212 covered boat slips are available for lease. Slips are non-transferable and non-assignable by the Licensee. The Licensee must be the registered owner of the boat, which is to occupy the slip. No boat other than that one assigned to a slip may occupy the slip unless written permission is obtained from the Recreation and Customer Services Manager.

Clay County Parks - Crows Creek and Camp Branch Campgrounds

Online reservations now available for Camp Branch and Crows Creek Parks!  Online Reservations

Clay County Parks Department operates Crows Creek and Camp Branch Campgrounds.  The two campgrounds offer 777 campsites that range from basic, electric, and electric and water sites.  A printable brochure is below.

Call Clay County Park Office at 816-407-3400 for more information or visit their website (https://www.claycountymo.gov/165/Parks-Recreation).

362 camp sites are available at Camp Branch off Collins Road at Smithville Lake.  Both tent and RV sites are available with several including electrical hook-ups. 

 415 camp sites are available at Crows Creek off E Highway at Smithville Lake.  Both tent and RV sites are available with several including electrical and water hook-ups.  

• Many sites are located along the shoreline with easy access to walking trails. 
• Shower and laundry facilities are conveniently located in the campground. 
• Camping is first come first serve.  Groups requesting 10 camp sites or more can make a reservation by calling the Park Office at 816-407-3400. (Reservations are only available in select areas and cannot be made the week before or the week of a holiday.) 

City of Smithville - Smith's Fork Campground

Smith's Fork Campground is located on the backside of the dam and is operated by the City of Smithville. Smith's Fork Campground offers 82 campsites with electricity, water, and sewer hookups.   For more information on Smith's Fork, please call 816-532-1028 or visit their website at : https://www.smithvilleparksrec.com/campground

Fishing habitat is plentiful at Smithville Lake.  More than 4,000 of the lake's 7,190 water surface acres were left uncleared to create the aquatic habitat that should provide excellent fishing.  The Missouri Department of Conservation began stocking the lake in 1975 and continues to this day.  Species include largemouth bass, white bass, channel catfish, blue catfish, flathead catfish, walleye, white crappie and bluegill.  Look for our brush pile maps and coordinates on our home page.

Smithville Lake Interactive Hunting Map

The public may hunt on more than 7,000 acres in the Smithville wildlife management area. However, about 2,200 acres of land and water in the Honker Cove Waterfowl Refuge closes seasonally (October 15 – January 31) in accordance with waterfowl regulations. Smithville Lake public hunting land is subject to State and Federal hunting regulations. The public hunting ground is open to all seasons set forth by the Missouri Department of Conservation. Hunters may use rifles, muzzleloaders, or archery methods during open seasons for deer. Other wildlife species that may be hunted include; waterfowl, squirrel, raccoon, rabbit, quail, pheasant, turkey, or coyote. Trapping is also allowed on the public hunting grounds. The boundaries of the public hunting lands and the refuge are shown on the lake brochure available on this web site. Sportsman should familiarize themselves with seasons, limits and other regulations. For more information call the Corps of Engineers at 816-532-0174.

Tree Stand Policy 

• Hunters may use ONLY PORTABLE tree stands and ladders.
• Nails, screws, spikes or damaging materials will not be allowed.
• Stands must be labeled with name, address and phone number.
• Portable tree stands may be placed and remain in the tree during the periods as shown below:
  • Waterfowl Refuge:
    From 1 September through 14 October
  • Wildlife Management Lands:
    From 1 September through 15 January
• All stands not conforming to the policy will be removed or destroyed.

Marinas - map

The Camp Branch Marina Store has pontoon boats for rent.  It also offers: boating accessories, life jackets, swim flags, batteries, fishing tackle, bait, ice, snacks, drinks, and fuel.  Covered overnight boat slips are available along with 212 covered boat slips that can be leased in 6 month increments.

Camp Branch is located near the swimming beach, Camp Branch Campground, boat ramps, walking trails, trapshooting park and picnic sites.

Paradise Pointe Marina 

Located in Little Platte Park, the Paradise Pointe Marina Store is now operated by Clay County Parks. 

The following items will be offered at the marina store this year: boating accessories, life jackets, swim flags, batteries, fishing tackle, bait, ice, fuel, snacks, drinks and much more.  Overnight boat slips are available along with 240 covered boat slips and 29 uncovered boat slips that can be leased in 6 month increments.

Paradise Pointe Marina is located near the swimming beach, boat ramps, walking trails, picnic sites, playground, historic Woodhenge and Akers Cemetery, disc golf courses, and Paradise Pointe Golf Complex.

Sailboat Cove 

Sailboat Cove is utilized by sailors, picnickers, sightseers and fishermen.  With the exception of the docks, mooring buoys and dry storage facility, the area is open to the public.  The Day Sail area of Sailboat Cove is an excellent place for launching catamarans, small sail boats and wind surfing.  There are picnic tables and grills as well as access to walking trails nearby.  Large sail boats must use the ramp north of the parking lot which is specially designed for them.  There is also a restroom and shower facility that is open year round.

Shelter houses can be reserved year-round. The Lake View Shelter is available for use on a first come first served basis, or can be reserved through the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at 816-532-0174.

Click here to view/download the reservation form.

Shelter Houses at Smithville Lake's Little Platte, Crows Creek, and Sailboat Cove can be reserved by contacting Clay County Park's at 816-407-3400 or viewing their website.

Shelters located below the damin the Smith's Fork Park area can be reserved by contacting the City of Smithville at 816-532-8130.

Note: Vehicles and boats must have entrance passes to get to the shelters in Little Platte, Crows Creek and Sailboat Cove areas of Smithville Lake.

Clay County Parks Department operates and maintains two public swim beaches at Smithville Lake. The beaches are located within Camp Branch and Little Platte Parks.

Both beaches are open to the public from 8:30 a.m. to sunset starting May 1 and remain open until September 15th.

Facilities include showers, changing rooms, rest rooms, and drinking fountain.

There is no lifeguard on duty.

Pets, glass containers, and alcoholic beverages are not permitted.

Camp Branch Beach

Camp Branch Beach is located on the east side of the lake within Camp Branch Park across the parking lot from the Main Park Office, Camp Branch Marina and Boat Launch.

In addition to access by vehicle, Camp Branch Beach is also accessible from Camp Branch Campground via Bonebender Trail. 

Little Platte Beach

Little Platte beach is located within Little Platte Park on the west side of the lake and is accessed from 180th Street. Access is by vehicle and via the new Little Platte Trail.

Nearby park attractions include: Paradise Pointe Marina, Paradise Pointe Golf Complex and Historical Sites - Woodhenge and Akers Cemetery. 

The trail system at Smithville Lake is currently composed of three types of trails: 24 miles of 10 foot wide asphalt walking/biking trails, 11 miles of single-track mountain biking trails, and 26 miles of equestrian trails.

https://www.visitclaymo.com/p/play/outdoor-adventures/329

 The Smoke & Davey Trail System is composed of three trails and is 4.8 miles in length accessible from Highway W to the north and from Sailboat Cove to the south.

https://www.visitclaymo.com/business/smoke--davey-trail-system

The Bonebender Trail System is composed of two trails and is 8.9 miles in length accessible from Sailboat Cove to the north and from the Main Park's Office to the south.

https://www.visitclaymo.com/business/camp-branch-trail-system

The Crows Creek Trail System is composed of two trails 8.9 miles in length accessible from Collins Road to the north, the Crows Creek Boat Ramp and Access 25 off 160th Street to the south.

https://www.visitclaymo.com/business/crows-creek-trail-system

The Little Platte Trail North Trail is a 2.5 mile loop accessible from 188th Street.  The Little Platte South Trail is 5.5 miles and is accessible from F Highway or from Little Platte Park.

Other trail systems around Smithville lake may be found at the following links:

https://www.alltrails.com/us/missouri/smithville 

Equestrian Trails

Smithville Lake offers 26 miles of horse/primitive hiking trails on the southeast side of the lake. The trail begins at Crows Creek Campground and ends in Arley, Missouri.

• The area features a mix of rolling and flat terrain with many creek crossings. Fields of native warm-season grasses, wildflowers and row crops are scattered among the timbered areas.

• The primary trailheads at Crows Nest and Jack Rabbit Bend offer ample trailer parking.

• Crows Creek offers electric and primitive camping sites for equestrians. Restrooms, showers, laundry and water hydrants are conveniently located.

• Orange indicators mark the shoreline trail and white indicators mark the boundary trail.

• Lettered locator posts have been placed along the trail to help riders reference their location on the map.

• The trails east of Collins Road are located within Public Hunting Areas. Please use caution during hunting seasons. 

Smithville Horse & Primitive Hiking Trails Brochure and Map -- may take a few moments to load

Regulations And Safety Rules

• No camping along trail or at access areas

• No open fires

• Please keep horses out of crop fields

• Follow safe riding practices

• Be alert to hazardous crossings and low limbs

• Horses shall not enter lake

• Show consideration to other riders on trail

• Ride horses only on designated trails

• To prevent trail damage, avoid riding when trails are wet

• Help keep our trails clean -- Do not litter

The Paradise Pointe Golf Complex offers two challenging, 18 hole courses and a four hole Academy course. The complex is also a great place to host events and weddings. Paradise Pointe was awarded Wedding Wire' Bride's Choice award for Ceremony and Reception venue in 2010 and 11, recognizing the facility as one of the top in the country.

Paradise Pointe has their own website. View it by following the link below or call 816-532-4100

www.paradisepointegolf.com

The Paradise Pointe Disc Golf Complex is a new facility located within Little Platte Park. 

Beaver Creek - White Course, Par 56.  This course is available for play and begins near Shelter #1.

Black Thorn - Blue Course, Par 56-60. This course is available for play and begins just north of Shelter #2.

Woodhenge - Yellow Course, Par 62-65.  This course is available for play and begins near the restroom at Little Platte Marina.  

Note: At the bottom of each basket is a pointer to the next tee-pad.

Disc Golf Map

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America The Beautiful Passes- ***Are sold by appointment only*** Appointments are scheduled Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays 9am to 11:45am and 1:15 to 3:45pm.  To schedule an appointment, Call  816-532-0174.  ***Cash or check only, Bring ID.