It’s time for a camping vacation! The beautiful Waconda Lake is one of the largest bodies of water in Kansas, but it’s often overlooked in favor of more popular spots. We think this lake is amazing and full of natural beauty, and worth a trip out to this vacation destination. Come check it out!
Welcome to Waconda Lake, part of Glen Elder State Park. This beautiful area around Waconda Lake was once a mineral spring named Waconda as well. 12.586 water acres are here to explore.
Glen Elder State Park - Kansas Wildlife, PArks & Tourism Facebook
Today, there is a replica that pays tribute to the original spring, and you can even visit the local Heritage Village for a sort of “living museum” way of exploring the history here.
Rachel Meltz/Google
As for the lake, it’s a wonderful place to explore by kayak or canoe, even with your furry friends if they’re patient.
Wilse Daniels Sr./Google
Fishing can cover all sorts of variety like crappie, walleye, black bass, channel cat (my favorite) and white bass.
Liz Deines/Google If you catch a pink tagged walleye, return the transmitter to the park office for $100! They’re doing a study on the walleye population and every tag counts.
If you’d like to stay a while and can’t sleep on the ground like you used to do, the local cabins are an excellent choice. Bring your own sheets and towels, and enjoy a quiet camping experience.
Glen Elder State Park - Kansas Wildlife, PArks & Tourism Facebook
If you don’t fish and don’t have interest in boating, camping is still amazing when you have nature to explore. The Waconda Springs replica trail as well as a few others are a great way to see the area up close.
Citadel/Google
The office is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and there are no reservations for campsites, though you can reserve a cabin at this link here.
Jamie Giron/Google
For more information, updates on closings and the current state of the lake, keep an eye on the official Facebook Page, or the KWPT website.
Glen Elder State Park - Kansas Wildlife, PArks & Tourism Facebook
Rachel Meltz/Google
Wilse Daniels Sr./Google
Liz Deines/Google
If you catch a pink tagged walleye, return the transmitter to the park office for $100! They’re doing a study on the walleye population and every tag counts.
Citadel/Google
Jamie Giron/Google
We love spending time outdoors, especially when we have enough days off for a camping trip. If you have a special state park or lake where we’d have a blast, let us know about it!
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Address: Glen Elder State Park, 2131 180 Rd, Glen Elder, KS 67446, USA
