Lake with glowing sunset

Kanopolis Lake Vacation Rentals

Kanopolis Lake

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Kanopolis Lake
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Why Rent On Kanopolis Lake

Kanopolis Lake, situated in the heart of Kansas’s Smoky Hills Region, is a serene and adventurous oasis that beckons travelers of all kinds. This expansive lake is the centerpiece of Kanopolis State Park, the first state park in Kansas, offering a plethora of activities for adventure seekers, wellness enthusiasts, and families alike.

Surrounded by scenic caves, bluffs, and rolling hills, Kanopolis Lake invites you to indulge in fishing, boating, and swimming. The park’s well-maintained campsites, cabins, and equestrian trails make it an ideal spot for those who love the outdoors. Hikers and mountain bikers can explore over 30 miles of trails, including the Buffalo Tracks Canyon Trail, which winds through a small canyon and features several caves.

Nearby, the Fort Harker Museum Complex provides a glimpse into the region’s historical past, with its preserved guardhouse and other military structures. For a dose of nostalgia, visit the Kanopolis Drive-In, one of the last remaining drive-in theaters in the area. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping adventures, tranquil natural beauty, or educational historical sites, Kanopolis Lake and its surroundings offer an unforgettable travel experience.

Best time to go
Visit Kanopolis Lake in late spring, when wildflowers bloom and golden sunlight dances on the water's surface. Enjoy tranquil fishing and invigorating kayaking in May, as fewer tourists grace the shores, allowing for serene moments amidst nature's beauty.
Water Quality
Kanopolis Lake's water exhibits a range of colors from deep blue to aquamarine, with its clarity varying from ultra-clear to slightly murky due to sediment accumulation.
Surface area (mi)
8.56
Max depth (ft)
35.1
Elevation (ft)
1459.97
Shoreline length (mi)
41.01

Popular activities

  • Fishing
  • Hiking
  • Kayaking
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Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to dive into what Kanopolis Lake has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!

  • Yes, you can swim in Kanopolis Lake at the swim beach located at Langley Point. This beach is a day-use area with a natural sand beach and a delineator rope for safety.

  • Kanopolis Lake is a popular destination because it offers various recreational activities. The lake features a marina, fishing, and a swim beach, along with clean and spacious campsites and trails for hiking, horseback riding, and biking. The scenic views of the Smoky Hills Region and the lake itself also attract visitors.

  • The daily creel limits for different fish species in Kanopolis Lake, Kansas, generally follow statewide limits. For example, the limit is 5 walleye, sauger, or saugeye (with a 15-inch minimum length limit, except in rivers and streams), 5 black basses (with a 15-inch minimum length limit), and 10 channel catfish. Specific lake regulations may vary, so it’s important to check local listings.

  • Yes, there is a public beach at Kanopolis Lake. It is a day-use beach with a natural sand area and a delineator rope for safety, located within Kanopolis State Park. This beach is the only state park beach on the lake.

  • Towns near Kanopolis Lake include Ellsworth, Salina, and Great Bend. Kanopolis is located just 2 miles southeast of Ellsworth and about 31 miles southwest of Salina. These towns are in the central Kansas region known as the Smoky Hills.