Lake with small bridge

Tuttle Creek Lake Vacation Rentals

Tuttle Creek Lake

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Tuttle Creek Lake
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Why Rent On Tuttle Creek Lake

Tuttle Creek Lake, a sprawling 10,900-acre expanse in Kansas, is a paradise for adventure seekers, wellness enthusiasts, and families alike. This vast lake, constructed primarily for flood control, also serves as a haven for conserving land and wildlife. Its 14-mile stretch offers ample opportunities for boating, windsurfing, and swimming, set against a backdrop of beautiful scenery.

Surrounded by four state parks—Cedar Ridge, Tuttle Creek, Randolph, and Fancy Creek—the area is replete with camping sites, both for RVs and tents, many equipped with electricity and water hookups. The parks feature an array of activities, including hiking on nature trails that reveal diverse ecosystems and stunning lake views, as well as an 18-hole disc golf course and an archery range.

For anglers, the lake is renowned for its excellent fishing, with species such as catfish, crappie, white bass, and saugeye. The Wildcat marina at Cedar Ridge is a hub for water sports. Nearby, the Tuttle Creek dam, with its rich and sometimes poignant history, offers breathtaking views and interesting geological sites to explore. For those interested in local history, the stories of the displaced towns and the construction of the dam provide a compelling narrative. Whether you’re looking for action, relaxation, or a blend of both, Tuttle Creek Lake is an ideal destination.

Best time to go
Visit Tuttle Creek Lake from late spring to early summer, particularly May to June. Experience vibrant flora framing the shimmering waters, perfect for fishing and kayaking. Weekdays offer tranquility, while the annual Tuttle Creek Fishing Tournament in June transforms the landscape into a competitive spectacle.
Water Quality
Tuttle Creek Lake's water exhibits a deep blue hue, reflecting its expansive surface area and depth. The water clarity is often murky, especially during periods of runoff, due to sedimentation and nutrient influx.
Surface area (mi)
31.07
Max depth (ft)
49.21
Elevation (ft)
1076.12
Shoreline length (mi)
99.42

Popular activities

  • Kayaking
  • Canoeing
  • Swimming
  • Fishing
  • Hiking
  • Boatingẵ
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Frequently Asked Questions

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

  • Yes, swimming is allowed in Tuttle Creek Lake but only in designated areas. Swimming is permitted at the swimming beach, which is marked by buoys or other markers.

  • Tuttle Creek Lake is a popular destination because it offers a wide range of outdoor activities. The lake has 12,500 acres of water and 100 miles of wooded shoreline, providing opportunities for fishing, watersports, and boating. The surrounding park also features hiking, biking, and equestrian trails, as well as camping and disc golf facilities.

  • Floatline fishing in Tuttle Creek Lake, Kansas, is allowed year-round, 24 hours a day. Anglers can use no more than eight floatlines, which must be under immediate supervision and removed when fishing ceases. Floats must be made of plastic, wood, or foam and have a closed-cell construction.

  • Yes, there is a public beach at Tuttle Creek Lake. The swimming beach is located in the River Pond Area of Tuttle Creek State Park. It provides a designated area for swimming near the lake.

  • The closest town to Tuttle Creek Lake in Kansas is Manhattan. Tuttle Creek Lake is located 5 miles north of Manhattan in the Flint Hills region of northeast Kansas. This proximity makes Manhattan a convenient base for visitors to the lake.