7 Best Lakeside Towns in Kansas
Kansas is more than endless prairies; it's a stunning destination for natural wonders and picturesque lakeside escapes. Each lake has its unique character, and the small towns along their shores offer visitors a blend of scenic beauty, outdoor activities, and a small-town sense of community that is unmatched. From the peaceful waters of Hillsdale Lake in Paola to the expansive Milford Lake near its namesake, Milford, these towns are as charming as they are full of adventure. Historic downtowns have unique shops and dining experiences, such as The Cove in Milford or events like Independence's most famous Neewollah Festival. From fishing and hiking to local art and historical sites, every town offers something different than any other in The Sunflower State.
Paola - Hillsdale Lake
Paola is a charming lakeside town nestled along the scenic shores of Hillsdale Lake. The outdoors and recreation are quintessential Paola. Hillsdale Lake offers anglers, boaters, and campers a haven throughout the year with its expansive waters and wooded trails. Hillsdale State Park is one of the favorite stops for those visiting the waters here, as this is a hub for scenic views, picnic areas, and recreation. The reservoir is brimming with schools of fish, so anglers of all skill levels flock here to catch bass, catfish, and crappie.
In town, the historic downtown square and some quirky attractions delight. Visitors can indulge at Beethoven's #9, a favorite German restaurant noted for its schnitzels and bratwurst. Those with sweet tooths or large appetites should not miss We B Smokin', a BBQ joint infamous for its smoked meats and savory desserts.
The Miami County Historical Museum has fascinating exhibits on local heritage that touch on Paola's history. The late-August Roots Festival, featuring music, food, and craft vendors, captures that community spirit nicely and provides a perfect capstone to a lakeside visit.
Ozawkie - Perry Lake
Dubbed the "Paradise of the Prairie," Perry Lake houses many opportunities for fishing, boating, and hiking. Ozawkie on that lake presents a base of operations to explore all the region has to offer, as well as a wealth of dining and shopping. With more than 11,000 acres of water and scenic trails to view it from, the lake is an ideal place to experience the serene landscapes of The Sunflower State. The Perry Wildlife Area nearby attracts bird watchers and hunters alike, and well-maintained campsites throughout make this an easy spot to rough it for a night during your Ozawkie stay.
Local attractions in Ozawkie round out the experience on the lake with unique dining and shopping. Regional favorites include Old Town Grill, a popular spot for greasy American burgers and fries, or Lago Vista Grill, which offers sweeping views of the lake and hearty portions of comfort foods. You can also take part in one-of-a-kind shopping at the Ozawkie Flea Market, a quirky retail location where you can find everything from antiques and collectibles to handmade crafts.
Glen Elder - Waconda Lake
The beautiful Glen Elder overlooks the magnificent Waconda Lake, a tranquil retreat where water sports combine with a rich Kansas history. Waconda Lake, also known as Glen Elder Reservoir, offers crystal waters and some of the finest fishing in the area, with anglers heading here for a walleye, catfish, and white bass feast. Surrounding the lake is the Glen Elder State Park, where one can picnic, camp, and enjoy hiking along scenic trails.
Glen Elder is a charming town on the lake because of its small shops and historical destinations. One of the biggest attractions is the Waconda Springs Replica, a natural spring once believed to be holy by the indigenous Native American tribes. Norman’s North Shore serves substantial breakfasts and comfort food and is the most popular place to eat among locals and visitors. For souvenirs, check out the Lakeside Auction & Consignments for some general wares and fishing gear.
If you want to see the community at its best, check out Waconda Heritage Days, held annually every August, for parades, music, and fun activities for all ages.
Milford - Milford Lake
Milford is a town bordered by the largest lake in Kansas, Milford Lake. This sprawling body of water offers a vibrant playground for outdoor sports enthusiasts seeking excitement and serenity. Boaters, kayakers, and anglers alike will adore it. Fishermen from all over enjoy the possibility of catching trophy-sized bass, catfish, and walleye, making Milford Lake an important fishing hotspot within the state. The Milford Nature Center provides educational value not far from the lake by featuring exhibits on local wildlife and ecosystems.
The town is also trendy and among Kansas's most charming beach towns. For an enriching dining experience, The Cove at Milford Lake serves fresh seafood right off the lake and offers a spectacular water view. Milford Tropics provides bar-style dining and entertainment if you're looking for a more casual bite.
For a truly unique experience when visiting this massive lake, visit the Milford Lake Festival in the fall. The event features live music, arts and crafts, and food vendors, showcasing Milford as a welcoming community.
Marion - Marion Reservoir
Marion is a quaint town serving as a launching pad for the massive reservoir it abuts, which is available for fishing, boating, and camping. The expansive water and wildlife areas of this reservoir attract many outdoor enthusiasts. During spring, nature trails at Marion Reservoir explode with wildflowers, setting a nice scene for hiking and bird-watching. Sandy beaches and fully equipped campgrounds make this reservoir a favorite family spot.
Marion's Main Street is a feast of dining, shopping, and history in town. Wagon Wheel Express serves comforting foods with a hometown twist. CB Baked Goods and Salsbury Sweets both hold a special place with the locals as the spot for homemade pies and pastries. The historic Elgin Hotel is an attractively restored landmark from the late 1800s, where guests can quickly feel transported back in time. This doubles as four-star accommodations when you do not wish to rough it by the lake at a campsite.
Independence - Elk City Lake
Independence is a lakeside town near calm Elk City Lake, set in beautiful landscapes of extreme recreational appeal. The state park and Elk City Lake offer numerous opportunities for outdoor recreation. Hikers can enjoy amazing views and limestone bluffs on the highly renowned Elk City Trail, while the lake’s calm and clear waters attract anglers for hours of fishing fun. Table Mound presents impressive rock formations to view and explore for a memorable look at Kansas nature.
Independence has much to offer the explorers when they take a break from Elk City Lake. The locals recommend Uncle Jack's Bar & Grill, which serves American favorites in a casual environment, and Big Cheese Pizza, which has been a family favorite for generations because of its handcrafted pizzas.
The town shines brightest at festivals and community events. The Neewollah Festival, held since 1919, is the largest in Kansas and brings Independence to life each October with parades, live shows, and food vendors that enhance the lively atmosphere.
Cherryvale - Big Hill Lake
When you head to Big Hill Lake, your likely destination for accommodation will be Cherryvale. The lake is active in most months of the year, with abundant recreation in hiking, fishing, and kayaking. The trees lining the shores of the lake provide the illusion of privacy as you traverse the scenic paths along the water's perimeter. With active native wildlife, this is a hotbed for photographers looking for memorable nature shots.
When you are ready to take a break from the water recreation, plenty will keep you busy and moving in Cherryvale. When hungry, check out My Place for hearty portions of American fare. Shop the quaint and quirky Glitter Barn Boutique for some zany attire. If you are interested in Cherryvale's history, one of the first stops on your historical tour of the community should be The Cherryvale Museum, which will allow you to see multiple exhibits and unique artifacts of infamous residents such as the Bender family.
Festivals and gatherings bring the lakeside town to life. One of the most popular is the Little Balkans Days Festival, which celebrates the area's cultural heritage with music, food, and a lively parade. It emphasizes the town's warm community feel and lakeside lifestyle.
More and more people are discovering one of the biggest allures of The Sunflower State, and that is a unique blend of lake life fun with small-town charm. Whether it's catching fish on Waconda Lake in Glen Elder, enjoying the vitality of the Roots Festival in Paola, or taking in the trails around Big Hill Lake in Cherryvale, each town opens the door to a different experience. Whether you are a nature lover, a history buff, or simply looking forward to a scenic getaway, the lakeside towns in Kansas welcome you.
