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NatureBeaches, Lakes & Rivers

10 Little Known Beaches in Kansas That’ll Make Your Summer Unforgettable

Discover ten must-visit beaches in Kansas for a perfect summer adventure.

Updated Jun 13, 2022

Written by 

Annie Sandmeier

Longing for a fabulous beach vacation in Kansas but don't have the funds? No worries! Just visit one of these 10 beaches in Kansas for the ultimate adventure! We're not kidding! Kansas is indeed home to some must-visit beaches! Check them out and let us know which one you want to visit first:

1. Wilson State Park (Sylvan Grove)

Hikers explore a rocky landscape with towering formations and a cloudy sky in the background.
JM Cirlin/TripAdvisor

Considered by many to be the most beautiful lake in Kansas, the beach at Wilson State Park features not only a sandy beach, but several impressive sightseeing opportunities as well.

2. Glen Elder State Park (Glen Elder)

A group of four people poses beside a large sand sculpture of a turtle, decorated with green seaweed, on a beach.
Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks & Tourism

Glen Elder offers soft sands so immaculate that you can even craft it into works of art!

3. Kill Creek Park (Olathe)

A serene lake scene with a small building in the distance, surrounded by greenery and a clear blue sky.
FourSquare

Located in Johnson County, the beach at Kill Creek Park features a clean and tranquil place to tan, swim, and play.

4. Shawnee Mission Park (Shawnee)

A person and a dog stand by a shimmering lake under a bright sun, with trees lining the distant shore.
Yelp/Lacey L.

Not only does Shawnee Mission Park have a human beach, they also have a separate one specifically for man's best friend (pictured)!

5. Tuttle Creek Lake (Manhattan)

A sandy beach scene with families enjoying the water, children playing, and ducks swimming nearby.
Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks & Tourism

After hiking one of the numerous nature trails, you will want to cool off inside this large, designated swimming area.

6. Big Hill Lake (Cherryvale)

Panoramic view of a serene lake surrounded by bare trees under a clear blue sky. Sunlight reflects on the water.
Flickr/Granger Meador

This generously sized reservoir features not only a memorable swimming beach, but wonderful fishing opportunities as well.

7. Perry Lake (Ozawkie)

A serene landscape featuring a small body of water bordered by sandy shore and lush green trees in the background.
Flickr/JoLynne Martinez

If you are looking for a mini-getaway, take my advice and pitch a tent in one of Perry's designated camping areas before hitting the beach.

8. Milford Lake (Junction City)

A crowded beach scene with people enjoying activities, sunbathing, and socializing on a sunny day.
Kansas Wildlife, Parks & Tourism - Milford State Park Facebook

Don't worry; the beach at Milford Lake isn't always this busy -- only when there is an epic event like the pictured Float Your Boat event!

9. Cedar Bluff State Park (Ellis)

Families and children play by the water's edge on a sandy beach, with some relaxing on towels nearby.
Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks & Tourism

How does central Kansas beat the unbearable summer humidity? By taking a dip in the lake at Cedar Bluff State Park, of course!

10. Clinton State Park (Lawrence)

A sandy beach viewed from a staircase, with people enjoying the water and greenery framing the scene.
Kansas Wildlife, Parks & Tourism - Clinton State Park Facebook

383 camp sites + a sandy beach + water sporting opportunities galore = the best summer ever!

Which amazing beaches in Kansas are your favorites? Tell us your thoughts in the comments!

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