Cedar Bluff State Park
Cedar Bluff State Park sits along the north shore of Cedar Bluff Reservoir in west-central Kansas, offering sweeping prairie views, rocky bluffs, and excellent access to water recreation. The park is known for boating, fishing, camping, and wildlife viewing in a scenic high-plains setting.
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Visiting with Dogs
Dogs allowed in park and campgrounds; must be leashed and under control. Clean up after pets; not allowed in buildings.
Visitor Tips & Reviews
What Visitors Say
Scenic reservoir views, peaceful camping, great fishing, boating, and sunsets. Visitors love the quiet atmosphere, wildlife, and roomy campsites, though wind and limited shade are common notes.
Tips from Visitors
- Bring water; shade is limited in summer.
- Watch for strong winds near the reservoir.
- Check boat ramp conditions before launching.
- Pack sunscreen and insect repellent.
- Reserve campsites early on busy weekends.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Cedar Bluff State Park is late spring through early fall, when warm weather makes boating, swimming, and camping most enjoyable. Fall also brings cooler temperatures and excellent sunset views over the reservoir.
Amenities
Nearby Attractions
Explore these attractions near Cedar Bluff State Park:
- Cedar Bluff ReservoirA large reservoir adjacent to the park that supports boating, fishing, and wildlife habitat.Within the park
- Fort Hays State Historic SiteA preserved frontier military post in Hays offering history exhibits and a look at Kansas’ western settlement era.28 miles away
- Sternberg Museum of Natural HistoryA popular Hays museum featuring fossils, geology, and natural history exhibits for families and school groups.29 miles away
Things to Do at Cedar Bluff State Park
Camping at Cedar Bluff State Park
Cedar Bluff State Park offers tent and RV camping, primitive sites, electric hookups, restrooms, showers, and reservations seasonally.
Hiking Trails
Cedar Bluff State Park offers scenic day hiking with wide-open prairie views, rugged bluff overlooks, and access to the Smoky Hill River area. Trails are generally easy to moderate, making them good for casual hikers and families. Visitors often enjoy the peaceful, less crowded setting, especially at sunrise or sunset, though shade is limited and conditions can be windy and dry.
Cedar Bluff Nature Trail
EasyA short scenic trail with views of the lake, native grassland, and bluff country. Good for a relaxed walk and wildlife viewing.
Cedar Bluff Lakeside Trail
ModerateA longer trail that follows the shoreline and offers open water views, rolling terrain, and access to several scenic overlooks.
Bluff Overlook Loop
ModerateA loop trail with steady climbs to bluff-top viewpoints and broad panoramas of the surrounding prairie and reservoir.
Prairie Ridge Connector
ModerateA mixed-use hiking route through open prairie and ridge terrain, best for hikers looking for a longer outing with varied scenery.
Directions
From I-70, take Exit 135 near Ellis and drive south on KS-147 for about 18 miles to the park entrance. Follow signs to either the Bluffton or Page Creek area depending on your destination.
Contact & Info
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular things to do at Cedar Bluff State Park?
Visitors commonly come for boating, fishing, swimming, camping, hiking, and wildlife viewing. Many reviews mention the lake views, quiet atmosphere, and easy access to the water as the main highlights.
Is Cedar Bluff State Park good for fishing?
Yes. Anglers often report good fishing for species like walleye, catfish, crappie, and bass. Success can vary by season and water conditions, but the reservoir is one of the park’s biggest draws.
Are there camping options at Cedar Bluff State Park?
Yes. The park offers campgrounds with a mix of basic and utility sites. Reviews often mention spacious areas and scenic views, though some campers note that amenities can be more limited than at larger parks.
Can you swim at Cedar Bluff State Park?
Yes, swimming is allowed in designated areas when conditions are safe. Visitors often enjoy the beach and shoreline access, but water levels and wind can affect the experience, so it’s good to check current conditions.
What is the park like for hiking and scenery?
The park is known for its bluff views, open landscapes, and peaceful trails. Many visitors describe it as a quiet place for short hikes, sunsets, and photography rather than a heavily wooded hiking destination.
Are there any common visitor tips for Cedar Bluff State Park?
Bring water, sun protection, and bug spray, especially in warmer months. Reviews often suggest checking lake levels, wind, and weather before planning boating or swimming. It’s also a good idea to reserve campsites early.
Don’t Forget the Essentials
Essential camping & hiking gear we recommend to make your park trip easier and more comfortable.
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