06-28-2008, 11:10 AM
As the last weekend in June approaches, some state parks in the eastern portions of Kansas are struggling with flooded facilities. Activities at these parks may be limited the weekend of June 28-29, but hopes are high for July -- and Independence Day weekend -- as reservoir water is lowered and parks begin to dry out. All depends on the weather, and if summer rains subside, conditions will continue to improve.
<br>As of June 24, state park campgrounds in the northwest, northcentral, and central portions of the state were in good shape, according to the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP). Kanopolis State Park, near Ellsworth, had only one primitive campground affected by high water, so Sandy Shore, a primitive campground, will be closed the last weekend in June.<br>
<br>Perhaps the most anticipated park event of June is Tuttle Creek's Country Stampede, and officials there note that although some campgrounds may be a little muddy, 90 percent of the park is in fine shape for the state's largest country music festival.<br>
<br>In southeastern Kansas, Fall River State Park reports only two campgrounds -- Fredonia Bay and Quarry Bay --currently open. The only boat ramp open is at Quarry Bay. At nearby Cross Timbers State Park, conditions are much the same. Boaters will have to use the ramp at Toronto Point, and the Holiday Hill Area is open from the west only.<br>
<br>Elk City State Park may have been hit the hardest, much like last year's heavy summer flooding. Day-use areas are limited, and there is no boating access, sewer facilities, or full-utility hookups. Although some areas are open, no reservations are being taken at this time.<br>
<br>Hillsdale, Milford, and Perry state parks also report high water flooding some campgrounds and other facilities. Other state parks appear to be in good shape, but due to unpredictable weather, KDWP staff recommend that visitors phone their favorite parks before planning a trip.<br>
<br>As summer progresses into July, many Kansans look forward to Independence Day weekend -- July 4-6 this year -- and if high reservoirs continue releasing water, most park facilities should be ready for Fourth of July festivities. These events highlight July at Kansas state parks, but other events are planned throughout the month. Many events are educational, and all make park visits more fun.
<br>As of June 24, state park campgrounds in the northwest, northcentral, and central portions of the state were in good shape, according to the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP). Kanopolis State Park, near Ellsworth, had only one primitive campground affected by high water, so Sandy Shore, a primitive campground, will be closed the last weekend in June.<br>
<br>Perhaps the most anticipated park event of June is Tuttle Creek's Country Stampede, and officials there note that although some campgrounds may be a little muddy, 90 percent of the park is in fine shape for the state's largest country music festival.<br>
<br>In southeastern Kansas, Fall River State Park reports only two campgrounds -- Fredonia Bay and Quarry Bay --currently open. The only boat ramp open is at Quarry Bay. At nearby Cross Timbers State Park, conditions are much the same. Boaters will have to use the ramp at Toronto Point, and the Holiday Hill Area is open from the west only.<br>
<br>Elk City State Park may have been hit the hardest, much like last year's heavy summer flooding. Day-use areas are limited, and there is no boating access, sewer facilities, or full-utility hookups. Although some areas are open, no reservations are being taken at this time.<br>
<br>Hillsdale, Milford, and Perry state parks also report high water flooding some campgrounds and other facilities. Other state parks appear to be in good shape, but due to unpredictable weather, KDWP staff recommend that visitors phone their favorite parks before planning a trip.<br>
<br>As summer progresses into July, many Kansans look forward to Independence Day weekend -- July 4-6 this year -- and if high reservoirs continue releasing water, most park facilities should be ready for Fourth of July festivities. These events highlight July at Kansas state parks, but other events are planned throughout the month. Many events are educational, and all make park visits more fun.