Boating

Whether canoeing, power boating or sailing, Tuttle Creek Lake, the second largest lake in Kansas, has something to offer for all.

Power boaters on Tuttle Creek Lake will enjoy the large main body of the lake on calm days for water skiing and pleasure boating. If the wind blows too hard, McIntire, Carnahan, and Mill Coves, and the face of the dam offer protection from rough water.

Sail boaters can find plenty of room to maneuver on Tuttle Creek Lake’s 14-mile fetch of open water on the main body of the lake. The size of the lake combined with the prevailing winds make Tuttle Creek Lake one of the best sailing lakes in Kansas.

Canoeists and kayakers will find River Pond below the dam a perfect place for paddling. The state park offers canoe, kayak, and paddleboat rentals.

Wildcat Marina at Spillway State Park provides fuel, mooring facilities, boat rentals, and supplies.

A new boat ramp has been installed at Fancy Creek Area which accesses the Big Blue River and is popular to catfish anglers and waterfowl hunters.

A day use fee of $3 is required to launch at the Corps- managed boat ramp in Tuttle Creek Cove. In lieu of the daily permit an annual pass may be purchased for $30. This pass is good at all Corps of Engineers parks nationwide.

The state parks require a motor vehicle entrance permit ($3.70 per day Oct. - Mar., $4.20 per day Apr. - Sep.). Annual vehicle permits are also available. Note that the boat ramp in Randolph State Park is usable only at high lake levels.

Boaters should be aware that hazardous boating areas do occur on Tuttle Creek Lake. Submerged objects are especially prevalent in Tuttle Creek Cove, and between this cove and the dam. Lake levels fluctuate almost daily, so stumps sticking out of the water on one visit may be underwater on the next. When in doubt, ask an experienced boater and go slowly. And be sure to carry a life jacket for everyone on board or being towed. It’s the law, and it’s water wise!