Discovering the Best Lakes in Kansas Near Topeka, KS

Topeka is well known as a hub of history and culture. Yet most outsiders overlook the fantastic lakes near Topeka, KS. This rings true for the entire state, as lakes in Kansas are some of the most beautiful places to spend an afternoon or go on vacation. Lakes in Kansas provide a host of fun activities, including boating, fishing, swimming, camping, and more. Here at Brookfield Village, one of Topekas premier apartment communities, we want to help residents, locals, and visitors discover stunning lake getaways within driving distance of the city. We compiled a list of our four favorites, perfect for camping, fishing, boating, and much more.

So, with that in mind, here are our recommendations for the best lakes near Topeka, KS.

Lake Shawnee

Lake Shawnee is perhaps the most well-known lake amongst residents, and for good reason. The lake is on the edge of the city, meaning you can easily visit without planning a big weekend trip. Additionally, the lake is often ranked as the best tourist destination in the whole state, making it one of the best lakes in Kansas. Each year, the lake hosts over a million people for festivals, tournaments, golf, boating, fishing, and camping.

The lake sits on a 1,100-acre public park and was built in the 1930s as part of the New Deal. Nearly 100 years later, the lake remains a top attraction for both locals and residents. The lake is encircled by a seven-mile paved trail with plenty of space for walkers, joggers, and cyclists.

There are plenty of fun water activities as well. Lake Shawnee serves as the main hub of the Topeka Rowing Association, which offers beginner-friendly classes and competitive events. The Shawnee Yacht Club is also based on the lake, where boaters can sail for fun or competition. During the summertime, the lake opens the Lake Shawnee Adventure Club. At the adventure club, residents can rent paddle boards, canoes, or kayaks. A floating playground is available for the kids.

Should you want to spend more than a day at Lake Shawnee, there are over 114 campsites available for RVs. A variety of amenities are available at the campsites, including dump

stations, electrical hookups, laundry facilities, sewer disposal, showers, and potable water. Making a reservation in advance is strongly recommended.

Perry Lake

If you prefer to visit lakes of gigantic sizes, we would like to recommend Perry Lake. Located about a 30-minute drive from Topeka, Perry Lake offers a balance between ruggedness and comfort. Often called "the paradise on the plains," Perry Lake offers a rustic and expansive feel. The lake is a paradise for anglers. Fishers can find a variety of catches like channel catfish, walleye, white bass, and crappie. Boating and sailing are also popular here, with multiple boat ramps and marinas to choose from. In summertime, water skiing, jet skiing, and other motorized water recreation are common.

And if you prefer land-based activities, the lake is home to the 30-Mile Perry Lake National Recreation Hiking Trail. This expansive trail beautifully cuts through natural hardwood and hillsides along Lake Perry. The trail is open to both hikers and bikers, but the terrain is considered moderate to difficult. Beginner riders may find it too difficult.

The lake also boasts several campsites, and can accommodate tents, trailers, vans, pop-ups, and RVs. Reservations are required via the recreation.gov website.

Pomona Lake

If you want something smaller, quieter, and more remote, then Pomona State Park is for you. The park is home to 4,000-acre Pomona Lake. The park is about a 45-minute drive from Topeka, making it feel more secluded and away from the big crowds.While the lake is smaller, the fish populations are huge. Pomona is a popular spot for anglers, as they have a chance at catching largemouth bass, channel catfish, wiper, and crappie. The waters are calm, making it a good spot for paddleboarding, canoeing, and kayaking.

Despite its smaller size, Pomona State Park is well stocked with amenities. Visitors can enjoy campsites, picnic areas, swimming beaches, and hiking trails.

Clinton Lake

If you want the lake with the best scenery, we'd argue that Clinton Lake meets that criteria. Located within Clinton State Park, this lake is about a 22-minute drive away on the edges of Lawrence. This lake is best known for its rolling hills and oak-hickory woodlands, while hosting a wide range of recreational activities. Clinton Lake provides tons of fun activities like boating, fishing, pontoon rides, and ziplines.

Perhaps the biggest draw to Clinton Lake is its variety of campgrounds. The park hosts over 368 campsites. This includes options for full hookups for RVs, all the way to "primitive" camp sites for those who desire a more rugged experience. There are also six cabins that can comfortably sleep a group of six.

Move to Brookfield Village Apartments and Explore the Best Lakes Near Topeka, KS

If you’re looking for your next home in Topeka, visit us at Brookfield Village Apartments. We offer beautiful 1, 2, and 3 bedroom floor plans that blend comfort, style, and spaciousness to create a fantastic living experience for every resident. Apartments are curated with exclusive amenities like double-galley kitchen layouts, energy efficient appliances, large walk-in closets, and a fireplace in select floor plans. Schedule your tour today and discover your next home in Topeka.