Natural swimming hole
Kanopolis Lake beaches
Lake · Kansas
Community-reported spot. Details below are compiled from public sources and are reported to be accurate — always verify locally before visiting.
About this swimming hole
Kanopolis Lake's swim beaches front 3,400 acres of Smoky Hill River reservoir in the Smoky Hills. The Corps of Engineers lake pairs the beach with a spillway waterfall, Native American petroglyphs, and the Faris Caves. It is central Kansas's biggest lake-swim destination.
Good to know
| Water type | Lake |
|---|---|
| Water temperature | mid 70s to 80 in summer |
| Depth | lake swimming |
| Best season | June-August |
| Fees | Corps day-use fee |
| Reservations required | No |
| Parking | Corps recreation area lots |
| Amenities | swim beach, campground, boat ramps, trails, waterfall, petroglyphs |
| County | Ellsworth County |
| Nearest town | Marquette |
| Safety notes | no lifeguard; boat traffic |
Map
Nearby swimming holes
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim in Kanopolis Lake beaches?
Yes — Kanopolis Lake beaches is listed as a natural swimming spot in Kansas. Reported water temperature: mid 70s to 80 in summer. Heads-up: no lifeguard; boat traffic. There are rarely lifeguards at natural swimming holes — verify conditions locally before you go.
Does Kanopolis Lake beaches require reservations?
No reservations are required at Kanopolis Lake beaches based on current information — but verify before you go.
Is there a fee to visit Kanopolis Lake beaches?
Reported fee info: Corps day-use fee. Fees can change — confirm with the official link.
When is the best time to visit Kanopolis Lake beaches?
The best season is typically June-August.