Summary
The area covers over 5,000 acres and offers a variety of recreational opportunities, including hunting, fishing, hiking, and camping.
One of the main attractions of Bonny Lake State Wildlife Area is the lake itself. The 250-acre lake is stocked with a variety of fish, including channel catfish, largemouth bass, and crappie. Fishing is allowed year-round, although certain species may have specific seasons and limits.
In addition to fishing, visitors can also enjoy hiking and wildlife viewing. The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, turkeys, quail, and waterfowl. There are several designated hiking trails throughout the area, as well as observation points where visitors can watch for wildlife.
Another point of interest in Bonny Lake State Wildlife Area is the historic Smoky Hill Trail. This trail was used by pioneers and traders in the 1800s and played a significant role in the settlement of the western United States. Visitors can explore portions of the trail and learn about its history through interpretive signs and displays.
Overall, the best time to visit Bonny Lake State Wildlife Area depends on the activities you are interested in. Spring is a popular time for fishing, while fall is a great time for hunting and wildlife viewing. The area is open year-round, although some facilities may have limited hours or be closed during certain seasons.
Overall, Bonny Lake State Wildlife Area offers a great opportunity to explore the natural beauty and history of Kansas. With its diverse range of activities and attractions, it's a great destination for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone looking to experience the great outdoors.
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Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
Related References
Foster Grove - Bonny Lake State Park
Wagon Wheel - Bonny Lake State Park
East Beach - Bonny Lake State Park
North Cove - Bonny Lake State Park