Tuttle Creek State Park - Image 1
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Tuttle Creek State Park Kansas

4.5
·899 reviews·Manhattan, United States

A sprawling Kansas reservoir park offering diverse outdoor activities like fishing, hiking, camping, and cabin stays amidst the scenic Flint Hills.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant weather for hiking

CrowdLow
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Tuttle Creek State Park - Image 1

Tuttle Creek State Park Kansas

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant weather for hiking

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A sprawling Kansas reservoir park offering diverse outdoor activities like fishing, hiking, camping, and cabin stays amidst the scenic Flint Hills.

4.5
(899 reviews)

"Tuttle Creek State Park is truly one of Manhattan’s most beautiful outdoor spaces."

Vertical photo
TIP

Kayak/Canoe Rentals

Call ahead to confirm availability for kayak and canoe rentals, as schedules can change . :kayak:

Cabin Comforts

Cabins offer AC, fridge, and microwave for a comfortable camping-style vacation . :housewithgarden:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Tuttle Creek Lake

Tuttle Creek Lake

Reservoir

Expansive lake with stunning views, perfect for fishing, swimming, and water sports.

Flint Hills Serenity

Flint Hills Serenity

Various trails

Experience the peaceful rolling hills and diverse terrain, offering a true escape into nature.

Pottawatomie Cabin

Pottawatomie Cabin

Campground area

A comfortable, ADA-compliant cabin offering modern amenities for a rustic camping experience.

Archery Range

Archery Range

Designated area

A dedicated range for archery enthusiasts to practice their skills amidst natural surroundings.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Outdoors

Tuttle Creek State Park offers a vast playground for outdoor enthusiasts. From fishing and swimming to hiking and archery, there's something for everyone. Plan your activities in advance, especially if you're interested in renting kayaks or canoes, as availability can vary.Reddit

Road Conditions to Note

While the park is beautiful, some visitors have noted that certain roads, particularly near campgrounds and trailheads, could use resurfacing. If you're driving an RV or a low-clearance vehicle, proceed with caution in these areas.Reddit

Best Times

When
Spring & Fall mornings
Why
Pleasant weather for hiking
Crowd
Low
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Ideal for swimming
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday evenings
Why
Peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

📍 Tuttle Creek Cove Campground – Manhattan, Kansas Tranquility meets accessibility in the heart of the Flint Hills 🌾🚐 If you're passing through northeast Kansas and looking for a scenic, restful spot to park your RV, Tuttle Creek Cove Campground is a hidden treasure you shouldn’t skip. Nestled along the shores of Tuttle Creek Lake, this Corps of Engineers campground is peaceful, clean, and surpri...
@rv.basic.essentia
12 likes • 729 views

Kayak/Canoe Rentals

Call ahead to confirm availability for kayak and canoe rentals, as schedules can change.Reddit :kayak:

Cabin Comforts

Cabins offer AC, fridge, and microwave for a comfortable camping-style vacation.Reddit :housewithgarden:

Blue Loop Trail delivered—lake views, fall breeze, and three kids who somehow had energy the entire time. 😅 Loved hiking the Randolph Area as a family. Kansas trails don’t miss. 🌄 #hikekansas #tuttlecreekstatepark #kansas #familytime #tothestarsks
@travontheroad
44 likes • 3K views
Manhattan Magic: Top 5 Must-Dos #travel #explore #top5 #manhattan #kansas
@ultimateutopia5
43 likes • 2.1K views

Road Awareness

Be mindful of road conditions, especially near campgrounds and trailheads.Reddit :road:

Explore Beyond Trails

Seek out areas for off-trail nature exploration beyond marked paths.Reddit :hiking_boot:

‼️ KANSAS here’s a little message from @randyrogersbandmusic — we cannot wait to see y’all at Rock The Plains at Tuttle Creek State Park next weekend! 🚨 • August 8-9 —> Manhattan, KS • Camping available! ⛺️ • Performances by Randy Rogers Band, Braxton Keith, Casey Donahew, Kaitlin Butts, Josh Abbott Band, Aaron Watson, Logan Mize + more! • 🎫 www.RockThePlains.com • #countrymusic #braxtonkeith #t...
@rocktheplains
65 likes • 1.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Kayak/Canoe Rentals

Call ahead to confirm availability for kayak and canoe rentals, as schedules can change.Reddit :kayak:

Cabin Comforts

Cabins offer AC, fridge, and microwave for a comfortable camping-style vacation.Reddit :housewithgarden:

Road Awareness

Be mindful of road conditions, especially near campgrounds and trailheads.Reddit :road:

Explore Beyond Trails

Seek out areas for off-trail nature exploration beyond marked paths.Reddit :hiking_boot:

Power Up Campsites

Many campsites now feature 50 amp connections for RVs.Reddit :electric_plug:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(899 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Tuttle Creek State Park is widely praised as a beautiful and expansive outdoor space offering a wide array of activities from fishing and hiking to cabin stays. Visitors appreciate the natural serenity and the diverse terrain. Some minor drawbacks include the condition of certain roads and the inconsistency of the swimming area buoys, but these do not detract significantly from the overall positive experience.

"🌟🌟🌟🌟 Tuttle Creek State Park – A Hidden Gem with Room to Roam

Tuttle Creek State Park is truly one of Manhattan’s most beautiful outdoor spaces. From the moment you arrive, you're greeted by expansive views, peaceful fishing spots, and plenty of room to breathe. Whether you're casting a line, hiking through the wooded trails, or just soaking in the serenity of the Flint Hills, this park offers a little something for everyone.

The lake is stunning, and the shoreline stretches for miles—perfect for quiet reflection or a full day of adventure. There’s a generous mix of terrain, from shaded forest paths to open prairie, and the wildlife sightings are a bonus. It’s also great for families, solo explorers, and anyone needing a reset in nature.

The only reason I’m giving four stars instead of five is the condition of some of the roads. A few areas could definitely use resurfacing, especially near the campgrounds and trailheads. It’s not a dealbreaker, but worth noting if you’re driving an RV or low-clearance vehicle.

Overall, Tuttle Creek is a treasure. If you’re in the area and looking for space to unwind, fish, hike, or just reconnect with nature, this park delivers."

Jared Klug

"We stayed in the Pottawatomie cabin for a family vacation and we had the best time! Such a variety of activities you can do at the State Park, which was about 8 minutes from our cabin. Great spot for a vacation! Incredibly beautiful views. Great fishing spot, beautiful trails to walk, a swimming area (admittedly a little disappointed in how the buoys were not all anchored so the perimeter had blown around and made the swimming area terribly small), you can rent kayaks and canoes (just make sure you call to ask if it's available for when you plan to come, the website says memorial Day weekend but when we went to rent them we were told the end of June, and Wildcat Marina wouldn't rent them either due to blue green algae), and they also have an archery range! As for the cabin, it's not fancy but it's super nice to have air conditioning, a refrigerator , microwave, etc, while doing a camping style vacation. It's an escape from the heat without having to go back to the big city! You can tell the cabin has been there a while, it could use a deep cleaning, but all in all we were very happy and thankful to be staying there with such beautiful views! It's ADA compliant with everything set up so that you can stay there if you are in a wheelchair. As for the start park, it's a really fantastic spot to relax and connect with nature. We hope to make this an annual trip!"

Veronica Miller

"We have stayed a few times. The park is gorgeous with lots to do for people who love camping. There is camping, fishing, hiking, lake access It’s a lovely state park"

Anne Russ

What People Like

Beautiful lake and views
Variety of activities
Peaceful nature escape

What People Dislike

Road conditions
Swimming area buoys

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Tuttle Creek State Park is located near Manhattan, Kansas. You can typically reach it by taking Highway 24 West from Manhattan and following signs for the park. Many visitors find it convenient to use GPS navigation for precise directions to specific areas like campgrounds or trailheads.Reddit

Public transportation options directly to Tuttle Creek State Park are limited. It is best accessed by private vehicle. If you are traveling without a car, consider ride-sharing services from Manhattan, though coverage within the park itself may be spotty.

The park is quite spread out. Having a car is highly recommended for exploring different areas like the lake, campgrounds, and various activity zones. Maps are usually available at park entrances or visitor centers.

Entrance fees can vary depending on the specific area or activity you are accessing within the park. It's advisable to check the official Kansas State Parks website or inquire at the park entrance for the most current fee information.

Tuttle Creek State Park is conveniently located just a short drive from Manhattan, Kansas, typically about 8-15 minutes depending on your starting point and destination within the park.Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

While general park access might be free, certain activities or facilities within Tuttle Creek State Park may require fees or permits. This can include camping, cabin rentals, or specific recreational areas. Check the Kansas State Parks website for details.

Tuttle Creek State Park is generally open year-round, but specific facilities like campgrounds, cabins, and marinas may have seasonal hours or require reservations. It's best to check the official park website for the most up-to-date information on hours and availability.

Yes, booking cabins at Tuttle Creek State Park in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons. You can usually do this through the Kansas State Parks reservation system online or by phone.Reddit

Discounts may be available for certain groups or through annual park passes. Information on potential discounts can typically be found on the Kansas State Parks website or by contacting the park directly.

Pets are generally allowed in Tuttle Creek State Park, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Always check specific regulations for different areas within the park, such as campgrounds or swimming areas, as restrictions may apply.

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Tuttle Creek State Park offers a wide range of activities including fishing, swimming, hiking, boating, kayaking, canoeing, archery, and golfing. The park also provides camping and cabin accommodations.Reddit

Fishing is popular all around Tuttle Creek Lake. Many visitors find success from the shore, especially in quieter coves, or by boat. The park's description mentions peaceful fishing spots, suggesting various accessible locations along the shoreline.Reddit

Yes, the park offers a mix of terrain, including shaded forest paths and open prairie, suggesting trails suitable for various fitness levels. Some areas might be more rugged, so choosing trails based on your comfort is advised.Reddit

Tuttle Creek State Park offers various camping options, with many sites now equipped with 50 amp electrical connections. You can choose from primitive sites to those with full hookups, depending on your needs.Reddit

Yes, there is a swimming area. However, one visitor noted that the buoys were not always anchored, which affected the size of the designated area.Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no restaurants located directly within Tuttle Creek State Park. Visitors typically bring their own food for picnics and camping meals, or dine in nearby Manhattan, Kansas.

Absolutely! Tuttle Creek State Park is an ideal spot for picnics. There are many scenic areas around the lake and trails where you can set up a picnic to enjoy the natural surroundings.

The closest major town with grocery stores is Manhattan, Kansas. It's recommended to stock up on supplies before heading into the park, as options within or immediately surrounding the park are limited.

Manhattan, Kansas, offers a wide variety of dining options, from casual cafes and fast food to sit-down restaurants serving diverse cuisines. You'll find plenty of choices to suit any taste and budget.

The Pottawatomie cabin at Tuttle Creek State Park is equipped with a refrigerator and microwave, allowing for some basic food preparation. However, it is not a full kitchen, so plan accordingly for your meals.

📸 📸 Photography

The park offers diverse photographic opportunities, from the expansive views of Tuttle Creek Lake and the Flint Hills to the wooded trails and dam structures. Sunrise and sunset over the water are particularly picturesque.Reddit

Visitors often report wildlife sightings, so keep an eye out for birds, deer, and other local fauna. Early mornings and late afternoons are generally the best times for wildlife photography.

Drone usage regulations can vary by state park. It's essential to check the official Kansas State Parks guidelines or contact the park directly to inquire about any restrictions on drone photography before your visit.

The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for landscape photography at Tuttle Creek Lake, highlighting the colors of the Flint Hills and the water.Reddit

Yes, the dam is an impressive structure and a popular subject for photography. Visitors have noted its impressive nature, making it a worthwhile shot for your collection.Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Tuttle Creek State Park is a fantastic destination for families looking for outdoor fun. The park offers a variety of activities that kids will love, from swimming in the lake to exploring hiking trails with diverse scenery.Reddit The Pottawatomie cabin is a great option for families, providing comfortable amenities like air conditioning and a refrigerator, making it easier to manage meals and keep kids cool.Reddit It's also ADA compliant, which is a plus for families with varying needs. Remember to pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as dining options within the park are limited, and consider calling ahead for kayak or canoe rentals if your family enjoys water sports.Reddit

🎣 Anglers and Water Enthusiasts

For fishing enthusiasts, Tuttle Creek Lake offers numerous opportunities to cast a line. The park is known for its peaceful fishing spots along the shoreline, making it accessible for shore anglers.Reddit Boat access is also available for those who prefer to fish from the water. Beyond fishing, the lake is ideal for swimming, kayaking, and canoeing.Reddit While rental availability can fluctuate, planning ahead ensures you can make the most of these water activities. The impressive dam structure also adds a unique backdrop to your aquatic adventures.

🏕️ Campers and RV Travelers

Tuttle Creek State Park is a prime spot for camping, with many sites now featuring 50 amp electrical connections, which is a significant upgrade for RV travelers.Reddit The park offers a beautiful natural setting for a camping getaway, with access to hiking, fishing, and other outdoor activities. While some roads within the park might require caution, the overall camping experience is highly rated.Reddit Booking your campsite in advance is always a good idea, especially during peak seasons, to ensure you get a spot in your preferred area.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Waters of Tuttle Creek Lake

Tuttle Creek Lake is the centerpiece of the park, offering a vast expanse for water-based recreation. Visitors can enjoy fishing for various species, with many finding success from the shore or by boat.Reddit The lake is also a popular spot for swimming, though one reviewer noted that the designated swimming area's perimeter could be inconsistent.Reddit For those looking to get out on the water, kayak and canoe rentals are available, but it's crucial to call ahead to confirm availability as it can vary seasonally.Reddit The reservoir side of the park is particularly noted for its astounding beauty, with impressive cliffs and the dam structure adding to the scenic appeal.Reddit

When planning your aquatic adventures, remember that the Wildcat Marina may have specific operating periods, and factors like blue-green algae blooms can sometimes affect rental availability.Reddit Despite these potential minor inconveniences, the lake provides a refreshing escape and numerous opportunities for outdoor fun. Whether you're casting a line, paddling across the calm waters, or simply enjoying the lakeside views, Tuttle Creek Lake is a must-experience aspect of the park.

Hiking and Nature Trails

Tuttle Creek State Park provides a diverse network of trails catering to various interests and fitness levels. The park's terrain includes shaded forest paths and open prairie, offering a rich natural experience.Reddit While many visitors enjoy the marked trails, some Redditors express a desire to explore beyond the designated paths, seeking more immersive nature experiences.Reddit This suggests that while trails are well-maintained, there's also ample opportunity for off-trail exploration for those who are prepared and respectful of the environment.

The Flint Hills provide a stunning backdrop for any hike, with rolling hills and expansive vistas. These trails are perfect for hiking, nature walks, and even horseback riding, as the park offers dedicated horse trails. Wildlife sightings are common, making it a rewarding experience for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. Remember to wear appropriate footwear and bring water, especially during warmer months, to fully enjoy your exploration of the park's natural beauty.

Cabin Stays and Camping

For those seeking a more comfortable outdoor experience, the Pottawatomie cabin offers a fantastic option. Described as not fancy but very nice, it provides essential amenities like air conditioning, a refrigerator, and a microwave, making it an escape from the heat without leaving the park's natural setting.Reddit The cabin is also ADA compliant, ensuring accessibility for visitors with wheelchairs.Reddit While it might show signs of age and could benefit from a deep cleaning, guests are generally very happy with the convenience and beautiful views it offers.Reddit

Camping is another popular choice, with many sites now upgraded to include 50 amp electrical connections, catering to RV travelers.Reddit Whether you opt for a cabin or a campsite, Tuttle Creek State Park provides a wonderful base for enjoying the surrounding nature and activities. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially for cabins, to secure your preferred dates.Reddit

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