Milford Lake
RV Guide
Introduction
Looking for a new place to explore while on your Kansas RV vacation? Why not stop by Milford Lake? You'll have an amazing time exploring this idyllic outdoor haven.
A body of water also sometimes referred to as Milford Reservoir, Milford Lake is situated within the counties of Geary, Clay, and Dickinson in Junction City, Kansas. This man-made body of water consists of 15,700 acres and bears the distinction of being the largest lake of its kind in the region. There are 33,000 acres of shoreline that make the perfect spot for families who love leisurely walks on the beach in search of seaside souvenirs.
Before the creation of Milford Dam, the area was prone to massive flooding and experienced many different flood-based tragedies which incurred a substantial loss of lives over the years. In 1954, city officials passed the motion to build Milford Lake to assist with flood control measures as well as to increase access to a clean water supply for neighboring towns. The Milford Dam project began on July 13th, 1962. To accommodate this important safety measure, several towns were completely eradicated, including nearby Alida and Broughton. The dam was completed in 1968.
The area known as Milford Lake has been home to people since long before the 1800s. The region offers plentiful access to food, an excellent source of clean water, terrain which is easy to navigate, and an extremely favorable climate year-round. From the Paleo Indians believed to inhabit the grounds from 8,000-10,000 years ago to the Late Ceramic peoples from 1500-1800 AD, the grounds have always been welcoming to those who choose to dwell there.
Among the recreational attractions found at Milford Lake are swimming, canoeing, sailing, hunting, and camping. For those who love to fish, Milford Lake proudly bears the title of the Fishing Capital of Kansas. Some of the fish found in these waters include wipers, crappie, largemouth, smallmouth, and spotted bass, walleye, blue and channel catfish, and whitebass.
For an outdoor adventure you'll not soon forget, plan to take your next RV stay at Milford Lake. It's an excellent place to enjoy a holiday.
RV Rentals in Milford Lake
Transportation
Driving
Regardless of what direction you travel to Milford Lake from, you won't have any trouble spotting this idyllic paradise. Each of the highways and country lanes leading to the property is in good condition, and roads are kept clear to promote year-round visits to the area. The vast majority of the highways are comprised of two lanes. Traffic moves at a moderate pace regardless of the time of year. Though road construction has been known to occur in the summer months, it is not often and rarely inconveniences travelers.
Be on the lookout for wildlife that may wander into the road from time to time, particularly during hunting season.
Parking
With four recreational areas found at Milford Lake, there are lots of private lots where you can safely leave your vehicle. Each of these four parks also offers camping facilities; most of which are able to accommodate RV's.
Public Transportation
Due to its remote location and distance from nearby towns, there is no public transportation to Milford Lake.
Campgrounds and parking in Milford Lake
Campsites in Milford Lake
Reservations camping
West Rolling Creek Campground
Open from April 15th through September 30th, West Rolling Hills Campground offers RV and tent camping by reservation only. Generator use is acceptable, and leashed dogs are welcome to join their families on the grounds.
This camping facility features modern amenities such as showers and toilets. Both water and electric hookups are available. You'll also find a playground for kids to enjoy.
For those looking for more primitive style camping, there are campsites with access to pit style toilets.
A waste disposal station is available on the premises.
Farnum Creek Campground
Farnum Creek Campground offers campsites suited to RV and tent camping by reservation only between April 15th and September 30th each year. Generator use is permitted, and families may bring dogs along on their camping adventures but are asked to please keep them leashed at all times.
This camping facility is complete with five pull-through RV sites and 59 additional sites; some of which are equipped with power hookups.
The on-site amenities include showers, a playground, and a boat ramp.
Curtis Creek Campground
Curtis Creek Campground, open from April 15th through September 30th yearly, is a popular spot for RV and tent campers. Reservations are required to obtain a space at this much-beloved camping facility.
This campground permits generator use. Extremely dog-friendly, you can bring your pooch to camp with you at Curtis Creek Campground, but you must keep them on a leash when on the premises.
Other amenities include bathrooms, showers, a boat ramp, a waste disposal station, a playground, and picnic areas.
Seasonal activities in Milford Lake
In-Season
Swimming
Swimming is a popular recreational activity when the weather is warm at Milford Lake. The waters are crisp and clean, offering families the chance for a refreshing dip after a day of fun exploring the grounds or meandering along the coast.
There are over 14 beaches to choose from at Milford Lake, so you will be spoiled for choice as to which one to visit. You can even wander the coast to find a private spot just for you and your family to enjoy.
Lifeguard service is available at some of the beaches during specified hours. For more information regarding the times when swimming is supervised, it is best to consult that particular beach's website.
Boating
Many of the parks found at Milford Lake also offer boat launches. There are also two marinas: Milford Marina and Thunderbird Marina. From these spots, you can paddle out into the crisp, blue waters in your canoe or kayak or take the powerboat out for a spin. Of course, you can always take the plunge into the lake directly from the shore.
Near to the marinas, you will find several concession stands that offer rentals of water sports equipment and watercraft for the day. So, if you're dying to get out on the water, but don't own a boat of your own--not a problem!
Picnicking
With four parks set aside for day use at Milford Lake, you will find lots of places that provide the ideal backdrop from which to enjoy a picnic lunch. Among the most popular spots for picnickers include the recreational areas known as North Overlook, East Rolling Hills, Outlet, and South Outlet. Each of these parks offers picnic tables with pavilions available for rental. They are also home to beaches where the swimming is divine.
Fees are associated with picnic pavilion rentals. For more information about costs and availability, it is best to consult the park's website.
Off-Season
Hiking
Milford State Park, found along the shore of Milford Lake, offers many different hiking trails for families to enjoy. Each of the trails varies in length and intensity with something sure to meet the tastes of every member of the family.
Among the most popular trails are the Waterfall Trail, Crystal Trail, Eagle Ridge Equestrian Trail, and the Riverwalk Trail. Several of the pathways prominently feature incredible diverse and beautiful terrain as well as an abundance of local wildlife.
Wear your best hiking shoes and comfortable clothing. Since weather conditions dip towards the chilly in late fall and winter, you will need to dress in layers to ward off the cold. A thermos of hot coffee is always a good idea as is plentiful access to drinking water.
Fishing
An extremely popular spot amongst those who love to fish, Milford Lake's waters teem with a wide variety of fish species. Some of the most popular types include wipers, crappie, largemouth, smallmouth, and spotted bass, walleye, blue and channel catfish, and whitebass.
Known as the Fishing Capital of Kansas, you will not be disappointed with a day spent on the waters here. Bring along drinks and snacks to share with your friends.
When your day of fishing comes to an end, you can fillet your fish back at your campsite then grill up a feast over an open fire or barbecue for your family and friends to enjoy.
Photography
With such a vast array of beauty surrounding you, Milford Lake offers you an amazing opportunity to put your photography skills to good use. Armed with your camera, you can meander the grounds in search of the perfect photo op. Whether you train your lens on some of the unusual wildlife or the snow-capped trees or beauty of the lake, you won't want for subject matter.
Since you will travel over varied terrain which can be quite slippery in winter, you will need good hiking boots. Dress in layers to ward off any cold spells.
