Feeling like an RV adventure is just what the doctor ordered? Plan a trip to Kansas' Toronto Lake. It's an excellent place for a relaxing getaway.
Nestled within a picturesque valley in Toronto, KS, this man-made body of water stems from the Verdigris River. Situated within the southeastern portion of the state within the Cross Timbers region, the lake travels into both Oklahoma and parts of Texas.
Toronto Lake takes its name from the dense brush which covers a large part of its terrain, making it a challenging impasse. The area the lake rests in is known as Chautauqua Hills and is a natural habitat for many species of plant and animal life.
One of the most distinguishing features found on the grounds of Toronto Lake's shores is the large growth of blackjack oak trees. A species of tree with excellent longevity, many of them are thought to be at least 400 years old and measure up to 20 feet in height.
Toronto Lake State Park underwent a name change in 2002 to accurately express the topographical features characteristic of the terrain. As such, its new handle became Cross Timbers State Park.
Also found on the premises is the Toronto Wildlife Area, a public animal habitat where visitors can view many different species of animals including white-tailed deer, red fox, turkeys, and raccoons. The area is also a haven for many different seasonal birds.
For an amazing vacation in a little slice of Kansas paradise, plan your next RV stay at Toronto Lake. You'll be glad you did.
Located in a relatively remote area outside the town of Toronto, KS, Toronto Lake is quite easy to get to by following the well-marked highways and country lanes. Each of the roads along the route is kept in good condition and consists of two-lane stretches.
Traffic proceeds exceptionally well with road construction seen occasionally but only in the summer months.
Travelers are advised to keep an eye for wildlife that sometimes finds its way onto the road.
Toronto Lake has several parking lots where you can safely leave your car. Cross Timbers State Park also has its own parking facilities as well as a campground that can accommodate trailers and RV's.
There is no public transportation available to Toronto Lake.
Toronto Lake State Park, a recreational area and camping facility, was renamed Cross Timbers State Park in 2002. This campground offers 62 campsites with full power hookups and 180 primitive campsites for year-round camping by reservation only. There are also four cabins which can be rented throughout the year, and advance reservations are required. Generator use is acceptable, and leashed dogs are welcome.
There are many amenities at this campground including four boat ramps, showers, restrooms, a beach, a playground, and picnic shelters.
Toronto Lake's refreshing, clear waters make it an excellent spot for families hoping to do some swimming. Grab your bathing suit and your suntan lotion and head on over to the lake to practice your best doggy paddle or improve on your breaststroke. Lifeguard service is not provided, so do exercise caution and avoid entering the lake when the waters are rough.
Toronto Lake has a vast shoreline you can explore at your leisure. Do some beachcombing, work on your suntan, or even just recline and enjoy a good book.
With such a large amount of property to explore, Toronto Lake offers many picture-perfect locales for picnicking. Pack a gourmet feast in your picnic basket and include lots of bottled water and head out in search of a picnic area. If the mood strikes and you prefer a closer connection with nature, you can spread out a picnic blanket right on the grass or in the sand where you can snack on the treats you prepared.
Your dog is welcome on your picnic adventure but must stay leashed at all times. Please come prepared to clean up and properly dispose of Fido's waste.
One of Toronto Lake's original purposes was to support diverse water recreational activities. With four boat ramps to choose from, you can launch your powerboat into the water or paddle out into the depths of the lake in your canoe or kayak directly from the shore.
Bring along a picnic lunch and some snacks to enjoy. The fishing is excellent at this recreational area, so carry your tackle box and some bait with you just in case the mood strikes to see what's biting.
Nearby Toronto Wildlife Area is a natural habitat for many species of birds and animals. Grab your best walking shoes, a naturalist's guide, and your binoculars, and you've got a recipe for a great day discovering some of the unusual varieties of animal life that claim this region as their home turf.
The Toronto Wildlife Area is also heavily involved in the rescue and rehabilitation of mistreated or endangered species, treating you to the rare opportunity to see some unique creatures you don't encounter every day.
Toronto Lake is home to a number of excellent hiking trails. With so many to choose from, there is sure to be one that meets the hiking preferences of every member of the family. Among the most popular trails at this scenic property are: Chautauqua Hills Trail, Overlook Trail, Oak Ridge Trail, and Blackjack Ridge Trail.
Bundle up against the cold by dressing in layers. Wear comfortable hiking shoes that are suited to the diverse terrain you will encounter.
Drinking water and snacks are recommended.
Toronto Lake's crisp, clear waters are chock full of fish that ripe for the catching. You can fish directly from the banks of the lake or travel out into the depths of the water in your canoe or kayak. Some of the most popular fish species found here are crappie, walleye, wiper, and bass.
Come dressed for cooler conditions by dressing in layers. A thermos of hot coffee would never go amiss, but you will also need drinking water to ensure your hydration needs are met.
