The reservoir was constructed
by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers as a multi-purpose (flood control, water supply and
recreational) project. It was completed in June of 1981. The reservoir has approximately
98 miles of shoreline. The average depth of the reservoir is 19 feet.
The lower half
of the lake has steep, rocky shorelines. Approximately half of the timber in the reservoir
basin was left standing. Much of the timber that was clear-cut below existing city lakes
was stacked into piles and rows to serve as fish attractors. These fish attractors are
anchored in areas where water depths range from 6 to 18 feet. The standing timber and fish
attractors are marked with buoys for easy location.
This
beautiful Flint Hills park offers 1,100 campsites (including cabins), five shelter houses,
two swimming beaches, a modern marina, and a large amphitheater with an indoor-outdoor
stage. Squirrels, rabbits, songbirds, and other wildlife can be seen in the park, and the
wildlife area boasts good populations of game species such as wild turkey, prairie
chicken, quail, geese, and deer. Bald eagles also nest on the area.
The U.S.
Army Corps of Engineers has granted responsibility to the Kansas Department of Wildlife
and Parks to manage the fisheries and wildlife resources of the area. The wildlife
resources are leased by the Corps of Engineers and managed by the Kansas Department of
Wildlife and Parks. For your convenience you can RENT-A-CAMP. For $15 the Eldorado State
Park crew sets up a tent for you! The campsite includes tent, cots, cooler, Coleman stove
and lantern with fuel.
