Big Hill Lake - Kansas Beaches

Big Hill Lake
Corps of Engineers, Pearson-Skubitz Big Hill Lake
Phone: (620) 336-2741 Fax: (620) 336-3903
P.O. Box 426
Cherryvale, Kansas 67335

Welcome to Kansas' "Little Ozarks"!

Come and visit one of the clearest lakes in Kansas. Big Hill Lake is considered a trophy fishing lake and is well known by many fisherman. Visitors wanting to come and enjoy any water activities, this is the place to go!

Big Hill Lake is located about 5 miles east of Cherryvale, Kansas. There are three campgrounds, three equestrian trail heads, and four day use areas for the public to enjoy operated by the Corps of Engineers. Camping, picnicking, horseback riding, hiking, swimming, fishing, and other outdoor activities are just a few that can be enjoyed at Big Hill Lake.

Facilities available at these areas include designated campsites both with and without electricity, group picnic and camping areas, primitive camping areas, potable water, sanitary facilities, boat launching ramps, a playground, ball field and a swimming beach with a change house. Camping fees are collected at all of the park areas and a day use fee is collected for the beach and boat ramps. More detailed information regarding the fee program can be obtained at the project office.

Other features of the lake include the Big Hill Lake Horse Trail. This trail is 17 miles long and provides a variety of terrain for all ages to enjoy. The trail winds along a scenic hardwood ridge that offers gorgeous views all along the way. It also offers tethering areas and three parking areas which are equipped with limited facilities and may be used for overnight camping by trail riders. Various species of wildlife can be seen throughout the hike of the trail, so come and enjoy all that nature can offer.

There is also the Ruth Nixon Memorial Trail that follows a trail of bluebird houses set out in honor of Ruth Nixon. This trail is about one mile in length and offers many wildlife viewing opportunities, and spectacular scenery all along the way.

Due to stocking, fish shelters, and leaving large areas of timber and other vegetation standing, Big Hill has developed into one of the most productive and popular fishing spots in the area. Principal species of sport fish include largemouth bass, crappie, channel and flathead catfish, bluegill, walleye and smallmouth bass. Big Hill is also a popular spot for fishing tournaments. To schedule a fishing tournament, contact the Project Office at 620-336-2741. An application will need to be filled out for each tournament. For more information and regulations on limits, contact the Big Hill Project Office.

With Big Hill being one of the clearest lakes in Kansas, our alcohol-free sand-covered beach has become a popular spot for cooling off from the summer heat and enjoying a family picnic.

Almost all project lands are open to public hunting, except for the parks, around the dam and control structures. Principal species hunted are whitetail deer, turkey, and squirrel. A hunting map and regulations are available at the project office. State laws and regulations also apply on public hunting areas.

To make reservations before you come, you can log onto Recreation.gov and click on the park, or call the National Recreation Reservation System at 1-877-444-6777. There are only limited sites available for reservation.

The staff here at Big Hill Lake want you to have a safe and enjoyable visit! We hope you come to see us soon. Point of contact:

Mound Valley Gate House - (620) 328-2050