Colder weather buttons down some facilities during winter; all parks open

Kansas state parks began their off-season on Oct. 1, and it runs through March 31. During this time, many state parks cut down on services although all parks remain open. Hours and services vary among individual parks. Most park offices are open 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday but are closed on holidays.

In addition, most unheated toilets and shower buildings with running water are shut down for the cold season. Most heated buildings remain open through the regular firearms hunting seasons, and some remain open year-round. While drinkable water is available at each park headquarters all year, water is shut off at campgrounds and day-use areas that are prone to freezing pipes.

Most parks have some drinkable water available at freeze-proof valves in campgrounds into late November or early December, depending on the weather. Electricity is available year-round. Each park remains open for off-season park visitors, although some campgrounds may be closed. Some boat ramps across the state may be closed or only usable by shallow-draft boats.

For details, consult individual park locations at the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks website, or by telephoning individual parks.

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