STATE PARKS GEAR UP FOR NEW SEASON

April marks beginning of active park visitation;
visitors reminded that off-season permits available through March 31
PRATT -- To enhance your Kansas state park visit, park staff conduct a variety of special events throughout the state. Some events are in conjunction with Free Park Entrance Days, some celebrate a special historical event or geological attribute of an individual park, and others are just for entertainment. Each park sets its own dates for these events. And visiting a state park has never been more affordable. As March comes to a close, park visitors are reminded that off-season permits at reduced prices are available through March 31.

Events are diverse and may include anything from a marathon race to boating courses and equestrian events. Many are educational and all make visiting Kansas state parks more. For more information on state park events, phone individual parks or click the "Event Calendar" on the "State Parks" page of the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks website, www.kdwp.state.ks.us.

Park goers are urged to phone the park they intend to visit before traveling. Telephone numbers of all state parks offices may be found on the KDWP website. Click "State Parks" at the top of the page, then "Locations" in the left-hand column.

The following is a list of events for April:

  • April 19-20 -- Free Park Entrance Day, Kanopolis State Park;
  • April 19-20 -- Angling Nebraska bass tournament, Cedar Bluff State Park;
  • April 19 -- OK Kids Day, Lovewell State Park;
  • April 26 -- Backlashers Bass Club fishing tournament, Perry State Park;
  • April 26-27 -- Rainbow Meadows Equine Rescue and Retirement, Inc., competitive horse trail ride, Perry State Park;
  • April 26-27 -- Bikers Against Child Abuse fundraiser ride and campout, Eisenhower State Park; and
  • April 27 - Kansas Walleye Association fishing tournament, Wilson State Park.

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