COOPER HAWK AFTER BUSH BIRDS

Toronto Lake Recreation

Fishing and Hunting

Toronto Lake is a fisherman's paradise with an abundance of some of the largest white bass in the world!  Other sport fish in the lake include black and white crappie, largemouth bass, channel catfish, bluegill and other sunfish species, flathead catfish, walleye and freshwater drum.

Project lands are open for public hunting, except for developed recreation areas and lands in the vicinity of the dam and other project structures.  Principal wildlife species in the area include bobwhite quail, squirrel, cottontail rabbit, deer, morning dove, ducks, geese and greater prairie chicken.

Duck Island and the upper half of the lake totaling 4,366 acres (including both land and water areas) have been licensed to the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks.  The area is managed primarily for public hunting of upland game, waterfowl and deer.  Both hunting and fishing are in accordance with state laws.

Camping and Picnicking

Five park areas are available within the Cross Timbers State Park at Toronto Lake for camping and picnicking enjoyment.  Available facilities include boat ramps, picnic tables, campsites, swimming beaches and sanitary facilities.  Camping areas for full RV hookups, group camping areas and primitive camping is available.   

Boating

For boating enthusiasts there are approximately 2,800 acres of lake surface for an enjoyable outdoor experience.  Boating on the lake is in accordance with Kansas State boating laws and Corps of Engineers regulations.  Operate your boat in a controlled safe manner at all times.

Sightseeing

Toronto Lake is located in the scenic valley of the Verdigris River in southern Kansas.  Upon arrival at the lake, visitors will be impressed with the dam structure itself.  The lake is surrounded by oak, cottonwood, elm and other tree species common to the area.  The gently rolling terrain gradually slopes to the water's edge creating a scenic shoreline.  This picturesque setting is an open invitation to the visitor for picnicking, camping, hiking and other outdoor recreation.  For birdwatchers there are many species of birds native to the area to enjoy.  

Swimming

Cross Timbers State Park has one designated swimming area located with the Toronto Point Area.

Trails

Five trails are located within the park system.  All trails are open to travel by foot for walking, hiking and backpacking.  Four of these trails are also open to non-motorized uses including jogging and mountain biking.  The Ancient Oaks Trail is open to hiking only and is a self-guided interpretive trail.  This trail has educational plaques that describe the age of each tree and outstanding historical events in North America and the United States that occurred at the same time each tree was a seedling.