Waconda Lake, reservoir in Kansas, named for the inundated spring
Waconda Lake is a large reservoir in Kansas managed as part of Glen Elder State Park. The lake spans thousands of acres with a marina, multiple campgrounds ranging from primitive to full hookups, rental cabins, and several walking trails that explore the surrounding wildlife area.
The lake was created in the 1960s when a dam was built across the Solomon River to control flooding. The water covered Waconda Springs, a mineral-rich spring that held spiritual importance for many Native American tribes for centuries and later attracted people seeking health treatments.
The name Waconda comes from Native American tribes who considered the spring a sacred place. Today, visitors can learn about this cultural significance at the replica site and in the heritage areas of the park.
The park is located about 5 miles east of Cawker City and is easily accessible by car. Visitors should plan visits between May and September for the most comfortable weather and water activities, though the area is open year-round and attracts eagles during winter months.
A highlight is the replica of the original Waconda Springs that visitors can view to learn about the mineral spring now submerged beneath the water. The park also preserves the historic Hopewell Church built in 1878 by early settlers, which was relocated to the park in 1994 as part of the heritage village.
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