Marion Reservoir, reservoir on the Cottonwood River in Marion County, Kansas, United States

Marion Reservoir is a body of water on the Cottonwood River about 3 miles north-west of Marion, on the western edge of the Flint Hills. Its embankment dam was closed in October 1967 and the project entered full flood control operation in February 1968. A two-lane paved road runs along the top of the dam, and four parks line the shore: Cottonwood Point, Hillsboro Cove, Marion Cove and French Creek Cove.

The reservoir was created in the 1960s when a dam was built on the Cottonwood River to manage flooding and provide a reliable water supply to the surrounding area. As the years passed, the site grew into a recreation area with campgrounds and boat ramps added to serve the growing number of visitors.

On weekends, the reservoir draws families and anglers from nearby towns who gather along the shoreline to fish, picnic, and spend time outdoors. Fishing is a regular part of life here, and catfish, crappie, and walleye are the main targets for most local anglers.

The reservoir is easy to reach by car, with signs pointing toward the dam, campgrounds, and fishing areas along the way. Reserving a campsite in advance is a good idea on weekends and holidays, as spots fill up quickly during warmer months.

Underwater structures like habitat cubes and brush piles have been placed at known spots throughout the lake to give fish places to hide and breed. Maps of these locations are available to visitors, making it easier to target specific areas rather than searching blindly across the water.