Perry State Park
Kansas’ 40-Mile Trail Network — Mountain Biking, Equestrian & Lake Recreation on Perry Reservoir
Perry State Park occupies the southwestern shores of the 12,500-acre Perry Reservoir in northeast Kansas, about 25 miles northeast of Topeka. While Kansas isn’t typically associated with mountain biking or trail riding, Perry State Park has built a trail network exceeding 40 miles that’s earned a legitimate reputation among Midwest mountain bikers and equestrians — with over 20 miles of technical singletrack through hardwood forests and bluffs, plus 25 miles of dedicated equestrian trails.
The lake itself provides full-service water recreation — boating, fishing (crappie and channel catfish are the stars), swimming beach, and two boat ramps. With over 300 campsites across 11 campgrounds, four rental cabins, and an adjacent 11,000-acre wildlife area popular for waterfowl hunting and birding, Perry offers the kind of large-scale outdoor recreation infrastructure that makes it a genuine multi-day destination, not a quick stop.
Things to Do
Mountain Biking
Perry’s 20+ miles of mountain biking singletrack wind through hardwood forests and along bluffs overlooking the reservoir. Trails are generally rated moderate to difficult and are highly regarded for their design and variety. This is one of the best mountain biking destinations in Kansas.
Horseback Riding
The park’s 25 miles of equestrian trails traverse upland forest habitats and are also open to hikers. The rolling terrain provides a pleasant riding experience through canopy-covered paths — a different Kansas than the open prairie stereotype.
Fishing & Boating
- Target species: Crappie, channel catfish, largemouth bass, white bass, walleye
- Facilities: Two boat ramps with courtesy docks; fish cleaning stations
- Boating: Motorized boats, jet skis, catamarans, kayaking, and canoeing welcome
Swimming
A designated swimming beach with beach house provides lake access for swimmers. The beach is typically open 6 AM – 9 PM during summer season.
Hunting & Wildlife
The adjacent 11,000-acre Perry Wildlife Area features extensive wetlands and is a major destination for waterfowl hunting (particularly in fall). Year-round birding is productive, with wetland species, raptors, and songbirds throughout.
Trails
| Trail System | Distance | Difficulty | Use | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mountain Bike Trails | 20+ mi | Moderate–Difficult | MTB/Hike | Technical singletrack; hardwood forest; bluff overlooks |
| Equestrian Trails | 25 mi | Easy–Moderate | Horse/Hike | Upland forest; canopy-covered; rolling terrain |
Camping
| Type | Sites | Amenities |
|---|---|---|
| Electric/Water Sites | 102 | Electric & water hookups; shower houses; dump stations |
| Primitive Sites | 200+ | Basic facilities; fire rings; multiple campground locations |
| Cabins | 4 (1 ADA) | Fully furnished; bring own food/bedding/toiletries; reservable |
| Group Shelters | Available | Reservable shelter houses for groups |
Note: Campsites are first-come, first-served — no advance reservation for tent/RV sites. Cabins can be reserved by calling the park office at 785-246-3449.
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Highlights | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (Apr–May) | ⭐ Crappie fishing peak; green trails; wildflowers; pleasant riding temps | Muddy trails after rain; mosquitoes near wetlands |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | Swimming beach; full lake activities; long days for trails; boating | Hot and humid; arrive early for campsites on weekends |
| Fall (Sep–Nov) | ⭐ Best trail conditions; waterfowl hunting; foliage; cooling temps | Hunting season — wear orange on wildlife area trails |
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | Winter fishing; solitude; wildlife area birding; uncrowded trails | Cold; some facilities closed; shorter days |
Visitor Tips
- Trail conditions: Mountain bike trails can become slick and muddy after rain. Check conditions before riding — riding on wet trails damages the trail surface.
- Equestrian parking: Horse trailer parking is available at designated trailheads. The 25-mile equestrian system is well-maintained and separate from the mountain bike trails where they diverge.
- Waterfowl hunting: The 11,000-acre wildlife area is a premier Kansas waterfowl hunting destination. Kansas hunting license and applicable stamps required. Check Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks for season dates.
- First-come camping: Arrive early on summer weekends and holidays — the 102 hookup sites fill first. The 200+ primitive sites provide overflow, but have fewer amenities.
- Location: The park is near Ozawkie, Kansas — about 25 miles from Topeka and 60 miles from Kansas City.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you mountain bike at Perry State Park?
Yes — Perry State Park offers over 20 miles of mountain biking singletrack through hardwood forests and along reservoir bluffs. The trails are rated moderate to difficult and are considered one of the best mountain biking networks in Kansas. Trails may close after rain to prevent surface damage — check conditions before riding.
Can you reserve campsites at Perry State Park?
Tent and RV campsites at Perry State Park are first-come, first-served and cannot be reserved in advance. The park has over 300 total sites, including 102 with electric and water hookups. The four rental cabins can be reserved by calling the park office at 785-246-3449. Arrive early on weekends and holidays, especially during summer.
Last updated: April 2026
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