Perry State Park sits along the eastern shores of Perry Reservoir in Jefferson County, Kansas, just outside the small town of Ozawkie. Established in 1968, the park has quietly become one of northeast Kansas’s most beloved outdoor destinations, earning a 4.5-star rating from over 640 visitors.

What draws people here is the reservoir itself — a 12,600-acre lake built by the Army Corps of Engineers on the Delaware River. The shoreline is rugged and varied, with rocky bluffs giving way to sheltered coves that make for excellent fishing. Crappie, walleye, white bass, and channel catfish are the main catches, and the lake consistently ranks among the state’s top fishing waters. If you’d rather be on the water than waiting for a bite, the park offers boat ramps and designated swimming areas along its sandy beaches.

Beyond the water, Perry State Park features miles of multi-use trails winding through tallgrass prairie and stands of oak and hickory. Hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders share the paths, with wildflower displays peaking in late spring and early summer. Birders will find the park productive year-round, particularly during fall migration when the reservoir draws waterfowl by the thousands.

The best window for visiting runs from late April through October, when the lake is warm enough for swimming and the campgrounds are fully operational. Spring weekdays offer the most solitude, while summer weekends fill up fast — reserve ahead if you’re planning an overnight stay.

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