Historic Lake Scott State Park

About

Historic Lake Scott State Park sits in the rugged canyons of western Kansas, an unexpected oasis of springs and timber rising from the High Plains. The 1,120-acre park centers on Lake Scott, a clear spring-fed lake stocked with largemouth bass, catfish, crappie, and trout. Established in 1928 following a land donation by the Herbert Steele family, the park preserves both natural beauty and significant history, including the Steele Home Museum and El Cuartelejo pueblo ruins. El Cuartelejo is the only documented Indian pueblo in Kansas, built around 1664 by Taos Indians who fled Spanish colonial rule. Excavated in 1970 and designated a National Historic Landmark, the reconstructed seven-room pueblo foundations are open for public viewing. The park also features the original Steele homestead, a four-room sandstone house with period furnishings. Camping options include 55 utility sites with 50-amp electric and water hookups, plus over 100 primitive sites spread across multiple loops including Circle Drive, Lakeview, Timber Canyon, and Horsecamp. Three modern shower buildings serve the campgrounds, along with vault toilets throughout. A swimming beach, playground, nature trails for hiking and horseback riding, fishing piers, and seasonal watercraft rentals round out the amenities.

Directions

From US-83, exit onto K-95 and proceed 3 miles north to the park entrance. The park is located approximately 11 miles north of Scott City.