Save
You must be signed in to save park lists.
Your Park Lists
add New List
Add Photo
You must be signed in to add photos.
state route ranger badge
Kansas
56

Kansas State Parks

responsive menu icon
USA Parks
Kansas
Northeast Kansas Region
Rocky Ford State Fishing Area
Western Meadow Lark © stateparks.com
Western Meadow Lark
Cool Swim © stateparks.com
Search
Availability
Calendars
Availability Search
ROCKY FORD STATE FISHING AREA
ROCKY FORD STATE FISHING AREA
Land Acquisition: Rocky Ford Fishing Area was donated to the Department of Wildlife and Parks through Wildtrust from Kansas Power and Light, a division of Western Resources in 1967. Before the settlers came, Native Americans used this site as a river crossing. The flat rock bottom made the crossing safe under normal conditions. The ford was used by pioneers for many years and a grist(flour) mill was operated that served the community. The mill was converted to a power dam, built by Rocky Ford Power Company in the early 1900s. The hollow dam was also used by employees to get to and from work, from company-owned housing on the west side of the Big Blue River to the power plant on the east bank. In 1988, a retaining wall with a walkway was constructed below the dam, improving angler habitat and access below the dam.

Area Description: This area is a combination fishing and recreational area. Primary fish species include Channel Catfish, Flathead Catfish, Walleye and White Bass.

Since this area is directly downstream from the Tuttle Creek Reservoir, high outflows and flooding may occur. Be aware of rising water and vacate the area if sirens sound, signaling a change in outflows.

During the winter, this is a good area to view Bald Eagles and migrating waterfowl.




Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
write a review
Share On

Nearby Hotels
Booking.com

Directions
Rocky Ford Fishing is located 1.5 miles north of Manhattan on Highway 24, east 1.5 miles on Barnes Road, then west 1 mile on Rocky Ford Road to the fishing area.

state route ranger badge
Kansas
56

Kansas State Parks

X