It’s sadly reality that Kansas is miles and miles away from the closest ocean. However, that doesn’t mean that there’s no hope for those of us who want to experience a relaxing day by the water. This lake in particular has a great sandy beach area for you to enjoy and even build on. Why not spend a day at this beautiful lake with your toes in the sand? It’s only a drive away.

Welcome to the beautiful and underrated Glen Elder State Park.

J C/Google The wildlife area encompasses about 13 thousand acres of land, and Waconda Lake itself is 12 thousand acres.

It’s a beautiful place to camp, fish, explore, or just relax for a while by the water.

Glen Elder State Park - Kansas Wildlife, Parks & Tourism Facebook Whether you’re here for a day or a week, you’ll find that its the perfect blend between empty and populated. You’ve got people to talk to, but plenty of space to be alone.

Speaking of the lake, its most beautiful point is every evening at sunset.

cory mccart/Google Spending the day at the lake isn’t as cool as the ocean, but we’ve got everything you need for a great time at our version of a beach.

We’ve got sand!

Steven Rodriquez/Flickr This white sand beach along the lakeside is the perfect place to relax, play, or construct something while the water laps the shore.

Having fun in the sun while you play in the sand is something a lot of Kansans miss out on, which is why this is the perfect place to visit when you want to build a castle.

ksoutdoors At least the waves won’t wash it away! However, most of the beach area is rocky, and full of little lizards and toads that like to stay just out of reach. The sand is only part of this amazing lake!

At the end of the day, this beautiful lake and state park are a good place to feel more connected with home.

Jamie Giron/Google After all, there’s nothing a Kansan loves more than our wind, our sunsets, and a day full of adventure.

Glen Elder is located at 2131 180 Rd., Glen Elder, KS. It’s northwest of Salina, right next to Cawker City and the giant ball of twine!

J C/Google

The wildlife area encompasses about 13 thousand acres of land, and Waconda Lake itself is 12 thousand acres.

Glen Elder State Park - Kansas Wildlife, Parks & Tourism Facebook

Whether you’re here for a day or a week, you’ll find that its the perfect blend between empty and populated. You’ve got people to talk to, but plenty of space to be alone.

cory mccart/Google

Spending the day at the lake isn’t as cool as the ocean, but we’ve got everything you need for a great time at our version of a beach.

Steven Rodriquez/Flickr

This white sand beach along the lakeside is the perfect place to relax, play, or construct something while the water laps the shore.

ksoutdoors

At least the waves won’t wash it away! However, most of the beach area is rocky, and full of little lizards and toads that like to stay just out of reach. The sand is only part of this amazing lake!

Jamie Giron/Google

After all, there’s nothing a Kansan loves more than our wind, our sunsets, and a day full of adventure.

If you love time at the lake, you’ll want to make sure that your favorite spot isn’t contaminated right now. Check out our piece on these slimy Kansas lakes and which ones to avoid!

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