Crawford State Park - Kansas Wildlife & Parks

06/17/2026

The Kansas Wildlife and Parks Commission serves in an advisory capacity to the Governor and Secretary in formulating policies and plans of the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks.

06/06/2026

Today’s the day 🎣

It’s the start of Free Fishing Days in Kansas!

That means:
✔ No fishing license needed today or tomorrow (June 6–7). All other fishing regulations still apply.

Grab your fishing poles, pack some snacks, and enjoy a day fishing.

👉 Where are you headed today?

05/21/2026

BBQ ON THE LAKE🍗

Who remembers last years BBQ competition? It is now back again this year and here is some information regarding the event! When we have more information we will post it on our page so be sure to check often!

Date: September 26, 2026
Check-in for meats: 8:30-9:00a
Cooks Meeting: 9:15a
Turn in for Grilled Cheese: 2:00p
Turn in for Chicken 3:00p
Turn in for Ribs: 4:00p
Award Ceremony: 5:30p

Send a message to learn more

05/15/2026

05/15/2026

What's That Weigh Wednesday! This is probably what folks were picturing when they chose Channel Catfish as the state fish of Kansas. How much do you think this 27 inch Channel Catfish weighs?

Last week's White Crappie weighed 2.00 pounds.

05/15/2026

What's That Weigh Wednesday! Cyprinus carpio is the scientific name for the Common Carp. It is thought to be an ode to Kypris (a.k.a. Venus), the goddess of love, because of the carp's ability to have a tremendous amount of eggs. How much do you think this 29" Common Carp weighs?

Last week's Largemouth Bass weighed 5.13 pounds

05/13/2026

This dog was found near the Park office. If you are missing a furry family member, it has been taken to the Girard Animal Hospital.

04/29/2026

Spring is blooming across Kansas.

April is one of the best times to spot early wildflowers before the prairie grasses grow tall. If you’re walking trails in Kansas State Parks or Wildlife Areas, keep an eye out for:
🌸 Spring Beauty – small pink-striped flowers often found in wooded areas
💜 Wild Violets – bright purple blooms along trails and forest edges
🌼 Prairie Phlox – clusters of pink or purple flowers on open prairie
🔵 Virginia Bluebells – bell-shaped flowers that thrive in moist woodland areas

Many of these early blooms can be found along trails in Kansas State Parks and Wildlife Areas where native prairie and woodland habitats are protected.

Remember: look, photograph, and leave them for others to enjoy.

🌿 Explore Kansas State Parks and find a trail near you:
https://ksoutdoors.gov/StateParks

Where have you spotted wildflowers this spring? 👇

04/29/2026

04/25/2026

Before you head out on the water, make sure safety is part of the plan.

Kansas law requires:
✔ A U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jacket must be available for every person on board
✔ Children 12 and under must wear a life jacket at all times while on board, even when anchored

Life jackets only work if they’re worn. Unexpected weather, cold water, or sudden waves can turn a normal outing into an emergency quickly.

As the weather gets warmer, now is a great time to check your gear and refresh your boating safety habits.

🌊 Learn more about Kansas boating laws and safety tips:
https://ksoutdoors.gov/Boating

Who’s getting the boat ready for spring? 👇