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Waconda Lake
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Cawker City and Waconda Lake (also known as Glen Elder Reservoir) is very visitor friendly. The many miles that surround the lake offer camping, boating, hunting, and fishing areas that are easily accessed from various locations. Most specifically, Glen Elder State Park located along the northeast corner of the lake, just 5 miles east of Cawker City, provides all types of facilities including toilets and both primitive and modern camping hookups (electricity & water). A marina a and fish cleaning station are also available.
One of the Kansas' premier hunting and fishing locations, the Glen Elder Wildlife Area consists of 13,000 land acres and 12,586 water acres. The lake and area are rich in history and legend which extend into the lake's namesake -- Waconda. Becoming familiar with Waconda's heritage will enrich your visit. No matter what your desire, our back yard will satisfy you with many memorable outdoor experiences. |
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Based on both fact and legend, Waconda Lake inherited its name from a well-known, historical site named Waconda Springs. The Springs was located about half-way between Glen Elder and Cawker City, 3/4 of a mile south of old U.S. Highway 24. This natural occurring mineral springs was an interesting attraction on the plains of north central Kansas.
Its pool basin was set in a 300-foot-wide mound rising 40 feet above the surrounding Solomon River Valley. The Spring's pool was 50 feet in diameter and 15 feet deep, although the myth suggests that the pool was bottomless. The water contained calcium, magnesium, iron, silica, sodium chloride, sulfate, and bicarbonate. Geologists thought that the mound was formed by the deposits of minerals forced up by artesian pressure deep underground.
The Springs from which legend evolved, was a highly esteemed ceremonial gathering place sacred to the plains Indians. Later, it became a health resort for settlers and local residents until Lake Waconda covered the site.
Its pool basin was set in a 300-foot-wide mound rising 40 feet above the surrounding Solomon River Valley. The Spring's pool was 50 feet in diameter and 15 feet deep, although the myth suggests that the pool was bottomless. The water contained calcium, magnesium, iron, silica, sodium chloride, sulfate, and bicarbonate. Geologists thought that the mound was formed by the deposits of minerals forced up by artesian pressure deep underground.
The Springs from which legend evolved, was a highly esteemed ceremonial gathering place sacred to the plains Indians. Later, it became a health resort for settlers and local residents until Lake Waconda covered the site.
