South Lake Park

Park Overview

Nestled in Overland Park, South Lake Park spans 14 acres of green space ideal for anyone looking to escape the daily grind. At the heart of this shared escape sits a picturesque lake, complete with floating wetlands that do double duty - they look pretty and help keep the water clean while creating habitats for local critters.

Keep your eyes peeled and you might spot ducks, geese, turtles, and if you're lucky, majestic blue herons gliding across the water. Just a heads-up though - while the lake is gorgeous to look at, you'll need to admire it from a distance as swimming and water contact aren't allowed due to algae blooms. Safety first!

Recreation Opportunities

Looking to cast a line? The park offers fishing piers for anglers (just don't forget your fishing license). Locals report reeling in catfish, bluegill, crappie, and even spotting some surprisingly large goldfish swimming about.

For those who prefer staying on dry land, the 0.42-mile loop trail circling the lake offers a fantastic pathway for walking, jogging, or biking. The paved route comes with plenty of benches along the way, so you can take a breather whenever you need one.

Want to mix up your exercise routine? Check out the fitness stations scattered along the trail - they're fantastic for adding some variety to your workout. Basketball enthusiasts can shoot some hoops at two half-courts available on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Family-Friendly Amenities

If you're bringing the little ones, they'll love the modern playground equipped with all the classics - slides and swings - plus some cool climbing structures and spinning equipment suitable for kids of different ages. Parents will appreciate the soft padded surface underneath, designed to cushion inevitable tumbles.

Hungry after all that play? Scattered across the park are picnic tables, some sheltered from the elements, along with charcoal grills and even a fire pit for those who want to cook up something tasty. Don't worry about finding a spot - there are plenty of grassy areas under shade trees excellent for spreading out a blanket.

When nature calls, clean public restrooms and drinking fountains are conveniently available year-round.

Wildlife and Nature

One of the park's simple joys is its abundance of wildlife. The lake attracts numerous waterfowl, with geese and ducks making regular appearances. During certain seasons, the floating islands bloom with flowers, adding splashes of color to the landscape.

Fall is particularly magical here, as the trees put on their autumn show, creating frame-worthy scenes at every turn. Beyond the water birds, you might spot chipmunks and squirrels darting about as they go about their busy days.

And don't worry about parking - there's plenty of space available close to all the main attractions.

No matter if you're looking for a peaceful morning walk, a place to let the kids burn off energy, or just a quiet spot to reconnect with nature, South Lake Park is a well-maintained space where you can enjoy nature in a community setting.