Horsethief Campground — Historic Lake Scott State Park

Hidden within the western Kansas prairie, Lake Scott State Park is a startling oasis of natural springs, deep wooded canyons, and craggy bluffs. A 100 acre spring fed lake created by a dam constructed in 1930 is nestled among the picturesque hills. Groves of hackberry, ash, elm, willow, walnut, and cedar trees compliment the bank and several majestic cottonwoods as old as the lake also accent the area. Rich in history and scenic splendor,Lake Scott State Park provides a perfect recreational setting for swimming, canoeing, camping, hiking, biking, fishing, and wildlife observation.

You must be 18 or older to rent a cabin or campsite.

• Due to extremely dry conditions of Western Kansas, a fireban may be implemented during certain times of the year. Please observe the fire ban notices at the park entrances or contact the park office for updates.
• Subject to regulations and posted notices, any individual over 21 may possess, consume, or drink alcoholic liquor. Kegs and party balls are strictly prohibited.
• Electric and gas powered scooters and skateboards cannot be operated in the state park. ATV use is prohibited in the state park.
• Camping is allowed only in designated areas and is subject to restrictions as posted. All campers and camping units are limited to a stay of not more than 14 consecutive days although a 14-day extension may be obtained with written permission from the park manager. A five-day absence is required before returning to the park to camp again. Any property left unused or unoccupied for 48 hours is subject to removal. Only one camper/RV per utility site is allowed.
• Fires are allowed in fireplaces, fire rings, and cooking grills only. Fires must be completely extinguished prior to leaving the area.
• Swimming is allowed in designated areas. Liquor and beer are prohibited on swimming beaches or in waters designated by buoys or other markers as swimming areas. For other beverages, only shatterproof containers are allowed.
• Pets must always be restrained by a camper, cage, hand-held leash, or tethered chain no longer than 10 feet. They are not allowed on swimming beaches or swimming areas that are delineated by buoys or other markers or in public buildings or structures. Dogs participating in authorized activities or assisting the visually or hearing impaired are not subject to these restrictions.
• Fishing is prohibited on boat ramps, courtesy docks, swimming beaches, and in swimming areas marked with buoys. In state parks, fish may only be cleaned at designated fish cleaning stations or other locations as posted.
• Digging holes, removing or defacing geological formations, archeological relics or ruins, or vegetation (except for noncommercial use of edible wild plants, wild fruits, nuts, or fungi) is prohibited.
• Quiet hours are 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. Actions which alarm, anger, or disturb others are prohibited. Generators can not be used during quiet hours. Failure to comply may result in expulsion from the park.
• Firearms may only be discharged in areas specifically designated for hunting or target practice.
• DUMPING OF GREY WATER IS PROHIBITED. Grey water must be disposed of at the dump station.
• Cabin renters may check in after 3:00pm and check out by Noon everyday, year round. Smoking is not allowed in cabins. Pets and pet carriers are not allowed inside or on the porches of cabins. Cabin renters are not allowed to grill or cook from the porch deck. The cabin must be clean prior to departure. Cabin renters shall be responsible for full payment of any damages incurred during the length of stay. Damages will be billed to the renter for payment.
• ** Information in this brochure has been prepared as a guide, not a complete list of regulations. Complete regulations may also be viewed and printed online at ksoutdoors.com/State-Parks/Park-Regulations. **