Map of Lovewell Reservoir, Kansas
bordeveloped sitekansas

Lovewell Reservoir

Bureau of Reclamation · Kansas

data verified May 2026 (1 day ago)

Overview

Lovewell Reservoir is a developed BOR recreation site in Kansas near the Nebraska border. It operates as part of the Pick-Sloan Missouri Basin Project and serves as an irrigation supply reservoir. BOR campgrounds are typically fee-based, so check costs and reservation requirements with the BOR office before arrival.

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The reservoir spans nearly 3,000 water surface acres with 44 miles of shoreline. Woodlands and water attract significant bird activity. You may see five species of woodpeckers, Baltimore Orioles, and possibly Black-billed Magpies in wooded areas near the campgrounds. Migrating waterfowl pass through in large numbers during spring and fall, making it a notable stopover for birdwatchers.

The site has historical character. An old schoolhouse now serves as a summer church. A cemetery dating to the 1860s is open to visitors. You can walk the grounds if you wish. Lodging options exist in nearby Mankato, Kansas and Superior, Nebraska for those who prefer services beyond camping.

Fishing is available year-round. The reservoir holds walleye, white bass, wiper, crappie, freshwater drum, carp, and channel and flathead catfish. Public hunting for deer, waterfowl, and upland game is also permitted. The reservoir experiences moderate water-level fluctuations tied to irrigation demands. Shoreline access may vary seasonally.

The reservoir operates 24 hours. Access roads are rated fair. The site is open to the public. Specific campground amenities and fees require direct confirmation with the BOR office. Current rules, fees, and reservation policies change. Contact the BOR office before arrival. Data verified May 2026.

Plan your visit

  • Shelter type
    Developed site
  • Stay limit
    Verify with agency
  • Fee
    Free
  • Best for
    RV and tent camping

Access

drive-in
regular vehicle access
walk-in
short walk from parking
hike-in
backcountry, multi-hour trek

Features

for campers
  • toiletsunknown
  • potable waterunknown
  • fire ringsunknown
  • picnic tablesunknown
  • trash serviceunknown
for vehicles
  • dump stationunknown
  • hookupsunknown
  • pull-through sitesunknown
  • rv length infounknown
  • paved accessunknown
Bureau of Reclamation camping rules
reservoir-area camping rules, usually fee-based.

Conditions and access

coordinates
39.90314, -98.04306
AgencyBureau of Reclamationreported May 2026TypeDeveloped sitereported May 2026StateKansasreported May 2026

Nearby sites

no nearby sites indexed yet.

drive time from nearby cities

drive times from KS cities populate once the mapbox directions ingest runs in phase d. expect 5 nearest cities within 250 miles.

Questions about Lovewell Reservoir

Is camping at Lovewell Reservoir free?
No. Lovewell Reservoir is a BOR developed site, and BOR campgrounds are typically fee-based. Contact the BOR office for current fees and whether reservations are required.
How long can you camp at Lovewell Reservoir?
Stay limits at BOR reservoir sites vary by location and season. Check with the BOR office for the specific stay limit at Lovewell Reservoir campgrounds.
Do you need a reservation to camp at Lovewell Reservoir?
Most BOR developed campgrounds require reservations, but policies vary by site. Contact the BOR office to verify whether Lovewell Reservoir accepts walk-ups or requires advance booking.
Is Lovewell Reservoir open year-round?
The reservoir operates 24 hours and fishing is available year-round. Campground facilities and access may be seasonal. Contact the BOR office to confirm camping availability during your planned visit.
What is the road condition at Lovewell Reservoir?
Access roads are rated fair. Standard vehicles should be able to reach the site. Check current conditions with the BOR before arrival, especially in poor weather.
Can you fish at Lovewell Reservoir?
Yes. Fishing is open year-round at Lovewell Reservoir. Species include walleye, white bass, wiper, crappie, freshwater drum, carp, and channel and flathead catfish. Public hunting for deer, waterfowl, and upland game is also allowed.

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