Lake Atwood in Atwood, Kansas, courtesy of Google Maps.
Lake Atwood, located in Rawlins County, Kansas, provides recreation, camping, hiking, and fishing. Surrounded by a wonderful cottonwood shade lane, the 43-acre lake was created in the Dust Bowl days of the 1930s, when the City of Atwood accepted federal money from the government to put people to work constructing a man-made dam and lake.
Beaver Creek had carved a significant valley, and dams on the creek formed the lake. The lure of jobs and stability drew people away from Ludell, Kansas, and into the city limits of Atwood. In one account, a farm hand was making 75¢ per day working for a local farmer. When the construction of Lake Atwood began, workers were offered $1.00 per day, free room and board, and free clothing. Additionally, they were guaranteed work and would not be laid off during the winter months, unlike many farmers who often let go of day laborers.
Today, the lake is encircled by a lighted walking path with a unique covered walking bridge. Magnificent old cottonwood trees, shaded campsites, and picnic areas surround the Lake. Visitors enjoy walking, fishing, canoeing, and camper hookups, and bathroom and shower facilities are available. Anglers enjoy catching Bluegill, Channel Catfish, Largemouth Bass, Saugeye, and Wiper. A boat dock is available for kayaks and canoes, and many people fish off the dock.
Nature lovers and hikers will enjoy walking the Hayden Wildlife Nature Trail in the West Lake area. Along the ¾ mile trail, there is an observation tower, benches, and interpretative signs highlighting wildlife, plant species, and the history of the trail and lake. Kids will also enjoy the park at the lake.
On the northwest edge of the lake site, the Old Depot is an inviting gift shop that houses crafts and antiques. The Atwood Country Club and Golf Course is just across the road, north of the edge of Lake Atwood.
Lake Atwood is just north of Atwood, Kansas, on U.S. Highway 36.
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©Kathy Alexander/Legends of Kansas, August 2025.
Also See:
Sources:
City of Atwood, Kansas
Kansas Department of Wildlife & Parks
Lasr.net
Northwest Kansas Travel
Solko, Greg; Early Ludell, Rawlins County, Kansas, 1887-1933, Chapman Center for Rural Studies, Kansas State University, 12/19/2013.