by Colby Sharples-Terry

Just outside Junction City, Kan., sits one of Kansas’ best-kept secret getaways, Acorns Resort. The only lakeside resort in Kansas, Acorns is the perfect basecamp for all the adventures Milford Lake offers. With over 160 miles of shoreline, Milford is the largest lake in Kansas and it has plenty to keep you busy for a summer vacation destination.

The resort features a variety of lodging options including cabins, lodges, yurts and RV sites, each equipped with modern amenities and comfortable furnishings. The cabins range from one to four bedrooms and feature full kitchens, living rooms and outdoor decks with excellent views of the lake.

Acorns Resort also offers a wide range of activities for guests to enjoy. When you’re through with relaxing by your cabin or campground, the resort has a swimming beach, hiking and biking trails, a playground and a swimming pool for guests to enjoy.

SUMMER FUN: Fishing is just one of the many activities visitors can enjoy at Milford Lake. Wildlife viewing, boating, swimming and more are all available for family vacationers.

There is a general store on the property where you can get food, beverages, gear and merchandise, and it’s where you can rent kayaks, canoes and paddleboards. Also on site is The Cove Bar & Grill. Accessible by boat, car or foot, The Cove offers relaxed vibes, drinks and a full food menu. Most weekends, you can catch live music on the large outdoor patio.

Fishing

Fishing is one of the main attractions at Milford Lake, which supports a variety of fish species, including walleye, crappie, bass, catfish and more. The lake is known for having a healthy population of catfish, including channel catfish, blue catfish and flathead catfish. The lake has several fishing docks, boat ramps and marinas where visitors can launch their boats — or rent them. Acorns Resort offers boat rentals and fishing guides to help visitors catch a variety of fish species.

For those interested in wildlife viewing, Milford Lake is home to a variety of animals, including deer, turkey, quail, pheasant and waterfowl. There are also several birdwatching opportunities in the area, including the Milford Nature Center, which features exhibits on the local flora and fauna.

The Milford Nature Center is run by the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks and offers visitors the opportunity to learn about the natural history and wildlife of the state.

SUNSET VISTA: The setting sun over Milford Lake is a perfect memory for visitors.

The center features a variety of exhibits on Kansas wildlife, including live animals such as reptiles, birds of prey and small mammals. Visitors can also explore the center’s nature trails and outdoor exhibits, which include a native prairie garden, a butterfly garden and a bird feeding station.

Wildlife

One of the main attractions of the Milford Nature Center is its wildlife rehabilitation program, which cares for injured or orphaned wildlife until the animals are ready to be released back into the wild. Visitors can observe the animals in their enclosures and learn about the rehabilitation process.

The center also offers a variety of educational programs for schools, youth groups, and the public, including guided nature walks, wildlife presentations, and hands-on activities. In addition, the center hosts special events throughout the year, such as birding and nature festivals, art exhibits and holiday programs.

Overall, the Milford Nature Center is a great destination for anyone interested in learning about the natural history and wildlife of Kansas. It’s a fun and educational experience for visitors of all ages, and the center’s staff are knowledgeable and passionate about the state’s natural resources.

Summers are meant for exploring. Make your next vacation memories at Milford.

Sharples-Terry is public relations and communications manager for Kansas Tourism. Kansas Tourism aims to inspire travel to and throughout Kansas to maximize the positive impacts that tourism has on the state and local communities. For more trip inspiration and to order a free Kansas Travel Guide, head to travelks.com.