Cedar Lake
About
Cedar Lake in Olathe is a wonderful outdoor destination where families can enjoy a full day of nature-based activities. With its combination of playgrounds, walking trails, fishing spots, and scenic picnic areas, there's something to keep every family member entertained while soaking up the natural beauty of this peaceful lake setting.
Highlights
- ✓Kid-friendly fishing spots perfect for teaching little ones to cast
- ✓Well-maintained playground equipment for various age levels
- ✓Scenic walking trails that wind around the lake with wildlife spotting opportunities
- ✓Large open green spaces ideal for active play and family games
- ✓Peaceful picnic areas with beautiful water views
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive early on weekends to snag one of the shaded picnic tables near the playground,they fill up fast during peak season
- 2.Bring fishing poles and bait if your kids want to fish; the lake is stocked and shore fishing is easily accessible for beginners
- 3.Pack a blanket and let kids run around on the open grassy areas,it's perfect for kites, frisbees, or soccer balls
- 4.Wear sturdy shoes for the trails and bring bug spray during warmer months, especially near the water's edge
- 5.The walking path is stroller-friendly, making it great for families with littles who need wheels
Best Time to Visit
Visit on weekday mornings or late afternoons for a quieter experience. Spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery, while early summer mornings are perfect for fishing before it gets too hot.
What to Know
Cedar Lake is a free public park with ample parking. There are no concessions on-site, so pack your own snacks, drinks, and lunch for picnicking. Restroom facilities are available seasonally.
Seasonal Notes
The park is open year-round, though spring through fall are the most popular seasons. Summer can get hot, so plan water activities or morning visits. Fall foliage around the lake is particularly stunning. Restrooms may have limited winter hours.
Nearby Eats
Head to Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers or Chick-fil-A, both just a few minutes away on Santa Fe Street, for easy kid-pleasing meals after your outdoor adventure.
More Activities Near Olathe
Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park
Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park is Olathe's outdoor playground paradise, offering something for every family member across its expansive grounds. With smooth paved trails perfect for strollers and bikes, a stocked fishing lake, multiple playgrounds, and a full disc golf course, families can easily spend an entire day exploring without repeating activities. The park's well-maintained facilities and variety of spaces make it ideal for multi-generational outings where everyone finds their favorite spot.
Lake Olathe
Lake Olathe is a fantastic family-friendly reservoir park that offers something for every age, from splashing at the sandy swimming beach to exploring scenic trails and fishing from the shore. With its combination of water activities, picnic areas, and outdoor recreation, it's the perfect spot for families looking to spend a full day enjoying nature without leaving the Kansas City metro area.
Ernie Miller Nature Center
Ernie Miller Nature Center offers families an authentic Kansas nature experience with both indoor and outdoor exploration. Kids can get up close with live native animals in the nature center, then venture onto well-maintained trails that wind through forests, prairies, and wetlands. It's an ideal spot for families seeking hands-on environmental education combined with active outdoor adventure right in the Kansas City metro area.
Andy's Frozen Custard
Andy's Frozen Custard is a beloved Olathe destination where families can treat themselves to rich, creamy frozen custard made fresh daily. With a menu featuring fun concretes (frozen custard blended with mix-ins), classic sundaes, and kid-friendly treats, it's the perfect spot to celebrate a special occasion or just enjoy a sweet ending to your day of adventures.