National Geographic says a spot near Wichita offers the best outdoor adventure in Kansas

Lindsay Smith

It takes just a 40 minute drive from Wichita to experience the best adventure in Kansas, according to National Geographic.

The publication’s article “Here are the best ways to get outdoors in all 50 states” was published Oct. 4 and lists its top adventure pick in every U.S. state. For Kansas, National Geographic recommends kitesurfing on Cheney Lake in Cheney State Park in Kingman and Reno counties.

“M&M Point is a recommended launch point, with a nearby cove that’s well situated to ‘catch’ kiters who may get blown downwind. Keep in mind that you’ll need a wet suit except during the warm summer months,” a description from the publication reads.

So what is kitesurfing and why is Cheney Lake at top pick for it in Kansas? Here’s what to know about the sport and some tips from some enthusiasts who visits the state park.

What is kitesurfing?

Kitesurfing is a watersport that uses a kite and board to propel the surfer across the water. Unlike surfing, waves aren’t required to kitesurf, all that’s needed is the necessary equipment, plus wind and water.

Lloyd Dierks, 69, told The Eagle he goes out to Cheney Lake with a group of people two to three times a week to kitesurf.

“I love it because it keeps you in shape. If you’re having a bad day, nothing is better than going out,” Dierks said.

Though National Geographic recommends the spot for beginning kitesurfers, Dierks said Cheney Lake may not be the best spot to try because of the high winds.

“If you know how to kiteboard in 20 miles per hour sea breeze, that’s totally different,” he said. “Versus Cheney, Kan., where the wind is blowing 28 to 42 [mph] ... Cheney is a place that can eat you up and spit you out if you don’t have that skill level,” he advised.

Instead, he recommends taking lessons somewhere else before hitting up Cheney Lake.

“You need to go to someplace that is safe to learn at, that has shallow water with accredited instructors, such as South Padre Island, Texas, or Texas City is a great spot,” Dierks said.

According to the International Kiteboarding Organization, to kitesurf you need a kite, board, harness and control bar/lines. Here are the costs of those broken down, according to the organization:

  • Kite: $1,000 to $2,000 new, $600 to $1,000 used

  • Board: Around $600 new and $400 used

  • Harness: $100 to $400

  • Control bar/lines: $300 to $650 new, $100 to $400 used

While it’s a fun sport, Dierks advised it can be dangerous and emphasized the importance of wearing a life jacket and a helmet.

“It’s a sport you need to learn in a group setting because it’s dangerous, so you have to have someone there to help fly the kite up and then when you get done to help catch the kite when you get done,” Dierks said.

Tanis Flinkman also goes out with the group at Cheney Lake. She said for her, the community aspect is the part she enjoys the most.

“It’s not just time on the water, but hanging out at the beach afterwards is a lot of, too, and just talking,” Flinkman said. “We do have a group text so we’re always texting, ‘Hey, it’s windy today.’ ... When we see that it’s going to be in the forecast we start talking about it in our groups and plan out a time to go.”

Flinkman got into kitesurfing four years ago. During a trip to San Francisco, she witnessed someone surfing underneath the Golden Gate Bridge. She saw an orca surfacing at the same time, and that’s when she knew she wanted to give it a try.

“Of course, we don’t have orcas at Cheney Lake but it’s stills so much fun, it’s really exhilarating,” Flinkman said.

Planning your trip to Cheney Lake

Fees to visit Kansas state parks vary.

According to the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks’ website, the daily vehicle fee to visit any state park is $5 when purchased at a park office and $6 when purchased online. The annual vehicle pass is $25.

There is no fee or permitting directly associated with kitesurfing at Cheney State Park.

Here’s a look at some other fees that may apply at the state park:

  • Seniors/disabled daily vehicle fee: $3.25

  • Seniors/disabled annual vehicle fee: $13.75

  • Daily camping fee: $10

  • Youth camping fee: $4 per camping unit

For a full list of fees, visit the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks’ website.

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