Many state parks cut back on services

Now through March 31 are off-season months for Kansas state parks. During this time, many state parks cut down on services, although all remain open.

Hours and services vary from park to park, but most office hours are 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Most are closed on holidays.

In addition, most unheated toilets and shower buildings with running water are shut down for the cold season.

Most heated buildings remain open through the regular firearms hunting seasons, and some remain open year round.

While potable water is available at each park headquarters all year, water is shut off at campgrounds and day-use areas that are prone to freezing pipes.

Most parks have some potable water available at freeze-proof valves in campgrounds into late November or early December, depending on the weather.

Electricity stays on year round where it is available. Each park will remain open to vehicles. However, some campground loops may be closed.

Many boat ramps across the state are either closed or only usable by shallow-draft boats due to low reservoir levels.

For details on state parks, go www.kdwp.state.ks.us.