Longview Lake, located on the western edge of Lee’s Summit, is home to 930 acres of recreational waters and is surrounded by trails and family friendly attractions. A day exploring (and maybe even overnight!) is a great way to entertain those who appreciate nature without having to travel out of the metro.
Spend a Day at Longview Lake
Water Adventures for All Ages
For those craving a bit of excitement, Longview Lake offers a myriad of water-based activities, fit for any and all ages. The largest draw of the lake, of course, is boating. Annual or day passes can be purchased for those who own a boat, or several pontoons are available for rent at the marina. The marina is a full-service stop where you’ll find information about said rentals, any equipment needed, snacks, and food to feed the bubbling carp just outside the entrance.
Canoe, SUP and kayak launch points are a more relaxing family activity and can be found on this map. They are allowed on the water Monday-Thursday, for those looking for a more serene way to enjoy the waters. These rules are in place to keep patrons safe from an abundance of motorized boat traffic on weekends and summer holidays.
A swimming beach is located off Raytown Road. It features a sandy shore, lifeguards, showers, volleyball net, restrooms, small snack bar, picnic tables, a shelter and ample parking. Open daily Memorial Day weekend through August 10, and weekends only August 10 through Labor Day.
Sand Cinema nights at the beach showcase an outdoor movie on select Fridays, beginning at dusk. Costs is $10 per car. Bring a blanket, some dinner and relax under the stars with your family! This is a must-do family activity.
Cast your line and reel in a variety of fish species, including bass, crappie, catfish, sunfish and more. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, fishing at Longview Lake offers a peaceful and rewarding experience. The dam is a great place to hit when the crappie spawn (late April, early May) to catch enough for a fish fry, and HUGE catfish have been caught around the marina! As mentioned earlier, never pass up a chance to feed the carp swarming around the docks, as it will entertain any nature lover.
Exploring Nature’s Playground
Nature enthusiasts will delight in the abundance of trails that wind their way through the surrounding woodlands. The Longview Trail begins at Shelter 14 in Longview Lake Park, winds along the lakefront, and ends at Shelter 9 in O’Donnell Park. The 6.5 Mile Trail connects to the Grandview Trail System. Trails are well maintained and frequented by hikers, bikers, families, walkers and runners. Along the route, you’ll find playgrounds, shelter houses with picnic tables, deer munching on leaves and an abundance of shade.
Plan to pack a picnic and post up on the water’s edge for lunch or a sunset dinner. The waterfowl and fishing jumping out of the water will entertain little ones in between trips down the slide at the playground. Use one of the many fire pits in the area to roast marshmallows for s’mores!
Extend your stay and spend a night under the stars at the Longview campground. Tent and RV camping spots are almost always available, and are equipped with fire pits, picnic tables, shower houses and restrooms for a comfortable outdoor experience.
Additional Amenities Within the Area
Within less than a mile from the lake, visitors also have access to Fred Arbanas Golf Course, a public course that welcomes walk-ins for the Par 3 holes as well as their driving range. Make a reservation in advance to play all eighteen.
Frank White Jr. Sports Complex is nestled along the shoreline of the lake. Take your littles to watch a little league game, or take a bucket of balls to hit for fun.
Visit the Flights of Fancy, a fantastical kite festival on the lawn of the MCC-Longview campus in April.
Participate in the Trip the Light Fantastic, kicking off the holiday season and the light show at Christmas in the Park in November.
Longview Lake is open year-round, offering endless opportunities for family fun regardless of the season. Whether you’re looking to bask in the summer sun, admire the vibrant colors of fall foliage, or experience the tranquility of a winter wonderland, this hidden oasis promises an unforgettable adventure for the whole family.
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