Lehigh-Portland State Park - Iola, KS
Lehigh-Portland State Park: A Dog-Friendly Escape in Iola, KS
If you’re looking for a scenic and pet-friendly destination in Iola, KS, Lehigh-Portland State Park is a local favorite. Known for its beautiful trails and natural surroundings, this park offers an ideal setting for those who want to explore dog-friendly hiking and enjoy nature with their pets. Although a formal off-leash dog park area isn’t confirmed, the park’s open spaces and trails make it a great spot for leashed walks and pet-friendly outdoor adventures.
Visitors appreciate the park’s accessible location at the intersection of 1600th Street and Nebraska Road in Iola. It’s perfect for anyone seeking peaceful relaxation or wishing to take their dog on a scenic walk. With pet-friendly trails and generous green spaces, Lehigh-Portland State Park stands out as a welcoming location for area dog owners who love the outdoors.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, Lehigh-Portland State Park features dog-friendly trails perfect for hiking with your pup.
Reviews
This has potential to be an awesome park; however, it is terrifying as there are not many barriers around the water and it’s a straight drop without any way to stop or pull yourself out if one should happen to slip and fall into the water – especially a kiddo who isn’t being closely monitored- it would be almost impossible to help. Absolutely beautiful trails but the safety factor needs to be seriously taken into consideration.
A tremendous number of ticks. more than I’ve ever seen on other trails. it’s so bad that there is community “bug off” spray – so they get a second star. the area is crazy pretty. Really wish the ticks weren’t so wildly abundant.
Beautiful place but definitely just for hiking not picnics. Tables/shelters are available but you have to walk long distances to get there. No trash receptacles. Poor to No signage or kiosks to help identify trails or where you are. Still lots of work to be done to make this a functional state park.
Very pretty new park conveniently close to Iola with fabulously wide and smoothly graveled trails through a cedar forest. Can’t wait until camping, fishing, and kayaking is allowed; all are still forbidden. There are picnic tables and lovely views, though.
We started at the Eastern Trailhead and intended to take the South Loop. You first go out on the East Loop, a wide gravel trail, and then connect with the South Loop. Old signage was confusing, and we wandered around a bit. No worries, though since it was all so beautiful and interesting. The woodland part had the most beautiful cedar trees and cool old ruins from days gone by. The spring-fed lake is unique to this area. The water is so clear, and the rocky cliffs are quite a sight. The lake is a former gravel excavation area. Then, you walk past the prairie area. The prairie will eventually be restored and invasives removed, but it is still beautiful as is. There is a small shelter next to the lake as well. After 3+miles walking we decided to drive to the Western trailhead, which is kind of behind a gravel company. Didn’t walk too far, but we did go along the Elm Creek part of the way just to get the feel of it.
All in all, a great experience.