McPherson State Fishing Lake

McPherson State Fishing Lake is located 6 miles north and 2 miles west of Canton. The lake is set in a very scenic location in the southeastern tip of the Smoky Hills on the upper end of the Gypsum creek drainage and has a nice wooded campground on the west shore. It is impounded by an earthen dam and managed in conjunction with the adjoining Maxwell Wildlife Refuge. Fishing piers, fish feeders, boat ramp, courtesy dock, vault toilets, and camping and picnic facilities are provided for fishermen, primarily along the western shoreline. Boating is allowed for fishing purposes only. The lake is known for channel catfish and largemouth bass. Additional species include black crappie, bluegill, black bullhead, and several native sunfishes.

No camping is allowed on the fishing piers. Primitive camping is permitted, but please take your trash with you.

Pit toilets, fire rings/grills, and picnic tables are available for use by picnickers, campers, and fishermen who wish to stay overnight.

A nature trail is open year-round on the southwestern corner of the lake. Brochures for the trail are available at the trail head. Only pedestrians are allowed on the trail; no horses, mountain bikes, etc. are allowed