What is Elk City Lake State Park like?
Set in Independence, Elk City Lake State Park has been on the PDGA course list since 1994. Across 2,466 ft the course fits 9 holes at par 27, which works out to around 274 feet per hole. That is a comfortable middle distance where fairway drivers do most of the work.
The terrain is mixed/varied — a mix of wooded and open holes, which puts the emphasis on a complete game. The variety is the test: you will need a tunnel shot on one hole and a full-power drive on the next, often back to back.
ThrowSpot rates the course forgiving overall, making it a good first course or a relaxed round. Shorter holes and open landing zones mean errant throws are usually recoverable, which is exactly what a newer player needs. Most groups finish in about 45 minutes, though a busy weekend morning can add half an hour of waiting on the tee.
What discs should you bring to Elk City Lake State Park?
For a course like this, a putter, two mid-ranges, and a couple of fairway drivers covers the majority of shots. The variety rewards a balanced bag over a specialist one. You will use almost everything you carry.
If you are not sure what matches your arm speed, the disc selector converts your throwing distance into a speed ceiling and specific mold recommendations. It is also worth reading the wind calculator before you play on a breezy day.
Cost and access
This course is free to play, like the majority of the 7,008 courses in the ThrowSpot directory. There is no booking system and no check-in — turn up and play. Most park courses are open dawn to dusk; hours can change seasonally, so it is worth checking locally before a very early or late round.
Amenities at Elk City Lake State Park
Amenity information comes from PDGA course records and may not reflect recent changes. If something here is out of date, the local club is usually the fastest way to confirm.
Other disc golf courses near Elk City Lake State Park
More disc golf in Independence
Independence has 3 PDGA-listed courses. Others worth a round:
| Course | Holes | Difficulty | Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Independence Community College Disc Golf Course | 18 | Intermediate | Free |
| Pride Park Disc Golf Course | 18 | Beginner | Free |
Frequently asked questions
How many holes is Elk City Lake State Park?
Elk City Lake State Park has 9 holes with a total par of 27. The course measures 2,466 ft, averaging about 274 feet per hole.
Is Elk City Lake State Park free to play?
Yes. Elk City Lake State Park is free to play, with no booking or check-in required.
Is Elk City Lake State Park good for beginners?
Yes. It is rated beginner difficulty, with a mix of wooded and open holes and forgiving landing zones, which makes it a reasonable first course.
How long does it take to play Elk City Lake State Park?
About 45 minutes for a typical group on 9 holes. Solo players move faster; busy weekend mornings can add 20 to 30 minutes of waiting.
Where is Elk City Lake State Park located?
Elk City Lake State Park is in Independence, Kansas, at coordinates 37.25657, -95.76947. Directions are linked on this page.
What discs should I bring to Elk City Lake State Park?
For this layout, a putter, two mid-ranges, and a couple of fairway drivers covers most shots. The variety rewards a balanced bag over a specialist one. You will use almost everything you carry.