The Kansas (Kaw) River stretches 171 miles from its origin in Junction City to its confluence with the Missouri River and is the primary source of drinking water for many communities in northeast Kansas. This recreational treasure was a well kept secret among a few knowing paddlers and anglers, but is fast becoming a valued recreational resource for thousands of visitors each year.
Our Outstanding Recreational Resource
Friends of the Kaw considers the Kansas (Kaw) River a 171-mile linear park to be enjoyed by families and outdoor enthusiasts. We continue to partner with river communities to develop boat access, river front parks and hiking and biking trails along the river for public use.
Rotating Pictures:
Floating on the Kaw by Craig
Thompson
Kaw Valley Heritage Alliance's Streamlink
students doing a macroinvertebrate sampling.
Catfishing on the Kaw with Captain Catfish
Volunteer
- Sign up for a float trip to get up close and personal with the natural areas we are working to protect.
- Organize a group float trip for 16 – 20 participants. You pick the date, time and section of the Kaw you would like to float.
- Schedule a Friends of the Kaw presentation for a church or community group.
- Write an article about your experience on the Kaw River for our newsletter "Kansas River Currents."
- Volunteer to help collate, stamp and label the newsletter.
- Keep your eye out for activities or conditions on the Kaw that are or will cause a pollution problem (go to Report Pollution page for further instructions.)
- Volunteer to clean up an access ramp or other public area on the Kaw.
- Call or email the Kansas Riverkeeper for more information.
- In June of 2006 & 2007 Friends of the Kaw staffed a beverage tent at the Wakarusa Music Festival. This is a great fundraiser for Friends of the Kaw and an opportunity for members to volunteer to work two four-hour shifts in return for a four day pass to the festival. Members get first choice on shifts they would like to work. If you are interested in volunteering for this activity contact the Kansas Riverkeeper in May.
