Chase County State Lake encompasses 109 acres in the scenic Flint Hills region of Kansas, located 1.5 miles west of Cottonwood Falls. Created in 1954 by damming Prather Creek, the lake features a rocky shoreline with shallow mudflats on its upper end. The lake reaches a maximum depth of 45 feet and typically maintains good water clarity.

The lake includes a boat launch and eight rocky fishing jetties along the shore. While primarily managed for fishing, the lake's characteristics make it suitable for small watercraft. The surrounding 383-acre wildlife area consists mainly of native grass prairie habitat, offering paddlers views of diverse wildflowers and the distinctive Flint Hills landscape.

A notable feature is Prather Creek Falls (also known as Chase Lake Falls), a 40-foot waterfall below the dam that paddlers can explore after taking out. Water flow varies significantly depending on conditions. Wildlife viewing opportunities include bald eagles, ospreys, and great blue herons.

Basic amenities include primitive camping areas along the north shore (first-come, first-served), a covered picnic shelter, and vault toilets. No drinking water or electricity is available.

Important Note: The lake has been designated as zebra mussel-infested since 2012. All watercraft must be thoroughly cleaned, drained, and dried between uses to prevent spreading these invasive mussels. Livewells and bilges must be drained before transport on public highways.

The lake is managed by the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks, and the surrounding property offers additional recreational opportunities including hiking and wildlife observation. The lake's position in the Flint Hills provides a backdrop of rolling prairie and native grasslands characteristic of this unique region of Kansas.