Jackrabbit Lake is located within the James A. Reed Memorial Wildlife Area in Jackson County, Missouri, south of Highway 50 near Lee's Summit.

The lake is part of a 3,084-acre wildlife area that contains 12 lakes ranging from one to 42 acres, with over 252 acres of total water surface.

Paddling access is restricted to carry-in boats and float tubes only - no motorized watercraft are permitted on Jackrabbit Lake. Electric motors are allowed throughout the Reed Wildlife Area lake system.

The lake is designated as one of four specific lakes within the wildlife area where non-motorized watercraft may be used, along with Catclaw Lake, Cottontail Lake, and Gopher Lake.

The wildlife area operates under specific hours from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and paddlers must comply with Missouri Department of Conservation regulations.

Life jackets are required to be accessible for each person on board and are recommended to be worn at all times. All watercraft must have illuminated bow and stern lights between sunset and sunrise.

The lake contains largemouth bass, channel catfish, crappie, bluegill, and redear sunfish. Hybrid striped bass have been stocked in most lakes within the system.

The surrounding habitat consists of managed woodlands, native grass plantings, shrub plantings, and crop fields designed to provide year-round food for wildlife.

Wildlife viewing opportunities include Giant Canada geese, which nest and winter in the area, and white-tailed deer populations. The area was established in 1952 and developed beginning in 1957 as part of federal fish and wildlife restoration programs.

Access to the James A. Reed Memorial Wildlife Area is from Lee's Summit via Highway 50 east for 1 mile, then SE Ranson Road (Route RA) south 0. 75 mile to the area entrance. Additional information is available by calling (816) 622-0900.