15 Best Places to go Camping in Kansas

Kansas may be known for its wide-open prairies and flat landscapes, but it’s also home to some of the best camping destinations in the Midwest. Whether you’re looking for a secluded getaway in the wilderness, a lakeside retreat, or a family-friendly campground, Kansas has something to offer every type of camper.

From state parks to national wildlife refuges, Kansas is filled with diverse and scenic camping locations that are perfect for both experienced campers and those who are new to outdoor adventures. In this blog post, we’ll be exploring the 15 best places to go camping in Kansas, each with its own unique features and amenities. So, pack up your camping gear and get ready to explore the beauty of the Sunflower State.

Kanopolis State Park

Kanopolis State Park is a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking for a great camping experience in Kansas. The park is located in the heart of the Smoky Hills and is situated on a 3,000-acre reservoir, making it a haven for fishing, boating, and water sports. The park’s stunning landscape, which includes rugged bluffs and scenic vistas, offers ample opportunities for hiking and mountain biking. There are also several nature trails that showcase the park’s diverse wildlife and natural beauty.

The park has a variety of camping options available to visitors, including RV and tent camping. There are two campgrounds within the park, with a total of over 200 campsites. Each site comes equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring, and some sites also offer electric hookups. The campgrounds are well-maintained and offer easy access to the park’s amenities, including playgrounds, showers, and restrooms. There are also several cabins available for rent for those who prefer a more comfortable camping experience.

Kanopolis State Park also offers a range of recreational opportunities beyond camping. The park is known for its excellent fishing, and the reservoir is stocked with a variety of fish, including walleye, crappie, and catfish. There are also several hiking trails in the park that provide stunning views of the surrounding landscape. For those who prefer water sports, the park has boat ramps and a swimming beach. Overall, Kanopolis State Park offers something for everyone and is an excellent choice for a camping trip in Kansas.

Amenities:

Electrical and water hookups for RVs and campers
Primitive camping sites for tent camping
Shower and restroom facilities
Picnic shelters and grills
Boat ramps for easy lake access
Fishing opportunities
Hiking and biking trails
Playground equipment for children
Wildlife viewing areas
Park store with camping supplies, snacks, and souvenirs
Fire pits for campfires
Dump stations for RVs
Access to hunting areas during season

Lake Scott State Park

Lake Scott State Park is a unique camping destination located in western Kansas. The park is home to the stunning Lake Scott, which was formed thousands of years ago by a natural sinkhole. The lake is surrounded by rugged bluffs and provides a picturesque setting for camping and outdoor recreation. The park’s landscape is also home to a variety of wildlife, including bison, prairie dogs, and a variety of bird species, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers.

The park has two campgrounds available to visitors, with a total of 112 campsites. Each site comes equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring, and some sites also offer electric hookups. The campgrounds are well-maintained and offer easy access to the park’s amenities, including shower facilities and restrooms. There are also several cabins available for rent, providing a comfortable camping experience for those who prefer not to sleep in a tent.

In addition to camping, Lake Scott State Park offers a range of outdoor recreational opportunities. The lake is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and swimming, and there are several hiking trails that provide stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can also explore the historic sites within the park, including El Cuartelejo, a 17th-century Native American pueblo. Overall, Lake Scott State Park offers a unique and memorable camping experience that combines natural beauty and outdoor adventure.

Amenities:

Campsites with electric and water hookups
Group camping area with electric hookups
Shower and restroom facilities
Dump station
Picnic areas with grills
Boat ramp for lake access
Fishing opportunities in the lake and spring-fed pool
Hiking trails with scenic views of the canyon and bluffs
Interpretive center with exhibits about the park’s history and geology
Nature trails with opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife viewing

Cheney State Park

Cheney State Park is a popular camping destination located in south-central Kansas. The park sits on the shores of Cheney Reservoir, which is known for its excellent fishing opportunities. The park has three campgrounds available to visitors, offering a total of 400 campsites. Each site comes equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring, and some sites offer electric and water hookups. The campgrounds are well-maintained and offer easy access to the park’s amenities, including shower facilities and restrooms.

In addition to camping, Cheney State Park offers a range of outdoor recreational opportunities. The reservoir is a popular spot for boating, fishing, and swimming, with several boat ramps available for visitors to use. The park also has several hiking and biking trails, providing stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can also enjoy a round of disc golf at the park’s 18-hole course or explore the nearby town of Cheney, which offers several dining and shopping options. Overall, Cheney State Park is an excellent destination for campers looking for a fun and relaxing outdoor adventure.

Amenities:

28 modern campsites with water and electric hookups
165 primitive campsites with a vault toilet and a picnic table
Two shower houses with flush toilets
Dump station for RVs
Swim beach with bathhouse
Boat ramp for access to the lake
Fishing opportunities for catfish, walleye, and crappie
Playground and sand volleyball court
Hiking and biking trails
Bird watching opportunities
Interpretive center with exhibits and educational programs

Tuttle Creek State Park

Tuttle Creek State Park is a 1,200-acre park located in the Flint Hills region of Kansas. The park offers a variety of camping options, including tent and RV sites, cabins, and yurts. With over 400 campsites available, visitors are sure to find the perfect spot to set up camp. Many of the campsites offer electric and water hookups, and some even offer sewer hookups. The park’s campgrounds are well-maintained and offer a range of amenities, including shower facilities, restrooms, and laundry facilities.

Tuttle Creek State Park is situated on the shores of Tuttle Creek Reservoir, which is the second-largest lake in Kansas. The lake is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and swimming. The park has several boat ramps available for visitors to use, and boat rentals are available at the park marina. Visitors can also enjoy hiking and biking on the park’s trails, which offer stunning views of the lake and surrounding landscape. For those interested in wildlife viewing, the park is home to a variety of animals, including deer, turkey, and bald eagles.

In addition to its outdoor recreational opportunities, Tuttle Creek State Park also offers several other amenities. The park has a disc golf course, a beach, and several playgrounds for kids. The park also hosts several events throughout the year, including a Fourth of July fireworks show and a fall festival. Overall, Tuttle Creek State Park is a fantastic destination for anyone looking for a fun and relaxing outdoor adventure in Kansas.

Amenities:

Tent and RV camping sites with water and electric hookups
Shower facilities and restrooms
Group camping facilities
Hiking trails
Beach area for swimming and sunbathing
Boat ramps and docks for water activities such as boating, fishing, and water skiing
Picnic areas with tables and grills
Playground for children
Visitor center with exhibits and information about the park and the surrounding area
Camp store that sells camping supplies, firewood, snacks, and drinks

Clinton State Park

Clinton State Park, located just outside of Lawrence, Kansas, is a great camping destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. With over 1,500 acres of parkland and a 640-acre lake, there is plenty of space to explore and enjoy. The park is perfect for a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and boating. The lake is stocked with a variety of fish species, including largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish, making it a popular spot for anglers. There are also several picnic areas throughout the park, as well as playgrounds for kids.

The park offers both primitive and RV camping sites, so there is something for every type of camper. There are over 400 campsites in the park, with some offering water and electric hookups. The park also has several shower and restroom facilities, as well as a dump station for RVs. There are several hiking trails in the park, including a scenic trail that takes you around the lake. There is also a beach area where you can swim or sunbathe, and the park offers boat rentals for those who want to explore the lake. Overall, Clinton State Park is a great camping destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Amenities:

174 electric/water hookup sites
30 primitive campsites
Modern restrooms with hot showers
Dump station
Picnic shelters with tables and grills
Swimming beach
Marina with boat rentals and boat ramp
Fishing dock
Hiking trails
Playground
Volleyball and basketball courts
Amphitheater
Wi-Fi access

Wilson State Park

Wilson State Park is located on the southern shore of Wilson Lake in central Kansas and is one of the most popular camping destinations in the state. It offers a variety of outdoor activities for visitors, including fishing, boating, hiking, and mountain biking. The park is surrounded by rolling hills, rocky bluffs, and crystal-clear water, providing a picturesque backdrop for outdoor adventures.

The park has two campgrounds, the Hell Creek Area and Otoe Area, with a total of over 160 campsites. The campsites are spacious and offer a range of amenities, including electrical and water hookups, fire rings, picnic tables, and easy access to shower and restroom facilities. The Hell Creek Area campground has 90 campsites and is open year-round, while the Otoe Area campground has 70 campsites and is open from April to October. The campsites in both campgrounds are situated close to the lake, providing stunning views of the water.

In addition to camping, Wilson State Park offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities. Visitors can go hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, or enjoy water activities such as boating, fishing, and swimming. The park has several boat ramps, a marina, and fish cleaning stations, making it easy for visitors to enjoy water sports. Wilson State Park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, bobcats, and bald eagles, making it a great destination for nature lovers.

Amenities:

RV and tent camping sites
Electrical hookups for RVs
Dump station
Shower houses and restrooms
Swimming beach
Boat ramp and dock
Fishing opportunities
Picnic areas and shelters
Playground
Hiking trails
Wildlife viewing areas
Fire pits and grills
Park office and store
Drinking water available

Cedar Bluff State Park

Cedar Bluff State Park is located in the Smoky Hills region of Kansas and offers a beautiful escape to nature. The park sits on a reservoir, providing visitors with the opportunity to enjoy various water activities like fishing, boating, and swimming. Additionally, there are several trails for hiking and biking, and the park is home to various wildlife species, making it a perfect spot for nature enthusiasts. The park also features many different campsites, including electric and primitive sites, as well as cabins and yurts for those looking for a unique camping experience.

One of the unique features of Cedar Bluff State Park is its rock formations, which are millions of years old and make for a spectacular sight. The park offers guided tours of the formations, including one called “Cedar Bluff: A Kansas Landmark,” where visitors can learn about the history and geology of the area. The park also hosts various events and programs throughout the year, such as stargazing, birdwatching, and nature walks, providing campers with an opportunity to learn more about the local environment.

Camping amenities at Cedar Bluff State Park include showers, restrooms, picnic tables, grills, and a dump station. The park also has a playground for children, a marina with boat rentals, and a swimming beach. The Cedar Bluff State Park Trails system offers over 12 miles of hiking and biking trails that wind through the park’s rugged terrain and provide stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Amenities:

96 utility campsites with water and electrical hookups
Primitive campsites
Restrooms and shower facilities
Dump station
Boat ramps and marina
Fish cleaning stations
Picnic areas with tables and grills
Swimming beach and designated swim area
Playground and nature trail
Hunting and fishing opportunities
Equestrian trails and campsites
Wildlife viewing opportunities
RV sites with full hookups
Wi-Fi access
Camp store and firewood sales

Hillsdale State Park

Hillsdale State Park, located in eastern Kansas, offers a serene and tranquil camping experience. The park spans over 12,000 acres and features a stunning 4,500-acre lake, surrounded by rolling hills and lush forests. The lake is perfect for fishing, boating, and swimming, and the park has plenty of activities for the whole family, such as hiking and biking trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas. Visitors can also enjoy a round of golf at the nearby Hillsdale Golf Course. Hillsdale State Park offers a variety of camping options, from primitive campsites to fully equipped cabins, all surrounded by the beauty of nature.

Camping at Hillsdale State Park is an adventure in itself, with a variety of options to suit any camping style. The park has over 100 campsites with electric and water hookups, as well as over 60 primitive sites for a more rustic experience. There are also a number of cabins available, ranging from rustic one-room cabins to modern two-bedroom cabins with full kitchens and bathrooms. The park’s camping amenities include modern restrooms with showers, a laundry facility, a dump station, and a camp store that sells snacks, drinks, and camping supplies.

The park’s proximity to Kansas City, just a short drive away, also makes it a convenient option for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. With its beautiful lake and surrounding nature, Hillsdale State Park is the perfect destination for a relaxing camping trip in Kansas.

Amenities:

RV and tent camping sites
Full hookups (water, electric, and sewer) for RVs
Basic amenities such as picnic tables and fire rings at campsites
Shower and restroom facilities
Laundry facilities
Swimming beach
Boat ramps and docks
Fishing opportunities
Playground
Hiking and biking trails
Equestrian trails
Wildlife viewing opportunities
Group camping facilities
Picnic shelters and grills
Visitor center
Camp store with camping and fishing supplies

Pomona State Park

Pomona State Park is a popular camping location in east-central Kansas, known for its beautiful scenery and peaceful atmosphere. The park is located on the shores of Pomona Lake, which covers approximately 4,000 acres and offers a wide range of recreational activities, including fishing, boating, swimming, and hiking. The park’s natural setting is perfect for those seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in the tranquility of nature.

The camping area at Pomona State Park is divided into four distinct loops, each with its own unique character and amenities. The park offers a total of 142 campsites, including 63 with electric hookups and 12 with water hookups. All campsites feature picnic tables, fire rings, and access to shower and restroom facilities. Additionally, the park has several group campsites available for rent, making it an excellent choice for group camping trips. With its stunning natural beauty, ample recreational opportunities, and well-maintained campsites, Pomona State Park is an ideal destination for anyone seeking a relaxing and rejuvenating camping experience.

Amenities:

Campsites with electricity and water hookups
Primitive campsites
Showers and restrooms
Dump stations
Boat ramps
Fish cleaning stations
Hiking trails
Swimming beach
Picnic areas with tables and grills
Playground
Wildlife viewing areas
Visitor center

Crawford State Park

Crawford State Park, located in the southeast corner of Kansas, is a beautiful location for camping, fishing, boating, and hiking. The park is home to a 150-acre lake, which offers visitors plenty of opportunities for fishing and boating. Anglers can fish for a variety of species, including catfish, bass, crappie, and bluegill. There are two boat ramps in the park, making it easy for visitors to launch their boats and explore the lake. There are also several picnic areas and playgrounds scattered throughout the park.

In addition to fishing and boating, Crawford State Park offers several hiking trails that allow visitors to explore the park’s scenic beauty. The trails vary in difficulty, so there is something for everyone, from novice hikers to experienced trekkers. The park is also a popular spot for birdwatching, with over 100 species of birds that call Crawford State Park home. Visitors can see everything from bald eagles to great blue herons to wild turkeys. Overall, Crawford State Park is a great place to visit for anyone who loves the outdoors and wants to experience the natural beauty of Kansas.

Amenities:

30 primitive campsites
Restrooms with showers and flush toilets
Dump station
Drinking water available
Fire rings and picnic tables
Boat ramp and dock
Fishing and hunting opportunities
Hiking and biking trails
Wildlife viewing area
Interpretive center with exhibits and programs
Group camping area available by reservation

Eisenhower State Park

Eisenhower State Park is located on the eastern shore of Melvern Lake, which covers more than 6,900 acres in eastern Kansas. The park is a perfect location for water sports enthusiasts with activities such as swimming, boating, fishing, and water skiing. The lake also offers several marinas, boat ramps, and fishing piers. Campers can enjoy numerous hiking and biking trails, which offer scenic views of the surrounding hills and the lake. Additionally, the park has several playgrounds and picnic areas, which are ideal for families and large groups.

The park has a total of 186 campsites with varying amenities, including electric and water hookups, showers, and restrooms. Some campsites offer lake views, while others are located in wooded areas. The park also offers primitive camping and group camping areas. Other amenities include a dump station, a swimming beach, a playground, and a multi-use trail that circles the lake. Additionally, there are several cabins and yurts available for rent, which offer a comfortable stay in a rustic setting. With its wide range of recreational activities and camping options, Eisenhower State Park is an excellent destination for a family camping trip or a weekend getaway with friends.

Amenities:

Electrical and water hookups at campsites
Restrooms and shower facilities
Dump station
Fire rings and picnic tables
Boat ramps and marina
Fishing dock and cleaning station
Swimming beach
Hiking and biking trails
Playground and picnic areas
Visitor center and nature education programs

El Dorado State Park

El Dorado State Park is a fantastic camping location for anyone looking to escape into nature. This park features a variety of activities for campers, including hiking, fishing, boating, and swimming. The park is situated around El Dorado Lake, which provides a picturesque backdrop for any camping trip. The lake spans over 8,000 acres and has over 98 miles of shoreline, making it an ideal location for water activities.

El Dorado State Park has over 1,000 campsites spread across four separate campgrounds. Each campground has its unique set of amenities and activities to offer. The Boulder Bluff campground is perfect for those looking for a more primitive camping experience, with campsites tucked away in a wooded area. The Shady Creek campground is great for families, with campsites that are equipped with electrical hookups and nearby shower facilities. The Walnut River campground is ideal for those who enjoy water activities, as it is situated right along the Walnut River. Lastly, the Sunflower campground is perfect for RV campers, with campsites equipped with electrical hookups and water connections.

Overall, El Dorado State Park is an excellent camping location for anyone looking to enjoy nature and all of the activities it has to offer. With a variety of campgrounds and activities to choose from, there is something for everyone at this park.

Amenities:

RV and tent camping sites
Shower and restroom facilities
Dump station
Picnic shelters with grills and tables
Boat ramps for access to El Dorado Reservoir
Fishing and boating opportunities
Hiking and biking trails
Playground areas for children
Wildlife viewing opportunities

Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge

Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge is a great place for campers who love to explore nature. Located in the Kansas Flint Hills region, the refuge is home to a variety of wildlife, including migratory birds, deer, and coyotes. The area also features a mix of tallgrass prairie, wetlands, and woodlands, making it an excellent destination for birdwatching, hiking, and wildlife photography. The refuge offers several camping options, including a primitive camping area for those who want to immerse themselves in the natural surroundings.

Campers at Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge can expect to experience the beauty of the tallgrass prairie, which is a unique and fragile ecosystem that is found only in a few areas of the world. The refuge offers several hiking trails, including the 1.5-mile Z Bar Nature Trail, which winds through the tallgrass prairie and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills. Visitors can also explore the wetlands and woodlands of the refuge, which are home to a variety of plant and animal species.

In addition to camping and hiking, visitors to Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge can participate in a variety of other activities, including fishing, hunting, and wildlife observation. The refuge is home to a variety of game species, including deer, turkey, and waterfowl, making it a popular destination for hunters. Anglers can fish for bass, crappie, and catfish in the refuge’s many ponds and lakes. The refuge also offers a variety of educational programs and events throughout the year, including guided hikes and nature workshops.

Amenities:

Primitive camping sites
Picnic areas
Hiking trails
Wildlife viewing areas
Fishing opportunities (with appropriate license and equipment)
Canoeing and kayaking opportunities (bring your own equipment)
Interpretive programs and educational materials
Restrooms and water sources (potable water not available at all times)
Visitor center with exhibits and information about the refuge and its wildlife

Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve

Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve in Kansas is a unique destination for campers who are looking for an immersive experience in the native tallgrass prairie ecosystem. The preserve, which covers more than 10,000 acres, is home to a variety of native plants and wildlife. The park is a great place for hiking and birdwatching, with more than 40 miles of trails available for visitors to explore.

Camping is allowed in the preserve at two designated backcountry campsites, which can only be reached by hiking or horseback riding. The campsites are primitive, with no electricity or running water, and visitors are required to bring their own supplies and pack out all trash. However, the solitude and breathtaking views of the tallgrass prairie make the experience well worth the effort.

In addition to camping, Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve offers a variety of other activities for visitors, including ranger-led tours, stargazing events, and photography workshops. The park is also home to the historic Lower Fox Creek Schoolhouse, which was built in the late 1800s and is now open for tours. Overall, Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve is a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to experience the beauty and diversity of the tallgrass prairie ecosystem in Kansas.

Amenities:

Primitive campsites
Vault toilets
No potable water or electricity available
Campfires are permitted in established fire rings only
Campers need to obtain a free permit from the Visitor Center before camping
The backcountry campsites are accessible only by foot or horseback, no vehicle access
Campers are advised to bring their own water, food, and other supplies as there are no stores or facilities nearby

Milford Lake

Milford Lake is a popular camping destination located in northeast Kansas. The lake spans over 16,000 acres and is the largest lake in Kansas. The lake offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors, including fishing, boating, hiking, and camping. With over 160 miles of shoreline, visitors can find plenty of space to explore and enjoy the outdoors.

The Milford Lake State Park offers a variety of camping options, including both RV and tent camping. The campgrounds are located throughout the park and offer a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. Visitors can choose from primitive campsites or campsites with electric and water hookups. The campgrounds also feature modern shower facilities, restrooms, and laundry facilities.

In addition to camping, visitors to Milford Lake can enjoy a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, biking, and horseback riding on the park’s many trails. The lake is also popular for fishing, with over 20 species of fish to be caught, including catfish, bass, and walleye. Boating and water sports are also popular on the lake, with boat ramps and marinas available for visitors. Overall, Milford Lake offers a wide range of outdoor activities for campers and visitors alike.

Amenities:

Multiple campgrounds with a variety of site types, including electric and non-electric options
Showers and flush toilets in most campgrounds
Dump station for RVs
Boat ramps for easy access to the lake
Fishing and swimming areas
Picnic tables and fire rings at each site
Playground and horseshoe pits
Trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding
Wildlife viewing opportunities
Concessionaire offering food, ice, and firewood for sale
Ranger-led educational programs and tours during peak season

In conclusion, Kansas offers a wealth of camping opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds. Whether you prefer RV camping or pitching a tent in the backcountry, there’s a camping spot in Kansas that’s perfect for you. With a variety of landscapes, from rolling hills to flat plains, and a wide range of outdoor activities available, there’s never been a better time to explore the great outdoors in Kansas. So pack up your gear, grab your friends and family, and head out to discover the 15 best places to go camping in Kansas!