Camping in Kansas: State Parks and More!
Come to Kansas for an unforgettable adventure for you and your family! It’s a hidden gem full of thrilling outdoor excitement.
Are you and your family craving an unforgettable adventure in the heart of America?
Look no further than the Sunflower State — Kansas, a hidden gem that offers an abundance of thrilling outdoor experiences!
With its picturesque National and State Parks, as well as RV-friendly camping spots, Kansas provides the perfect backdrop for a memorable family vacation. Discover the awe-inspiring vistas of Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve, explore the dramatic landscapes of Kanopolis State Park, or enjoy a cozy night under the stars at an RV Park.
Immerse yourself in Kansas’ rich history and striking beauty as you traverse its scenic trails, kayak on pristine lakes, or embark on a wild horseback ride across the open plains. As the sun sets, gather around a crackling campfire to share stories and create lasting memories.
Don’t wait any longer! Start planning your family camping adventure in Kansas today and experience the state’s breathtaking outdoors like never before.
Get your free downloadable camping checklist here!
What To Do In Kansas
Why camp in Kansas? Well, It’s a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking hiking adventures, hunting trips, fishing excursions, boating, and swimming recreation. If any of that sounds good to you, then below are some short summaries of the main outdoor activities in several regions of Kansas:
Hiking
Kansas is home to some of the most scenic hiking trails in the Midwest. The Flint Hills Nature Trail, located in the eastern part of the state, stretches for 117 miles and offers stunning views of the Tallgrass Prairie.
The closest city to the trailhead is Osawatomie, accessible via US-169 S. The Konza Prairie Trail, located in the Flint Hills region, covers 6.4 miles and is known for its diverse wildlife and unique rock formations. The trailhead is located near Manhattan, accessible via KS-18 E.
Is Camping Healthy?
Hunting
Kansas is a hunting paradise with its vast expanses of prairies, woodlands, and wetlands. The Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Area, located in the central part of the state, is famous for waterfowl hunting.
The closest city to the area is Great Bend, accessible via US-56 W. The Flint Hills region, which covers much of northeastern Kansas, is a major destination for whitetail deer and turkey hunting. Major roads leading to this region include I-70 and US-77.
Fishing
If you want fishing, then this is your state! Kansas has over 24,000 miles of fishable rivers and streams, and more than 200 public lakes and reservoirs. Milford Lake, located in the northeastern part of the state, is the largest lake in Kansas and is known for its abundance of crappie, walleye, and channel catfish.
The closest city to the lake is Junction City, accessible via I-70 W. Cheney Reservoir, located in the south-central part of the state, which is a popular destination for bass fishing. The reservoir is accessible via KS-42 E.
Clinton Lake is a picturesque lake located in northeastern Kansas, just outside of the city of Lawrence. Situated in the Kaw River Valley, Clinton Lake spans over 9,000 acres and boasts several attractions, such as a marina, multiple camping areas, a beach, and miles of hiking and biking trails. The lake is also popular among fishing enthusiasts, with several species available, including crappie, walleye, and bass.
Boating
Kansas is a boater’s paradise with its many lakes and reservoirs. Wilson Lake, located in the central part of the state, is a popular destination for boating, waterskiing, and fishing. The closest city to the lake is Russell, accessible via I-70 W. Perry Lake, located in the northeastern part of the state, is a great place for sailing and windsurfing. Perry State Park, located on the south side of the lake, offers boat ramps and marinas. The state park is accessible via US-24 E.
Swimming
Kansas has plenty of lakes and reservoirs that offer great swimming opportunities. Marion Reservoir, located in the central part of the state, has a designated swimming beach with a bathhouse and picnic tables.
The closest city to the reservoir is Marion, accessible via US-56 E. Tuttle Creek Reservoir, located west, near Manhattan, is also a popular swimming spot with its sandy beaches and clear waters. The reservoir is accessible via KS-13 S.
Beaches in your dreams?
Wildlife Observation
Kansas is a prime location for wildlife watching with its diverse ecosystems and abundant wildlife. The Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve, located in the Flint Hills region, offers a chance to observe bison, prairie dogs, and rare bird species.
The closest city to the preserve is Strong City, accessible via US-50 E. Quivira National Wildlife Refuge, located in the central part of the state, is a must-visit spot for birdwatchers with its over 300 bird species. The refuge is accessible via KS-156 W.
What about bears?
Kansas Camping
Kansas is a hidden gem in the Midwest for a camper seeking adventure and relaxation. To help you plan your next camping trip, we have compiled short summaries about the most popular state park campgrounds, national park campgrounds, and RV parks in Kansas.
Keep in mind, the most parks require reservations, so, take a look at the section on free camping for the links to the proper authorities. If you need to make a reservation at a state park, you can do so here.
State Park Campgrounds
Tuttle Creek State Park
Located in northeastern Kansas near the city of Manhattan, Tuttle Creek State Park offers breathtaking views of Tuttle Creek Lake. Reservations should be made at least a month in advance for a peak season campsite. Fees range from $11-$25 per night for tent sites, $20-$30 per night for RV sites, and $80-$100 per night for rental cabins. Amenities include electric hookups, showers, and restrooms.
Cheney State Park
Cheney State Park is situated in central Kansas, just 30 minutes from Wichita. Campers should reserve a spot at least two weeks in advance. Tent site fees range from $11-$25 per night, while RV sites cost $20-$30 per night. This park features amenities such as shower facilities, playgrounds, and picnic areas.
Cedar Ridge State Park
Campground is situated in the north-central part of Kansas, in the city of Tescott. Those who are planning a trip to Cedar Ridge should make their reservation as early as possible, as campsites at this popular location fill up quickly. The fees for tent camping start at $10 per night, with additional fees for electrical hookups, and RV camping fees at $20 per night.
Tent camping sites offer clean drinking water, and there are restrooms and showers on-site. RV camping sites come equipped with electrical hookups, picnic tables, and fire rings. Cabins are available for $55 per night, and they come furnished with heating and air conditioning, kitchens, and comfortable beds.
National Park Campgrounds
Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve
This national park is located in eastern Kansas, near the city of Strong City. Campers can pitch their tents for free at designated spots throughout the preserve. Activities include hiking, bird-watching, and guided tours.
Fort Larned National Historic Site
This historic site is located in central Kansas, near the town of Larned. Reservations are not required for tent camping, RV sites, or cabin rentals. Tent sites cost $5 per night, while RV sites and cabins range from $16-$50 per night. Visitors can enjoy guided tours, living history demonstrations, and hiking trails.
RV Parks
Walnut Grove RV Park
This RV park is located in southeast Kansas, near the city of Merriam. Campers are encouraged to reserve a spot at least two weeks in advance. RV site fees range from $45-$65 per night, and amenities include full hookups, laundry facilities, and a swimming pool with volleyball court.
Lake Shawnee Campground
This RV park is situated in the northeast of Kansas, near the city of Topeka. Reservations should be made at least a month in advance during peak season. RV site fees range from $20-$45 per night, and the campground amenities include full hookups, showers, and a playground.
Free Camping In Kansas
While most of the camping options available in Kansas require a fee or reservation, there are still several places where you can go camping for free. Most of these are dispersed or primitive camping sites with few or no amenities. Please check the corresponding website links for details. Here are some options:
Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks, and Tourism
Almost 30,000 acres of land are managed by the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks, and Tourism, which offers free camping opportunities in designated areas unless there is a sign that specifies otherwise.
National Forests
The National Forests located in Kansas offer free camping opportunities in designated areas unless the area has been closed or reserved for special use. These are great places that people use for horseback riding.
Army Corps of Engineers
There are several campgrounds managed by the Army Corps of Engineers in Kansas that offer free camping opportunities in designated areas unless there is a sign specifying otherwise.
Please note that the availability of free camping spots is subject to change, and it is essential to check with the specific site beforehand to verify policies and regulations.
Finish Line For Kansas
With its spellbinding countryside, wide open spaces in the west, and wildflower meadows, Ozarks in the east, Kansas is an unforgettable destination that promises to delight everyone in the family. For solitude seekers, there are plenty of camping sites with minimal human interference.
Nature lovers may take hikes up Mt. Sunflower or go with a group kayaking down the Arkansas River. Avid fishing enthusiasts can check out some of the nation’s best fishing spots while trekking around Wilson and Cheney State Parks. And don’t forget to join the locals at a campfire to make s’mores and tell tall tales! Whether you come for some quiet rest and relaxation or for an incredible adventure, you won’t regret having chosen Kansas as your source of exploration!
So what are you waiting for? Make your family vacation plans today and don’t look back. And, consider subscribing to be notified when I write about more camping adventures so you can experience all that the rest of the USA has in store!
~ Ron
Up for more outdoors? Look down ⬇️
Originally published at https://www.outdoorverified.com on April 21, 2023.
