Best Camping in Kansas

When you think of Kansas, forget about flat. There’s a world of unexpected outdoor adventures waiting for you in the heart of America. Camping in Kansas brings you closer to world-class hiking, fishing, horseback riding, and the ability to enjoy a sunset over the plains. With twenty-six state parks, multiple lakes, and an abundance of trails and wildlife, camping in Kansas is sure to surprise you.

The scenic Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge lies in the broad, flat, and beautiful Neosho River Valley. It’s the country’s largest remaining tract of tallgrass, complete with captivating wildflowers and a nearly endless horizon. El Dorado State Park is situated conveniently at the edge of the Flint Hills and perfect for camping nearby. A destination for boating, fishing, hiking and wildlife viewing, the hills make camping in Kansas as fun-packed as it is gorgeous.

For water lovers, there are a handful of public camping areas near the Kansas River Trail, as well as sandbars welcome to campers scattered along the way. Cyclists and hikers will love camping in Kansas for the numerous trails winding through Kansas River State Park’s breathtaking oak-hickory forest. Plus, you can access the Kansas River (also known as Kaw River) from a boat ramp for canoeing, kayaking, and other small watercraft.

If you’re looking for fresh air, awe-inspiring views, and crystal water, Kansas may have just the right thing. With tall grass, stretching fields, and open skies, the Sunflower State is perfect for those who love trail exploration, wildlife, and even archery! From the Flint Hills to the Kansas River and everything in between, camping in Kansas is perfect for a picturesque and peaceful getaway.

Best Camping Sites in Kansas (542)

    Camper-submitted photo from Clinton State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Clinton State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Clinton State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Clinton State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Clinton State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Clinton State Park Campground

    1.

    Clinton State Park Campground

    36 Reviews
    83 Photos
    106 Saves
    Clinton Lake, Kansas

    This recreation area is part of Clinton Lake

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $10 - $65 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Wilson State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Wilson State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Wilson State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Wilson State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Wilson State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Wilson State Park Campground

    2.

    Wilson State Park Campground

    26 Reviews
    117 Photos
    163 Saves
    Wilson, Kansas

    Located right about in the heart of Kansas, approximately 60 miles west of Salina, Wilson Lake is somewhat of an anomaly among the state’s otherwise flat and featureless plains. This 9,000-acre reservoir, created by the damming of the Saline River, is surrounded by scenic cliffs and sculpted outcrops within the region’s low Smoky Hills. These hills consist of Dakota and Kiowa sandstone formations that were deposited during the Cretaceous Period. Boasting three recreation areas (Wilson Lake State Park, Minooka Park, and Lucas Park), as well as an 8,000-acre Wildlife Area, Wilson Lake offers locals and visitors ample opportunities to get outdoors for camping, hiking, biking, fishing, and wildlife watching. The year-round campgrounds at Wilson State Park feature 240 sites for tent and RV campers in two main areas: Hell Creek and Otoe. Within these areas, campsites are situated around the shores of State Park Cove and Hell Creek Cove, and many have nice views of the lake. RV campers can choose from full- or partial-hookup sites, with back-in or pull-through drives; tent campers have access to primitive sites. Most sites are open and exposed. All are equipped with picnic tables and cooking grills, and have access to water faucets, flush and vault toilets, showers, and cooking shelters. Dump stations are available in both areas. Campsite rates are $10–$24/night, plus vehicle fee; weekly and annual rates are available. The park provides two boat launches for recreational and fishing watercraft, as well as docks and a fish-cleaning station. Common catches in the lake include striped, spotted and smallmouth bass, bluegill, crappie, walleye, and catfish. Paddlers can launch kayaks, canoes and SUPs from anywhere along the shoreline. A swimming area is located in State Park Cove in the Hell Creek Area. Mountain bikers can enjoy riding on the 25-mile Switchgrass Trail, and the 1-mile, barrier-free Cedar Trail is nice nature path for the mobility impaired. Bird and wildlife watchers should be on the lookout for white-tailed deer, rabbits, quail, turkeys, and a variety of resident and migratory waterfowl, songbirds and raptors.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Goodland KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Goodland KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Goodland KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Goodland KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Goodland KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Goodland KOA

    3.

    Goodland KOA

    26 Reviews
    70 Photos
    54 Saves
    St. Francis, Kansas

    Conveniently located just under a mile from interstate 70 at exit 19 we offer a quiet and relaxing environment for campers. Available sites include long full hookup pull thru's to accomodate the largest motorhomes that are towing; down to tent sites and cabins!

    • Pets
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    Camper-submitted photo from Salina KOA Holiday
    Camper-submitted photo from Salina KOA Holiday
    Camper-submitted photo from Salina KOA Holiday
    Camper-submitted photo from Salina KOA Holiday
    Camper-submitted photo from Salina KOA Holiday
    Camper-submitted photo from Salina KOA Holiday

    4.

    Salina KOA Holiday

    25 Reviews
    55 Photos
    65 Saves
    Salina, Kansas

    This KOA is midway between St. Louis, Denver, the Black Hills, and Texas. You'll have easy access to I-70 as well as I-135 to Wichita. Located in a shady meadow northwest of Salina, you can relax in a lawn chair while fishing in the private pond. Swim in the pool, play horseshoes, enjoy the Jump pad, watch the kids go for a train ride, or rent a bike. All sites are pull-thru with free Wi-Fi and cable available on most. At Salina, spend more than one day seeing the area's historic sites. Visit Abilene (about 25 miles E), known as the boyhood home of President Dwight Eisenhower. Check out the museum chronicling Ike's achievements at the Eisenhower Center. Visit Lindsborg, Kansas' Little Sweden (S of the campground). Stop at Rolling Hills Zoo (6 miles W on I-70). In summer (Sat. and Sun.), enjoy the all-you-can-eat pancake breakfasts. "Delicious Hunt Brothers Pizza and Wings can be delivered to your site (hours vary; ask in the office)." Pool: Memorial Weekend - Labor Day Weekend. Max pull thru 80 feet. Your hosts: Daryle & Terri Schwerdt.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $46 - $65 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Ellis Lakeside Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ellis Lakeside Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ellis Lakeside Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ellis Lakeside Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ellis Lakeside Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ellis Lakeside Campground

    5.

    Ellis Lakeside Campground

    25 Reviews
    51 Photos
    101 Saves
    Hays, Kansas

    Welcome to Ellis Lakeside Campground, a charming spot nestled near the town of Ellis, Kansas. This campground is a great place to unwind, whether you're just passing through or planning a longer stay. It's open all year round, so you can enjoy its amenities no matter the season.

    One of the standout features here is the peaceful setting by a large creek, which some might call a pond. The area is shaded by large trees, providing a relaxing atmosphere perfect for a quick setup and a restful night. The campground offers electric and water hookups, making it convenient for both RVs and tent campers. There's also a sanitary dump station available.

    For those traveling with pets, you'll be pleased to know that pets are allowed. The campground also has showers and toilets, which visitors have found to be clean and functional, though a bit dated. Each site comes with a picnic table and a grill or fire ring, so you can enjoy a meal outdoors.

    Ellis Lakeside Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis, which adds a bit of spontaneity to your travel plans. The self-pay station makes it easy to settle in quickly. The cost is reasonable, with off-season rates at $20 and on-season rates at $25 for pull-through spots.

    The town of Ellis is just a short drive away, offering a few dining options and a railroad museum for a quick detour. The campground is conveniently located near the highway, making it an ideal stopover for those traveling between Kansas City and the Rockies.

    Overall, Ellis Lakeside Campground provides a quiet, clean, and convenient place to rest, with the added bonus of a scenic creekside setting. Whether you're in an RV or a tent, you'll find this campground a pleasant place to stay.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    Camper-submitted photo from Bloomington East - Clinton Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Bloomington East - Clinton Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Bloomington East - Clinton Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Bloomington East - Clinton Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Bloomington East - Clinton Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Bloomington East - Clinton Lake

    6.

    Bloomington East - Clinton Lake

    21 Reviews
    43 Photos
    44 Saves
    Lawrence, Kansas

    Overview

    Bloomington East Park includes Cedar Ridge, Hickory/Walnut, and Oak Campgrounds, Ash and Elm Group Camps, and Bloomington Beach Picnic Shelters. The park is located just west of Clinton Lake, between the Rock Creek and Wakarusa River arms of the lake, and offers several different recreational options. Within Bloomington East Park, visitors have the opportunity to reserve picnic shelters and campsites, both for group camping and individual family camping.

    Recreation

    Bloomington Beach has a large sandy beach for swimming. Bloomington Beach requires a day use fee, for non-campers, between May 1 and September 30. There are horseshoe pits, sand volleyball courts and playgrounds located several places in Bloomington East Park, making it the perfect spot for families. Clinton Lake offers opportunities for boating, fishing, canoeing, jet skiing, swimming and countless other water sports, making it the main attraction in Bloomington East Park. The lake's fish and wildlife resources provide sightseers, fishermen, and hunters, ample opportunities for their sports, and Clinton Lake is well-stocked with crappie, walleye, channel catfish and white bass. Bloomington East Park has three boat ramps within a short driving distance of the campgrounds. These boat ramps (#5, 6 and 7) do require a day use fee, for non-campers, between April 1 and October 31. Visitors enjoy viewing bald eagles, white-tailed deer, Canada geese, wild turkey and other wildlife in abundance at Clinton Lake. Three trail systems are located around Clinton Lake, including the North Shore, South Shore and the George Latham Trails. All offer hiking, biking and equestrian opportunities within a 20 minute drive.

    Facilities

    Bloomington Beach has a large sandy beach for swimming. Bloomington Beach requires a day use fee, for non-campers, between May 1 and September 30. There are horseshoe pits, sand volleyball courts and playgrounds located several places in Bloomington East Park, making it the perfect spot for families. Clinton Lake offers opportunities for boating, fishing, canoeing, jet skiing, swimming and countless other water sports, making it the main attraction in Bloomington East Park. The lake's fish and wildlife resources provide sightseers, fishermen, and hunters, ample opportunities for their sports, and Clinton Lake is well-stocked with crappie, walleye, channel catfish and white bass. Bloomington East Park has three boat ramps within a short driving distance of the campgrounds. These boat ramps (#5, 6 and 7) do require a day use fee, for non-campers, between April 1 and October 31. Visitors enjoy viewing bald eagles, white-tailed deer, Canada geese, wild turkey and other wildlife in abundance at Clinton Lake. Three trail systems are located around Clinton Lake, including the North Shore, South Shore and the George Latham Trails. All offer hiking, biking and equestrian opportunities within a 20 minute drive.

    Natural Features

    Congress authorized Clinton Lake in 1962, and the finished reservoir was filled in 1980. While the Dam and Reservoir were originally built for flood control, the area has now become a recreational oasis for millions of visitors to enjoy the beautiful green Kansas backdrop. Clinton Lake's beautiful setting of steep bluffs, wooded shoreline and clean water is unequaled among Kansas lakes. Shoreline development has been limited in an effort to preserve as much of the natural setting as possible. Clinton Lake spans 8 miles up the Wakarusa Valley and covers 7,000 surface acres. If the lake ever approaches the top of its flood pool, an additional 5,800 acres will be covered, extending the area to 13 miles along the valley floor.

    Nearby Attractions

    The Visitor Center, located on the northwest side of the dam, has several informative displays covering topics such as the history of the area, reasons for the dam and the wildlife in the area. The Clinton Lake Museum, located within Bloomington East Park, has several informative displays covering topics like the history of the region and the Underground Railroad. The cities of Lawrence and Topeka are within a 30 minute drive.

    Charges & Cancellations

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $14 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Shawnee County Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Shawnee County Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Shawnee County Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Shawnee County Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Shawnee County Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Shawnee County Campground

    7.

    Lake Shawnee County Campground

    20 Reviews
    43 Photos
    76 Saves
    Topeka, Kansas

    Welcome to Lake Shawnee County Campground, nestled near Topeka, KS. This spot is a gem for anyone looking to enjoy the great outdoors with a touch of comfort. The campground is open all year, so you can plan your visit whenever the mood strikes.

    One of the standout features here is the beautiful lake, which offers stunning views and plenty of activities. Whether you're into fishing, swimming, or just relaxing by the water, you'll find it all here. The sunsets over the lake are something you don't want to miss—perfect for those Instagram-worthy shots.

    The campground itself is clean and well-maintained, with friendly staff who go out of their way to make your stay enjoyable. They even deliver firewood and ice right to your site. Speaking of sites, they come with electric and water hookups, making it easy for both tent and RV campers. Just a heads-up, the sites are a bit close together, but there's plenty of green space around to stretch out.

    For those traveling with pets, you'll be happy to know that the campground is pet-friendly, as long as your furry friends are on a leash. The facilities include clean showers with great water pressure, toilets, and a sanitary dump station. There's also a market nearby for any last-minute supplies you might need.

    If you're into hiking or just a leisurely stroll, there are well-maintained trails around the lake. Plus, there are pavilions and picnic tables if you want to have a meal outdoors. The campground is also a great stopping point if you're on a longer road trip, being about 8 hours from Denver.

    In short, Lake Shawnee County Campground offers a mix of natural beauty and convenient amenities, making it a fantastic spot for a getaway. Whether you're here for a night or a week, you'll find plenty to enjoy.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $20 / night

  1. 8.

    Gunsmoke RV Park

    17 Reviews
    41 Photos
    34 Saves
    Dodge City, Kansas

    Good Sam Club ratings 9/10/9.5. Facebook dubbed it the #1 RV park in Kansas. Big rig friendly with 58 pull-thru sites up to 90’ long and 31 back-in sites. 50/30/20 Amp service and some sites have dual sewer. Guests enjoy the swimming pool, playground, horseshoe pits, clean bath houses and laundry facility, game room, book exchange and general store. The park also has a tenting area and the Cowboy Bunkhouse is also available for rent. Conveniently located at the intersection of US 50/400 and US 50/56, just a short drive to all the old west attractions, local casino, race track, event center, water park and more.

    • Pets
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    Camper-submitted photo from Russel Crites - Hillsdale State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Russel Crites - Hillsdale State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Russel Crites - Hillsdale State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Russel Crites - Hillsdale State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Russel Crites - Hillsdale State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Russel Crites - Hillsdale State Park

    9.

    Russel Crites - Hillsdale State Park

    15 Reviews
    18 Photos
    58 Saves
    Hillsdale, Kansas
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Tuttle Creek State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Tuttle Creek State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Tuttle Creek State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Tuttle Creek State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Tuttle Creek State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Tuttle Creek State Park Campground

    10.

    Tuttle Creek State Park Campground

    14 Reviews
    37 Photos
    59 Saves
    Manhattan, Kansas

    Tuttle Creek State Park Campground, nestled near Manhattan, KS, is a gem for campers looking for a mix of nature and convenience. This place has it all—whether you're pitching a tent, parking an RV, or staying in a cabin. The campground is open all year, so you can enjoy its beauty no matter the season.

    One of the standout features here is the access to water. Many sites offer scenic lake views, and there's plenty of space for both motorized and human-powered watercraft. If you're into fishing or boating, you'll be in heaven. The sites are spacious and shaded, with lots of trees providing a cozy, natural feel. Some spots are right on the water, making for a picturesque camping experience.

    Electric and water hookups are available, and the campground is big-rig friendly, so no worries if you're rolling in with a larger RV. Fire rings with grills and picnic tables are standard, making it easy to cook up a meal and enjoy it outdoors. Pets are welcome too, so feel free to bring your furry friends along.

    The campground is well-maintained, with clean bath and shower houses and convenient dump stations. However, it's worth noting that some visitors have mentioned the bathrooms and showers could use a bit more attention.

    Navigating the campground can be a bit tricky due to its size, so having a map handy is a good idea, especially if you're arriving late. But once you find your spot, you'll appreciate the peace and quiet, along with the friendly atmosphere.

    If you're looking for a clean, safe, and quiet place to camp near Manhattan, Tuttle Creek State Park Campground is definitely worth a visit. Whether you're staying for a night or planning a longer getaway, this spot offers a great mix of natural beauty and practical amenities.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $24 / night

Showing results 1-10 of 542 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping in Kansas

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Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available in Kansas?

According to TheDyrt.com, Kansas offers a wide range of camping options, with 542 campgrounds and RV parks in Kansas and 16 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground in Kansas?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground in Kansas is Clinton State Park Campground with a 4-star rating from 36 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping in Kansas?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 16 free dispersed camping spots in Kansas.

What are the best parks in Kansas?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 17 parks in Kansas that allow camping, notably PSICC and Big Hill Lake.