You wouldn’t believe it when you’re approaching it, since it seems near a road and behind the train tracks, and it seems to be near a refinery. But this 16-site, city-run park and campground is the kind of place I had been hoping to run across on my long drive. It has shady spots in an area where shade is a rarity. It’s a little protected by its location near the river, which is great.

It has hot showers and flush toilets, and did I mention hot water? There are park facilities like a play structure and lots of green grass. And it’s clean! At this writing, the fee ranges from $5 to $15 per night.

The site manager was extremely helpful and pleasant. It was worth calling ahead to let him know I was coming. (620) 626-0531