West Shore - Cheney State Park

We only picked this location based on our cross country road trip. We only needed one night, but had to pay for two nights (it was on a weekend, but this place was no where near full, so the demand isn’t there to warrant a 2 night requirement). On top of that, we had to pay another $5 just to enter the park to get to our campsite. Campers near us looked like they were living there full time. The sites in the grass by the lake seemed to be much nicer when we drove by. Our gravel site was filled with any hills and micro trash. Campers 2 sites down from us was full of kids throwing their empty caprisun drinks on the ground (not the parks fault). Also the bathrooms are extremely dated and gross. Not sure what they are using the entrance fee for, but it doesn’t appear to be for upkeep.

We love camping here because the campsites are decent size and they have cabins for our family without campers or tents. We also enjoy the lake and playgrounds for the kids. It is close to home but a nice getaway.

Yep, we saw bald eagles every day of our stay. Majestic!

This campground is large and spread out. We road our bikes over every inch and clocked 12 miles. If you do mountain bike, you would enjoy the 9 + mile trail ( we walked it). It's flat and not challenging, but really nice, secluded and if you bring a lunch, there are 3 picnic tables on the lake that can only be reached by boat or the trail. Boating, fishing, birding, 18 hole disc golf course, swimming, biking or just relaxing, this place is great.

There are several loops within this State Park. The Gapher loop is for tents. If you are a tenter, you are in for a treat. Sites right are right on the water. The restroom water was on in this loop only.

Smarsh is a loop that is not on the lake side, but the only w/e loop that had water turned on during off season. It looks older and is low land. A large area of standing water was by the road. Even though it is older, has giant Cottonwood trees shading the sites.. one of the 10 modern bathhouse was conveniently located at the entrance to the loop. A playground and walking trails are across the main road. The longest trail runs through this loop.

The Hobie Loop has no services, but the amazing views make up for it. Half the sites are right on the water. Kayaks, Canoes, SUP can be launched right from the sites or just across the road. You pass a HUGE boat launch area before you get to this loop.

The last 2 loops ( North and South) are w/e loops, but water was off for the season. You could fill tanks at the vacant host site or the dump station.

The sites are all gravel or grass with the exception of handicap sites. I wouldn't they were level, but all doable.

It was WINDY every day so I couldn't kayak or SUP. I think it is just Kansas, though. I was sad to see so much trash on the road and the most remote part of the long hiking trail. Some could be from windy blowing stuff around, but the bad of empty beer bottles discarded on th me trail was not. We reported it.

A small store is just outside the entrance and Witchita is only 30 minutes away. Hutchinson is maybe 15 mi.

Very nice shaded sites with water and electric hookup. It can be hot in the summer. Campground is clean and well run. Nice, level gravel pads.

It's a nice site but the people that departed, after our check-in time, left a mudhole and dog poop everywhere. Don't think we will stay at this site again. The water hookups just make a mess

Best place close to west Wichita. Several areas to choose From. Most with large camping spots. All with fire rings. Water and electric available with several dump stations.

Have stayed at this lake many times over the last 35 years, both in a tent and a camper. There are sites for everything. I've even seen people sleep in the bed of their pickup trucks. Full service, no service, whatever you need. Bath houses are cared for daily.

Great place to hang out with the family. Awesome for fishing in the boat if, you can find the right spot!!

The campsite has friendly staff, the facilities and campsites are clean, great swimming area. They are pet friendly and have a leash law. The boat ramp and dock are good sized and kept maintained. I have a great time everytime I go. I recommend it as a stop while you are in Kansas.