Just off Interstate 70 in western Kansas, Ellis Lakeside Campground sits alongside a narrow reservoir formed by a small dam. The municipal campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis with self-pay envelopes, making it a convenient overnight stop for travelers crossing the state.
About 15 sites line the water's edge under mature shade trees, while another 10 sites occupy an open area behind them in full sun. Most sites offer electric and water hookups, though campers report needing extension cords to reach some electrical boxes. Lee D. notes that "each site is very large and spaced a decent amount apart but there is no physical separation between them." Pull-through sites accommodate RVs up to 50 feet, and a dump station serves the campground near the entrance.
The reservoir attracts local anglers throughout the day, and a fishing dock extends into the water. A small playground sits within the campground, though equipment shows its age. WiFi reaches most sites, and cell service proves reliable for streaming according to multiple reviews. The bathhouse provides basic facilities that campers describe as functional rather than luxurious.
Road noise from I-70 becomes noticeable at night when traffic sounds quiet down, though daytime activity masks the highway. The small town of Ellis lies within walking distance, offering a cafe, pizza place, and Mexican restaurant. Water service shuts off during winter months, so RV campers should arrive with full tanks during cold weather visits.
Rates run $15 for tents and $20-25 for RVs depending on season. Those seeking additional options can explore camping near Hays about 15 minutes east. Ellis Lakeside works well for travelers needing a straightforward overnight stop with basic amenities and easy interstate access.
Description
This campground has both developed sites and primitive sites - no dispersed sites.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsEllis Lakeside Campground is located in Kansas near Hays
Directions
From Jct of I-70 & Washington St (exit 145), S 7 blocks on Washington St to 8th St, E 2 blocks (E).
Coordinates
38.940266239999744 N
99.55797126999897 W
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 18 usersLast on 5/12/26
- VerizonLTEGood CoverageVerified by 25 usersLast on 5/12/26
- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 12 usersLast on 5/12/26
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 18 usersLast on 5/12/26
- VerizonLTEGood CoverageVerified by 25 usersLast on 5/12/26
- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 12 usersLast on 5/12/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Phone Service
- WiFi
- Showers
- Drinking Water
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Sewer Hookups
- Water Hookups
- Pull-Through Sites
- 50 Amp Hookups
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 2 hrs 12 min from Manhattan, KS
- 2 hrs 39 min from Wichita, KS
- 3 hrs 4 min from Grand Island, NE
- 4 hrs 11 min from Enid, OK














































