Public Campground
Big Hill Lake Mound Valley Recreation Area
Big Hill Lake Mound Valley Recreation Area, near Cherryvale, Kansas, is a solid spot for campers looking to unwind and enjoy nature. With a mix of tent and RV sites, it’s a great place to set up camp and soak in the serene surroundings.
The campground is known for its clean facilities and friendly atmosphere. Visitors have mentioned that the sites are well-maintained, with electric and water hookups available, making it convenient for those with larger rigs. As one camper noted, “Some gorgeous spots” can be found throughout the area, perfect for relaxing by the lake or enjoying a campfire.
If you’re into fishing, you’re in luck! Big Hill Lake is recognized as a trophy fishing lake, with species like largemouth bass and crappie waiting to be caught. Plus, there are hiking trails nearby, including the scenic Big Hill Lake Horse Trail, which offers beautiful views and a chance to spot local wildlife.
While the weekends can get busy with locals, the campground tends to quiet down by Sunday evening, giving you a peaceful retreat during the week. Whether you’re here for a quick stop or a longer stay, Big Hill Lake Mound Valley Recreation Area has plenty to offer for a memorable camping experience.
Description
Overview
Mound Valley is located on the crystal clear Big Hill Lake in southeast Kansas. The lake boasts three campgrounds, three equestrian trails and four day-use areas for the public to enjoy. Camping, picnicking, horseback riding, hiking, swimming, fishing and other outdoor activities abound.
Recreation
Campers can venture onto several hiking and equestrian trails including Big Hill Lake Horse Trail, a 17-mile trail with a variety of terrain for all ages to explore. The trail winds along a scenic hardwood ridge that offers gorgeous views all along the way. Big Hill Lake is known as a trophy lake for fishing. Principal species of sport fish include largemouth bass, crappie, channel and flathead catfish, bluegill, walleye and smallmouth bass. The lake is also popular for fishing tournaments. Almost all of the land around the lake is open to public hunting, except for parks and areas around the dam and control structures. Principal species hunted are whitetail deer, turkey and squirrel. Families with kids will enjoy visiting the sand-covered beach nearby for cooling off from the summer heat and enjoying a picnic.
Facilities
This facility has 85 campsites, including three group sites, one of which has a picnic shelter as well. Most campsites are on the waterfront; others are just a short walk away. Other amenities include a boat ramp and boat trailer parking, restrooms, showers and a swim beach.
Natural Features
The park is nestled in the rolling, wooded countryside that is referred to as the Little Ozarks. With thick oak-hickory forests surrounded by prairie and farmland, the lake shore supplies a variety of habitats for birds and mammals.
Contact Info
This location has limited staffing. Please call (620) 336-2741 for general information.
Detours Nearby
Louie P. Gartner RA
28 min away
Montgomery State Fishing Lake Dispersed
29 min away
Drive Time
- 1 hr 13 min from Joplin, MO
- 1 hr 36 min from Tulsa, OK
- 2 hrs 1 min from Wichita, KS
- 2 hrs 26 min from Fayetteville, AR
Location
Big Hill Lake Mound Valley Recreation Area is located in Kansas
Directions
From Cherryvale, Kansas, take U.S. Highway 169 and turn east onto Main Street. Continue through the town and turn right onto Olive Street. Go 1/2 a block and turn left onto County Route 5000. Proceed 4.5 miles to Big Hill Lake and follow signs to Mound Valley.
Address
19065 CHERRYVALE PKWY
Cherryvale, KS 67335-0426
Coordinates
37.2694444 N
95.4583333 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile5GGood Coverage
VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 11/19/25- AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 11/19/25
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GGood Coverage
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 11/19/25
- AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 11/19/25
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Firewood Available
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Sewer Hookups
- Water Hookups
- 50 Amp Hookups
- Big Rig Friendly
