Wind sweeps consistently across the open grassland at this Army Corps of Engineers campground, positioned along the shoreline of Kanopolis Lake. The 126 sites spread across both forested and open terrain, with waterfront spots drawing the most interest from campers seeking direct lake access. Electric and water hookups accommodate RVs up to 65 feet, while the campground also welcomes tent camping and provides boat-in access for those arriving by water.
Several reviewers mention the sloped nature of many sites, particularly those closest to the water. "Site was pretty sloped back to front and side to side but just bring leveling blocks and you're fine," notes Suzy. The dump station requires campers to bring their own water hose for cleanup. Cell service from major carriers works reliably throughout the campground. During winter months, the facility operates as a free camping area with limited services.
The campground maintains clean facilities and employs friendly camp hosts who assist with check-in procedures. Fishing and swimming opportunities draw visitors to the lake, while the grassy areas provide space for walking pets. Campers should expect a 35-minute drive to reach major stores and services. For those exploring the broader region, Yankee Run sits just over a mile northwest, offering additional camping options within the recreation area.
Description
Overview
Venango Park Campground is located on the eastern shores of Kanopolis Lake in central Kansas, 30 miles southwest of Salina. Kanopolis Lake is on the Smoky Hill River, and is one of the state's oldest lakes. Many outdoor activities are available, including camping, boating, fishing, hunting and ATV riding.
Recreation
Kanopolis Lake offers great boating and fishing opportunities with plenty of bluegill, Channel Catfish, White Crappie, Flathead Catfish, Largemouth Bass, Saugeye, Walleye, Wiper and KDWPT stocks Trout seasonally. The Venango Park ATV Trail crisscrosses roughly 5 acres of land within the park, making this a popular destination for ATV and motorcycle enthusiasts. Venango Park offers a 1.7 mile hiking only trail that meanders throughout the park. This trail covers different ecosystems that can be found in the area including forests, grasslands, and wetlands. Keep an eye out for the different flora and fauna that can be found in each. Kanopolis State Park also has trails available for hiking, bicycling, and equestrian riders.
Facilities
Venango Park offers a total of 132 faciltites. There are 126 campsites, 5 day use shelters, and 1 group camp. The 126 campsites are a mixture of electric with water, electric only, primitive, and double sites. Other amenities include flush toilets, drinking water, showers, a dump station, boat ramp, beach, playground and nature trail.
Natural Features
The campground is situated on the shady tree-dotted shoreline. Sandstone bluffs, rolling hills, and vast, open prairie lands surround the lake. Wildlife is varied and abundant in the area: Whitetail deer, pheasants, quail, Texas horned lizards, beavers and even Bald eagles are commonly seen. Waterfowl extensively gather at Loder Point Marsh located within the campground. Wildflowers including purple poppy mallow, blue false indigo, yucca and prairie wild rose, put on a colorful display in prairies surrounding the lake.
Nearby Attractions
The Fort Harker Museum in Kanopolis and the Rogers Art Gallery and Museum in Ellsworth both portray the settlement of the American West. The Kanopolis Drive-In theater is just a short drive away, and is open most weekened evenings
Charges & Cancellations
Reservation cancellation fees and No-Show fees may apply.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundVenango Park is located in Kansas
Directions
From the North: Take HWY 140 to HWY 141. Travel south on HWY 141, then 1/2 mile west on Venango Road; look for signs to the park. From the South: Take HWY 4 to HWY 141. Travel north on HWY 141, then 1/2 mile west on Veanago Road; look for stigns to the park.
Address
US ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS
105 RIVERSIDE DRIVE
Marquette, KS 67464
Coordinates
38.6330556 N
97.9875 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 19 usersLast on 3/31/26
VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 3/31/26- AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 11/19/25
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 19 usersLast on 3/31/26
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 3/31/26
- AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 11/19/25
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Water Hookups
- Pull-Through Sites
- 50 Amp Hookups
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 1 hr 20 min from Manhattan, KS
- 1 hr 25 min from Wichita, KS
- 1 hr 56 min from Topeka, KS
- 2 hrs 17 min from Lawrence, KS
