Best Campgrounds near Arkansas City, KS

Camping options around Arkansas City, Kansas include a mixture of established campgrounds and lakeside recreation areas. Cowely County Fishing Lake, located in Arkansas City, provides primitive camping sites with picnic tables, toilets, drinking water and fire rings. Nearby Walnut River RV Park and Cherokee Strip Campground offer spaces for both RVs and tent campers. The camping landscape extends to neighboring communities with facilities like Napawalla Park in Oxford and Winfield City Lake, both within a 30-minute drive of Arkansas City.

Road conditions vary seasonally across campgrounds in the region, with most sites accessible via standard vehicles on maintained roads. Facilities range from primitive sites with vault toilets to more developed areas offering electrical hookups, water, and dump stations. "Very nice primitive campsite. Several spots beside the lake or built on little peninsulas surrounded by water on three sides," noted one camper about Cowely County Fishing Lake. Most campgrounds in the area remain open year-round, though seasonal considerations impact water availability, with some facilities shutting off water during winter months. Cell service tends to be reliable near established campgrounds but may be limited at more remote fishing and lake access points.

The region's camping areas predominantly feature water access as a primary attraction. Cowely County Fishing Lake receives consistent praise for its waterfront sites, with one visitor describing "beautiful lake, sites right next to the water." Campers seeking more amenities can find electric hookups and water at locations like Napawalla Park, which one review called "a great value for water & electric" with a "very well kept" park offering disc golf, playgrounds and bath facilities. While weekdays typically offer quiet camping experiences, some reviewers mention that lakeside areas can become crowded during summer weekends and holidays. Most camping areas permit fires where designated rings are provided, though visitors should verify current fire regulations during dry periods. Wildlife viewing opportunities and fishing access represent common highlights in camping reviews throughout the area.

Best Camping Sites Near Arkansas City, Kansas (54)

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Recent Reviews near Arkansas City, KS

108 Reviews of 54 Arkansas City Campgrounds



Guide to Arkansas City

Camping near Arkansas City, Kansas, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and family-friendly activities. Whether you're looking for a quiet retreat or a fun-filled adventure, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Biking: Explore the trails at Osage Hills State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, "Great trails, clean, HEATED bathrooms and showers," making it a perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Fishing: At Santa Fe Lake, you can enjoy fishing and kayaking. A reviewer noted, "Rent kayak, tent and RV friendly. Fishing and hiking."
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for bald eagles at West Shore - Cheney State Park. One camper shared, "Yep, we saw bald eagles every day of our stay. Majestic!"

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness at Boulder Bluff Area — El Dorado State Park. A visitor said, "From the office personnel to the cleanliness of the sites, to the sheer beauty of them as well."
  • Spacious Sites: Many enjoy the spacious sites at Winfield City Lake. One review mentioned, "Very nice woodsy campground. You must reserve in advance."
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Families love the amenities at Lake Afton Park. A camper noted, "Great time to chill and hangout around the fire. Good facilities great time riding bikes."

What you should know:

  • Water Availability: At Osage Hills State Park Campground, water turns off to sites on November 1, but restrooms and showers remain operational. A camper mentioned, "Water turns off to sites on Nov 1 but restrooms and showers are still on."
  • Reservation Requirements: Some campgrounds, like Winfield City Lake, require reservations in advance. One visitor warned, "You must reserve in advance."
  • Limited Amenities: Campers at Napawalla Park noted that while it has decent amenities, it’s a simple park. A review stated, "Simple but nice park with decent amenities."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Campgrounds with Play Areas: Look for spots like Boulder Bluff Area — El Dorado State Park, which has playgrounds for kids. A camper shared, "We also enjoy the lake and playgrounds for the kids."
  • Pack Warm Clothes: If you're camping in cooler months, like one family did at Osage Hills State Park Campground, they appreciated the "HEATED super clean bathrooms" during chilly nights.
  • Bring Firewood: Campers often enjoy evening campfires, so bringing firewood is a good idea. One reviewer at Lake Afton Park mentioned, "Good place to bring your bike and ride in the mornings."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Levels: RVers at Wellington KOA noted that some sites are a bit rutted. One review said, "Sites are gravel and maybe a little rutted, some more gravel would help level things up."
  • Use Late Check-In: If you arrive late, many campgrounds, like All Seasons RV Park, have a late check-in process. A visitor shared, "Well organized and easy with individual maps for each site number."
  • Plan for Amenities: Look for campgrounds with full hookups, like All Seasons RV Park, which offers "full hookups" and a "nice staff dog park."

Camping near Arkansas City, Kansas, has something for everyone, from families to seasoned RVers. Make sure to check out these campgrounds for a great outdoor experience!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Arkansas City, KS?

According to TheDyrt.com, Arkansas City, KS offers a wide range of camping options, with 54 campgrounds and RV parks near Arkansas City, KS and 4 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Arkansas City, KS?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Arkansas City, KS is Napawalla Park with a 4.6-star rating from 9 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Arkansas City, KS?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 4 free dispersed camping spots near Arkansas City, KS.