Northwest Kansas offers several dog-friendly camping options around Atwood, located at 2,858 feet elevation along Highway 36. This region experiences wide temperature variations between seasons, with summer highs regularly exceeding 90°F and winter lows frequently dropping below freezing. Campgrounds in the area typically feature level sites with gravel or grass surfaces, making them accessible for most camping setups.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Atwood at Atwood Lions Club Park provides fishing access, with a walking path that circles the lake. "Beautiful lake with walking path just over a mile around," notes Kim H., making it perfect for combining fishing with exercise.
Frisbee golf courses: Oberlin-Sappa State Park offers disc golf among its recreational amenities. Mindy shares, "Frisbee golf, playground, lots of open space. We were able to get our electric bikes out and explore. Geocache located near and inside park."
Explore nearby attractions: When camping at St. Francis City Campground, consider visiting local spots. "Pizza Hut, Dollar General and gas stations within walking distance. Our stay was quiet and we were the only campers," reports Gary S., highlighting convenient access to necessities without driving.
What campers like
Free camping options: Campers appreciate the no-cost options in the region. At St. Francis City Campground, Brian F. notes, "Nice little park, shelters, fairly level grassy sites. Restrooms and showers were totally acceptable for the price charged (free with no electric or water hookups)."
Clean facilities: Many pet-friendly campgrounds near Atwood maintain clean amenities. Crystal L. remarks about Whistle Stop RV and Antiques, "Very clean restrooms and showers. Very nice to work with while traveling late at night. We will definitely stop again on our way to Colorado next time!"
Convenient highway access: The strategic location along major travel routes makes these campgrounds popular stopovers. Jay F. comments about Goodland KOA, "If your trip takes you down I-70, there are not many camping spots between KC and the Rockies. This is a good stop-over, less than a mile off the interstate."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Northwestern Kansas experiences extreme weather variations. Winds can be particularly strong, as noted at St. Francis City Campground: "Very very windy at night," reports Samantha G.
Limited reservations: Many campgrounds operate on first-come, first-served basis. Patti M. shares about Oberlin-Sappa State Park, "We were the only ones in the park. It's free if you aren't using electricity. Otherwise there is an honor box for those using RV electric hook ups."
Wi-Fi availability: Connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds. At Atwood Lions Club Park, Kevin H. found "WiFi is great" and reported specific carrier speeds: "ATT: 32 down, 3 up, T-Mobile 5G 79 down, 15.3 up, Visible: 11 down, 17 up."
Hookup access: Some campgrounds have restricted access to utilities. Gary T. noted at Oberlin-Sappa State Park: "Not sure how you are suppose to access the electric boxes all had a lock tag on them. I was able to check which boxes were hot but was only able to use the 110 plug."
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: Families appreciate dedicated play areas. Karrer Park provides free camping with amenities families need. Justin R. notes, "Everything was well maintained and beautiful. There are free electrical hookups."
Budget-friendly options: Free or low-cost camping makes family trips more affordable. Gary S. shares about St. Francis City Campground: "Free for tents and RV's if you boondock. $25 fee to hookup to electric and water."
Swimming options: Some campgrounds feature swimming facilities for families. At High Plains Camping, Jennifer H. mentions a "comfortable pool" as part of the amenities, noting "it's super breezy here in the high plains."
Tips from RVers
Site sizing considerations: RVers should check space limitations before settling in. Jason V. cautions about Oberlin Inn & RV Park: "The RV spots are small. We couldn't put out our awning without invading the neighbors. But good value for the money ($30/night)."
Payment methods: Different campgrounds have varied payment systems. Kim H. notes about Atwood Lions Club Park: "Short walk to the convenience store to get key to unlock the utilities box and pay for the site (check or cash only)."
Leveling requirements: Most sites require minimal leveling. At High Plains Camping, Juan G. found "level gravel sites" with "beautiful prairie views" and noted the campground offers "full hookup with cable" and good cell signal for AT&T users.
