Northwestern Kansas offers several RV parks near Atwood at an elevation of around 2,850 feet, where the flat plains terrain allows for expansive prairie views. Overnight accommodations for motorhomes and travel trailers range from basic city parks to full-service commercial campgrounds, with most RV parks remaining open year-round despite the region's hot summers and cold winters.
What to do
Local attractions in Goodland: Visit the giant Van Gogh painting easel, which several travelers mention is worth seeing while staying at Goodland KOA. "Go see large Van Gough easel nearby," recommends Joseph S., who found this campground to be a convenient stop along I-70.
Pizza dining: Multiple campers recommend trying local restaurants when staying at RV parks in the region. One camper at Oberlin Inn & RV Park suggests, "do yourself a favor, go downtown and get the best pizza ever at the ReLoad Bar and Grill," while another visitor to High Plains Camping praised their on-site food options.
Walking paths: Karrer Park in McCook offers natural spaces for stretching your legs after long drives. "There are trees surround the park and a little river running beside the park. They even had LIGHTENING BUGS!!" notes John H., highlighting the park's natural setting that provides a pleasant contrast to highway travel.
What campers like
Free overnight options: Budget-conscious RVers appreciate no-cost camping opportunities in the region. "Free city park stays for a few days. Water and electric. Dump in site," explains Ryan M. about Karrer Park, where travelers can enjoy basic amenities without spending money while passing through.
On-site dining: After a long day of driving, the convenience of having food options at your campground is highly valued. A camper at High Plains Camping shares, "Best was Captain Jacks restaurant! Should be on Triple D on Food Network!" demonstrating the unexpected quality of food available at certain RV parks.
Clean facilities: Many reviewers specifically mention appreciating well-maintained bathrooms and showers at campgrounds near Atwood. "Bathrooms were very clean, and the laundry was clean," notes Olivia P. about Goodland KOA, while another reviewer at Whistle Stop RV praised their "very clean restrooms and showers."
What you should know
Seasonal conditions: The region experiences significant temperature variations. Winter travelers should note that Kansas Country Inn & RV Park remains open year-round, though one camper reported, "it was too cold for us to hookup to water" during a winter stop.
Stickers and burrs: Several campgrounds have issues with goathead burrs that can cause problems. At Kansas Country Inn & RV Park, one camper warns about "thorny burrs that get all over shoes especially if you have a dog…. Would be very painful for them," while another noted "Lots of stickers on my dogs paw."
Highway noise: Many RV parks in the area sit close to major highways. "You can hear i80 but it was really not an issue with earplugs," mentions Juan G. about High Plains Camping, indicating that while traffic noise exists, most travelers find it manageable for overnight stays.
Tips for camping with families
Pool availability: Some RV parks offer swimming opportunities during summer months. "Comfortable pool, it's super breezy here in the high plains and they've got some trees to help cut it down," notes Jennifer H. about their stay at High Plains Camping, providing a welcome activity for children after travel days.
Entertainment options: Look for campgrounds with additional amenities for kids. "There is a swimming pool(which was closed), a basketball goal, and a playground," explains Myron C. about Whistle Stop RV and Antiques, highlighting recreational facilities that can keep children occupied.
Educational opportunities: Incorporate local attractions into your stay. "You can walk to a Dollar General to pick up a few things," notes Olivia P. about Goodland KOA, which also provides access to the town's famous Van Gogh painting for a quick educational side trip.
Tips from RVers
Big rig accommodation: Many campgrounds in the region can handle larger vehicles. "Pull through spot #61 accommodated my motorhome and tow, which is 67 feet long," shares James R. about Goodland KOA, though he cautions that "roads in campground can be tight for large rigs."
Grocery access: Plan for supplies by noting nearby stores. "Walmart is directly across the street within walking distance," mentions Brittany V. about Whistle Stop RV in Colby, making it convenient for restocking essentials.
Cell connectivity: Service varies throughout the area. Some campers report good connectivity at High Plains Camping with "cell signal good(AT&T)," while others mention spotty coverage, such as at Kansas Country Inn where a visitor noted, "I had a hard time using T-Mobile because I seem to be in a dead spot, but I was able to use their Wi-Fi."
