Best Camping near Big Hill Lake

Join the fun near Big Hill Lake. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Kansas camping has to offer. Find the best campgrounds near Big Hill Lake, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Best Camping Sites Near Big Hill Lake (95)

    Camper-submitted photo at Big Hill Lake Mound Valley Recreation Area near Cherryvale, KS
    Camper-submitted photo at Big Hill Lake Mound Valley Recreation Area near Cherryvale, KS
    Camper-submitted photo at Big Hill Lake Mound Valley Recreation Area near Cherryvale, KS
    Camper-submitted photo at Big Hill Lake Mound Valley Recreation Area near Cherryvale, KS
    Camper-submitted photo at Big Hill Lake Mound Valley Recreation Area near Cherryvale, KS
    Camper-submitted photo at Big Hill Lake Mound Valley Recreation Area near Cherryvale, KS

    1. Big Hill Lake Mound Valley Recreation Area

    7 Reviews
    27 Photos
    14 Saves
    Cherryvale, Kansas

    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.

    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.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $14 - $76 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at Overlook near Cherryvale, KS
    Camper-submitted photo at Overlook near Cherryvale, KS
    Camper-submitted photo at Overlook near Cherryvale, KS
    Camper-submitted photo at Overlook near Cherryvale, KS
    Camper-submitted photo at Overlook near Cherryvale, KS
    Camper-submitted photo at Overlook near Cherryvale, KS

    2. Overlook

    7 Reviews
    38 Photos
    8 Saves
    Cherryvale, Kansas

    Overview

    Overlook Park 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

    Overlook is used as a group picnic and fishing area. Nearby, visitors 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. There is also an interpretive trail within the park. Big Hill Lake is known for being 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.

    Facilities

    There are three reservable picnic shelters set along the water. Each can accommodate up to 100 people at a time. The facility also provides drinking water and flush toilets for convenience.

    Natural Features

    The park is nestled in the rolling, wooded countryside that is referred to as the Little Ozarks. Picnic shelters are forested and offer sweeping views of the lake. With thick oak-hickory forests surrounded by prairie and farmland, the lake shore supplies a variety of habitats for birds and mammals.

    Nearby Attractions

    Nearby Mound Valley Park has one of the largest sand beaches in southeast Kansas and offers educational programs on Saturday evenings during the summer.

    contact_info

    This location has limited staffing. Please call (620) 336-2741 for general information.

    • Pets
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group

    $40 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at Lake Parsons near Big Hill Lake, KS
    Camper-submitted photo at Lake Parsons near Big Hill Lake, KS
    Camper-submitted photo at Lake Parsons near Big Hill Lake, KS
    Camper-submitted photo at Lake Parsons near Big Hill Lake, KS
    Camper-submitted photo at Lake Parsons near Big Hill Lake, KS
    Camper-submitted photo at Lake Parsons near Big Hill Lake, KS

    3. Lake Parsons

    4 Reviews
    25 Photos
    6 Saves
    Big Hill Lake, Kansas
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo at Cherryvale Park near Cherryvale, KS
    Camper-submitted photo at Cherryvale Park near Cherryvale, KS
    Camper-submitted photo at Cherryvale Park near Cherryvale, KS
    Camper-submitted photo at Cherryvale Park near Cherryvale, KS
    Camper-submitted photo at Cherryvale Park near Cherryvale, KS
    Camper-submitted photo at Cherryvale Park near Cherryvale, KS

    4. Cherryvale Park

    3 Reviews
    33 Photos
    12 Saves
    Cherryvale, Kansas

    Overview

    Cherryvale Park 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.

    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. Cherryvale Park offers a relaxing atmosphere with plenty of trees for shade, and the lake is only a short walk away from the campsites.

    Nearby Attractions

    The Cherryvale Kansas Historical Museum, 215 E 4th St. Cherryvale, KS 67335

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $18 - $200 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at Timber Road Campground — Elk City State Park near Independence, KS
    Camper-submitted photo at Timber Road Campground — Elk City State Park near Independence, KS
    Camper-submitted photo at Timber Road Campground — Elk City State Park near Independence, KS
    Camper-submitted photo at Timber Road Campground — Elk City State Park near Independence, KS
    Camper-submitted photo at Timber Road Campground — Elk City State Park near Independence, KS
    Camper-submitted photo at Timber Road Campground — Elk City State Park near Independence, KS

    5. Timber Road Campground — Elk City State Park

    5 Reviews
    14 Photos
    12 Saves
    Independence, Kansas
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo at Louie P. Gartner RA near Big Hill Lake, KS
    Camper-submitted photo at Louie P. Gartner RA near Big Hill Lake, KS
    Camper-submitted photo at Louie P. Gartner RA near Big Hill Lake, KS

    6. Louie P. Gartner RA

    2 Reviews
    2 Photos
    6 Saves
    Big Hill Lake, Kansas
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo at Sunset Point Campground — Elk City State Park near Independence, KS
    Camper-submitted photo at Sunset Point Campground — Elk City State Park near Independence, KS
    Camper-submitted photo at Sunset Point Campground — Elk City State Park near Independence, KS

    7. Sunset Point Campground — Elk City State Park

    3 Reviews
    2 Photos
    2 Saves
    Independence, Kansas
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Showers
    • Drinking Water
    Camper-submitted photo at Comfort Cove Campground — Elk City State Park near Independence, KS

    8. Comfort Cove Campground — Elk City State Park

    3 Reviews
    Independence, Kansas
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Showers
    • Drinking Water
    Camper-submitted photo at Hillside RV Park near Big Hill Lake, KS
    Camper-submitted photo at Hillside RV Park near Big Hill Lake, KS

    9. Hillside RV Park

    3 Reviews
    1 Photo
    3 Saves
    Big Hill Lake, Kansas

    Located in Oswego, Kansas, Hillside RV Park is open year-round! We offer Passport America discount for an unlimited stay. Ask about the Good Sam discount, military and veteran and other discounts. Our park features (24) 70-foot pull-through RV lots on the property with ten additional back in lots with some concrete pads for long-term stays. Electric, Sewer, Trash all included in the price. $2.00 extra for 30 amp service, $3.00 extra for 50 amp service. We also have a large pet area; pets must be on a leash at all times and cleaned up after. Do not leave outside when you are away from the campsite. Whether its a driveby or long term stay, we hope to see you soon!

    24 - 70ft pull through sites.   Full 20/30/50 amp service.  Water, sewer, and trash on each site. Nightly, weekly and long term stays available.  Pet friendly. Must be on leash and cleaned up after.  Across from groceries.

    • Pets
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Trash

    $30 - $33 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at Timber Hill near Cherryvale, KS

    10. Timber Hill

    2 Reviews
    2 Saves
    Cherryvale, Kansas

    Overview

    Timber Hill is a 20 site non electric campground located on the East side of Big Hill Lake.

    Recreation

    Adjacent to the boat ramp and horse trails.

    Natural Features

    Located on top of the hill amongst oak trees with lots of shade.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $10 / night

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Showing results 1-10 of 95 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Big Hill Lake

148 Reviews of 95 Big Hill Lake Campgrounds


  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Wilson State Fishing Lake Dispersed
    Nov. 19, 2024

    Wilson State Fishing Lake Dispersed

    Nice spot

    When I got here it was very windy and the spot directly across the lake from here ended up being better and a little more out of the wind since there were more trees. Couldn’t find any rules for camping for camping in this area but ended up staying for several days without a problem. Had between 5-10 cars drive by each day so barely any traffic. Most of the spots on this lake are good in size and some have a nice open view of the sky for solar and Starlink which was great.

  • S
    Camper-submitted photo from Buckeye RV Park
    Oct. 19, 2024

    Buckeye RV Park

    Good eletricity

    The electricity worked. We had to bail out green water from our water hookup and the drinking water had a green tinge. We couldn't dump because the sewer was full.

  • J
    Camper-submitted photo from Elk Falls RV Park
    Oct. 17, 2024

    Elk Falls RV Park

    Elk Falls RV Park, Elk Falls, KSARS

    Cute Little Park with electric, water, picnic tables and fire pits. Call 819-741-1175.

  • James B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Montgomery State Fishing Lake Dispersed
    Oct. 17, 2024

    Montgomery State Fishing Lake Dispersed

    Overnight on the way home

    Stopped for an overnight on the way home. The spots are pull offs, circles and small lots of gravel. No toilets or trash pickup. The area was actually very clean. Saw several deer across the lake at dusk, eating grass.
    Beautiful spot not far off Highway 75.

  • J
    Camper-submitted photo from Moline City Park
    Oct. 16, 2024

    Moline City Park

    City Park with nearby cafe and lodge

    Moline City Park has two RV sites with electric and water and a nearby pavilion. Just a few blocks from Swinging Bridge Lodge and Cafe.

  • WThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from South Owl Lake
    Oct. 6, 2024

    South Owl Lake

    Great stop with hookups and wifi!

    This campground was a nice surprise for the area. Near a golf course, allowed fires and had restrooms (no showers). Also had a boat ramp and dock along with playground. WiFi, even though we didn't use, was a nice bonus.

  • James B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from My Green Country RV Park
    Aug. 25, 2024

    My Green Country RV Park

    Great Place for overnight or longer stay

    We stopped for an overnight stay on the way home to Texas.

    Total for one night stay was $31.25.

    Site was very large, with enough room for our 35+ foot 5th wheel and F350.

    Pad is gravel and was level. 

    Had water, sewer and power hook ups at site.

    Campground was quiet at night.

    Location is well taken care of and was a nice stop.

  • Chad A B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Mann's Cove — Cross Timbers State Park
    Jul. 20, 2024

    Mann's Cove — Cross Timbers State Park

    Nice Boondocks Sites

    This area is filled with trees. It blocks the full lake view you could have and probably blocks the sun from helping you with Solar power, but it very beautiful and quiet. Noone was there when we were. Completely empty.

  • Chad A B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Woodson Cove — Cross Timbers State Park
    Jul. 20, 2024

    Woodson Cove — Cross Timbers State Park

    Day Use Only/No Camping

    It is a nice spot with a view of the lake. It has a 6% grade to get to the turn around. Has a very nice trail but bring tic and bug spray.

    The sign says there is no camping allowed. Day Use only.

  • J
    Camper-submitted photo from Neosho State Fishing Lake
    Jun. 14, 2024

    Neosho State Fishing Lake

    Beautiful camping fishing and more

    I stayed here while passing through Kansas found this on Free camping website it has picnic tables and free camping with vaulted toilets, fishing peers plenty of spots to camp good for Starlink and solar I have T-Mobile service. The reception was bad Starlink helped was quiet I was the only one here has some people fishing on the other side of the lake couple people fished next to me, but left shortly after had the whole place to myself in the month of June 2024. I’m a traveling nomad always looking to find great spots, and this one is perfect for a nice little settle.

  • l
    Camper-submitted photo from Hillside RV Park
    Apr. 25, 2024

    Hillside RV Park

    Passing through

    This place was very quiet. We arrived and the owner was extremely helpful and nice. We were passing through town and found this place. Full hookups and level spots. Would recommend.

  • James B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Norman No.1 Museum RV Park
    Apr. 15, 2024

    Norman No.1 Museum RV Park

    Overnight stop

    Overnight stop on way from Texas to Nebraska. Full hookup sights for $25. Have 37 foot 5th wheel and fit fine. Pads are gravel but level. Nice quiet stay with minimal traffic noise, etc. there are trash cans with water and sewer.

  • John M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Kamp Siesta
    Apr. 12, 2024

    Kamp Siesta

    Nice, quiet campground with lots of parking spots

    We camped here in October 2021 to close out our season and as a waypoint to Beaver Lake. This is a very nice, quaint little municipal campground. The shower house was clean enough, the spots were all well-maintained, and everything worked as advertised. There is a city park right around the bend that has all kinds of stuff, and there are basketball courts, volleyball courts, and horseshoe pits within short walking distance. 

    It may have been because of the time of year since the campground was about to close, but we were the only campers there for the whole week, which was totally awesome. There are 42 spots at Kamp Siesta, three of which are pull-through, so you cannot possibly beat this place for $10 a night. 

    Oh, and I forgot to mention the wooded trail right behind the campground. You definitely forget you're in Kansas back there!

  • Angie A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Quarry Bay Campground — Fall River State Park
    Oct. 17, 2023

    Quarry Bay Campground — Fall River State Park

    Awesome find!

    What a beautiful, peaceful place! Toilets, fire pits, picnic tables, and dumpsters for trash on site. We had the whole place to ourselves! Easy to get off from Rt 400. Sites pretty level. Glad we found this place! Great view of the lake!

  • Chris H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Riverside RV Park
    Jun. 3, 2023

    Riverside RV Park

    Quiet , Comfortable & Affordable

    We very much enjoyed our stay at this park. The folks that run this establishment are very friendly & helpful. The park has a pool. We found Riverside RV Park to be quiet, comfortable & affordable.

  • J
    Camper-submitted photo from Whitehall Bay
    Jun. 1, 2023

    Whitehall Bay

    A little unknown gem

    It's absolutely beautiful. I camp here often because of the serenity. The best part of Whitehall Bay is the sewer is directly at your campsite, so no dumping afterwards. A big plus for me!!! Camp Hosts are awesome. You won't be disappointed

  • Levi H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Hill Lake Mound Valley Recreation Area
    Mar. 21, 2023

    Big Hill Lake Mound Valley Recreation Area

    Clean, Spacious & Weekenders Paradise

    Stayed 22 days in Site 21 in the NLOO Loop, close to bathrooms, in July and August 2022. No Showers in this loop so beware. Bathrooms were clean. Showers in the other two loops were always clean and rarely used. 

    I was working in the area, so I needed to stay an extra eight days beyond the COE 14-day limit. Ranger was easy going and granted me an extra 10 days no problem. 

    This place is pretty busy with locals on the weekends between June and August. Completely clears out Sunday evening and it is mostly dead empty until around Thursday. Clearly a popular camping spot for people in the region, but really didn't see a lot of out-of-county or even out-of-state tags camped. 

    Cherryvale is about 6 miles west of the lake and has a Dollar General and Casey's Convenience Store as well as a Redbox, and Parsons is about 20 minutes northeast of here if you need something more substantial than DG or Casey's offers. 

    My AT&T signal didn't work here at all until I set up my WeBoost.

  • Ashley F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lil' Toledo Lodge
    Jan. 16, 2023

    Lil' Toledo Lodge

    The Best Kept Secret in The Midwest!

    Ashley here with The Dyrt! We're happy to welcome this property to our platform. Perfect for a hunting adventure or corporate retreat. 15,000 Acres! Book your stay and leave a review for them here.

  • Russ  G.
    Camper-submitted photo from Jayhawker RV Park
    Oct. 22, 2022

    Jayhawker RV Park

    Decent stay over spot

    The Jayhawker has well laid out spots and is off season friendly. Hosts are good honest people and will work with you around your schedule. Great place for a stopover or extended stay for work.


Guide to Big Hill Lake

Camping near Big Hill Lake, Kansas, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking your RV, there's something for everyone in this area.

What to do:

  • Fishing: Big Hill Lake is known as a trophy fishing lake. Many campers enjoy casting their lines for species like largemouth bass and crappie. One visitor at Big Hill Lake Mound Valley Recreation Area mentioned, "My family camps here throughout the year. Love getting together and enjoying nature and the scenery at big hill."
  • Hiking: Explore the scenic trails around the lake. The Big Hill Lake Horse Trail offers 17 miles of varied terrain. A camper noted, "The trail winds along a scenic hardwood ridge that offers gorgeous views all along the way."
  • Swimming: Enjoy a refreshing dip at the nearby sandy beach. A review from Overlook highlights, "Beautiful place to camp. Lots of shade and space between sites."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Wilson State Fishing Lake said, "Bathrooms were easily accessible and clean."
  • Spacious Campsites: Many sites offer plenty of room for tents and RVs. One reviewer at Crawford State Park Campground mentioned, "This place was easy, pretty and well appointed. Great site next to river."
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Campers enjoy the peaceful setting, especially during weekdays. A visitor at Cross Timbers State Park shared, "Loved the peaceful seclusion offered."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Wilson State Fishing Lake, have minimal facilities. A camper noted, "There are no showers and no trash bins."
  • Busy Weekends: Expect crowds on weekends, especially in summer. A reviewer at Big Hill Lake Mound Valley Recreation Area mentioned, "This place is pretty busy with locals on the weekends between June and August."
  • Cell Service Issues: Some areas have poor cell reception. A camper at Overlook stated, "My AT&T signal didn't work here at all until I set up my WeBoost."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for sites with playgrounds and swimming areas. A visitor at Elk City State Park said, "My kids enjoyed the playground."
  • Plan for Activities: Bring along fishing gear and hiking shoes to keep everyone entertained. A camper at Crawford State Park Campground mentioned, "We camped in the rain (it poured!) but the terrain didn’t flood or hold huge puddles."
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having food on hand can make family outings smoother. A reviewer at Lake Parsons noted, "Fun for the whole family."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the campsite. A visitor at Big Hill Lake Mound Valley Recreation Area mentioned, "Spots can be a bit narrow for bigger rigs but not too bad."
  • Look for Full Hookups: If you need water and electric, check for sites that offer these amenities. A camper at Cross Timbers State Park shared, "Overall nice campground with full hookups."
  • Be Prepared for Limited Services: Some campgrounds may not have sewer hookups. A reviewer at Wilson State Fishing Lake noted, "This place could use a few more trees but it's not a deal breaker because the beauty of this place is out of this world."

Camping near Big Hill Lake, Kansas, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends. With a little planning, you can make the most of your trip!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Big Hill Lake?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Big Hill Lake offers a wide range of camping options, with 95 campgrounds and RV parks near Big Hill Lake and 4 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Big Hill Lake?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Big Hill Lake is Big Hill Lake Mound Valley Recreation Area with a 4.4-star rating from 7 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Big Hill Lake?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 4 free dispersed camping spots near Big Hill Lake.

  • What parks are near Big Hill Lake?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 25 parks near Big Hill Lake that allow camping, notably Oologah Lake and John Redmond Reservoir.