Several state parks surrounding Big Hill Lake feature rustic to modern cabin options, serving as gateways to Southeastern Kansas outdoor recreation. Cabins at both Crawford and Elk City State Parks provide water access while maintaining proximity to hiking trails. Seasonal availability affects cabin rates, with summer months commanding higher prices and requiring reservations at least 60 days in advance during peak periods.
What to do
Hiking and backpacking: Elk City State Park features a 14-mile trail that offers multi-day backpacking opportunities. "A group of friends and I hiked the little over 14 mile trail over 2 and a half days it was awesome," reports one visitor to Elk City State Park.
Fishing: Several cabin sites provide direct lake access for anglers. At Crawford State Park, fishing is accessible directly from many cabins. "Awesome lake, fishing is decent, the food at the Marina is great," notes one camper who stayed at Oak Point Campground.
Swimming: Several parks maintain designated swimming areas near cabin accommodations. "Amazing swimming beach, modern bath house and great restaurant. A handful of small campgrounds surround the lake. Almost every spot is on the water," shares a visitor about Crawford State Park cabins.
What campers like
Quiet camping zones: Some areas offer more secluded cabin options away from busier campgrounds. "The last two times we've stayed up in the Timber Road area which we just love. It's quiet, shaded and just beautiful," reports a camper at Timber Road Campground within Elk City State Park.
On-site dining options: Unlike many wilderness cabins, Crawford State Park offers restaurant access. "The on-site restaurant is a nice perk when you simply don't want to cook. Small lake, but everything is clean and well maintained," writes a visitor about their cabin experience.
Modern amenities: Despite rural locations, many cabins provide unexpected conveniences. At South Owl Lake, cabins offer surprising technology access. "This campground was a nice surprise for the area. Near a golf course, allowed fires and had restrooms. WiFi, even though we didn't use, was a nice bonus."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most cabin facilities require advance booking, especially during summer. Lonesome Point Campground at Crawford State Park offers both primitive and developed sites. "Great primitive spot near the front with no electric but water within walking distance. Remote and lovely," notes one camper about their experience.
Site variations: Cabin sites vary significantly in size, shade, and amenities within the same park. "Our site is miniature. No place for a clothes line, no fire pit to speak of even though everyone else has one. We are boxed in tighter than a KOA and we feel it," reports one camper about specific sites at Elk City State Park.
Wind exposure: Some cabin sites lack adequate wind protection, particularly those not tucked into wooded areas. At Cross Timbers State Park, visitors note wind can be an issue: "The wind blew the entire time stick read kind of annoying, but if we were in the woods it didn't really bother us. Just need to pick a better campsite next time."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several cabin areas include playground equipment for children. At Cross Timbers State Park, family amenities complement cabin accommodations. "Spent an October weekend here and had a great time with the kids fishing, hiking, and roasting marshmallows," shares a camper about their family experience.
Kid-friendly fishing: Dedicated fishing areas for younger anglers exist near several cabin sites. Elk City State Park includes "kids fishing pond, basketball and volleyball courts, and even an archery range," according to a visitor who appreciated the family-oriented amenities.
Space for exploration: Some cabin sites provide ample room for children to explore safely. "It was a lovely shaded spot with lots of space for our boys to explore," notes a family about their cabin experience at Elk City State Park's Comfort Cove area.
Tips from RVers
Vehicle access considerations: Some cabin areas have challenging entry points. At Elk City, a camper notes: "We found a decent primitive spot, however there wasn't anywhere to park. It wasn't that the spots were taken, the site was just off the road but there was a deep ditch. We ended up maneuvering our van through the trees to get to the site."
Site leveling: Most RV pads near cabins are well-maintained for easy setup. "It's the most level site I have ever had," reports an RVer at Prairie Meadow Campground within Elk City State Park.
Additional vehicle fees: Be prepared for extra costs beyond the cabin rental. "When you check in you have to pay an additional $5.00 per day for your vehicle. It was probably in the fine print when I booked the reservation," shares a camper about their experience at Elk City State Park.
