Best RV Parks & Resorts near Big Hill Lake

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Big Hill Lake Mound Valley Recreation Area provides 74 electric sites with 50-amp service and 8 non-electric sites for RV camping. Sites feature concrete pads with water and electric hookups, picnic tables, grills and fire rings. "This park is well maintained with electric and water hook ups in just the right spots, and a really nice area with a picnic table, bbq grill and nice ring with an additional cooking grate in each spot," noted one camper. Norman No.1 Museum RV Park in Neodesha offers full hookup sites with electric, water and sewer connections on level gravel pads for $25 per night. Santa Fe Safari RV Campground in Chanute provides additional options with electric hookups, showers, toilets and dump stations available.

Most RV parks in the Big Hill Lake area are busiest during summer weekends and empty out Sunday through Wednesday. Cell service varies significantly, with AT&T coverage requiring signal boosters in some locations. Full hookup sites range from $14-$76, with the Santa Fe Safari RV Campground offering free camping for the first two days. A dump station is available at Big Hill Lake, and most parks accommodate pets. The closest town services are in Cherryvale, approximately 6 miles west of the lake, with Dollar General and Casey's Convenience Store. For more substantial shopping, Parsons is about 20 minutes northeast. One reviewer noted, "The ranger was easy going and granted me an extra 10 days beyond the COE 14-day limit," suggesting some flexibility with longer stays during off-peak periods.

Best RV Sites Near Big Hill Lake (91)

    1. Norman No.1 Museum RV Park

    1 Review
    Fredonia, KS
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (620) 325-5316

    "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."

    2. Blue Sky RV Park

    Be the first to review!
    Independence, KS
    16 miles
    +1 (620) 446-9212

    $20 / night

    3. Hillside RV Park

    3 Reviews
    Big Hill Lake, KS
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (620) 795-2471

    $30 - $33 / night

    "Full hookups. Grocery store is literally minutes away. The RV Park is located at the south end of town on Highway 59. The owner is very accommodating. Good Verizon signal. Park has wi-fi."

    "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."

    CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

    4. Downstream RV Park

    6 Reviews
    Joplin, MO
    50 miles
    Website
    +1 (417) 626-6750

    "Nice quiet easy to get to off interstate. Pull through spaces. Very clean and well kept. Stay for free if you are a casino card holder."

    "It is a parking lot behind a casino but backs up to a beautiful pasture with pond. Stay is free with a membership card from casino. Got card then went to gift shop to get space."

    5. Buckeye RV Park

    1 Review
    Coffeyville, KS
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (620) 251-2375

    6. Riverside RV Park

    4 Reviews
    Bartlesville, OK
    46 miles
    Website
    +1 (918) 336-6431

    "All the amenities one could ask for in a RV park. It sits in a strip of forest along Caney River (creek) with a walking/biking trail right adjacent to the park."

    "Great location, friendly staff, and very reasonable pricing. $395 for the month + electric. Laundry room on site is nice, inexpensive, and includes plenty of washer and dryers."

    7. R&K RV Park

    Be the first to review!
    Chanute, KS
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (620) 212-1796

    $25 - $500 / night

    8. Big Chief RV Park

    Be the first to review!
    Coffeyville, KS
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (620) 251-8888

    9. Four Oaks RV Park

    2 Reviews
    Pittsburg, KS
    42 miles
    Website
    +1 (620) 230-5585

    10. Brookside MH & RV Park

    Be the first to review!
    Independence, KS
    16 miles
    +1 (620) 330-6077

    $450 / night

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RV Park Reviews near Big Hill Lake

142 Reviews of 91 Big Hill Lake Campgrounds


  • Jake M.
    Sep. 29, 2020

    The Woods Campground

    Great overnight stop or longner

    Nice quick in and out overnight stop or longer if needed. Big rig friendly large pull though sites and smaller back in sites with 30 and 50 amp and water no sewer but dump station is close by. Self service campground $8.00 a night pay at pay station at the entrance of the park. Located in a city park of Coffeyville, play ground with in walking distance from sites. Walmart is less the a 5min drive from this campground and from the town of Coffeyville. Quite area, there seems to be a few campers living here full time or here for work, but all seems to be keeping their sites clean and organized. On the payment  envelope says 14 day maximum stay. 

  • NThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 25, 2021

    Big Hill Lake Mound Valley Recreation Area

    Take a Walk on the Quiet Side

    .• 74 Sites Electric(50 amp service avail) 

    • 8 Non electric

    • Full hookups

    •$14-$76

    • Pull thrus

    • Reservations accepted 877-444-6777

    • Beach

    • Boat ramp

    • Drinking water

    • Dump station

    • Restrooms/showers

    • Pit toilets

    • Swimming Beach

    • Water sites 

    Peak Season March 26, 2021- November 01, 2021 

    Out of Season(No Booking Available) November 01, 2021- March 26, 2022

    FEES$14-$74

    Located on Bill Hill Lake outside of Cherryvale, Kansas and set in the gently rolling prairie with a large scattering of trees. The area considers itself as Kansas “Little Ozarks.” It is a beautifully serene setting dotted with campgrounds and day use areas. The Big Hill Lake is a reservoir and holds 1,240 acres of water with 367 acres available for use by the public. The park is nestled in the rolling, wooded countryside with thick oak-hickory forests surrounded by prairie and farmland, the lake shore supplies a variety of habitats for birds and mammals. Mound Valley offers a relaxing atmosphere with plenty of trees for shade, and the lake is only a short walk away from the campsites. 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.  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. 

    Getting Here Latitude 37° 16' 9.9998" N Longitude 95° 27' 29.9999" W From Cherryvale, Kansas, take U.S. Highway 169 and turn east onto Main Street. Continue through the town and turn right onto Olive Street. Go 1/2 a block and turn left onto County Route 5000. Proceed 4.5 miles to Big Hill Lake and follow signs to Mound Valley. 

    Contact Information Mailing Address 19065 CHERRYVALE PKWY CHERRYVALE, KS 67335-0426 Phone Number For campground inquiries, please call: 620-328-2050 

    Need to Know• Alcoholic beverages are prohibited within the Mound Valley Swimming Beach Area• Flush toilets and showers are closed outside of the reservation season, however vault toilets are available in the north loop• Don't Move Firewood: 

    Protect your forests from tree-killing pests by buying your firewood locally and burning it on-site. Visit Dontmovefirewood.org for further information. Upon arrival at Big Hill Lake a visitor may choose from a plethora of fun activities. Camping with and without electricity, boat launches, ball field, swimming beach and so much more. For trails you will find the Big Hill Lake Horse Trail which surrounds¾ of the lake and is 17 miles long. It provides a variety of terrain for all ages. The trail provides amazing views and riders will enjoy tethering areas and three parking areas along the trail. The parking areas are equipped with limited facilities that can be used for overnight camping by the trail riders. Riders will have the opportunity for wildlife viewing. For those that wish to hike you will find the Ruth Nixon Memorial Trail. The trail enjoys blue bird houses that were set in honor or Ruth Nixon. It is about one mile and offers the hikers the chance to observe local wildlife. The scenery along the way is spectacular. This trail links the Overlook Day Use Area and Cherryvale Recreation Area. There are rest areas along the way so take advantage of those inviting stops to enjoy the lake views and just take in the scenery. 

    Big Hill Lake is one of the clearest lakes in Kansas and considered a trophy fishing lake. Sport fish include largemouth and smallmouth bass, crappie, channel and flathead catfish, bluegill, walleye and sunfish. Hunters will find about 800 acres of project land that is managed for wildlife. Game species are large and varied around Big Hill Lake. Hunters will find bob white quail, rabbit, grey and fox squirrels, mourning dove, migratory waterfowl, wild turkey and white tailed deer. Hunters may also utilize another 1350 acres of land located about½ mile from the project. Wildflowers are in abundance in the spring and fall along with the beautiful trees such as persimmon, osage orange, redbud and dogwood. 

    Swimming on the sandy beaches along the lake is a joy. Alcohol is not allowed on the beach area. Glass containers are also not allowed on the beach or in the water. Boats that are propelled by a motor of any kind or a sailboat must be numbered and registered with the state of Kansas or legally registered with another state. The Cherryvale area present day is a farming/ranching rural area with Friday night football the big excitement. 

    In the 19th century Kansas was a bloody place. Before the “Civil War” you would have different groups battling for control. After the civil war the pioneers began their westward journey through the many trails that crossed the plains. In 1870 a group of five families settled in western Labette County. Cherryvale had not been established. This group stands out because of one particular family. The Bender family, a normal– mother– father– son– daughter from Germany. John Bender, Sr., his wife Ma Bender, son John, Jr. and daughter Kate. Now I am not going to get involved in their story but I will touch on some of the highlights and let you know the story includes an inn, a store, a hammer, a trap door, lonely single male travelers, haunted property and the only place where a mass murder is celebrated by a state historical marker. Google the Bender family in Kansas and enjoy a bit of the old west.

    LNT

    Better than when you found it

    Stay safe– Happy Travels

  • NThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 25, 2021

    Cherryvale Park

    Disc Golf for Everyone

    BIG HILL LAKE CHERRYVALE Located on Bill Hill Lake outside of Cherryvale, Kansas and set in the gently rolling prairie with a large scattering of trees. The area considers itself as Kansas “Little Ozarks.” It is a beautifully serene setting dotted with campgrounds and day use areas. The Bill Hill Lake is a reservoir and holds 1,240 acres of water with 367 acres available for use by the public.  

    January 01, 2021- December 31, 2021 

    FEES$200.00 Group site electric$18.00– 24.00 electric 

    • • Standard Electric• 
    • Group Standard Electric 
    • Swimming Beach
    • • Hiking
    • • Showers
    • • Sewer hookup
    • • Electric hookups
    • • Full hookups
    • • Water hookups

    In addition to 22 individual campsites, the campground has one group camping area with a picnic shelter and seven campsites. Other amenities include drinking water, restrooms, showers, a playground and a dump station. The park is nestled in the rolling, wooded countryside 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. 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.

    Directions Latitude 37° 16' 9.9998" N Longitude 95° 27' 29.9999" W  From Highway 169 in Cherryvale, Kansas, turn east onto Main Street. Continue through the town and turn right onto Olive Street. After half a block turn left onto County Route 5000. Continue 4.5 miles to the lake and follow signs to the park.

    Need to Know• Alcoholic beverages are prohibited within the Mound Valley Swimming Beach Area• Flush toilets and showers are closed outside of the reservation season, however vault toilets are available in the north loop•

    Don't Move Firewood: Protect your forests from tree-killing pests by buying your firewood locally and burning it on-site.

    Contact Information Mailing Address 19065 CHERRYVALE PKWY CHERRYVALE, KS 67335-0426

    Phone Number For campground inquiries, please call: 620-328-2050

    Upon arrival at Big Hill Lake a visitor may choose from a plethora of fun activities. Camping with and without electricity, boat launches, ball field, swimming beach and so much more. For trails you will find the Big Hill Lake Horse Trail which surrounds¾ of the lake and is 17 miles long. It provides a variety of terrain for all ages. The trail provides amazing views and riders will enjoy tethering areas and three parking areas along the trail. The parking areas are equipped with limited facilities that can be used for overnight camping by the trail riders. Riders will have the opportunity for wildlife viewing. For those that wish to hike you will find the Ruth Nixon Memorial Trail. The trail enjoys blue bird houses that were set in honor or Ruth Nixon. It is about one mile and offers the hikers the chance to observe local wildlife. The scenery along the way is spectacular. This trail links the Overlook Day Use Area and Cherryvale Recreation Area. There are rest areas along the way so take advantage of those inviting stops to enjoy the lake views and just take in the scenery. Big Hill Lake is one of the clearest lakes in Kansas and considered a trophy fishing lake. Sport fish include largemouth and smallmouth bass, crappie, channel and flathead catfish, bluegill, walleye and sunfish. Hunters will find about 800 acres of project land that is managed for wildlife. Game species are lardge and varied around Big Hill Lake. Hunters will find bob white quail, rabbit, grey and fox squirrels, mourning dove, migratory waterfowl, wild turkey and white tailed deer. Hunters may also utilize another 1350 acres of land located about½ mile from the project. Wildflowers are in abundance in the spring and fall along with the beautiful trees such as persimmon, osage orange, redbud and dogwood. Swimming on the sandy beaches along the lake is a joy. Alcohol is not allowed on the beach area. Glass containers are also not allowed on the beach or in the water. Boats that are propelled by a motor of any kind or a sailboat must be numbered and registered with the state of Kansas or legally registered with another state. The Cherryvale area present day is a farming/ranching rural area with Friday night football the big excitement. In the 19th century Kansas was a bloody place. Before the “Civil War” you would have different groups battling for control. After the civil war the pioneers began their westward journey through the many trails that crossed the plains. In 1870 a group of five families settled in western Labette County. Cherryvale had not been established. This group stands out because of one particular family. The Bender family, a normal– mother– father– son– daughter from Germany. John Bender, Sr., his wife Ma Bender, son John, Jr. and daughter Kate. Now I am not going to get involved in their story but I will touch on some of the highlights and let you know the story includes an inn, a store, a hammer, a trap door, lonely single male travelers, haunted property and the only place where a mass murder is celebrated by a state historical marker. Google the Bender family in Kansas and enjoy a bit of the old west.

    LNT

    Better than when you found it

    Stay safe– Happy Travels

  • Melissa M.
    Sep. 30, 2016

    Overlook

    A+ CG will go again

    Great sites, great hiking, kids activities and pet friendly. Clean facilities. A+

  • NThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 25, 2021

    Timber Hill

    A Walk on the Hill Side

    .• 20 Non electric

    • No hookups

    • FCFS•$10.00

    • Boat ramp

    • Drinking water

    • Dump station

    • Pit toilets

    • Boat Trailer Parking

    • Campfire Rings

    • Dock

    • Drinking Water(peak season)

    • Grills

    • Hitching Racks

    • Horseback Riding Trails

    • Lake Access

    • Non-Potable Water

    • Parking Area

    • Paved Roads

    • Paved Sites

    • Picnic Tables

    • Table& Benches

    • Trailhead Parking

    • Trailheads

    • Trash Collection

    • Vault Toilets

    • Water(Seasonal)

    • Accessible Drinking Water

    • Accessible Parking

    • Dump Station

    • Paved Parking

    • Pets Allowed

    • Horse Staging Area

    Part of this drive will be on a gravel road but it is well maintained. This is a small and very quiet campground and had very few campers. Sites are small and heavily forested which will make for a very shady stay.

    Located on Bill Hill Lake outside of Cherryvale, Kansas and set in the gently rolling prairie with a large scattering of trees. The area considers itself as Kansas “Little Ozarks.” It is a beautifully serene setting dotted with campgrounds and day use areas. The Bill Hill Lake is a reservoir and holds 1,240 acres of water with 367 acres available for use by the public. The park is nestled in the rolling, wooded countryside 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. 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 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. 

    Getting Here Latitude 37° 17' 43.8324" N Longitude 95° 26' 51.8352" W From Dennis, KS go south on Gray Rd to 21000 Rd and turn right. Follow signs to park. 

    Need to Know• Check in and out is 3pm. Campsites are reservable online or by phone at recreation.gov or 877-444-6777. No pay station at park. 

    Contact Information Mailing Address 19065 Cherryvale Parkway, Cherryvale, KS 67335 Physical Address 20013 Timberhill Parkway, Cherryvale, KS 67335 Phone Number For campground inquiries, please call: 6203362741 

    Need to Know• Alcoholic beverages are prohibited within the Mound Valley Swimming Beach Area

    Don't Move Firewood: Protect your forests from tree-killing pests by buying your firewood locally and burning it on-site. Visit Dontmovefirewood.org for further information. 

    Upon arrival at Big Hill Lake a visitor may choose from a plethora of fun activities. Camping with and without electricity, boat launches, ball field, swimming beach and so much more. For trails you will find the Big Hill Lake Horse Trail which surrounds¾ of the lake and is 17 miles long. It provides a variety of terrain for all ages. The trail provides amazing views and riders will enjoy tethering areas and three parking areas along the trail. The parking areas are equipped with limited facilities that can be used for overnight camping by the trail riders. Riders will have the opportunity for wildlife viewing. For those that wish to hike you will find the Ruth Nixon Memorial Trail. The trail enjoys blue bird houses that were set in honor or Ruth Nixon. It is about one mile and offers the hikers the chance to observe local wildlife. The scenery along the way is spectacular. This trail links the Overlook Day Use Area and Cherryvale Recreation Area. There are rest areas along the way so take advantage of those inviting stops to enjoy the lake views and just take in the scenery. Big Hill Lake is one of the clearest lakes in Kansas and considered a trophy fishing lake. Sport fish include largemouth and smallmouth bass, crappie, channel and flathead catfish, bluegill, walleye and sunfish. Hunters will find about 800 acres of project land that is managed for wildlife. Game species are lardge and varied around Big Hill Lake. Hunters will find bob white quail, rabbit, grey and fox squirrels, mourning dove, migratory waterfowl, wild turkey and white tailed deer. Hunters may also utilize another 1350 acres of land located about½ mile from the project. Wildflowers are in abundance in the spring and fall along with the beautiful trees such as persimmon, osage orange, redbud and dogwood. Swimming on the sandy beaches along the lake is a joy. Alcohol is not allowed on the beach area. Glass containers are also not allowed on the beach or in the water. 

    Boats that are propelled by a motor of any kind or a sailboat must be numbered and registered with the state of Kansas or legally registered with another state. 

    The Cherryvale area present day is a farming/ranching rural area with Friday night football the big excitement. In the 19th century Kansas was a bloody place. Before the “Civil War” you would have different groups battling for control. After the civil war the pioneers began their westward journey through the many trails that crossed the plains. In 1870 a group of five families settled in western Labette County. Cherryvale had not been established. This group stands out because of one particular family. The Bender family, a normal– mother– father– son– daughter from Germany. John Bender, Sr., his wife Ma Bender, son John, Jr. and daughter Kate. Now I am not going to get involved in their story but I will touch on some of the highlights and let you know the story includes an inn, a store, a hammer, a trap door, lonely single male travelers, haunted property and the only place where a mass murder is celebrated by a state historical marker. Google the Bender family in Kansas and enjoy a bit of the old west

    LNT 

    Better than when you found it

    Stay safe– Happy Travels

  • Doug W.
    Nov. 7, 2021

    Card Creek

    Very clean and quiet

    A typical COE campground. Very clean and well kept. The site are good with plenty of space. Most any size rig will find a spot here.

    The primary attraction to this camp is fishing. There is a boat ramp with access to Elk City Lake. Most of the campers when we were their were either hunters or fishermen.

    The site so have power, 30 amp, and there is a dump station. There is also a hiking trail right from camp but we didn't have time to take it as this was just a one night stop for us.

    Cell phone for Verizon was 3 bar 4g LTE with

  • John M.The Dyrt PRO User
    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!

  • NThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 26, 2021

    Overlook

    Day Use Area

    This is a Day Use Area located on the Big Hill Lake outside of Cherryvale, Kansas and set in the Gently rolling prairie with a large scattering of trees. The area considers itself as Kansas “Little Ozarks.” It is a beautifully serene setting dotted with campgrounds and day use areas. The Big Hill Lake is a reservoir and holds 1,240 acres of water with 367 acres available for use by the public. FEES  $40.00  Group site electric  There are three reservable shelters set along the water.  Each can accommodate 100 people at a time.  The area has drinking water and flush toilets.

    DATES April 1 - October 31  Other amenities include drinking water, restrooms, a playground. The park is nestled in the rolling, wooded countryside 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.  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. 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. Directions Latitude 37° 16' 9.9998" N Longitude 95° 27' 29.9999" W  From Highway 169 in Cherryvale, Kansas, turn east onto Main Street. Continue through the town and turn right onto Olive Street. After half a block turn left onto County Route 5000. Continue 4.5 miles to the lake and follow signs to the park. Need to Know• Alcoholic beverages are prohibited within the Mound Valley Swimming Beach Area• Flush toilets and showers are closed outside of the reservation season, however vault toilets are available in the north loop• Don't Move Firewood: Protect your forests from tree-killing pests by buying your firewood locally and burning it on-site. Visit Dontmovefirewood.org for further information. Contact Information Mailing Address 19065 CHERRYVALE PKWY CHERRYVALE, KS 67335-0426  Upon arrival at Big Hill Lake a visitor may choose from a plethora of fun activities. Camping with and without electricity, boat launches, ball field, swimming beach and so much more. For trails you will find the Big Hill Lake Horse Trail which surrounds¾ of the lake and is 17 miles long. It provides a variety of terrain for all ages. The trail provides amazing views and riders will enjoy tethering areas and three parking areas along the trail. The parking areas are equipped with limited facilities that can be used for overnight camping by the trail riders. Riders will have the opportunity for wildlife viewing. For those that wish to hike you will find the Ruth Nixon Memorial Trail. The trail enjoys blue bird houses that were set in honor or Ruth Nixon. It is about one mile and offers the hikers the chance to observe local wildlife. The scenery along the way is spectacular. This trail links the Overlook Day Use Area and Cherryvale Recreation Area. There are rest areas along the way so take advantage of those inviting stops to enjoy the lake views and just take in the scenery. Big Hill Lake is one of the clearest lakes in Kansas and considered a trophy fishing lake. Sport fish include largemouth and smallmouth bass, crappie, channel and flathead catfish, bluegill, walleye and sunfish. Hunters will find about 800 acres of project land that is managed for wildlife. Game species are large and varied around Big Hill Lake. Hunters will find bob white quail, rabbit, grey and fox squirrels, mourning dove, migratory waterfowl, wild turkey and white tailed deer. Hunters may also utilize another 1350 acres of land located about½ mile from the project. Wildflowers are in abundance in the spring and fall along with the beautiful trees such as persimmon, osage orange, redbud and dogwood. Swimming on the sandy beaches along the lake is a joy. Alcohol is not allowed on the beach area. Glass containers are also not allowed on the beach or in the water. Boats that are propelled by a motor of any kind or a sailboat must be numbered and registered with the state of Kansas or legally registered with another state. The Cherryvale area present day is a farming/ranching rural area with Friday night football the big excitement. In the 19th century Kansas was a bloody place. Before the “Civil War” you would have different groups battling for control. After the civil war the pioneers began their westward journey through the many trails that crossed the plains. In 1870 a group of five families settled in western Labette County. Cherryvale had not been established. This group stands out because of one particular family. The Bender family, a normal– mother– father– son– daughter from Germany. John Bender, Sr., his wife Ma Bender, son John, Jr. and daughter Kate. Now I am not going to get involved in their story but I will touch on some of the highlights and let you know the story includes an inn, a store, a hammer, a trap door, lonely single male travelers, haunted property and the only place where a mass murder is celebrated by a state historical marker. Google the Bender family in Kansas and enjoy a bit of the old west.

    LNT

    Better than when you found it

    Stay safe– Happy Travels

  • Dennis P.
    Oct. 12, 2021

    Riverside RV Park

    Right in town and a Forest

    All the amenities one could ask for in a RV park. It sits in a strip of forest along Caney River (creek) with a walking/biking trail right adjacent to the park. On the other side of the street though is an Emergency Center where all the EMS calls originate. Ergo sirens at all hours. Can't be helped by the proprietors. We especially liked  "Mimi" who led us to our site and complimented me on my backing abilities. She made our arrival special. The place is efficiently run but the overall look is a bit run-down. There were about 32 of the 70 sites occupied year-round. The rest of us were stacked too close to the next rv. Still, our trash was picked up at our doorstep every morning, and propane could have been delivered as well if we had need. Verizon gave me full bars at 5G. WiFi is OK if you are close to one of several repeaters. NOTE: BRING A WATER PRESSURE REGULATOR. Their pressure is about 90 psi.


Guide to Big Hill Lake

Big Hill Lake recreation areas offer several camping options within 25 miles of the lake. The area features predominantly flat terrain with occasional rolling hills and hardwood forests. Most campgrounds remain open year-round, though winter temperatures can drop below freezing between December and February.

What to do

Fishing opportunities: Big Hill Lake itself spans approximately 1,240 acres with multiple fishing access points. Nearby Hillside RV Park provides convenient access to regional fishing spots. "Fishing is popular here, at the Neosho River and in the nearby mined pits," notes one camper.

Visit historical attractions: The Norman No.1 Museum near the RV park showcases local petroleum history. Many campers use the area as a base for day trips. "Big Brutus, the largest electric shovel in the world" is accessible from several campgrounds according to a reviewer at Hillside RV.

Walking trails: The paved walking trail near Riverside RV Park offers recreation options beyond the lake itself. "There's a paved walking trail right next to the campground that is well maintained and leads to the campgrounds dog park," writes a recent visitor.

What campers like

Quiet surroundings: Most campgrounds in the area provide peaceful settings despite proximity to highways. "This place was very quiet. We arrived and the owner was extremely helpful and nice," reports a visitor at Hillside RV Park.

Reasonable pricing: The rv parks near Big Hill Lake maintain competitive rates compared to other regions. At Downstream RV Park, "Passport America stop, 17.50 per night. Highway noise but didn't bother us at all," mentions one reviewer.

Cleanliness: Several campgrounds maintain well-kept facilities. "The pool was pristine, laundry room and bathrooms very clean. We had full hook ups," notes a Riverside RV Park visitor, while another mentions "The park has a pool. We found Riverside RV Park to be quiet, comfortable & affordable."

What you should know

Water pressure variations: Some campgrounds have exceptionally high water pressure. At Riverside RV Park, a camper advises: "NOTE: BRING A WATER PRESSURE REGULATOR. Their pressure is about 90 psi."

Campground surfaces: Surface conditions vary significantly between rv parks at Big Hill Lake. "The campground is all rock/dirt so it is very dusty, however the staff do a great job of keeping up with the area," reports a reviewer who stayed at Riverside for a month.

Site spacing: Many campgrounds position RVs relatively close together. At Four Oaks RV Park, "It is a very small place to park close to 69 highway and a public golf course," according to one visitor.

Tips for camping with families

Pet-friendly areas: Most campgrounds accommodate pets with varying facilities. Riverside RV Park offers "a dog park. Dog park is clean and spacious," according to a recent review.

Pool access: During summer months, some facilities offer swimming options. "The pool was pristine," notes a Riverside visitor who stayed for a week in June.

Location advantages: Several campgrounds provide central access to family attractions. Riverside RV Park is "centrally located, quick drives to Osage Hills State Park, Woolaroc, Tulsa, Pioneer Woman Mercantile," according to a family who visited.

Tips from RVers

Leveling considerations: RV site quality varies across the area. At Norman No.1 Museum RV Park, "Full hookup sights for $25. Have 37 foot 5th wheel and fit fine. Pads are gravel but level," reports a recent visitor.

Connectivity options: Cellular and internet availability differs between locations. At Riverside RV Park, "Verizon gave me full bars at 5G. WiFi is OK if you are close to one of several repeaters," according to a visitor.

Laundry facilities: For extended stays, on-site laundry can be important. "Laundry room on site is nice, inexpensive, and includes plenty of washer and dryers," notes a monthly visitor at Riverside RV Park.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular RV campsite near Big Hill Lake?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular RV campground near Big Hill Lake is Norman No.1 Museum RV Park with a 4-star rating from 1 review.

What is the best site to find RV camping near Big Hill Lake?

TheDyrt.com has all 91 RV camping locations near Big Hill Lake, with real photos and reviews from campers.