Camping near Big Hill Lake
Big Hill Lake in southeastern Kansas features multiple campgrounds nestled in rolling prairie and oak-hickory forests, often referred to as the "Little Ozarks" of Kansas. The 1,240-acre reservoir supports several established camping areas including Mound Valley Recreation Area, Timber Hill, Cherryvale Park, and Overlook. Corps of Engineers manages the primary campgrounds, offering both electric and non-electric sites for tents and RVs. Most campgrounds provide water access, with some sites featuring direct paths to the shoreline for fishing. The surrounding landscape transitions between wooded areas and open prairie, creating diverse camping environments from heavily forested sites to more exposed locations with lake views.
Camping season typically runs from late March through October, with most facilities closed during winter months. Reservations are recommended for developed sites, especially during summer weekends and holidays, while some areas operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Campers note that facilities vary significantly between campgrounds, with flush toilets and showers generally available only during peak season. According to one visitor, "The whole camp was very cleaned and maintained and the park ranger was very accessible." Some exposed campsites experience strong Kansas winds, as one camper mentioned: "It was way too well maintained as far as it being very out in the open, there were no woods around us for our campsite so the wind almost knocked our tent over."
The lake environment offers numerous recreational opportunities beyond camping. A 17-mile horse trail surrounds three-quarters of the lake, with designated parking areas that permit overnight camping for trail riders. The Ruth Nixon Memorial Trail provides a one-mile hiking option with bluebird houses and wildlife viewing opportunities. Big Hill Lake is known for trophy fishing, particularly largemouth and smallmouth bass, crappie, catfish, and walleye. Swimming beaches provide summer cooling, though alcohol is prohibited in beach areas. Approximately 800 acres around the lake are managed for wildlife and open to public hunting, with whitetail deer, turkey, and squirrel being common game species. Wildflowers bloom abundantly in spring and fall, complementing the persimmon, osage orange, redbud and dogwood trees.
