Webster State Park features several dispersed camping areas in the region surrounding Bogue, Kansas. The park sits at an elevation of approximately 1,900 feet above sea level with a semi-arid climate typical of western Kansas. Summer temperatures often reach 90-100°F with low humidity, while camping sites are situated on rolling prairie with minimal natural shade except in designated areas near the reservoir.
What to do
Fishing access: Webster Reservoir offers multiple fishing spots accessible from several campgrounds, including Sheridan State Fishing Lake where visitors can catch various species. One visitor mentioned, "The game warden stopped by and said that the fish (carp, catfish, crappie, bluegill & shad) are all stunted. Too many fish for a small lake."
Historical exploration: Visit the town of Ellis, located near Ellis Lakeside Campground, to explore local history. A camper noted, "The railroad and the boyhood home of Walter Chrysler are both worth the time to see."
Archery practice: Webster State Park offers an archery range near Lakeview Campground. As one visitor observed, "A shower house is located at a day use area just past the campground as well as an archery range just past that."
Wildlife viewing: Early morning or evening provides opportunities to spot local wildlife around Webster Reservoir. A camper at Sheridan State Fishing Lake shared, "Overnight we heard coyotes, crickets & cows" while another mentioned, "I got to see 2 great blue herons and listen to 2 great horned owls call to each other at night - how awesome!"
What campers like
Wide-spaced campsites: Hill Top Campground offers more spacious sites than other areas. A camper noted, "Sites are very large and nicely spread apart, but are in the open."
Sunset views: Webster Reservoir creates spectacular sunset views, particularly from elevated camping areas. At Mushroom Campground, a visitor shared their experience: "Watched a full moon rise over the lake with a slight breeze. Quiet and peaceful."
Unique shelter structures: The distinctive mushroom-shaped shelters at Mushroom Campground provide both shade and character. A camper described it as "Feel like you're camping like a smurf, almost. Mushroom camping area are a series of campsites which have a mushroom like shelter over each sites picnic tables."
Free camping options: For budget-conscious travelers, there are free camping options in the region. A visitor at Sheridan State Fishing Lake commented, "June 2021, great free camp location. Had the place almost all to ourselves. Big rig friendly. Many empty campsites right on the lake."
What you should know
Limited restroom access: Some campgrounds have minimal or distant restroom facilities. At Hill Top Campground, "The big draw back to this campground in Webster State Park is the lack of a restroom. You will need to go to the near by Old Marina Campground a 1/4 mile away for restroom and showers."
Seasonal water shutoffs: Water access varies by season at campsites near Bogue, Kansas. At Ellis Lakeside Campground, campers should note: "However, we read they shut the water off in December so be sure to fill up your tank when that of year."
Wind exposure: The open terrain offers little protection from Kansas winds. A visitor at Sheridan State Fishing Lake mentioned, "Very windy during our stay," while another at Mushroom Campground noted, "Usually a nice breeze, but quite hot in high summer."
Primitive site pricing: Fee structures vary across campgrounds. One visitor at Mushroom Campground reported, "$5/vehicle. $12.75/tent. No change. My buddy and I stopped here for a night while crossing the state. One primitive camping spot for two adults in two vehicles. We each had to pay per car and per rent."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Old Marina Campground offers family-friendly amenities. A camper observed, "A playground is in the middle of the loop and restrooms/showers are on the north end of the loop."
Swimming options: During hot summer months, the Wakeeney KOA provides a welcome respite with its swimming pool. A family camper shared, "Our young family of six stayed for 2 nights during our cross country drive and wow what a welcome respite it was from driving! My kiddos LOVED the pool."
Shade considerations: Most campgrounds have limited natural shade. At Mushroom Campground, a visitor noted, "Most of the sites sit out in the open. The site I stayed at did have two trees which I was able to use for my hammock."
Bug awareness: Insect activity increases during certain times. A camper at Sheridan State Fishing Lake mentioned, "The bugs here weren't bad at all," while another noted it was "a little buggy at dusk."
Tips from RVers
Overnight convenience: Wakeeney KOA serves as an ideal stopover for RVers traveling through Kansas. One RVer shared, "The sites are all pull through and level so you don't have to unhook - just pull in and relax."
Dump station locations: RVers should note available dump stations when planning. At Old Marina Campground, "An RV dump is located on the road just before the turn to Old Marina."
Electrical hookup details: Various campgrounds offer different electrical options. At Lakeview Campground, a visitor mentioned, "This campground has ten sites with water and electrical hook ups, plus an additional 7 or 8 primitive sites."
WiFi availability: Some campgrounds offer internet access. A camper at Old Marina Campground mentioned, "A sign on the restroom indicates that WIFI is available."
