Camping near Burden, Kansas spans across several small lake areas with varying levels of access and amenities. The region sits at approximately 1,200 feet elevation with summer temperatures often exceeding 90°F during peak camping months. Weather patterns can change rapidly, with afternoon thunderstorms common in summer months, creating potential challenges for tent campers at more exposed sites.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Butler State Fishing Lake offers primitive dispersed camping with direct water access for anglers. The lake environment supports multiple fishing spots without the crowds found at larger reservoirs.
Mountain biking trails: Santa Fe Lake provides both beginner and expert-level trails for mountain biking enthusiasts. "The mountain bike trails as well as hiking trails are perfect for beginners to experts," notes one visitor who appreciated the trail system.
Kayaking: The smaller lakes around Burden provide calmer waters ideal for paddling. "It's a small lake so there aren't a lot of big boats disturbing the water, which makes paddling a lot more enjoyable," reports a camper at Santa Fe Lake.
Disc golf: Napawalla Park features a recognized disc golf course alongside camping areas. A reviewer mentioned the "RecognIzed disk golf course, horse shoes, basketball, sand volleyball and children's playground" among the park's recreational options.
What campers like
Waterfall features: Cowely County Fishing Lake has a unique waterfall feature that draws visitors. "At the time I was there, the waterfall was dried up and I was able to take a trail down to the bottom and see everything up close," one camper shared about their springtime visit.
Peaceful weekday stays: Campers frequently mention the quiet atmosphere during weekdays at most campgrounds. "Throughout the day, there was about three people fishing. It felt like I had the place to myself," noted a camper at Cowely County Fishing Lake.
Shade coverage: Most campgrounds in the area provide good tree coverage for hot summer days. At Cherokee Strip Campground, a camper noted "plenty of shade trees" despite its proximity to highway noise.
Impromptu entertainment: Winfield Fairgrounds RV sometimes features spontaneous music from friendly locals. "There are even locals that camp out here and are fun and friendly. Sometimes they will even start playing music and encourage to even jump in or just sit and listen," shared one reviewer.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Summer storms can develop quickly, and sites near water may become muddy after rainfall. Windy conditions are common at exposed campsites.
Bathroom facilities: Bathroom availability and conditions vary widely between locations. At Beaumont Hotel & RV Park, "One of the motel rooms behind the cafe is available for showers and restrooms for campers," according to a tent camper.
Weekend noise levels: Several campgrounds experience increased activity on weekends. "This lake tends to get a little rowdy on the holidays/weekends," reported a camper about Winfield City Lake.
Self-pay systems: Many campgrounds operate on honor systems with varied pricing. Cherokee Strip Campground offers "Electric, water, restrooms and coin-operated showers," while Napawalla Park charges "only $15 a night. $10 just to dump and only $3.50 for primitive camping."
Seasonal closures: Some facilities close during winter months. The cafe at Beaumont Hotel & RV Park operates limited hours and is "closed in winter," while shower facilities at Napawalla Park are only open "between April 15th and October 15th."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature playgrounds for children. "Bath house, 2 pavilions, playground, freebie golf and basketball ball court," one camper noted about the family-friendly amenities at Napawalla Park.
Swimming options: Cave Park provides primitive camping with river access. "Cave Park has a public access point that allows the public to put kayaks and boats into the river," notes a reviewer, making it suitable for water activities with older children.
Budget-friendly options: Families can find affordable camping throughout the region. Napawalla Park offers "tent camping was $3.50 for primitive and $10 with electricity," making it accessible for families on a budget.
Safety considerations: Some areas have limited cell service, especially at more remote fishing lakes. Bring physical maps and emergency supplies when camping with children.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup details: Specific information about power connections can help RVers prepare. At Napawalla Park, a reviewer noted "Lots of hookups(20-50 amp) Shade everywhere," but cautions that "The sites are not numbered and you pay now $15 in front of the restrooms."
Water fill locations: Many campgrounds offer water fill stations even when direct hookups aren't available. "The office lets you fill your fresh water tank by the entrance and there is a dump station," shared a Santa Fe Lake visitor.
Site selection for views: RV sites with lake views require strategic selection. At Santa Fe Lake, "we were sandwiched between the lake and the main entry road," showing the importance of site selection for optimal experience.
RV site terrain: Ground conditions can affect larger rigs. A Napawalla Park visitor noted "I was concerned about the ground being soft because it had just rained, but I had no problems in my 24' class C rig."
