Camping sites near Burrton, Kansas offer experiences in the heart of the Great Plains with elevations averaging 1,450 feet. The region experiences dramatic seasonal temperature changes with summer highs often exceeding 90°F and winter lows frequently dropping below freezing. Fall and spring camping seasons provide more moderate temperatures for outdoor activities, with spring offering opportunities to witness prairie wildflowers in bloom.
What to do
Kayak fishing opportunities: Harvey County West Park provides calm waters for paddle sports. "Great place, been camping here since I kid in Boy Scouts. Good spot for kayaking, and if you're a fisherman I hear it's a good place," notes Terry M. about the Harvey County West Park.
Hiking trails: Sand Hills State Park features over 600 acres of marked trails through unique dune formations. "It's a small campground, nearby hiking but no other activities. It is clean, lots of trash cans and restrooms are clean," shares Angee S. about the Sand Hills State Park Campground.
Horseback riding: Equestrian enthusiasts can access dedicated horse trails at Sand Hills State Park. Randy S. confirms the park is "Horse friendly. Over 600 acres of equestrian trails."
Wildlife viewing: Cheney State Park offers excellent bird watching opportunities. "We saw bald eagles every day of our stay. Majestic!" reports Nancy C. about the West Shore Camping Area. She adds, "We road our bikes over every inch and clocked 12 miles."
What campers like
Quiet camping spots: Deweese Campground offers secluded sites away from crowds. "I camp here often, it is free and away from people very peaceful," shares papa T. about the Deweese Campground.
Clean facilities: Several campgrounds maintain well-kept amenities despite rural locations. At Spring Lake RV Resort, Dave D. found "Gravel sites. Great, robust WIFI. Clean, modern bathrooms and showers," while noting it was a "Bargain at $33."
Nature sounds: Camping areas provide opportunities to hear wildlife. At Deweese Campground, Melissa C. reports, "I can hear a little road noise but I also hear lots of nature noises. Birds, frogs, owls and more."
Riverside camping: Several sites offer water views for a more immersive experience. Bob B. notes that Deweese has "Several sites along the river but separated by foliage. Grounds are well maintained as is the vault toilets."
What you should know
Winter camping limitations: While year-round camping is available at some locations, services may be reduced in winter. Michelle G. shares about East Shore Camping Area: "There are specific sites available year round that have water and electric available. These are located in the Marina and Lakeside campgrounds on the East side. The water spigots are insulated."
Reservation requirements: Some parks have minimum stay requirements on weekends. Shana D. notes about Cheney State Park: "We only needed one night, but had to pay for two nights (it was on a weekend, but this place was no where near full, so the demand isn't there to warrant a 2 night requirement)."
Varying site quality: Campgrounds may have inconsistent site maintenance. Paul P. mentions about Sand Hills State Park: "Telephone reservations were a little confusing, otherwise a 5-Star."
Fire regulations: Some campgrounds restrict open fires. At Inman RV Park, fires are not allowed according to the amenities list, so campers should plan alternative cooking methods.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Spring Lake RV Resort offers dedicated play areas for children. According to Debbie J., "This is a resort. Everything you could want. Swimming pool, chuck wagon on weekends. Free minutes golf, etc. A very nice playground for children."
Swimming options: West Shore Camping Area at Cheney State Park has designated swimming areas for families. Holly D. shares, "We love camping here because the campsites are decent size and they have cabins for our family without campers or tents. We also enjoy the lake and playgrounds for the kids."
Educational opportunities: Birdwatching provides learning experiences for children at multiple sites. At Cheney State Park, you can spot diverse wildlife including bald eagles during certain seasons.
Cabin alternatives: Families without tents or RVs can still enjoy camping. The Lighthouse Landing RV Park and Cabins offers cabin rentals and Justin C. notes, "There was a nice playground for our children and the sites were plenty big enough for us to get our truck and rig into."
Tips from RVers
Full hookup options: Several campgrounds offer complete RV services. At Inman RV Park, James H. found "$25 FHU, easy, in a nice small town" and notes it's a "Minimalist place - (washer & dryer in the shed with the drop box - no bath house)."
Dump station locations: Plan ahead for waste disposal. Michelle G. points out that Cheney State Park has "Dump stations available! Unfortunately not for human consumption."
Site leveling considerations: Some campgrounds have uneven terrain requiring additional equipment. Victoria S. notes about Sand Hills State Park: "Park was a little unlevel so definitely need to bring extra wood to level correctly."
Quick overnight options: Cottonwood Grove RV Campground serves as an efficient stopover. Cindy C. shares it's "Very small campground. No frills here but shower house was clean. We were arriving around 7 pm and no other campground would answer their phones. The owner met us and helped us get into our spots after dark."
