Cabin camping options can be found throughout the Burrton, Kansas area, with several state parks and county recreation areas offering year-round accommodations. Located in south-central Kansas with an elevation of 1,450 feet, this region experiences hot summers and mild winters that allow for extended camping seasons. Water levels at nearby reservoirs fluctuate seasonally, affecting shoreline camping spots and boat launch accessibility.
What to do
Hiking trails: 12+ miles of paths at West Shore Camping Area — Cheney State Park range from easy lakeside walks to more secluded routes. "We road our bikes over every inch and clocked 12 miles. If you do mountain bike, you would enjoy the 9+ mile trail (we walked it). It's flat and not challenging, but really nice, secluded," notes one visitor.
Paddling and water sports: Santa Fe Lake offers calmer waters for kayaking compared to larger lakes in the region. "This lake is a nice break from places like Cheney and Afton. It's small so there aren't a lot of big boats disturbing the water, which makes paddling a lot more enjoyable," says a camper.
Wildlife viewing: Bird watching opportunities are abundant, especially during migration seasons. Kanopolis State Park offers excellent wildlife viewing areas. "Trails with cliffs, creeks and caves, campsites with incredible views and Bald Eagles soaring overhead. No other campers in the grounds," reports a visitor to Eagle Point Campground.
What campers like
Lakeside camping spots: Many campers appreciate direct water access at Harvey County East Park. "Great campground really enjoy the large and shady sites. I also like how they put boat docks behind all of the lake side sites," says one reviewer. Some sites include sandy beaches for swimming and boat launching.
Seasonal privacy: Winter and early spring offer more solitude. "Trails with cliffs, creeks and caves, campsites with incredible views and Bald Eagles soaring overhead. No other campers in the grounds," notes a visitor at Kanopolis State Park during off-season.
Variety of accommodation options: French Creek Cove features "separated RV stalls with covered concrete patio" according to a recent camper, who added it's "one of the nicer lakes I've been to, and cheap, the road is a little rough, but it's a neat place."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most glamping near Burrton requires advance booking, especially for cabins and peak seasons. Some primitive areas are first-come, first-served. "Would also be great if they didn't allow RVs taking up space meant for primitive camping," notes a camper about Sandyshore Campground.
Facility conditions vary: Bathroom and shower facilities differ greatly between parks. "The bathrooms are extremely dated and gross. Not sure what they are using the entrance fee for, but it doesn't appear to be for upkeep," reports one visitor to Cheney State Park.
Water restrictions: Some campgrounds have limited water hookup options. Harvey County East Park has rules where "the water hookups are shared between sites and currently have signs reading, '15 MINUTE TIME LIMIT. Do Not Leave Water Hose Connected, Even If You Have A Splitter.'"
Park entrance fees: Most parks charge daily vehicle fees in addition to camping fees. "We had to pay another $5 just to enter the park to get to our campsite," notes one Cheney State Park visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access for kids: Eagle Point Campground provides shoreline swimming options. "Well maintained campground right on the water!" says a camper. Harvey County East Park also offers "clean and quiet swimming area" according to another reviewer.
Playground locations: Several parks feature playgrounds for children. "We also enjoy the lake and playgrounds for the kids. It is close to home but a nice getaway," mentions a West Shore Camping Area visitor.
Tick prevention: Pack appropriate repellent, especially for hiking trails. One camper at Kanopolis noted they "ended up leaving because we found several tics and were worried about our dogs."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for size limitations: French Creek Cove accommodates smaller RVs better than large ones. "Shorter RV trailers are preferred. 30 amp service," advises a recent visitor. The "boat dock is very steep, small boats only."
Dump station locations: Most parks offer sanitary dump stations, though not at every campground loop. At Cheney State Park, "you could fill tanks at the vacant host site or the dump station" when water is shut off seasonally.
Seasonal water availability: Water systems may be winterized in colder months. "The restroom water was on in this loop only" and "Smartsh is a loop that is not on the lake side, but the only w/e loop that had water turned on during off season," reports a Cheney State Park camper.
