Tent camping near Burrton, Kansas centers around several reservoir-based recreation areas within driving distance of this small Harvey County town. The region's hot, humid summer climate makes water access a priority for most campers. Temperatures regularly exceed 90°F from June through August, with cooler spring and fall seasons providing more moderate camping conditions.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Harvey County East Park offers bass, crappie, and catfish fishing along its shoreline. "This is a Great place for families to enjoy spending time with one another! Love the cleanliness of bathrooms and outdoors! Lots of fish!" notes Jesse H. about Harvey County East Park.
Fall foliage viewing: The park's deciduous trees provide scenic camping in autumn months. Leann V. describes the experience: "The lake was beautiful, the trees were still pretty full with fall foliage, and it was very quiet."
Swimming access: The swimming area at Harvey County East Park maintains consistent water quality throughout summer. Rita G. mentions, "Relaxing and clean swimming area. Bathroom was clean."
What campers like
Lakeside sites: Most tent sites at Harvey County East Park feature direct water access. "Great campground really enjoy the large and shady sites. I also like how they put boat docks behind all of the lake side sites," reports Stanleigh S. about Rockwall Campground.
Shade coverage: The large trees throughout Harvey County East Park provide essential relief during hot Kansas summers. Many campsites receive dappled shade throughout the day, reducing temperature extremes in tents.
Off-season tranquility: Visiting outside peak summer holidays delivers a quieter experience. "We are traveling from AZ to SC in our 33 foot bumper pull. This park was just what we needed after 6 days of traveling," says Leann V.
What you should know
Water hookup limitations: Harvey County East Park enforces strict water connection policies. Meghan B. explains at Harvey County East Park: "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.'"
Weekend crowding: The swim area becomes significantly more congested Saturday through Sunday. As Stanleigh S. notes, "The swim area is nice but often crowded on the weekends."
Holiday atmosphere changes: The typically peaceful environment shifts during holidays. According to Bj T., the park is "Fairly quiet but can get rowdy during holidays."
Tips for camping with families
Beach-focused site selection: Choose tent sites with sandy beach access for optimal family enjoyment. Stanleigh S. at Harvey County East Park recommends: "All of the lake side sites are 30 amp. The biggest con for this campground is that you have to share a water source with the campsites next to you."
Bathroom preparation: While facilities are functional, they are not modern. Bj T. observes, "Facilities are dated but, for the most part, clean."
Affordability factor: The cost structure makes multi-day family stays economical. "Sandy beaches at most of the tent campsites are our favorite things about this lake! Also, super affordable camping," reports Anika L.
Tips from RVers
Inner loop preference: RVers requiring 50-amp service should target specific areas. According to Stanleigh S. at Harvey County East Park: "This campground has both 50 and 30 amp sites. All of the 50 amp sites are on the inner loop and all of the lake side sites are 30 amp."
Host assistance: Staff are available to help with site selection and setup. Meghan B. notes, "There seem to be a couple pay stations throughout the campground and friendly hosts to help you get settled in."
Seasonal considerations: Fall camping offers advantages for RVers seeking tranquility. "This park was just what we needed after 6 days of traveling and only stopping at casinos that had overnight RV parking," shares Leann V.
