Cheney State Park spans more than 1,900 acres surrounding Cheney Reservoir, located in south-central Kansas approximately 30 miles west of Wichita. The park experiences hot summers with temperatures frequently exceeding 90°F and persistent winds, creating challenging boating conditions on the 10,000-acre reservoir. Camping options in the region range from free primitive sites to full-service campgrounds with electric, water, and sewer hookups.
What to do
Mountain biking on designated trails: West Shore Camping Area at Cheney State Park features a 9-mile trail system accessible to bikers of all skill levels. "We road our bikes over every inch and clocked 12 miles. If you do mountain bike, you would enjoy the 9+ mile trail. It's flat and not challenging, but really nice, secluded," notes one camper.
Fishing for various species: Kingman State Fishing Lake offers shoreline fishing access with primitive camping sites positioned directly at the water's edge. "Enjoy the coyotes howling at night and the waterfowl on the still lake in the morning. Go fishing for slab crappie and hunt the sand hills for deer, and bobwhite quail!" reports a regular visitor.
Wildlife observation opportunities: Both day and night offer chances to spot local wildlife. "The lake is nice," mentions a camper at East Shore Camping Area, while Kingman State Fishing Lake visitors frequently report hearing "ducks and owls during the night" from their campsites.
Disc golf course access: The 18-hole disc golf course at Cheney State Park provides recreation beyond water activities. Many campers incorporate disc golf into their visit as the course winds through the park near camping areas.
What campers like
Free camping options: Deweese Campground offers no-cost camping with basic amenities. "I camp here often, it is free and away from people very peaceful," shares a regular visitor. Another camper notes it has "several sites along the river but separated by foliage. Grounds are well maintained as is the vault toilets."
Spacious sites at select locations: West Shore Camping Area provides more room between campsites than other areas. "The campsites are decent size and they have cabins for our family without campers or tents," reports a camper. This contrasts with other local campgrounds where space can be limited.
Lake access from certain loops: Specific camping loops offer superior water access. "The Gopher loop is for tents. If you are a tenter, you are in for a treat. Sites are right on the water," explains a camper about West Shore Camping Area.
Cleanliness of certain facilities: Lake Afton Park receives positive comments about maintenance. "The campsite has friendly staff, the facilities and campsites are clean, great swimming area," notes one visitor, though experiences vary by season and usage levels.
What you should know
Separate entrance and camping fees: Most state park campgrounds in the area require multiple payments. "We had to pay another $5 just to enter the park to get to our campsite," reports a visitor to West Shore Camping Area, indicating the dual fee structure that surprises some campers.
Seasonal limitations on water access: Winter camping remains available but with reduced services. "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," explains a winter visitor to East Shore Camping Area.
Persistent wind conditions: The Kansas winds affect both comfort and water activities. "It was WINDY every day so I couldn't kayak or SUP. I think it is just Kansas, though," shares a West Shore camper, highlighting how wind can limit recreation options.
Road quality concerns at some locations: Access roads vary in quality across campgrounds. At Kingman State Fishing Lake, "they recently buried some culverts under the road which should prevent any future washouts. But beware the sandy road base could get you stuck."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: West Shore Camping Area features multiple play areas. "We also enjoy the lake and playgrounds for the kids. It is close to home but a nice getaway," reports a family camper, noting the convenience of having recreation options beyond water activities.
Biking opportunities for children: Lake Afton Park offers family-friendly cycling. "Great time to chill and hangout around the fire. Good facilities great time riding bikes," shares a camper, highlighting how the relatively flat terrain suits riders of various ages.
Swimming areas with designated boundaries: All Seasons RV Park provides structured water recreation. "We arrived after 10pm the man in the office had our paperwork ready for us and escorted us to our lot. It was a huge level lot. Surrounded by open fields so we were able to fall asleep to the crickets," notes a family passing through the area.
Cabin rental options for mixed camping groups: Some families prefer mixed accommodation options. "We love camping here because the campsites are decent size and they have cabins for our family without campers or tents," explains a visitor to West Shore Camping Area, noting how cabins accommodate family members who don't have camping equipment.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements vary by campground: Site preparation differs across locations. At Lake Afton Park, reviews note "spots make no sense. Not someplace to bring a large camper," while Deweese Campground visitors report it being "level with lots of room."
Dump station and water fill locations: When water hookups are unavailable, alternatives exist. At West Shore Camping Area, "you could fill tanks at the vacant host site or the dump station," according to a camper describing winter camping when standard water services were shut off.
RV site sizing considerations: Site dimensions create challenges at some locations. "Not sure what they are using the entrance fee for, but it doesn't appear to be for upkeep," comments a camper about West Shore Camping Area, where some sites accommodate larger rigs better than others.
Seasonal hookup availability: Winter campers should verify which utilities remain active. "Being winter, it's pretty sparse, dry, and windy. For an overnight, it was an affordable stay," reports a winter visitor to East Shore Camping Area, emphasizing the need to check seasonal limitations before arrival.
