Camping cabins near Cheney, Kansas center around the 9,550-acre Cheney Reservoir, formed by the damming of the North Fork Ninnescah River. During summer months, prevailing southerly winds create conditions favorable for sailing and windsurfing, while winter temperatures can drop below freezing, affecting cabin availability. Sites are primarily situated on flat, open terrain with limited natural shade across most camping areas.
What to do
Hiking trails: A 9+ mile hiking trail runs through the Smarth Loop at West Shore Camping Area — Cheney State Park, offering flat terrain suitable for walking or mountain biking. "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.
Birdwatching: The reservoir attracts diverse bird species including bald eagles during winter months. A camper reported, "Yep, we saw bald eagles every day of our stay. Majestic!" Wildlife viewing is particularly good along shoreline areas where cabin sites are less developed.
Water recreation: Cabin renters at Lighthouse Landing RV Park and Cabins can access lake activities while having a base camp with modern amenities. Paddlers should be aware that "Sites are still being made, not all sites have picnic tables or fire pits. NO SHADE! For a one night stop between destinations it's okay."
What campers like
Camp hosts: Regular cabin visitors appreciate the consistent maintenance and presence of staff. According to one repeat visitor at West Shore Camping Area, "I camp here many times a year, several different camping locations and each location has a camp host," ensuring facilities remain maintained throughout the season.
Cabin amenities: At Wellington KOA, campers staying in cabin accommodations report thoughtful outdoor setups. "Very nice patio on slot with fire pit, table, chairs and covered swing," notes one visitor, providing dedicated outdoor living space not found at all cabin locations.
Family-friendly grounds: USI RV Park receives praise for its clean facilities and family amenities despite its urban location. A visitor mentioned, "The bathrooms are super clean, there is a very nice playground and fenced dog run," making it suitable for families seeking cabin accommodations with dedicated recreation spaces.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Two-night minimum stays are sometimes enforced at certain cabins, even during lower occupancy periods. One visitor reported, "We only needed one night, but had to pay for two nights (it was on a weekend, but this place was nowhere near full, so the demand isn't there to warrant a 2 night requirement)."
Entry fees: Cabin guests at state park locations must pay daily vehicle entry fees in addition to cabin rental costs. "On top of that, we had to pay another $5 just to enter the park to get to our campsite," notes one camper about the additional costs beyond the cabin reservation.
Seasonal water access: Water systems at some cabins are winterized during colder months, affecting availability. A visitor in spring noted, "The Smarth is a loop that is not on the lake side, but the only w/e loop that had water turned on during off season," indicating limited services outside peak seasons.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Wichita's Spring Lake RV Resort offers comprehensive recreational facilities for families with children renting cabins. "This is a resort. Everything you could want. Swimming pool, chuck wagon on weekends. Free minutes golf, etc. A very nice playground for children," reports one visitor.
Beach areas: Water access points with designated swimming areas provide safer alternatives to open water shoreline. "Nice beach area for kids. Bathroom facilities adequate and they have showers," mentions a visitor about recreation options beyond the cabin area.
Supply planning: While basic items are available nearby, selection may be limited. "A small store is just outside the entrance and Witchita is only 30 minutes away. Hutchinson is maybe 15 mi," notes a camper, suggesting families stock up on specialized supplies before arriving.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: When booking cabin accommodations, request locations based on seasonal considerations. One visitor at West Shore advises, "The Hobie Loop has no services, but the amazing views make up for it. Half the sites are right on the water. Kayaks, Canoes, SUP can be launched right from the sites or just across the road."
Maintenance variations: Cabin conditions can vary significantly between different loops and campgrounds. "It's a nice site but the people that departed, after our check-in time, left a mudhole and dog poop everywhere. Don't think we will stay at this site again," cautions one guest about inconsistent site maintenance during busy periods.
