Clay Center, Kansas offers several RV campgrounds within a 30-mile radius, with most sites located along the I-70 corridor or near the shores of Milford Lake. The region features rolling hills, open prairies, and wooded lake areas with elevations ranging from 1,300 to 1,500 feet. Summer temperatures often exceed 90°F while winter overnight temperatures frequently drop below freezing, affecting seasonal campground availability.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Acorn RV Resort provides direct lake access with docks for anglers. "A very beautiful lake, this area is pristine clean and water clear. A very large lake with many areas of camping and fishing," notes papa T. in a review of the Acorn RV Resort.
Historical sites: Abilene's presidential history makes a worthwhile day trip from Clay Center area RV parks. "It's just down the street from President Dwight D Eisenhower presidential museum and library," explains Cande D. about the Covered Wagon RV Resort, adding "Check out the The Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad heritage railway. Ride the Flint Hills Express on track built by the Rock Island Railroad in 1886!"
Family recreation: Many campgrounds near Clay Center feature kid-friendly amenities. According to jacob B., Thunderbird Marina offers "all kinds of outdoor fun for kids too such as playgrounds and a basketball court!" The waterfront location provides additional activities for families seeking outdoor recreation.
What campers like
Lakefront camping: Sites at West Rolling Hills offer scenic water views on multiple sides. "Many lakefront sites, scenic & quiet. Very windy during our stay. A great place to just come & relax," shares Bob M. about the West Rolling Hills campground.
Accessible pull-throughs: Smoky Hill RV Park features long, well-maintained sites designed for larger vehicles. "The sites are long (several large RVs on site), with services and picnic tables on cement patios," explains Martin-Charles S., adding that the campground is "Well-maintained" and "Ideal for an overnight stay on the road."
Clean facilities: Reviewers frequently mention the cleanliness of bathroom facilities at rv campgrounds near Clay Center, Kansas. "The bathroom and shower were exceptionally clean," writes Paul B. about Walt's Four Seasons Campground, which offers full amenities including a pool, fishing pond, and nature trail.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: While some Clay Center area RV parks operate year-round, many have limited seasons. "This area looks fabulous. I was looking forward to staying here in early November, but it was closed. All the Corps campgrounds close for the winter," reports Mimi about West Rolling Hills.
Highway noise: Several campgrounds sit close to major highways, creating potential noise issues. "Close to the highway was our only downfall. Kinda loud when trying to fall asleep at night," mentions Katelynn C. about Walt's Four Seasons, though she still rated it 5 stars overall.
Pet policies: Not all RV parks welcome pets, so check before booking. Thunderbird Marina & RV Resort specifically prohibits pets while most other locations in the area allow them with standard restrictions.
Tips for camping with families
Look for multi-activity parks: Walt's Four Seasons offers numerous family-friendly features. "This campground offers put-put course, swimming pool with poolside pub, horseshoes, catch& release fishing, walking trail, small dog park, playground for children," explains Courtney P., who stayed long-term at the campground with her family.
Check for swimming options: Some campgrounds provide beach access for cooling off during hot Kansas summers. The Smoky Hill RV Park reviewer Chasing the S. notes it has "great dog park and small kids area" making it suitable for families even on shorter stays.
Consider cabins for non-RV families: Several locations offer alternative lodging. "A group of friends rented a cabin at Acorns Resort. the cabins are spacious and well maintained and we had one right down from the water!" shares Kaitlin M., highlighting the flexibility for family groups without RVs.
Tips from RVers
Electrical considerations: Check power pedestals before setting up. "My only concerns are the electric pedestal had a bulge below the socket, which wouldn't fit my surge protector. My electric went out, and I had to reset the breaker," warns Paul B. about Walt's Four Seasons.
Space between sites: RV parks vary in spacing and privacy. Sara H. from Walt's Four Seasons selected a "longer type... this just meant we'd be a bit further out in the less heavily used area, with water and electric only($30)," showing how site selection affects experience.
Level sites: Dan N. specifically mentioned "Level sites a plus" when reviewing Walt's Four Seasons, highlighting an important practical consideration for RVers selecting campgrounds near Clay Center, Kansas.
