Best Tent Camping near Clay Center, KS
Tent campsites near Clay Center, Kansas include several state park options within reasonable driving distance. Milford State Park provides tent camping at Walnut Grove and Cedar Point campgrounds, with some sites directly along the shoreline of Milford Lake. Pottawatomie County State Lake #2 offers a more primitive tent camping experience with free sites located about 30 minutes from Interstate 70.
Most tent sites at Milford State Park provide picnic tables and fire rings, though Cedar Point may present challenges for tent camping due to uneven terrain. One camper noted that Cedar Point is "not for tent camping unless you like sleeping at an angle." Pottawatomie County State Lake #2 features more basic amenities with pit toilets but no running water or electrical hookups. Tent campers should bring their own drinking water and supplies, particularly at the more primitive sites. The free camping areas typically have simple fire rings and worn picnic tables, with camping permitted year-round but no trash collection service.
Tent camping experiences vary significantly between locations. Walnut Grove campground offers more secluded sites with good tree cover for hammocks and direct water access in a protected cove. A visitor commented that it's "perfect for tents and groups" with "trees for hammocks" and "access to the water." Pottawatomie County State Lake provides a quieter experience, especially on weeknights when fewer fishermen are present. The lake setting offers opportunities for kayaking and fishing, with campers reporting peaceful evenings and beautiful sunrise views over the water. Sites at this location can become muddy after rain, making access challenging for tent campers during wet periods.
