Equestrian Camping near Clearview City, KS

Equestrian camping near Clearview City, Kansas offers trail access across 2,000+ acres of lakeside terrain. The area sits at approximately 900 feet elevation with hot summers and mild spring and fall seasons. Campgrounds within a 30-mile radius provide varying levels of equine facilities with most opening from April through October.

What to do

Trail riding at Perry State Park Campground: Located on Perry Lake, this park features lakeside riding with water access points for horses. The park maintains clean facilities with well-marked trails for varying skill levels. "We camped in the Hobie Cove campground and the site itself was OK. Not a lot of choices for sites that are flat or offer a lot of shade. We did have a good time though exploring the area," notes Brandon B.

Fishing at Smiths Fork Recreation Area: This campground provides access to Smithville Lake with fishing opportunities close to the equestrian trails. "Close to Kansas City so it makes a great quick getaway. Clean, friendly, and right next to Smithville Lake. Our pick for a short trip," reports Lawrence W.

Hiking at Weston Bend State Park Campground: Offers additional trail experiences near horse paths with varied terrain. "Weston Bend State Park has an amazing hiking trail system within the park! Even one paved trail! We greatly enjoyed our visit and can't wait to go again!" shares Danielle H.

What campers like

Clean facilities: Most equestrian campgrounds in the area maintain well-kept restrooms and shower facilities. At Crow's Creek Campground, Julie B. mentions, "We had a nice RV site with electric. The best part is the view of and access to the lake! So beautiful and relaxing. We had a nice gravel site with fire ring and picnic table."

Shaded sites: Tree coverage is important for horse camping during summer months. "Each individual side has a picnic table and a place for a fire and is kind of isolated. People that live there year-round are all really nice," explains Lisa R. about Happy Joy Acres.

Lake access: Many equestrian sites offer direct water access. "Trails within the park system are paved, so it's great for bikes and scooters. Grounds are well maintained and grassy areas feel fine to walk through and play in," notes Julie B. about Crow's Creek.

What you should know

Seasonal considerations: Many equestrian facilities close water hookups during colder months. At Camp Branch Campground, Caitlin R. warns, "Some downfalls were our spot was 13" unlevel. Luckily we had several blocks of wood to help level our camp out."

Reservation requirements: Weekend availability can be limited during peak season (May-September). "We were only there overnight and I got there after a 10-Hour Dr. so I did not spend a lot of time there, but I absolutely think it's an it's a gem of a place right outside of Kansas City," comments Lauri J. about Weston Bend.

Horse facilities: Not all sites have adequate tie-ups or corrals. "It is full hook up. They have both 30 and 50 amp. Close to 169 hwy. Perfect for families with young children. Smaller park, very friendly hosts," explains Robin R. about Smiths Fork Recreation Area.

Tips for camping with families

Playground access: Several equestrian campgrounds include play areas for children. At Lake Jacomo - Fleming Park, Fawn W. shares, "The bathrooms are the nicest campground bathrooms I've ever used - large, clean, and not communal, so you get a sink, toilet, and shower all to yourself."

Swimming options: Look for campgrounds with beach access for after-ride activities. "The lake is big with a sand beach (non alcoholic beverages allowed unfortunately for the adults) for the kiddos. We enjoyed all the covers on the lake so we could anchor out and swim!" notes Caitlin R. about Camp Branch.

Trail difficulty: Select appropriate riding paths based on children's experience. "We have started staying here last couple of years. Nice big spots with electric only. It is quite a ways to shower house but much quieter than other campgrounds on Smithville lake. More family friendly," says Robin R. about Camp Branch.

Tips from RVers

Hookup availability: Many equestrian sites offer limited electrical service. "The RV loops were packed and felt really crowded, while the tent site loops were almost empty during our July visit," reports Sayler O. about Crow's Creek.

Maneuverability: Consider rig size when selecting an equestrian site. At Russell Crites Primitive — Hillsdale State Park, Myles R. advises, "Hillsdale is a nice place to camp that isn't too far out of the city. Decent accommodations and nice camp sites near the water front."

Utility access: Water and electric hookups vary by campground. "Camp hosts were super nice stopped by to make sure that I was all set up and didn't need any help," mentions Lauri J. about Weston Bend State Park.