Cabin camping near Colby, Kansas offers overnight options in the high plains region where elevations range from 3,000-3,200 feet. Summer temperatures can reach the 90s with winter lows often dropping below freezing. The area experiences strong winds throughout the year, which campers should prepare for when securing tents or selecting sheltered cabin sites.
What to do
Hiking near Monument Rocks: Venture to nearby geological formations during your cabin stay. One camper visiting Historic Lake Scott State Park mentioned, "Close to castle Rock Badlands, monument rocks and Little Jerusalem Badlands which made for a great time."
Kayaking on spring-fed lakes: Multiple lakes in the area offer calm waters for paddling. A visitor to Circle Drive — Historic Lake Scott State Park noted, "We spent the hot park of the days kayaking in the lake. The boat house rents kayaks, canoes, and paddleboats but only on weekend."
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings and evenings provide opportunities for spotting local wildlife. A camper at Sheridan State Fishing Lake shared, "I got to see 2 great blue herons and listen to 2 great horned owls call to each other at night - how awesome!"
What campers like
Quiet weekday stays: Many campgrounds become significantly less crowded mid-week. A visitor to Goodland KOA stated, "Very friendly staff, wifi was good enough for online school; 4g cell coverage, cable too if you are set up in your rig. Good health protocols during CV19."
Spring-fed lake swimming: The lakes maintain consistent water levels year-round. According to a camper at Circle Drive, "The lake is small and quiet with fishers and kayakers. We swam a lot, fished a bit even though the fish weren't biting, explored the dam, hiked on the bluffs trail."
Accessibility features: Several parks offer facilities for visitors with mobility needs. One reviewer noted, "There is a great disk golf course and ADA fishing docks with paved walkway access for those who need it."
What you should know
Wind protection considerations: Western Kansas experiences frequent high winds that can affect comfort. A camper at Apache Campground — Historic Lake Scott State Park reported, "38 Mph wind gusts all night long made for some miserable camping. Not sure if that's normal around here or not."
Water availability varies seasonally: Check before arrival if water systems are operational. One winter visitor mentioned, "We used the electricity hookup, but it was too cold for us to hookup to water. Unsure if there was a sewer hookup as there was snow on the ground."
Reservation requirements: Most cabin accommodations must be booked in advance, especially during peak times. According to a camper, "Camp hosts were pleasant and helpful and area was clean. Some areas are shaded better than others as seen on google maps."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play areas for children. A visitor to Kansas Country Inn & RV Park stated, "Very friendly staff. Convenient for an overnight stay. Affordable. Thankful for electricity as it was cold."
Budget-friendly options: Free camping exists at certain locations. A camper at Sheridan State Fishing Lake shared, "June 2021, great free camp location. Had the place almost all to ourselves. Big rig friendly. Many empty campsites right on the lake."
Educational opportunities: Historical sites provide learning experiences. One visitor noted, "We hiked a on the bluffs trail and made the short drive to Monument Rocks. There is a great disk golf course and ADA fishing docks with paved walkway access."
Tips from RVers
Level site selection: Many campgrounds offer variable site leveling. A camper reported, "Gorgeous scenery but sites are on gravel or grass & not always level for our 30' 5th wheel. Verizon cell is available as is electricity & water. Dumping service is at the entrance."
Connectivity information: Cell service varies dramatically by location and provider. According to one RVer at Kansas Country Inn, "I had a hard time using T-Mobile because I seem to be in a dead spot, but I was able to use their Wi-Fi."
Off-season considerations: Some facilities close during winter months. A visitor at Goodland KOA shared, "I wouldn't recommend to stay for vacation here but this is a perfect stop for an overnight stop headed in or out of Denver. Very friendly people and very clean bathrooms."
