Best Campgrounds near Collyer, KS
The western Kansas landscape surrounding Collyer features several camping options strategically positioned along Interstate 70, making this area popular for cross-country travelers seeking overnight accommodations. Wakeeney KOA, located approximately 15 miles east of Collyer, provides full-service RV sites and cabin rentals from March through mid-December. Cedar Bluff State Park, situated about 30 miles south, offers year-round camping with both primitive tent sites and developed RV areas along its reservoir shoreline. Ellis Lakeside Campground and Sheridan State Fishing Lake provide additional options for campers seeking water-adjacent sites with varying levels of amenities.
Seasonal considerations significantly impact camping experiences in this region. Strong winds are common throughout the plains, with campers reporting gusts exceeding 30 mph that can make tent camping challenging. Water access at some facilities is limited during winter months, with Ellis Lakeside Campground shutting off water hookups in December. As one camper noted, "They shut the water off in December so be sure to fill up your tank when camping that time of year." Most campgrounds maintain good cell service, with Verizon coverage reported as reliable enough for streaming at several locations. Roadways to established campgrounds are generally well-maintained, though some fishing lakes have rougher access roads that may challenge standard passenger vehicles.
Many campers utilize these sites as convenient overnight stops during longer journeys. "This was a perfect overnight spot with hookups and clean bathrooms on site. Not much to do other than watch the beautiful sunset," reported one visitor to High Plains Camping. Lakeside sites are consistently rated higher than interior spots, with early arrival recommended to secure premium waterfront locations. Cedar Bluff State Park receives particular praise for its spacious sites and scenic water views, though visitors note limited shade at many locations. Wildlife viewing opportunities include great blue herons, great horned owls, and various waterfowl. Weekday camping typically offers more solitude, with one camper observing, "Very quiet mid-week in May, which was lovely," while weekends and summer months see higher occupancy rates.
