Cedar Bluff State Park remains the most popular camping option near Collyer, with its reservoir positioned at 2,144 feet elevation. This region receives only 21-23 inches of annual rainfall, contributing to prairie conditions where strong winds and temperature extremes are common. Interstate 70 serves as the primary east-west corridor for accessing campsites in this area of western Kansas.
What to do
Fishing access: Cedar Bluff Reservoir offers multiple fishing spots for various skill levels, including a specially designed area for those with mobility challenges. "Pa's Lake is a little lake built for disabled and youths to fish in. They even have a giant fishing pole and the bobber is a light," notes one camper at Cedar Bluff State Park South Shore.
Wildlife viewing: Sheridan State Fishing Lake attracts various birds and wildlife year-round. "Overnight we heard coyotes, crickets & cows," reports one visitor, while another mentioned "I got to see 2 great blue herons and listen to 2 great horned owls call to each other at night."
Sunset viewing: Many campsites offer open views of dramatic prairie sunsets. At High Plains Camping, one camper noted they stopped for "not much to do other than have a drink and watch the beautiful sunset," while another mentioned being "kind enough to put me back in the corner so I could watch the beautiful Kansas Sunset."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Most campgrounds maintain well-kept shower houses and restrooms. At Wakeeney KOA, campers appreciate that "the lobby, bathrooms and shower were immaculate." Another visitor stated, "The staff is very friendly, the dog park is big and clean, and you can get a homemade grab-and-go breakfast on your way out the next morning."
Convenient overnight locations: The strategic positioning along I-70 makes these campgrounds popular for cross-country travelers. One visitor to Ellis Lakeside Campground said it was "Great place to camp overnight on a road trip! We were able to snag a nice tent spot by the river late at night and have a quiet rest. Close enough to the interstate for convenience, far enough away that you won't hear the noise all night."
Prairie landscapes: The open terrain offers unique camping experiences. "Quintessential plains of Kansas. Pure beauty as far as the eye can see. Blue water. Generously spaced and well maintained sites," observed a camper at Cedar Bluff State Park South Shore.
What you should know
Seasonal water limitations: Beyond winter shutoffs, water levels at reservoirs can fluctuate significantly. At Sheridan State Fishing Lake, a visitor noted, "Unfortunately the lake water has receded dramatically. There is a large now unused boat and vehicle parking lot however the dock is lying on the dirt."
Wind considerations: The open prairie landscape means persistent winds. One camper at Sheridan State Fishing Lake described their stay as "Very windy during our stay," which can affect tent stability and outdoor activities.
Limited amenities in remote areas: Many campgrounds are far from towns with supplies. A camper at Cedar Bluff State Park Bluffton observed, "Not a lot of groceries or gas nearby plan accordingly."
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Several campgrounds offer play areas for children. At Creek Side Resort, visitors enjoy "a little pond with a dock and a paddle boat" and one KOA visitor mentioned, "Rustic play area but the kids loved it."
Pool access during summer: When temperatures climb above 100°F, swimming facilities become essential. A family that stayed at Wakeeney KOA shared, "Our young family of six stayed for 2 nights during our cross country drive and wow what a welcome respite it was from driving! My kiddos LOVED the pool."
Educational opportunities: Some parks offer unique features that can engage children. Cedar Bluff State Park has "an interesting game called Neos 360 which is part electronic game and part competitive sport, suitable for all ages."
Tips from RVers
Pull-through accessibility: Many sites are designed for easy access. At Ellis Lakeside Campground, "All sites are pull-through and close together," which makes for convenient overnight stops without unhitching.
Hookup reliability: Electric service varies between campgrounds. High Plains Camping offers "Solid hookups" and "very good size sites for long rigs and all hookups work great," according to a recent visitor.
Site selection strategy: At Cedar Bluff State Park, "Arapahoe: no bathhouse but located not too far from Butterfield's. All pads were concrete and appeared to have recently been redone. All sites were labeled prime."
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