Cedar Bluff State Park offers unique lodging options in western Kansas, where the terrain transitions from rolling plains to limestone bluffs and canyons. Beyond the well-known yurts and luxury cabins, several campgrounds provide primitive and RV camping opportunities with direct lake access. Water levels fluctuate seasonally, creating variable shorelines and fishing conditions throughout the year.
What to do
Kayaking on Scott Lake: Circle Drive campground at Historic Lake Scott State Park provides access to a calm, spring-fed lake ideal for paddling. "We spent the hot part of the days kayaking in the lake. The boat house rents kayaks, canoes, and paddleboats but only on weekends," notes Shannon G. from Circle Drive — Historic Lake Scott State Park.
Explore nearby geological formations: Within 20 miles of Cedar Bluff glamping sites, visitors can access unique limestone formations. "Little Jerusalem SP is a must. In the area, we saw turkey, owl, lots of buzzards, geese, albino buffalo and more cows than I have seen in one place," shares Nancy C. from Circle Drive — Historic Lake Scott State Park.
Night sky viewing: The remote location provides exceptional stargazing opportunities. "The views both day and night? Stunning!" reports Seth S. about C2T Ranch and Campground, a continuously working ranch since 1884 that offers glamping accommodations near Collyer, Kansas.
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Primitive camping areas provide more seclusion than RV sections. "We camped in a tent around the flood line of the water's edge. Very private. Large picnicking table and fire pit," explains Christa C. about her stay at Page Creek Area — Cedar Bluff State Park.
Clean facilities: The maintained restrooms and shower houses receive consistent positive feedback. "The shower house and bathrooms near the swim beach were clean and well kept," mentions Angie S. about facilities at Circle Drive campground.
Off-season solitude: Weekday and off-season visits offer a nearly private experience. "In early April, there were only a handful of other campers. The most precious thing I have seen, Pa's Lake. It's a little lake built for disabled and youths to fish in," shares Nancy C. about Cedar Bluff State Park.
What you should know
Water levels vary: Drought conditions impact camping proximity to water. "The water was down so the water was way out in the distance," notes Christa C. about primitive camping at Cedar Bluff.
Reservations recommended: "We pulled up on a Saturday afternoon and the park was packed. Thankfully we had reservations. By Sunday evening there was hardly anyone left," explains Shannon G. from Circle Drive — Historic Lake Scott State Park.
Limited services: Proximity to major towns requires planning. "Garden City is about 40 miles away and offers everything you could want, brewery, good food, shopping galore," mentions Nancy C., highlighting the need to pack supplies.
Tips for camping with families
ADA-accessible options: Several areas offer accessible recreation facilities. "There is a great disk golf course and ADA fishing docks with paved walkway access for those who need it," notes Angie S. about Historic Lake Scott State Park amenities.
Beach swimming areas: Several campgrounds offer swimming beaches with variable conditions. "The swimming beach is large and looked clean. There is new looking playground equipment," reports Nancy C. about Page Creek Area — Cedar Bluff State Park.
Bug preparation: Evening insects can be problematic near water. "Only complaint is that it got very buggy at night, but that's what you get for a spot so close to the water," warns Danielle C. about tent camping at Cedar Bluff.
Tips from RVers
Self-check-in available: Late arrivals can still secure spots. "Love that there is a self-pay station so coming in late is not a problem," mentions Emily G. from Circle Drive — Historic Lake Scott State Park.
Site selection for privacy: "We were in site 1 which is very private and spacious and just a skip across the road is the lake," recommends Shannon G. about Circle Drive campground.
Road access considerations: "Dirt road was troublesome; lots of things shifted in the RV!" warns Jennifer K. about Cedar Bluff access roads, suggesting securing loose items before arrival.
