Equestrian camping near Colwich, Kansas offers several options within a 50-mile radius. The terrain features rolling plains and sandhill formations with prairie grass ecosystems characteristic of south-central Kansas. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-95°F with occasional thunderstorms, while spring and fall provide more moderate conditions for trail riding.
What to do
Trail riding access points: At Winfield City Lake, riders can access several unmarked trails surrounding the water. "This lake is nice but small. The camping is OK, however, the city of Winfield never enforces quite hours or patrols the area," notes Chris B.
Swimming with horses: Boulder Bluff Area — El Dorado State Park offers designated areas where horses can cool down after rides. "The spot we chose to pop up was right near the water, and you could hear the waves hitting the shore all night long. A beautiful and peaceful sound," shares Brittany G.
Birdwatching on horseback: The prairie ecosystems around Sand Hills State Park Campground support diverse bird species visible from horseback. "It's a small campground, nearby hiking but no other activities. It is clean, lots of trash cans and restrooms are clean," according to Angee S.
What campers like
Spacious equestrian sites: Walnut River Area — El Dorado State Park provides larger camping areas designed for trailers and horses. "Beautiful setting. Showers/toilets were better than the archaic ones in Bluestem," writes Donna G.
Off-season pricing: During winter months, equestrian campsites at Sand Hills State Park offer reduced rates. "We paid $12 for the night since we got in super late otherwise it's $25 a night. Also saw a dump station that was free," Victoria S. explains.
Proximity to fairgrounds: Kansas State Fair RV Park provides convenient access to equestrian events. Located just 4 miles from Kansas fairgrounds, it offers "Nice pull through & back in site," according to Bill V.
What you should know
Bathroom facilities vary: El Dorado State Park's equestrian areas have primitive facilities. "The toilet at the loop are pit. The bath house was not clean and many of the showers didn't work. Water is lukewarm but water pressure was great. No stall doors on toilets or showers," Tracy N. reports.
Limited enforcement: Horse camping areas may experience noise issues. "If you get unlucky enough to be near a party you will listen to it all night," warns Chris B. about Winfield City Lake.
Site leveling challenges: Kansas State Fair RV Park and other locations require preparation for uneven terrain. "Park was a little unlevel so definitely need to bring extra wood to level correctly," mentions Victoria S.
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility: Some equestrian areas provide family amenities. "Three nice campgrounds, large playground, fishing and a swim beach. Worth the stop with the kids," Jason S. says about Walnut River Area.
Weekend planning: Avoid holiday crowds at Boulder Bluff Area for quieter family horse camping. "This is a popular weekend get-away. It's less than an hour from Wichita, clean, taken care of. My experience over the holiday weekends has usually been that's when the rowdy crowd shows up but this campground was comfortable and family-oriented," shares Brad H.
Swimming options: Look for dedicated swim areas separate from where horses access water. "They also have a swim area on this side. Bathroom and shower are next to the playground which is also convenient for us," recommends Kara S.
Tips from RVers
Paved access roads: Some equestrian camping areas feature improved roads for easier trailer maneuvering. "This campground met all our needs. Telephone reservations were a little confusing, otherwise a 5-Star," notes Paul P. about Sand Hills State Park.
Dump station availability: Several parks offer free dump stations for equestrian campers. "Good place to stay some spots have shade. There is a convenient store down the road and the office does sell a few things like ice and minnows," mentions Debbie S. about Winfield City Lake.
Winter camping considerations: For year-round horse camping, check which facilities remain open. "We visited this park in early April. It was very confusing to get a site because there was no camp host available and the park office was closed," warns Mary about Boulder Bluff Area.
