The Dyrt – find campgrounds for tents, RVs, cabins, glamping and more.
Open in App

Best Campgrounds near Cottonwood Falls, KS

156 Reviews

Camping options around Cottonwood Falls, Kansas center on the scenic Flint Hills region, with Chase State Fishing Lake providing free primitive lakeside camping. The 109-acre lake offers shady sites along the north shore with fire rings and vault toilets, while nearby Swope Park in town provides more developed facilities with electric hookups, showers, and water access. Both tent and RV camping are accommodated throughout the area, with Tallgrass Prairie National Reserve offering dispersed camping opportunities for those seeking a more remote experience among the rolling hills and native grasslands.

Road conditions vary seasonally, with some access roads requiring careful navigation, particularly after rain. The region experiences typical Kansas weather patterns with hot summers, cold winters, and occasional strong winds across the open prairie landscape. Most primitive sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis, while developed campgrounds may require reservations during peak summer months. Cell service can be spotty in more remote areas, particularly around the state fishing lake and prairie reserve. One camper noted, "The road in was a little rough, but nothing you can't handle if you go slow."

Several visitors highlight the stargazing opportunities as a standout feature of camping in this area. The Flint Hills region offers minimal light pollution, creating exceptional night sky viewing. Lakeside sites at Chase State Fishing Lake receive consistently positive reviews for their relative privacy and water access. "There is little to no light pollution out here, so enjoy stargazing and the moon set against an immense dark sky," shared one visitor. Wildlife viewing opportunities include monarch butterflies, various bird species, and occasional coyotes heard in the evening. The proximity to Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve provides additional recreational opportunities, with hiking trails and scenic drives available on the nearby Flint Hills Scenic Byway (K-177), which stretches north to Council Grove and south to Cassoday.

Map showing campgrounds near Cottonwood Falls, KansasExplore the Map

Best Camping Sites Near Cottonwood Falls, Kansas (64)

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 64 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win

Cottonwood Falls Contest

Enter to Win

Recent Camping Photos near Cottonwood Falls, KS

30 Photos of 64 Cottonwood Falls Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Cottonwood Falls, KS

156 Reviews of 64 Cottonwood Falls Campgrounds

  • John G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 10, 2025

    Eisenhower State Park Campground

    Eisenhower SP spaciousness

    This was our first visit and we chose a campsite on-line. The COE has done an admirable job developing this lakeside area for plentiful campsites and decent shade. The showers and facilities were clean and maintained well. The camp store is minimal and only open a few hours in the evening. Access to the water is easy so bring watercraft and swimming attire. The lake is almost 7,000 acres so our kayak exploring only covered a small portion.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 5, 2025

    Smoky Hill RV Park

    Great one night stay

    Well-maintained campground. Very close to Highway 70 (you can hear the vehicles) and services (gas, restaurants, Walmart). Ideal for an overnight stay on the road. The sites are long (several large RVs on site), with services and picnic tables on cement patios. No fire pits on the sites (there is one in a common area). Modern bathrooms and showers. Everything is very clean. Laundry room ($0.25 required).

  • Lady Phyre ☆.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 30, 2025

    Marion Cove

    Lakeshore Primitive Camping

    There are a couple sites that you can park right next to with covered picnic tables and lots of tent only sites that are an easy walk. The reservoir is huge and accommodates boating, fishing, and swimming. It's reasonable priced at $10 per night. Reservations can be made up to 4 days in advance. #5 & #6 are right next to each other and would make a great area for larger groups. Check out Marion Cove on Recreation.gov for reservation details. Happy camping!

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 22, 2025

    Swope Park

    Electricity is hooked up incorrectly

    Wasted my time setting up just to find breaker box has issues so packing up and gonna save money for generator gas

  • Chris P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 21, 2025

    Chase State Fishing Lake

    Can't Beat It!

    Excellent area around a small fishing lake with campsites right on the water.  Road in was a little rough, but nothing you can't handle if you go slow.  I got a spot with a small jetty and was able to sit out there in the evening and watch the fish splash and listen to the birds and later, the coyotes.  A good reward after driving across half of Colorado and most of Kansas.  Just stayed a single night, but I think my wife and I may go back and check out the nearby Tallgrass National Preserve.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 17, 2025

    Emporia RV Park

    During Unbound you take what you can get

    The owners were very nice. We were lucky to get the spot we got. We needed a spot to park for the 4 days we were in Emporia for Unbound. The bathroom was extremely clean and convenient. The place was packed because the owners were trying to take in as many people as possible. We were all grateful. We stayed here instead of the fair grounds because we had electricity here. We were practically sitting on the throughway. After getting used to the highway noise it was fine. We were plugged into the owners garage, thankful we only needed house current for our little camper. That way the van next to us could use 30 amp. We met lots of other riders so it was a pleasant chill experience.

  • Deb Z.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 15, 2025

    Kelley City Park

    Kelley Park

    We loved it here, very clean, quiet , and has a playground. It's right across from the police station. Clean bathroom with a shower. $10 a night included water and electricity. Very nice stay. If you're in the area try them out!

  • papa T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 14, 2025

    Cottonwood Point

    Best spots all by water

    These have to be the best camping spots in kansas very close to the water. Very clean and most spots have plenty of room

  • papa T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 14, 2025

    French Creek Cove

    Awsome out of the way spot

    Very nice spots, it is a cove off of the main lake nestled way back of the main, very dusty dirt road getting here but very nice spots. I go back every year.

Guide to Cottonwood Falls

Camping near Cottonwood Falls, Kansas, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family adventure, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

  • Fishing: Many campers enjoy fishing at Chase State Fishing Lake. One reviewer mentioned, "Beautiful place with picnic tables and fire rings," making it a great spot for a relaxing day by the water.
  • Hiking: Explore the trails around Pottawatomie County State Lake #2. A camper noted, "Nice spot to pull in for the night... Lots of trails around the lake that were nice to run on with the pups!"
  • Kayaking and Canoeing: Rent a kayak at Eisenhower State Park Campground. One visitor shared, "The general store is super helpful, as they sell firewood and ice, and have kayak and canoe rentals."

What campers like

  • Scenic views: Campers rave about the beautiful landscapes. A review for Chase State Fishing Lake states, "We had a great time watching the geese... Clean latrines. Close to town."
  • Spacious sites: Many campgrounds, like Tuttle Creek State Park Campground, offer roomy sites. One camper mentioned, "This is what campgrounds should be! Plenty of space, amazing prices, lots of trees with well-kept grass."
  • Clean facilities: Clean restrooms and showers are a big plus. A visitor at Topeka / Capital City KOA said, "The bathrooms were large and very clean."

What you should know

  • Limited amenities: Some campgrounds, like Pottawatomie County State Lake #2, have fewer facilities. A camper noted, "No drinking water, no electric hookups, but fires allowed."
  • Noise levels: Campers at Topeka / Capital City KOA mentioned highway noise. One review said, "We had a 'deluxe RV site' that backed up to the highway. So tons of highway noise all night."
  • Seasonal closures: Some campgrounds may close during winter. A visitor at Kansas West Rolling Hills mentioned, "I was looking forward to staying here in early November, but it was closed."

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose family-friendly campgrounds: Look for places like Eisenhower State Park Campground, which has activities for kids. A reviewer said, "There are a few swim beaches, and plenty of sand to sit in and relax."
  • Pack snacks and drinks: Some campgrounds don’t have markets nearby. A camper at Mill Creek Campground mentioned, "The campground is immaculate... breakfast can be served to your campsite."
  • Plan for activities: Bring games or outdoor toys. A family at Chase State Fishing Lake enjoyed the peaceful environment, saying, "We don't fish but others looked like they were having some success."

Tips from RVers

  • Check site sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Topeka / Capital City KOA noted, "We were able to fit both in our pull-through site along with my jeep."
  • Bring leveling blocks: Some sites may not be perfectly level. A visitor at Kansas Eisenhower State Park mentioned, "The parking pad was nowhere near level, so you'll want to plan for that."
  • Use a longer water hose: Hooking up can be tricky. A reviewer at Topeka / Capital City KOA suggested, "A longer water hose and sewer extension are a good idea."

Camping near Cottonwood Falls, Kansas, has something for everyone. With a little planning, you can enjoy a great outdoor experience!

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the best camping spots near Cottonwood Falls?

Chase State Fishing Lake offers excellent camping with relatively private, shady primitive sites along the north shore of a beautiful lake in the scenic Flint Hills region. The sites feature fire rings and great water views. Another popular option is Beaumont Hotel & RV Park, located in the heart of the Flint Hills with the unique feature of having its own airport for fly-in access. The area is rich in Frisco Railroad history and provides convenient highway access about 26 miles east of Augusta.

What amenities are available at Cottonwood Falls camping areas?

Cottonwood Point at Marion Reservoir offers well-equipped sites with electric hookups (30/20 amp), covered picnic tables, fire grates, and grills. The campground features a guard shack, camp host, and sites overlooking the water. For RV travelers, Owl's Nest Campground provides full hookups with both pull-through and back-in sites. This well-maintained campground offers daily, weekly, and monthly rates with level spots and plenty of shade, making it suitable for various camping styles.

When is the best time of year to camp at Cottonwood Falls?

Late spring through early fall offers the best camping weather in the Cottonwood Falls area. September is particularly ideal at COE John Redmond Reservoir Riverside East, providing quiet camping along the Neosho River with fewer crowds. Summer can be enjoyable at Harvey County East Park, which features large, shady sites and lake access with boat docks, though the swim area gets crowded on weekends. Spring brings beautiful wildflowers to the Flint Hills region, but check for seasonal road conditions after rain.

Keep Exploring