Best Campgrounds near Council Grove, KS

Council Grove Lake campsites offer diverse camping environments within the Flint Hills region of Kansas. The lake encompasses multiple camping areas managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, with most sites open from mid-April through late October. Concrete pads, covered picnic tables, and fire rings are standard at developed sites, while free primitive camping options exist around smaller lakes in the area.

What to do

Fishing opportunities: Council Grove Lake provides accessible fishing from numerous sites. At Canning Creek, most camping areas face the water with direct lake access. "We took the kayak down with us and drive around the lake to the beach area and had a great time," noted one camper at Canning Creek.

Hiking trails: Explore the natural surroundings on foot at several campgrounds. Richey Cove campers can enjoy walks along the peninsula. As one visitor described their experience: "Finally got to camp on the Ritchie Cove Campground peninsula... since we were out on the peninsula we are guaranteed a cool breeze off the lake."

Wildlife viewing: The region supports diverse wildlife populations. At Canning Creek, one camper reported: "Saw 15 turkeys at the wild like area. Would have stayed longer, but more storms promised all night rain. Will return soon."

What campers like

Waterfront access: Most sites provide direct water views. At Kansas View, campers appreciate the lake proximity: "Spend three nights with the cub scouts on this lake. We had lots of success with fishing and the kids really enjoyed some of the hiking trails."

Site separation: Campsites at Council Grove Lake offer reasonable privacy. At Richey Cove South, visitors note: "Nice, well maintained area right by the lake with lots of trees and easy access from the highway."

Sunset views: Lakeside camping provides excellent sunset opportunities. One Canning Creek camper shared: "This was a just an overnight for us as we were traveling but really enjoyed it! Loved seeing the lake out the window in the morning. Had a covered picnic table, hook ups, shade, and fairly spaced out sites."

What you should know

Weather considerations: The Kansas climate brings variable conditions. At Chase State Fishing Lake, approximately 30 miles south, a visitor noted: "This is a wonderful campground if you're into star gazing as there is zero light pollution."

Reservation requirements: Many developed sites require advance booking. One Richey Cove visitor explained: "Reasonably priced at 23$ per night…including electricity. Covered picnic table and trees. A view of the lake from just about every site."

Facilities vary: Amenities differ between campgrounds. According to a Richey Cove camper: "Very cute place. Quiet. Just hear the birds. They have fire pits. Pets are allowed. They have nice paved spots with water and electrical hookup."

Tips for camping with families

Playground access: Some areas include child-friendly facilities. A Kansas View visitor mentioned: "Spend three nights with the cub scouts on this lake. We had lots of success with fishing and the kids really enjoyed some of the hiking trails."

Beach areas: Swimming opportunities exist at multiple locations. At Canning Creek: "This campground has a beach and has great views of the lake. There's group sites, primitive sites and sites with electric, water and sewer hook ups."

Group sites: For larger family gatherings, specific areas accommodate multiple tents. As one Santa Fe Trail visitor noted: "Campgrounds at Santa Fe are not crammed together, plenty of room, most with shelters and firepits."

Tips from RVers

Hookup availability: Electric and water connections exist at most developed sites. At Canning Creek Cove, campers report: "COE did a great job providing cozy site with lake access. Covered picnic table, lake view, good fishing."

Pad size: Most sites accommodate standard-sized RVs. At Richey Cove: "They have nice paved spots with water and electrical hookup (30/50). Comes with picnic table and shelter. Has a charcoal swiveling grill, good size with a lid!"

Dump station locations: Sanitary facilities are available at main campgrounds. One Canning Creek visitor advised: "The rates are very reasonable, as they are for all CoE campgrounds, especially for seniors."