Council Grove Lake sits in the eastern Flint Hills of Kansas at 1,322 feet elevation. The 3,500-acre reservoir offers several cabin rental options across multiple campgrounds with varying levels of amenities and lake access. Water levels fluctuate seasonally, often peaking in spring and early summer, affecting shoreline access at some cabin locations.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Multiple cabin locations provide direct lake access for fishing, particularly at Milford State Park. "The lake has excellent fishing," notes one camper at Walnut Grove — Milford State Park, which features primitive sites where "some of the sites have water views and shorelines that you could boat or kayak right up to."
Water recreation: Cabins situated near swimming areas provide convenient water access. At Acorn RV Resort, visitors appreciate the comprehensive amenities: "Has a pool marina and bar/restaurant. Lodging from yurts to big cabins."
Hiking trails: Several cabin locations connect to trail networks. At Milford State Park, one visitor noted there are "2.1 miles of trails" near the cabins, plus "boat ramps, slips(called the Yacht club), basketball hoops" for additional activities.
What campers like
Peaceful settings: Many cabin rentals offer quiet locations with minimal disruption. At Prairie View — Milford State Park, one camper appreciated the secluded feel: "We were in site 116, which our camper door faced a cove of the lake and the boat ramp. It was like there was no one else camping by us."
Wildlife viewing: Cabins with water views provide opportunities for wildlife observation. "We were able to see a few blue heron and a Golden and a bald eagle," reported the same Prairie View visitor, highlighting the natural setting that many cabin renters seek.
Rustic atmosphere: Even at developed campgrounds, many cabins maintain a rustic feel. At River Pond Campground — Tuttle Creek State Park, a visitor praised the "great activities to do in lake and a fun splash pad for the kids. Lots of trails and equestrian trails to hike."
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Many campgrounds with cabins close during winter months. One visitor to West Rolling Hills noted: "This area looks fabulous. I was looking forward to staying here in early November, but it was closed. All the Corps campgrounds close for the winter."
Flood potential: High water levels can affect cabin accessibility. One reviewer observed at Prairie View Campground that it has "great lake access... But with that lake access also comes a very scary reality during rainy season. This campground is prone to lower sites flooding when rains are abundant."
Varying amenities: Cabin facilities differ substantially between locations. At Milford State Park's Sunset Ridge area, a visitor described: "Each site has a covered picnic shelter and grill. The sites are nice and spacious. The cabins do have large shelters with tables and grill."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly options: Look for cabins near playgrounds and swimming areas. At Eisenhower State Park Campground, a visitor recommends: "Beautiful campgrounds with so many activities available! The general store is super helpful, as they sell firewood and ice, and have kayak and canoe rentals."
Educational opportunities: Some cabin locations offer nature programs or interpretive trails. "There are plenty of areas for kids and animals to play," noted one visitor to Mill Creek Campground, adding value for families seeking structured activities.
Extra supplies: Most cabin rentals require guests to bring bedding and cooking supplies. A camper at Eisenhower State Park mentioned: "In the summer, I can see why this place would be a fun destination. Swimming, boating, fishing, horses, archery, wide open spaces."
Tips from RVers
Electrical hookups: For RV travelers using cabins for additional guests, note the hookup types available. One visitor to Owl's Nest Campground described it as having "Water and electric on site and easy pull through parking spots. Clean bathroom and shower."
Reservation timing: Peak seasons require advance planning. A Milford State Park visitor cautioned: "There are seasonal and permanent campers at the campground, and you have to reserve early during peak seasons."
Site selection: When booking cabins alongside RVs, consider proximity to facilities. "This is a charming little campground," noted a Mill Creek visitor, but they cautioned about trains: "The only drawback is that you can hear trains passing through during the night about three or four times."
