Milford State Park offers extensive equestrian facilities beyond the main horse camping areas. Several additional campgrounds cater to horseback riders around Council Grove, Kansas, located in the Flint Hills region at approximately 1,300 feet elevation. Winter temperatures frequently drop below freezing while summer highs often exceed 90°F, requiring seasonal preparation for both riders and horses.
What to do
Kayaking access: At Prairie View campground, sites allow direct water access for paddlers. "We were able to launch our kayaks a few feet from our campsite which was nice. Each campsite was equipped with electric and water, a fire ring, and a picnic table," notes Shannon G. about Prairie View — Milford State Park.
Hiking with wildlife viewing: The surrounding trails offer excellent bird watching opportunities. "We road bikes, but the cold spring winds made kayaking impossible. In the summer, I can see why this place would be a fun destination. Swimming, boating, fishing, horses, archery, wide open spaces," shares Nancy C. about Eisenhower State Park Campground.
Shoreline fishing: Many campgrounds provide direct lake access for bank fishing. "Lots of space and good fishing. Secure camping and clean on site bathroom facilities. Close enough to town for convenience but far enough away you get to see a lot of stars," reports Bill H. from Eisenhower State Park.
What campers like
Water views: Campers consistently highlight the lakefront sites. "We really enjoyed Prairie View campground. 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," explains Shannon G.
Spacious sites: Cedar Point offers larger primitive camping areas. "Cedar point has some very spacious primitive and tent sites. There are also some with electric and water. Some of the sites in this campground have nice water views," states Shannon G. about Cedar Point — Milford State Park.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathhouses receive positive mentions. "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," says John G. at Eisenhower State Park.
What you should know
Seasonal flooding: Water levels can significantly impact campground availability. "This campground is prone to lower sites flooding when rains are abundant. However no one could have prepared for massive rains which took an already vulnerable large campground and turned it into a very small limited access site," cautions Crystal C. about Sunset Ridge — Milford State Park.
Dust conditions: Unpaved access roads can create dusty conditions. "Very dusty roads getting here but worth it. Watch out for wildlife, deer, turkeys, and vultures are always on the roads including the pup that chases you're truck, just down the road from here," warns James M. from Cedar Park.
Limited amenities at primitive sites: Some areas offer basic facilities only. "It's a long gravel road to get there and you're mostly just in farmland, but there are waterfront sites and it's flat. There's a ground toilet you can walk to. I wouldn't swim in or even filter the water, but makes for a pretty view," explains Jordanna B. at Cedar Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: Some campgrounds include recreational areas for children. "Really nice campground. Big RV spots with great views. The beach area was small but nice. There is a medium sized playground near the swimming area," shares Lisa S. about Eagle Ridge — Milford State Park.
Life jacket availability: Safety equipment is provided at some swimming areas. "Woodlands Hills campground has both primitive and electric and water sites available. I think it's so neat how they have life jackets hanging in case you didn't bring any," mentions Shannon G.
Multiple swim beaches: Several locations offer designated swimming areas. "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. There are a few swim beaches, and plenty of sand to sit in and relax," reports Cindy K.
Tips from RVers
Nearby services: Essential supplies and food options exist within short drives. "This is a nicely maintained state park. All the amenities you'd expect. No complaints. Truck stop a few miles away that had a really good breakfast and giant cinnamon rolls!" recommends Jason B.
Dump station locations: Know where sanitation facilities are located. "There's a sewage dump station the next camping loop over (Hickory Hollow) if you can't stay at a space with a sewage hookup. Pull through and back in spaces, decent amount of shade at almost every spot," advises Savannah from Randolph — Tuttle Creek State Park.
Water quality awareness: Some locations have mineral content in water. "Water has a slight sulfur smell, but who's sink in KS doesn't," notes Savannah about Woodland Hills campground.
