Ford State Fishing Lake provides free primitive camping with minimal amenities about 20 miles northeast of Dodge City. The campground features gravel sites with picnic tables and fire pits though many visitors note the sites are unlevel. Local water restrictions may impact lake levels during drought periods, with temperatures in the region regularly exceeding 100°F in summer and dropping below freezing in winter.
What to do
Explore downtown attractions: Dodge City KOA is within walking distance of the Boot Hill Museum, water park, and city park with free zoo. "Within walking distance is a super affordable water park, free zoo, playground, and Boot Hill Museum," according to Samantha S., who appreciated the convenience for families.
Fishing opportunities: Ford State Fishing Lake offers fishing access with primitive camping options. One camper noted, "A favorite local fishing spot, but cleared out by nightfall," making it ideal for those seeking quieter evenings after a day of fishing.
Casino gaming: For travelers looking to try their luck, Boot Hill Casino permits overnight RV parking with bathroom access. Hunter C. shared, "Good spot to crash for the night on those long travel days. HUGE concrete parking lot. Pretty level. Well lighted and felt safe."
What campers like
Spacious campsite layouts: Gunsmoke RV Park receives high marks for site separation. Grace D. explained, "This Campground has one of the most separated sites of the places we've stayed. Most of the sites at the rear part of the park have spaces separated by one's own grassy area and trees."
Concrete pads for stability: Many campers appreciate the level concrete pads at Dodge City KOA during windy conditions. "Nice large concrete pads. Plenty of grassy area behind site 27 for kids to play," according to Dustin S., highlighting the practical benefit for families.
Budget-friendly options: Horse Thief Reservoir offers reasonable rates for its amenities. Meghan B. noted, "The price is very reasonable for what you get here, too," despite some shower facility issues.
What you should know
Train noise considerations: Some campgrounds near Dodge City are affected by railroad noise. A KOA visitor reported, "I could toss a rock and hit passing trains," suggesting light sleepers may want to request sites away from the tracks.
Site selection strategy: When staying at Gunsmoke RV Park, request back sites for a quieter experience. Missy A. advised, "Sites 50 through 82 are in the back away from the highway and very quiet. 33 through 44 are back in sites and front the highway and are noisier."
Weekend vs. weekday stays: Ford State Fishing Lake experiences different crowd patterns throughout the week. Jack T. recommended, "My suggestion would be to stay here during the week and not on a Saturday night," after local parties kept his group awake until 3 AM.
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Horse Thief Reservoir provides multiple water activities for families. "Beautiful lake to fish, swim, and ski," reported Shawn, though he cautioned about limited shade.
Budget entertainment: Families staying at Dodge City KOA benefit from nearby affordable attractions. Charlene P. mentioned the "Great location near downtown" and noted the water park was within easy walking distance.
Animal viewing opportunities: Cimarron RV Park offers unexpected animal sightings for children. Nancy B. shared, "Second bonus there is a horse farm right behind the campground," providing natural entertainment for kids.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for big rigs: Blue RV Park accommodates large RVs with pull-through sites. Connie O. recommended it as "an easy off-on with large rig-friendly pull-through pads," perfect for overnight stays.
Overnight parking alternatives: RVers seeking free overnight options can use Boot Hill Casino parking lot. Trevor H. noted, "Very well lit, cameras throughout the lot, felt very safe overall," though he mentioned bathrooms require "a hike" to access.
Utility considerations: Many RV parks near Dodge City offer full hookups, but Ford State Fishing Lake has no facilities. Lena H. explained, "This place is set up like a picnic area more than a camping area; no electric, no water, no particular camp spots, complete boondocking style."
Pet friendly considerations: Most pet-friendly camping near Dodge City, Kansas requires leashed pets with proper waste disposal. Prairie Wind RV Park accommodates pets but lacks on-site restrooms, which camper Larry confirmed: "We wanted to stay, but we do not have a restroom in our camper, and there is not one on site."
