El Dorado Lake spans 8,000 acres in the Flint Hills region of Kansas with 98 miles of shoreline. The lake was created in 1981 when the Walnut River was dammed, primarily for flood control and water supply. Water levels fluctuate seasonally, with highest levels typically occurring in spring and early summer during rainfall periods.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: Santa Fe Lake offers multiple trails for various skill levels. "The main trail is composed of a gravel camping road that encircles the man made lake. Several trails offshoot from this main road, each is marked for either hiking (trail running), mountain biking, or camping," notes Armaan M. about Santa Fe Lake.
Fishing from shore: The rocky shoreline at Whitehall Bay provides good fishing access. "My husband and I, and our 2 dogs stayed here this evening. We picked a spot right on the point of the cove where we could see all of the lake and its beauty," shares Brittany G. from her stay at Whitehall Bay.
Trail running: Several parks offer interconnected trails for runners. "None of the hikes are very difficult, most are easy/moderate and support running. They are very easy for hiking. Some bike routes are more difficult. Half are in woods with trees as low as 5ft over the trail, the other half go through open fields," explains a Santa Fe Lake visitor.
Birding opportunities: Early morning offers the best wildlife viewing. "Lots of wonderful birdlife here," reports Sara H. about her experience at Whitehall Bay.
What campers like
Quiet evenings: Many campsites offer peaceful settings away from crowds. "We picked a spot right on the point of the cove where we could see all of the lake and its beauty! Sat by our campfire and watched the gorgeous sunset. An evening/night of peace and quiet," shares a visitor to Whitehall Bay.
Lakeside sites: French Creek Cove features RV spots with covered concrete patios. "One of the nicer lakes I've been to, and cheap, the road is a little rough, but it's a neat place. Boat dock is very steep, small boats only. Pay online is very easy," explains a camper at French Creek Cove.
Aviation connections: Beaumont Hotel & RV Park offers a unique camping experience. "We stopped here for the night because it was in the right location, but were surprised by how nice it was. The history of the hotel and accompanying landing strip was fascinating, and the path to the ponds at sunset was beautiful," says Sarah B. about her stay at Beaumont Hotel & RV Park.
Yurt camping options: El Dorado Lake offers yurt accommodations at select camping areas. Yurt camping at El Dorado Lake provides the comfort of solid floors with canvas walls while maintaining proximity to nature.
What you should know
Water hookup limitations: Some campgrounds have specific restrictions. "The water hookups are shared between sites and currently have signs reading, '15 MINUTE TIME LIMIT. Do Not Leave Water Hose Connected, Even If You Have A Splitter,'" reports Meghan B. about her stay at Harvey County East Park.
Road conditions: Access to some sites requires navigation of rough roads. "The last 4-5 miles are very narrow, with the vegetation growing right up to the pavement. I was lucky enough to only cross paths with oncoming traffic once, and right at a low-water bridge that was wider than the road. The last 2-3 miles are riddled with potholes," explains J.M. about reaching Whitehall Bay.
Facility maintenance issues: Bathroom and shower conditions vary by campground. "The women's restroom I visited had 1 of 2 flushing toilets working. It also had two shower stalls. The spiders went running went I turned on the water, which was warm."
Seasonal flooding: Lake levels can rise significantly following spring rains. "The lake was flooded so the water was a bit off," noted Randall J. about his experience at Bluestem Point.
Tips for camping with families
Sandy beaches: Harvey County East Park features kid-friendly swimming areas. "Sandy beaches at most of the tent campsites are our favorite things about this lake! Also, super affordable camping," shares Anika L. about her experience at Harvey County East Park.
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer play equipment for kids. "Very few 50 amp site to choose from and no 50 amp sites with shade. Decent beach area with playground equipment for kids," notes Stanleigh S. about Bluestem Point.
Noise levels: Weekends and holidays can be louder at some campgrounds. "Facilities are dated but, for the most part, clean. Fairly quiet but can get rowdy during holidays," explains Bj T. about Harvey County East Park.
Swimming areas: Designated swim zones provide safer water recreation. "Relaxing and clean swimming area. Bathroom was clean," notes Rita G.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing: Campgrounds vary in how close sites are positioned. "The sites were level and spacious," reports a visitor about their camping experience at Bluestem Point.
Hookup options: For full service sites, some campgrounds offer better amenities than others. "The best part of Whitehall Bay is the sewer is directly at your campsite, so no dumping afterwards. A big plus for me!!!" explains Janice B.
Length restrictions: Some campgrounds better accommodate shorter trailers. "Shorter RV trailers are preferred. 30 amp service," advises a visitor to French Creek Cove.
Shade availability: Limited shade exists at some electrical sites. "Very few 50 amp site to choose from and no 50 amp sites with shade," notes a camper about the Bluestem Point camping area.
