El Dorado State Park cabins offer accommodations in several designated areas around the reservoir. The 8,000-acre lake sits within a 4,000-acre park at an elevation of 1,339 feet, with seasonal water level fluctuations affecting shoreline access. Most cabin rentals require visitors to reserve well in advance through the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks reservation system.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: El Dorado State Park features excellent fishing access with multiple species available. "The lake was flooded so the water was a bit off," notes Randall J. about Bluestem Point Area, highlighting how water conditions can vary seasonally.
Beach activities: The park maintains swimming beaches with adjacent facilities. A reviewer at Walnut River Area mentions, "Three nice campgrounds, large playground, fishing and a swim beach. Worth the stop with the kids," showing the family-friendly options beyond cabin stays.
Playground access: Multiple play areas throughout the park provide recreational options for children. At Walnut River Area, one camper noted, "Beautiful setting. Showers/toilets were better than the archaic ones in Bluestem that have no roofs, but barely."
What campers like
Convenient location: Cabins near El Dorado, Kansas offer accessibility for weekend trips from nearby cities. "This was our first time camping in our new travel trailer and we were pleased with having such an easy to use campground so close to home," notes a visitor about Bluestem Point.
Outdoor amenities: Sites include outdoor living spaces beyond the cabin accommodations. A visitor at Wellington KOA mentioned, "Nice campground, friendly staff, very nice patio on slott with fire pit, table, chairs and covered swing," highlighting the outdoor living spaces available.
Spacious layouts: Many cabins and surrounding campsites provide adequate room between neighbors. One camper at Wellington KOA noted, "Clean, friendly employees. Would stay here again," while another praised, "Nice grassy spot for our tent!"
What you should know
Maintenance varies: Facility upkeep differs significantly between campgrounds and even within the same park. A camper at USI RV Park observed, "The small park is located in a commercial area but has fairly close access to downtown Wichita. It does have a small dog park and playground set and is good enough for a overnight visit."
Bathroom facilities: Shower and restroom quality is inconsistent across locations. "Broken soap dispensers, cold water, no privacy in showers, etc," reports one camper about Walnut River Area facilities.
Rule enforcement: Staff supervision of quiet hours and site occupancy limits varies by location. A reviewer at Bluestem Point shared, "The camp hosts are very friendly and it is well taken care of. They just added new shower houses and are really improving what was already a great place to camp."
Tips for camping with families
Check playground proximity: Some cabin areas offer better access to children's activities than others. One visitor to Walnut River Area mentioned, "Big Oak Campground in El Dorado State Park would be amazing. It's shaded with huge trees, nice sized sites some of which are very spread out, a quick walk to the swim beach."
Consider cabin alternatives: Some families prefer alternative accommodations at nearby private campgrounds. A visitor to Wichita's Spring Lake RV Resort shared, "This is a resort. Everything you could want. Swimming pool, chuck wagon on weekends. Free minutes golf, etc. A very nice playground for children."
Check general store hours: On-site stores have limited hours and inventory. "The general store carries camping essentials, beer, and ice," notes one camper about Bluestem Point, providing insight into available supplies.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: RV sites at El Dorado cabin areas may require leveling equipment. "Sites are gravel and maybe a little rutted, some more gravel would help level things up," notes a visitor to Wellington KOA.
Hookup reliability: Verify electricity amperage and water hookup availability when booking near cabins. "Very few 50 amp site to choose from and no 50 amp sites with shade," explains one camper about Bluestem Point.
WiFi considerations: Internet access varies significantly between El Dorado cabin locations. A visitor at Spring Lake RV Resort appreciated, "Gravel sites. Great, robust WIFI. Clean, modern bathrooms and showers."
