Best Camping near Elk City, KS

Join the fun near Elk City. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. Elk City is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Elk City, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Best Camping Sites Near Elk City, Kansas (84)

    Camper-submitted photo at Timber Road Campground — Elk City State Park near Independence, KS
    Camper-submitted photo at Timber Road Campground — Elk City State Park near Independence, KS
    Camper-submitted photo at Timber Road Campground — Elk City State Park near Independence, KS
    Camper-submitted photo at Timber Road Campground — Elk City State Park near Independence, KS
    Camper-submitted photo at Timber Road Campground — Elk City State Park near Independence, KS
    Camper-submitted photo at Timber Road Campground — Elk City State Park near Independence, KS

    1. Timber Road Campground — Elk City State Park

    5 Reviews
    14 Photos
    13 Saves
    Independence, Kansas
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo at Sunset Point Campground — Elk City State Park near Independence, KS
    Camper-submitted photo at Sunset Point Campground — Elk City State Park near Independence, KS
    Camper-submitted photo at Sunset Point Campground — Elk City State Park near Independence, KS

    2. Sunset Point Campground — Elk City State Park

    3 Reviews
    2 Photos
    2 Saves
    Independence, Kansas
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Showers
    • Drinking Water
    Camper-submitted photo at Osage Hills State Park Campground near Pawhuska, OK
    Camper-submitted photo at Osage Hills State Park Campground near Pawhuska, OK
    Camper-submitted photo at Osage Hills State Park Campground near Pawhuska, OK
    Camper-submitted photo at Osage Hills State Park Campground near Pawhuska, OK
    Camper-submitted photo at Osage Hills State Park Campground near Pawhuska, OK
    Camper-submitted photo at Osage Hills State Park Campground near Pawhuska, OK

    3. Osage Hills State Park Campground

    23 Reviews
    115 Photos
    120 Saves
    Pawhuska, Oklahoma
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo at Comfort Cove Campground — Elk City State Park near Independence, KS

    4. Comfort Cove Campground — Elk City State Park

    3 Reviews
    Independence, Kansas
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Showers
    • Drinking Water
    Camper-submitted photo at Big Hill Lake Mound Valley Recreation Area near Cherryvale, KS
    Camper-submitted photo at Big Hill Lake Mound Valley Recreation Area near Cherryvale, KS
    Camper-submitted photo at Big Hill Lake Mound Valley Recreation Area near Cherryvale, KS
    Camper-submitted photo at Big Hill Lake Mound Valley Recreation Area near Cherryvale, KS
    Camper-submitted photo at Big Hill Lake Mound Valley Recreation Area near Cherryvale, KS
    Camper-submitted photo at Big Hill Lake Mound Valley Recreation Area near Cherryvale, KS

    5. Big Hill Lake Mound Valley Recreation Area

    7 Reviews
    27 Photos
    14 Saves
    Cherryvale, Kansas

    Overview

    Mound Valley is located on the crystal clear Big Hill Lake in southeast Kansas. The lake boasts three campgrounds, three equestrian trails and four day-use areas for the public to enjoy. Camping, picnicking, horseback riding, hiking, swimming, fishing and other outdoor activities abound.

    Recreation

    Campers can venture onto several hiking and equestrian trails including Big Hill Lake Horse Trail, a 17-mile trail with a variety of terrain for all ages to explore. The trail winds along a scenic hardwood ridge that offers gorgeous views all along the way. Big Hill Lake is known as a trophy lake for fishing. Principal species of sport fish include largemouth bass, crappie, channel and flathead catfish, bluegill, walleye and smallmouth bass. The lake is also popular for fishing tournaments. Almost all of the land around the lake is open to public hunting, except for parks and areas around the dam and control structures. Principal species hunted are whitetail deer, turkey and squirrel. Families with kids will enjoy visiting the sand-covered beach nearby for cooling off from the summer heat and enjoying a picnic.

    Natural Features

    The park is nestled in the rolling, wooded countryside that is referred to as the Little Ozarks. With thick oak-hickory forests surrounded by prairie and farmland, the lake shore supplies a variety of habitats for birds and mammals.

    Contact Info

    This location has limited staffing. Please call (620) 336-2741 for general information.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $14 - $76 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at Card Creek near Elk City, KS
    Camper-submitted photo at Card Creek near Elk City, KS

    6. Card Creek

    2 Reviews
    1 Photo
    6 Saves
    Elk City, Kansas

    This recreation area is part of Elk City Lake

    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Trash
    Camper-submitted photo at Overlook near Cherryvale, KS
    Camper-submitted photo at Overlook near Cherryvale, KS
    Camper-submitted photo at Overlook near Cherryvale, KS
    Camper-submitted photo at Overlook near Cherryvale, KS
    Camper-submitted photo at Overlook near Cherryvale, KS
    Camper-submitted photo at Overlook near Cherryvale, KS

    7. Overlook

    7 Reviews
    38 Photos
    8 Saves
    Cherryvale, Kansas

    Overview

    Overlook Park is located on the crystal clear Big Hill Lake in southeast Kansas. The lake boasts three campgrounds, three equestrian trails and four day-use areas for the public to enjoy. Camping, picnicking, horseback riding, hiking, swimming, fishing and other outdoor activities abound.

    Recreation

    Overlook is used as a group picnic and fishing area. Nearby, visitors can venture onto several hiking and equestrian trails, including Big Hill Lake Horse Trail, a 17-mile trail with a variety of terrain for all ages to explore. There is also an interpretive trail within the park. Big Hill Lake is known for being a trophy lake for fishing. Principal species of sport fish include largemouth bass, crappie, channel and flathead catfish, bluegill, walleye and smallmouth bass. The lake is also popular for fishing tournaments. Almost all of the land around the lake is open to public hunting, except for parks and areas around the dam and control structures. Principal species hunted are whitetail deer, turkey and squirrel.

    Facilities

    There are three reservable picnic shelters set along the water. Each can accommodate up to 100 people at a time. The facility also provides drinking water and flush toilets for convenience.

    Natural Features

    The park is nestled in the rolling, wooded countryside that is referred to as the Little Ozarks. Picnic shelters are forested and offer sweeping views of the lake. With thick oak-hickory forests surrounded by prairie and farmland, the lake shore supplies a variety of habitats for birds and mammals.

    Nearby Attractions

    Nearby Mound Valley Park has one of the largest sand beaches in southeast Kansas and offers educational programs on Saturday evenings during the summer.

    contact_info

    This location has limited staffing. Please call (620) 336-2741 for general information.

    • Pets
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group

    $40 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at Outlet Channel near Independence, KS
    Camper-submitted photo at Outlet Channel near Independence, KS
    Camper-submitted photo at Outlet Channel near Independence, KS
    Camper-submitted photo at Outlet Channel near Independence, KS
    Camper-submitted photo at Outlet Channel near Independence, KS
    Camper-submitted photo at Outlet Channel near Independence, KS

    8. Outlet Channel

    2 Reviews
    9 Photos
    10 Saves
    Independence, Kansas
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $18 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at Prairie Meadow Campground — Elk City State Park near Independence, KS
    Camper-submitted photo at Prairie Meadow Campground — Elk City State Park near Independence, KS
    Camper-submitted photo at Prairie Meadow Campground — Elk City State Park near Independence, KS
    Camper-submitted photo at Prairie Meadow Campground — Elk City State Park near Independence, KS
    Camper-submitted photo at Prairie Meadow Campground — Elk City State Park near Independence, KS
    Camper-submitted photo at Prairie Meadow Campground — Elk City State Park near Independence, KS

    9. Prairie Meadow Campground — Elk City State Park

    2 Reviews
    13 Photos
    9 Saves
    Independence, Kansas
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo at Whitehall Bay near Fall River, KS
    Camper-submitted photo at Whitehall Bay near Fall River, KS
    Camper-submitted photo at Whitehall Bay near Fall River, KS
    Camper-submitted photo at Whitehall Bay near Fall River, KS
    Camper-submitted photo at Whitehall Bay near Fall River, KS
    Camper-submitted photo at Whitehall Bay near Fall River, KS

    10. Whitehall Bay

    6 Reviews
    8 Photos
    8 Saves
    Fall River, Kansas

    Overview

    Whitehall Bay Campground is located on the shores of Fall River Lake in Greenwood County, Kansas. Opportunities for outdoor family fun and recreation include swimming, boating, water skiing, camping, picnicking and sightseeing.

    Recreation

    For birdwatchers and nature lovers, there is an 8,000 acre Fall River wildlife area, where prairie chickens, waterfowl, rabbits, wild turkeys, white tail deer, doves and quail are commonly seen. Over 400 species of birds are protected in this area. Hiking and biking opportunities near Fredonia Bay include the 1.5-mile Casner Creek Trail, which meanders through the forest, opening onto a breathtaking display of wildflowers during spring and summer months, or the 1-mile Turkey Run Trail, which leads visitors through a wooded ravine, over a stream and into a tall grass prairie with an impressive view of the lake.

    Natural Features

    Rolling prairies and tree-dotted valleys sheltered by limestone-capped ridges surround Fall Lake, which stretches up the picturesque Fall River for 15 miles. This scenic area has a wealth of native wildlife and vegetation.

    Nearby Attractions

    Fall River State Park is nearby, offering great hiking, fishing and birding along the river. Canoeing is also a popular activity in the park.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $13 - $100 / night

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 84 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Elk City, Kansas

148 Reviews of 84 Elk City Campgrounds


  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Wilson State Fishing Lake Dispersed
    Nov. 19, 2024

    Wilson State Fishing Lake Dispersed

    Nice spot

    When I got here it was very windy and the spot directly across the lake from here ended up being better and a little more out of the wind since there were more trees. Couldn’t find any rules for camping for camping in this area but ended up staying for several days without a problem. Had between 5-10 cars drive by each day so barely any traffic. Most of the spots on this lake are good in size and some have a nice open view of the sky for solar and Starlink which was great.

  • S
    Camper-submitted photo from Buckeye RV Park
    Oct. 19, 2024

    Buckeye RV Park

    Good eletricity

    The electricity worked. We had to bail out green water from our water hookup and the drinking water had a green tinge. We couldn't dump because the sewer was full.

  • J
    Camper-submitted photo from Elk Falls RV Park
    Oct. 17, 2024

    Elk Falls RV Park

    Elk Falls RV Park, Elk Falls, KSARS

    Cute Little Park with electric, water, picnic tables and fire pits. Call 819-741-1175.

  • James B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Montgomery State Fishing Lake Dispersed
    Oct. 17, 2024

    Montgomery State Fishing Lake Dispersed

    Overnight on the way home

    Stopped for an overnight on the way home. The spots are pull offs, circles and small lots of gravel. No toilets or trash pickup. The area was actually very clean. Saw several deer across the lake at dusk, eating grass.
    Beautiful spot not far off Highway 75.

  • J
    Camper-submitted photo from Moline City Park
    Oct. 16, 2024

    Moline City Park

    City Park with nearby cafe and lodge

    Moline City Park has two RV sites with electric and water and a nearby pavilion. Just a few blocks from Swinging Bridge Lodge and Cafe.

  • WThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from South Owl Lake
    Oct. 6, 2024

    South Owl Lake

    Great stop with hookups and wifi!

    This campground was a nice surprise for the area. Near a golf course, allowed fires and had restrooms (no showers). Also had a boat ramp and dock along with playground. WiFi, even though we didn't use, was a nice bonus.

  • James B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from My Green Country RV Park
    Aug. 25, 2024

    My Green Country RV Park

    Great Place for overnight or longer stay

    We stopped for an overnight stay on the way home to Texas.

    Total for one night stay was $31.25.

    Site was very large, with enough room for our 35+ foot 5th wheel and F350.

    Pad is gravel and was level. 

    Had water, sewer and power hook ups at site.

    Campground was quiet at night.

    Location is well taken care of and was a nice stop.

  • Chad A B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Mann's Cove — Cross Timbers State Park
    Jul. 20, 2024

    Mann's Cove — Cross Timbers State Park

    Nice Boondocks Sites

    This area is filled with trees. It blocks the full lake view you could have and probably blocks the sun from helping you with Solar power, but it very beautiful and quiet. Noone was there when we were. Completely empty.

  • Chad A B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Woodson Cove — Cross Timbers State Park
    Jul. 20, 2024

    Woodson Cove — Cross Timbers State Park

    Day Use Only/No Camping

    It is a nice spot with a view of the lake. It has a 6% grade to get to the turn around. Has a very nice trail but bring tic and bug spray.

    The sign says there is no camping allowed. Day Use only.

  • J
    Camper-submitted photo from Neosho State Fishing Lake
    Jun. 14, 2024

    Neosho State Fishing Lake

    Beautiful camping fishing and more

    I stayed here while passing through Kansas found this on Free camping website it has picnic tables and free camping with vaulted toilets, fishing peers plenty of spots to camp good for Starlink and solar I have T-Mobile service. The reception was bad Starlink helped was quiet I was the only one here has some people fishing on the other side of the lake couple people fished next to me, but left shortly after had the whole place to myself in the month of June 2024. I’m a traveling nomad always looking to find great spots, and this one is perfect for a nice little settle.

  • l
    Camper-submitted photo from Hillside RV Park
    Apr. 25, 2024

    Hillside RV Park

    Passing through

    This place was very quiet. We arrived and the owner was extremely helpful and nice. We were passing through town and found this place. Full hookups and level spots. Would recommend.

  • James B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Norman No.1 Museum RV Park
    Apr. 15, 2024

    Norman No.1 Museum RV Park

    Overnight stop

    Overnight stop on way from Texas to Nebraska. Full hookup sights for $25. Have 37 foot 5th wheel and fit fine. Pads are gravel but level. Nice quiet stay with minimal traffic noise, etc. there are trash cans with water and sewer.

  • John M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Kamp Siesta
    Apr. 12, 2024

    Kamp Siesta

    Nice, quiet campground with lots of parking spots

    We camped here in October 2021 to close out our season and as a waypoint to Beaver Lake. This is a very nice, quaint little municipal campground. The shower house was clean enough, the spots were all well-maintained, and everything worked as advertised. There is a city park right around the bend that has all kinds of stuff, and there are basketball courts, volleyball courts, and horseshoe pits within short walking distance. 

    It may have been because of the time of year since the campground was about to close, but we were the only campers there for the whole week, which was totally awesome. There are 42 spots at Kamp Siesta, three of which are pull-through, so you cannot possibly beat this place for $10 a night. 

    Oh, and I forgot to mention the wooded trail right behind the campground. You definitely forget you're in Kansas back there!

  • Jennifer O.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Osage Hills State Park Campground
    Nov. 5, 2023

    Osage Hills State Park Campground

    Probably one of my favorites!

    Very pretty and quiet campground. Spots spaced nicely apart, new comfort stations, dump station, playground, group spots, and overall just really enjoyable place to stay.

    Water turns off to sites on Nov 1 but restrooms and showers are still on.

    Great stargazing on a clear night.

  • Angie A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Quarry Bay Campground — Fall River State Park
    Oct. 17, 2023

    Quarry Bay Campground — Fall River State Park

    Awesome find!

    What a beautiful, peaceful place! Toilets, fire pits, picnic tables, and dumpsters for trash on site. We had the whole place to ourselves! Easy to get off from Rt 400. Sites pretty level. Glad we found this place! Great view of the lake!

  • Chris H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Riverside RV Park
    Jun. 3, 2023

    Riverside RV Park

    Quiet , Comfortable & Affordable

    We very much enjoyed our stay at this park. The folks that run this establishment are very friendly & helpful. The park has a pool. We found Riverside RV Park to be quiet, comfortable & affordable.

  • J
    Camper-submitted photo from Whitehall Bay
    Jun. 1, 2023

    Whitehall Bay

    A little unknown gem

    It's absolutely beautiful. I camp here often because of the serenity. The best part of Whitehall Bay is the sewer is directly at your campsite, so no dumping afterwards. A big plus for me!!! Camp Hosts are awesome. You won't be disappointed

  • Levi H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Hill Lake Mound Valley Recreation Area
    Mar. 21, 2023

    Big Hill Lake Mound Valley Recreation Area

    Clean, Spacious & Weekenders Paradise

    Stayed 22 days in Site 21 in the NLOO Loop, close to bathrooms, in July and August 2022. No Showers in this loop so beware. Bathrooms were clean. Showers in the other two loops were always clean and rarely used. 

    I was working in the area, so I needed to stay an extra eight days beyond the COE 14-day limit. Ranger was easy going and granted me an extra 10 days no problem. 

    This place is pretty busy with locals on the weekends between June and August. Completely clears out Sunday evening and it is mostly dead empty until around Thursday. Clearly a popular camping spot for people in the region, but really didn't see a lot of out-of-county or even out-of-state tags camped. 

    Cherryvale is about 6 miles west of the lake and has a Dollar General and Casey's Convenience Store as well as a Redbox, and Parsons is about 20 minutes northeast of here if you need something more substantial than DG or Casey's offers. 

    My AT&T signal didn't work here at all until I set up my WeBoost.

  • Ashley F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lil' Toledo Lodge
    Jan. 16, 2023

    Lil' Toledo Lodge

    The Best Kept Secret in The Midwest!

    Ashley here with The Dyrt! We're happy to welcome this property to our platform. Perfect for a hunting adventure or corporate retreat. 15,000 Acres! Book your stay and leave a review for them here.


Guide to Elk City

Camping near Elk City, Kansas, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family adventure, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Fishing: Head to Wilson State Fishing Lake for some great fishing. One camper mentioned, "Aways enjoyable super clear water this place is a premier fishing destination especially for predator fish."
  • Hiking: Explore the trails at Cross Timbers State Park Campground where one visitor said, "Spent an October weekend here and had a great time with the kids fishing, hiking, and roasting marshmallows."
  • Swimming: Enjoy a day at the beach at Whitehall Bay. A reviewer noted, "The area itself is very beautiful and the lake had a great rocky shoreline worth exploring."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness at Big Hill Lake Mound Valley Recreation Area. One review states, "Bathrooms were clean. Showers in the other two loops were always clean and rarely used."
  • Spacious Sites: Many enjoy the spaciousness at Overlook. A camper shared, "Beautiful place to camp. Lots of shade and space between sites."
  • Friendly Staff: Campers at Whitehall Bay appreciate the helpful camp hosts. One visitor said, "Camp Hosts are awesome. You won't be disappointed."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: At Big Hill Lake Mound Valley Recreation Area, there are no showers available. A camper warned, "No Showers in this loop so beware."
  • Busy Weekends: Expect crowds on weekends, especially during the summer. A reviewer mentioned, "This place is pretty busy with locals on the weekends between June and August."
  • Road Conditions: Some campgrounds, like Whitehall Bay, have tricky access roads. One camper noted, "The last 2-3 miles are riddled with potholes."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Playgrounds: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds, like Elk City State Park. A parent shared, "My kids enjoyed the playground."
  • Spacious Sites: Choose campgrounds with larger sites, such as Cross Timbers State Park Campground, where families can spread out. One camper said, "Some of the most amazing views and awesome hiking trails."
  • Water Activities: Plan for swimming and fishing at places like Lake Parsons. A family mentioned, "Fun for the whole family."

Tips from RVers:

  • Full Hookups: Look for campgrounds with full hookups, like Toronto Point — Cross Timbers State Park. A reviewer noted, "This lake is packed during holidays. Any other time it is first come first serve lots."
  • Level Sites: Choose campgrounds with level sites for easier setup. One RV camper at Elk City State Park said, "Most are pretty level."
  • Quiet Areas: Seek out quieter spots away from busy areas. A visitor at Big Hill Lake Mound Valley Recreation Area mentioned, "Spots can be a bit narrow for bigger rigs but not too bad."

Camping near Elk City, Kansas, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Elk City, KS?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Elk City, KS offers a wide range of camping options, with 84 campgrounds and RV parks near Elk City, KS and 6 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Elk City, KS?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Elk City, KS is Timber Road Campground — Elk City State Park with a 4-star rating from 5 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Elk City, KS?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 6 free dispersed camping spots near Elk City, KS.

  • What parks are near Elk City, KS?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 24 parks near Elk City, KS that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.