Kanopolis State Park encompasses 1,585 acres surrounding a 3,000-acre reservoir located approximately 33 miles from Ellinwood, Kansas. The park sits at an elevation of 1,505 feet and experiences hot summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F and cold winters with occasional snowfall. The limestone formations create unique geological features throughout the camping areas.
What to do
Horseback riding trails: At Sand Hills State Park Campground, equestrians access over 600 acres of designated trails. "State park. Reservations accepted. Horse friendly. Over 600 acres of equestrian trails," notes Randy S., who appreciates the availability of both tent and RV sites.
Beach swimming access: Kanopolis State Park provides designated swimming areas with sandy shores along the reservoir. "We went for the weekend, mostly to do some hiking. Then realized we had found one of the nest places in Kansas! We got a perfect camp spot all to ourselves... There was sand like a beach," writes Carter W. about Sandyshore Campground.
Limestone hiking exploration: Numerous trails wind through distinctive limestone formations within Kanopolis State Park. "We loved the hiking through limestone. We found couple caves and climbed some rock. Would be good for mntn biking," explains a visitor to Sandyshore Campground who discovered geological features often overlooked by casual visitors.
What campers like
Peaceful isolation: Mulberry Campground at Kanopolis State Park provides quieter camping experiences away from crowded areas. "Primitive campground is well maintained and largely unoccupied because of the lack of hookups for RVs. Stayed on 4th of July and only one other family was in the entire campground," reports Katie L.
Quality facilities: The horse campgrounds near Ellinwood maintain clean shower and bathroom facilities. "We stayed at Eagle Point as we don not have horses but this campground had the shower house that we used which was very clean and the water was actually hot! Very well maintained!" writes Alex R. about Rockin' K Horse Campground.
Private farm camping: Hayland Farm's Horse Shoe Campground offers a more personal camping experience on private property. "Tom and Heddy are very nice folks. Warm and welcoming. Their property is quiet and beautiful," shares William S., highlighting the intimate setting with only two available campsites.
What you should know
Limited water access: Some campgrounds require bringing your own water supply. At Mulberry Campground, Katie L. advises, "Close to swimming beach, but bring your own water as there is no spigot nearby. Great birds too!"
Seasonal insect considerations: Spring and early summer bring increased bug activity at many campgrounds. "Showers were nice. They were over run with bugs but that was to be expected since it's early May," reports Victoria S. about her stay at Sand Hills State Park.
Primitive camping locations: Several campgrounds provide basic accommodations without electrical hookups or water connections. "This campsite is truly primitive only. There were no RV's taking up space. There were good separate spots that included a fire pit and a table," explains Carter W. about certain sections of Sandyshore Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access importance: Find campsites with direct water access for additional recreation options. "Perfect mix of shade and shoreline. Beautiful views," recommends Elizabeth S. about her favorite spot at Sandyshore Campground, noting it provides an ideal balance for families.
Restroom distance awareness: Check the proximity of bathroom facilities when selecting campsites with children. "The closest restroom is 1/2 a mile away up in Buzzard Bay though. For how popular this spot is, they need to build one closer to the campground," warns Elizabeth S. about certain sections of Sandyshore Campground.
Tick prevention: Pack appropriate insect repellent for hiking activities, particularly during warmer months. "Great scenery and nice trails (bring tick spray can be brutal out there!)," advises Nick P., emphasizing the importance of proper preparation when exploring with children.
Tips from RVers
Level site availability: The campgrounds provide well-maintained RV spots with varying hookup options. "Spots were well spaced and organized. Some had water/electric with others being just electric. Great system for checking in after hours without a reservation," notes Charles about Rockin' K Horse Campground.
Fairground proximity: For events, RVers appreciate the accessibility of Kansas State Fair RV Park. "Nice pull through & back in site just 4 miles from Kansas fairgrounds," reports Bill V. about Sand Hills State Park Campground's convenient location.
Winter preparation: RVers traveling in colder months can find accommodations but should plan accordingly. "Stopped here early in February 2021 for one night, on the way home to Missouri from Arizona. Needed a quiet place to get a nights sleep and drain the tanks before putting the RV back in storage for the rest of the winter," shares Paul P. about his practical use of Sand Hills State Park during off-season.
