Best Campgrounds near Kanopolis, KS

Kanopolis State Park offers multiple campground options around Kanopolis Lake in central Kansas, with facilities ranging from full-service RV sites to primitive tent camping areas. The park's Eagle Point Campground provides electrical hookups and water access, while Sandyshore Campground features more primitive waterfront sites. Several Army Corps of Engineers campgrounds, including Venango Park, supplement the state park's camping areas. Most campgrounds accommodate both tent and RV camping, with some locations like Rockin' K designed specifically for equestrian campers.

Campground accessibility varies seasonally, with many Corps of Engineers sites closed during winter months. Full services typically operate from April through late fall. "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," noted one camper about Rockin' K Horse Campground. Most developed sites require camping fees ranging from $14-25 per night, with additional vehicle permit fees for state park access. Reservations are recommended for weekend camping, particularly at waterfront locations which fill quickly during summer months. Weather conditions can change rapidly in this prairie region, with strong winds common across the lake.

Lakefront camping represents a primary draw for visitors to Kanopolis. Sites along the water offer swimming access and scenic views but may experience stronger winds. Based on reviews from The Dyrt, the hiking trails represent another highlight, with miles of paths through limestone formations and occasional caves. One visitor wrote, "We loved the hiking through limestone. We found a couple caves and climbed some rock. Would be good for mountain biking." Campers should note that sites in Sandyshore area are first-come, first-served, creating competition for prime waterfront locations on summer weekends. Most campgrounds provide basic amenities including pit toilets, with showers available at certain locations. Cell phone coverage is generally adequate throughout the camping areas, making online reservations possible even while on-site.

Best Camping Sites Near Kanopolis, Kansas (76)

    1. Sandyshore Campground — Kanopolis State Park

    9 Reviews
    Kanopolis, KS
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (785) 546-2565

    $10 / night

    "Then realized we had found one of the nest places in Kansas! We got a perfect camp spot all to ourselves. It was not necessarily private or in the woods. But we were right up against the lake."

    "The fire pit in our spot was up next to the shoreline where we didn’t want it so we built one with a hole and rocks. It did get a bit windy but we put the Jeep behind us so that blocked some wind."

    2. Eagle Point Campground — Kanopolis State Park

    5 Reviews
    Kanopolis, KS
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (785) 546-2565

    $23 / night

    "Trails with cliffs, creeks and caves, campsites with incredible views and Bald Eagles soaring overhead. No other campers in the grounds. What’s not to love?"

    3. Venango - Kanapolis Campground

    4 Reviews
    Marquette, KS
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (785) 546-2294

    "Stopped here on my way through Kansas towards Colorado. The park was nearly empty on a Sunday night, so I got a nice lakefront site with no one else around for $14."

    "There are sites for any size rig but the larger ones would be better on the site away from the lake. Most of the sites along the road by the lake are small and not very level."

    4. Venango Park

    4 Reviews
    Marquette, KS
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (785) 546-2294

    $18 - $75 / night

    "First time visiting Kansas. Friendly hosts. Easy check in process. Very clean campground."

    "Pros: 

    - easy to get to from I-70

    - friendly camp hosts 

    - lots of grass to walk dogs 

    - beautiful sunsets 

    Cons:

    - 35 minutes one way to the nearest town with major stores like Walmart"

    5. Rockin' K Horse Campground — Kanopolis State Park

    3 Reviews
    Kanopolis, KS
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (785) 546-2565

    $12 - $23 / night

    "There looked to be a trail for horse riding nearby. It was a short walk to the showers, which were nice and warm. There was only one other camper at the campground when we went."

    6. Big Bluestem Hell Creek Area Campground — Wilson State Park

    23 Reviews
    Wilson, KS
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (785) 658-2465

    $23 / night

    "Prime spot with large shade tree to block western sun. 20’ from water’s edge with path to drop kayaks in, swim or even sit lawn chairs into the water to cool off."

    "We stayed in a loop alone that could have had 3 other sites, next to beach access. Bathrooms were a bit of a walk but again, worth it!!"

    7. Cottonwood Campground — Kanopolis State Park

    4 Reviews
    Marquette, KS
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (785) 546-2565

    $21 / night

    "Quiet and lovely a clean place to camp with plenty of dead and dry fire wood to be gathered. this place has up to 24 miles of hiking trails on the north side as well as being the oldest lake in the state"

    "Historical attractions nearby. We visited in the fall so lake wasn't very busy. Showers are dated but were reasonably clean"

    8. Sandstone Campground — Kanopolis State Park

    4 Reviews
    Marquette, KS
    12 miles
    +1 (785) 546-2565

    $21 / night

    "Right across from the lake. Large site. Everything we need. Come and enjoy!"

    9. Caving Banks Campground — Kanopolis State Park

    3 Reviews
    Marquette, KS
    12 miles
    Website

    "Easy access to the shower house, nice breeze, successful fools gold hunt. Easy walk to the beach through the cottonwood grove to cool off."

    "This is one of my favorite lakes to camp near and my husband and I have camped in several campgrounds there. Recently, we stayed in the Caving Banks campground on the south side of the lake."

    10. Riverside (KS)

    2 Reviews
    Marquette, KS
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (785) 546-2294

    $18 - $24 / night

    "You will see from the pics and videos what a nice little spot it is for a Kansas visit!"

    "The river access from our spot was limited, with one treacherous trail behind our camp. However, the public access point in the park was a little steep but otherwise easily accessible."

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Recent Reviews near Kanopolis, KS

229 Reviews of 76 Kanopolis Campgrounds


  • wayne H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 2, 2025

    Buffalo Grass — Wilson State Park

    A beautiful, secluded place in North Central Kansas

    Are you traveling i-70 in the middle of Kansas and just wanted a place to take a break and enjoy nature and a lake? Perhaps an overnight stay? Then this is a great place to come to relax and unwind. The campsites were spread apart nicely so not crowded with the neighbors.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 6, 2025

    Salina Campground

    Great stop over on our way west

    Very friendly check in. Full hook ups. Clean laundry room. Playground for the little ones. Right off the highway so the noise is expected but it’s a good price for a safe stop.

  • Elizabeth R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 1, 2025

    COE Wilson Lake Sylvan Park

    A nice pleasant place.

    A nice quiet place. No highway noise. No boat noise, as the lake is on the other side of the dam from the campground. The sites are roomy and have concrete picnic tables. There are flush toilets, sinks, and showers.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 10, 2025

    Indian Grass — Wilson State Park

    Middle of the week and we’re looking over the lake

    It was a long day driving today and hot outside. We needed a camping spot with electric hookups to run the AC and that’s what we got!!

    This campground is very clean and the sites are nicely spaced. The view of the lake was little short of spectacular.

  • Lee D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 23, 2025

    Coronado Motel and RV Park

    Perfect spot with tons of shade trees!

    Quaint little town very convenient RV park with full hook ups sewer, water, and electricity. And lots of shade trees. You must visit the blacksmith coffee shop when you’re in town!

  • papa T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 14, 2025

    McPherson State Fishing Lake

    Where the bison roam

    Awsome fishing lake, wild bison a mile or 2 down the road. Very nice camp spots with electrical hookups up on a hill and primitive down by the water.

  • s
    Jun. 10, 2025

    McPherson State Fishing Lake

    Hidden Gem!

    Fantastic get away!! No traffic! Quiet retreat with full hook ups, great bathroom & showers! VERY HELPFUL owner!! I'll be back!!!


Guide to Kanopolis

Camping near Kanopolis, Kansas, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, this area has something to offer.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Biking: Explore the trails at Kanopolis State Park Campground where you can enjoy scenic views and well-maintained paths. One camper mentioned, "The trails with cliffs, creeks, and caves are incredible!"
  • Fishing and Swimming: Head to Minooka Park for some fishing or a refreshing swim. A visitor shared, "We stayed during the week and it was pretty quiet - cows mooing were the loudest noise all night!"
  • Wildlife Watching: At Cheyenne Bottoms Campground, you can experience a variety of wildlife. One camper noted, "The marshlands exploded with sound...frogs, crickets, owls, foxes, coyotes, and more wildlife sounds than I could identify."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness at places like Wilson State Park Campground. One review stated, "Very nice campground with good hot showers."
  • Spacious Sites: Many enjoy the roomy sites at Lucas Park. A visitor mentioned, "Each campsite had a lot of room around it."
  • Beautiful Views: The stunning scenery at Minooka - Wilson Reservoir is a big hit. One camper said, "We were right on the lake and it was stunning for sunrise."

What you should know:

  • Mosquitoes: Be prepared for bugs, especially at Cheyenne Bottoms Campground. A camper warned, "Watch out for mosquitoes. It’s by a lake so this time of year it’s nasty!"
  • Road Noise: Some campgrounds, like Salina KOA Holiday, are close to highways, which can lead to some noise. A visitor noted, "The park itself isn't far from the interstate, which makes it fantastic for an easy off and on."
  • Limited Amenities: Certain sites, such as Kanopolis State Park Campground, may have fewer amenities. One camper mentioned, "The bathrooms were not open, but the skyline was worth it."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and pools, like KOA Campground Salina. A family shared, "The kids loved the pool... tons of extras made our overnight stay feel like a part of our vacation."
  • Spacious Sites: Choose campgrounds with larger sites, such as Eagle Point Campground. One camper said, "Level sites with water available. Many trees."
  • Plan for Meals: Consider campgrounds with food options nearby, like Salina KOA Holiday. A visitor mentioned, "The food, pizza, was excellent. The staff brought our order to our site."

Tips from RVers:

  • Electric Hookups: Look for campgrounds with electric hookups, such as Kanopolis State Park Campground. A reviewer noted, "The sites are generous in size & clean."
  • Easy Access: Choose campgrounds that are easy to navigate, like Wilson State Park Campground. One camper shared, "Self-reg station (electronic) at the park as well as reserve early online."
  • Check for Amenities: Make sure to check what amenities are available at your chosen campground. A visitor at Salina KOA Holiday said, "The bathrooms were air-conditioned and clean."

Camping near Kanopolis, Kansas, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, whether you're with family or just looking for a peaceful escape.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Kanopolis, KS?

According to TheDyrt.com, Kanopolis, KS offers a wide range of camping options, with 76 campgrounds and RV parks near Kanopolis, KS and 1 free dispersed camping spot.

Which is the most popular campground near Kanopolis, KS?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Kanopolis, KS is Sandyshore Campground — Kanopolis State Park with a 4.3-star rating from 9 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Kanopolis, KS?

According to TheDyrt.com, there is 1 free dispersed camping spot near Kanopolis, KS.

What parks are near Kanopolis, KS?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 14 parks near Kanopolis, KS that allow camping, notably Kanopolis Lake and Wilson Lake.