Top Glamping near Emporia, KS

Camping near Emporia, Kansas

Camping near Emporia, Kansas, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, tranquility, and outdoor activities. Whether you're an avid angler, a nature enthusiast, or just looking for a peaceful getaway, the campgrounds around Emporia have something for everyone. One of the popular spots is Chase State Fishing Lake, known for its serene environment and excellent fishing opportunities.

The campgrounds in this area are perfect for those who enjoy primitive camping with minimal amenities. While some sites may lack modern conveniences like electricity and water hookups, they make up for it with stunning landscapes, clean facilities, and a chance to truly disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

What to do

Camping near Emporia offers a variety of activities to keep you entertained. From fishing and hiking to bird watching and exploring nearby attractions, there's no shortage of things to do.

One of the highlights is fishing at Chase State Fishing Lake. As Blake M. mentioned in his review, "Primitive camping though there is a pit toilet. FREE. Pack it in, pack it out." This makes it a great spot for anglers looking to catch some fish while enjoying the peaceful surroundings.

For those who prefer hiking and nature walks, the Tallgrass Nature Preserve is nearby. Ralph M. noted in his review, "Close to Tallgrass Nature Preserve. Beautiful falls at the east end of the dam. Love this part of the state." This preserve offers scenic trails and a chance to see the unique tallgrass prairie ecosystem.

If you're into bird watching, the area around the lake is home to various bird species. You might even spot some geese, as Ralph M. observed, "Had a great time watching the geese."

What campers like

Campers appreciate the natural beauty and tranquility of the campgrounds near Emporia. The peaceful environment and clean facilities are often highlighted in reviews.

Aurora A. shared in her review, "Beautiful place with picnic tables and fire rings. There is a picnic shelter too. Beautiful spots close to the water." This makes it an ideal spot for picnics and enjoying the scenic views.

Lynn U. also praised the quiet atmosphere in her review, "Nice quiet spot. I will be back for sure." The serene environment is perfect for those looking to unwind and relax.

Ralph M. appreciated the cleanliness of the facilities, stating in his review, "Clean latrines. Close to town. Found a dump station in town." This ensures a comfortable stay even without modern amenities.

What you should know

While camping near Emporia offers many benefits, there are a few things you should be aware of before you go. The campgrounds are mostly primitive, with limited amenities, so it's essential to come prepared.

Cameron mentioned in his review, "No electricity or water. Clean latrines. Close to town." This means you'll need to bring your own water and be ready for a more rustic camping experience.

Blake M. also pointed out in his review, "Pack it in, pack it out." This is a common practice in primitive campgrounds, so be prepared to take all your trash with you when you leave.

Aurora A. noted the weather conditions in her review, "A little cold and windy but worth it." It's a good idea to check the weather forecast and pack accordingly to ensure a comfortable stay.

Tips for camping with families

Camping with families near Emporia can be a rewarding experience, but it's essential to plan ahead to ensure everyone has a great time. The campgrounds offer plenty of space for kids to explore and enjoy nature.

Aurora A. highlighted the family-friendly amenities in her review, "Beautiful place with picnic tables and fire rings. There is a picnic shelter too." These facilities make it easy to have family meals and gatherings.

Ralph M. mentioned the nearby attractions in his review, "Close to Tallgrass Nature Preserve. Beautiful falls at the east end of the dam." These spots are great for family outings and exploring the natural beauty of the area.

Cameron shared a tip about campsite availability in his review, "I got here on a Friday night in late September and took the last available campsite." It's a good idea to arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a good spot for your family.

Tips from RVers

RVers can enjoy camping near Emporia, but it's important to note that the campgrounds are mostly primitive with limited amenities. However, with some preparation, RVers can have a great experience.

Ralph M. shared a useful tip in his review, "Found a dump station in town." Knowing where to find essential services like dump stations can make your stay more convenient.

Cameron mentioned the road conditions in his review, "Good road, no issues for a sedan." This indicates that the roads leading to the campgrounds are accessible for RVs as well.

Blake M. pointed out the lack of hookups in his review, "No electricity or water." RVers should be prepared to dry camp and bring their own water and power sources.

Camping near Emporia, Kansas, offers a unique and rewarding experience for nature lovers, families, and RVers alike. With its beautiful landscapes, peaceful environment, and variety of activities, it's a great destination for your next camping trip.

Best Glamping Sites Near Emporia, KS (8)

    Camper-submitted photo from Eisenhower State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Eisenhower State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Eisenhower State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Eisenhower State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Eisenhower State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Eisenhower State Park Campground

    1.

    Eisenhower State Park Campground

    9 Reviews
    17 Photos
    45 Saves
    Fort Supply Lake, Kansas

    Eisenhower State Park has 1,785 acres. It features 1,000 acres of tallgrass prairie, 440 acres of woodland and a complete range of recreational facilities in addition to the 6,930 acres of Melvern Lake. Eisenhower State Park provides 163 utility campsites: 126 with water/electric, 25 with water/electric/sewer hookps and five shower houses. Non-utility sites are available for primitive camping in Five-Star, Sailboat Beach, and Omaha Swim Beach. Fifteen Equestrian Campsites with electric/water and individual corrals are available in the upper loop of Westpoint Campground. Cowboy campground is a primitive area for equestrian camping. The park offers 4 modern cabins and 2 primitive yurts for rent. Campers may stay at any one of the campgrounds for up to 14 consecutive days. FREE WIFI is available at the park office/parking lot. A Boat Dock with 16 slips located at the East Boat Ramp can be rented through the Ike Store. Ike's Shelterhouse is excellent for hosting family reunions within the Jones Family Activity Area. There is a playground, basketball court and horseshoe pits close by. Other recreational facilities include a swimming beach, sand volleyball court, picnic shelters, an 18-hole disc golf course, a 19 target walk through archery trail, kids fishing pond and a fly fishing pond. Visit Ike's General Store located at Doud Campground to pay your campground fees, purchase souvenirs, rent kayaks/canoes and check out games. Eisenhower State Parks' Friends Group offers items you might have forgot at to bring from home. Ice and firewood for sale at Doud campground. Laundry facilities are available at the Doud shower building Eisenhower is also home to a burgeoning trails system for horseback riding, biking, hiking and archery. Crooked Knee Horse Trail offers equestrians a 20-mile excursion through the undeveloped west side of the park. Biking and hiking is available on the horse trail. The bike trail and 19 target walk through archery trail head is located in the Five-Star campground. Wildlife include white-tailed deer, eastern wild turkey, bobwhite quail, squirrels, furbearers, and waterfowl. Anglers seek walleye, crappie, sauger, white bass, and channel catfish. Two nine-lane boat ramps offer excellent access to Melvern Lake.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Pomona State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pomona State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pomona State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pomona State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pomona State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pomona State Park Campground

    2.

    Pomona State Park Campground

    9 Reviews
    25 Photos
    37 Saves
    Vassar, Kansas

    This recreation area is part of Pomona Lake

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Carbolyn Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Carbolyn Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Carbolyn Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Carbolyn Park

    3.

    Carbolyn Park

    4 Reviews
    4 Photos
    12 Saves
    Vassar, Kansas

    Overview

    Carbolyn Park is located in eastern Kansas along Dragoon Creek, just east of Pomona Lake. The scenic park appeals to family campers, sportsmen and water sport enthusiasts. The reservoir covers 4,000 acres and offers excellent fishing and boating opportunities.

    Recreation

    Fishing, boating, picnicking, and hunting are favorite activities on and around Pomona Lake. The lake's fish and wildlife resources provide ample opportunities for sportsmen and women. Three nearby trails meander around Pomona, providing visitors with hiking and nature study opportunities. Deer Creek Nature Trail and Witches' Broom Trail are short trails for hikers. The Black Hawk Trail offers a 33 mile loop with several trailheads. It is a popular hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking path.

    Facilities

    Fishing, boating, picnicking, and hunting are favorite activities on and around Pomona Lake. The lake's fish and wildlife resources provide ample opportunities for sportsmen and women. Three nearby trails meander around Pomona, providing visitors with hiking and nature study opportunities. Deer Creek Nature Trail and Witches' Broom Trail are short trails for hikers. The Black Hawk Trail offers a 33 mile loop with several trailheads. It is a popular hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking path.

    Natural Features

    Pomona Lake is situated among the rolling hills, mixed grasslands, croplands and forests of eastern Kansas. Wildlife and numerous species of birds can be observed at this secluded, heavily shaded campground. Bald eagles, white-tailed deer, Canada geese, wild turkey, crappie, walleye, channel catfish and other wildlife can be found here.

    Nearby Attractions

    Numerous parks lie on the banks of Pomona Lake, offering additional boating, fishing, swimming, hunting, and hiking opportunities. The town of Lyndon, Kansas is less than 10 miles away, with limited restaurants and shops. This small town is home to 22 historical sites and the smallest Carnegie library still in use.

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

    $14 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Bluestem Point Area — El Dorado State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Bluestem Point Area — El Dorado State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Bluestem Point Area — El Dorado State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Bluestem Point Area — El Dorado State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Bluestem Point Area — El Dorado State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Bluestem Point Area — El Dorado State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Toronto Point — Cross Timbers State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Toronto Point — Cross Timbers State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Toronto Point — Cross Timbers State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Toronto Point — Cross Timbers State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Toronto Point — Cross Timbers State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Toronto Point — Cross Timbers State Park

    5.

    Toronto Point — Cross Timbers State Park

    6 Reviews
    7 Photos
    10 Saves
    Toronto, Kansas

    This recreation area is part of Toronto Lake

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Whitehall Bay
    Camper-submitted photo from Whitehall Bay
    Camper-submitted photo from Whitehall Bay
    Camper-submitted photo from Whitehall Bay
    Camper-submitted photo from Whitehall Bay
    Camper-submitted photo from Whitehall Bay

    6.

    Whitehall Bay

    6 Reviews
    8 Photos
    7 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.

    Facilities

    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

    $50 / night

    • No image available

      7.

      Chuck Wagon RV Park

      1 Review
      Arcadia Lake, Kansas
      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Electric Hookups
      • Phone Service
      • ADA Access
      • RVs
      • No image available

        8.

        Shady Creek Area — El Dorado State Park

        1 Review
        2 Saves
        El Dorado, Kansas
        • Pets
        • Fires
        • Electric Hookups
        • Phone Service
        • Reservable
        • ADA Access

      Recent Glamping Reviews In Emporia

      47 Reviews of 8 Emporia Campgrounds


      • Camper-submitted photo from Pomona State Park Campground
        October 25, 2023

        Pomona State Park Campground

        Peaceful

        The park is very quiet 7/26/22. My wife is working, and I am setting and listening to the soothing sounds of nature, and trying not to fall asleep. Lol, absolutely beautiful

      • Camper-submitted photo from Whitehall Bay
        June 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

      • Camper-submitted photo from Eisenhower State Park Campground
        October 2, 2022

        Eisenhower State Park Campground

        Beautiful views and lots to do

        Beautiful campgrounds with so many activities available! The general store is super helpful, as they sell firewood and ice, and have kayak and canoe rentals. There are a few swim beaches, and plenty of sand to sit in and relax. Our actual campsite was great and came equipped with a firepit and picnic table, and we could walk to the lakeshore. We will be back!

      • Camper-submitted photo from Pomona State Park Campground
        August 9, 2022

        Pomona State Park Campground

        Trees,trees,trees.

        The campground here is covered in trees, Awesome. We're in a Montana high country 384br, 41' fifth wheel. Its a beautiful park ,right on Pomona lake.

      • Camper-submitted photo from Whitehall Bay
        July 16, 2022

        Whitehall Bay

        Isolated

        I stayed at site #19 for 2 nights. My site had 30/50+water+sewer. The sites are gravel and fairly level. There is a boat ramp and a roped-off swimming area. There were two small playgrounds and two bath+shower houses. There is one old-fashioned unisex pit toilet.

        The people behind me sounded like they were running a sawmill and mechanic shop all weekend. All the other campers were quiet.

        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. One spider ran up my leg, lol.

        The main issue with this campground, I found, was the drive to get here. Google will take you across the dam where you will hit a gravel road for 0.5 miles before getting back on the pavement. 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. Was gear was scattered inside by the time I got to my site.

      • Camper-submitted photo from Whitehall Bay
        July 10, 2022

        Whitehall Bay

        Disappointed

        We had high hopes for Whitehall Bay. But our trip was about as bumpy as the road was coming into the campground.

        Our site was a group of three that were tightly grouped together in a full hook up area. This was our first time with full hook ups so that could have been the issue but we felt like we were right on top of our neighbors.

        There is not a lot to do for kids which is unfortunate, the beach looked extremely steep, however we did not use it.

        The area itself is very beautiful and the lake had a great rocky shoreline worth exploring. But that is about as much of the good things I can speak of when it comes to Whitehall Bay.

      • Camper-submitted photo from Whitehall Bay
        April 28, 2022

        Whitehall Bay

        Peaceful, great value, kind staff

        We reserved only about an hour ahead on recreation.gov, upgrading our overnight plan considerably. With Dad's senior national park pass, site #3 (60' gravel for up to a 40' rig) (electric only) was only $8.50. As we were parking, the gentleman (Greg, we think?) caring for the park greeted us and on finding we had pre -registered, offered us an upgrade to a full hook up site (we could see only 2 other campers in the campground). Site 15 was a wonderful upgrade! Lots of wonderful birdlife here.

        Note, bring your own soap to restrooms in many of the Core of Engineer campgrounds. For the amazing savings, its an easy enough change to make!

      • Camper-submitted photo from Pomona State Park Campground
        October 29, 2021

        Pomona State Park Campground

        Quiet winter spot

        We stayed in one of the campgrounds with undesignated primitive spots. Found a nice place to park right on the lake. It was super quiet, being winter. Not too many primitive campers out.

      • Camper-submitted photo from Eisenhower State Park Campground
        October 27, 2021

        Eisenhower State Park Campground

        Remote quiet camping with nice facilities

        Spent the weekend here and glad we had reservations prior as it was full even though it was the end of October and the weather wasn't the best.  Close to Melvern and the railroad tracks so if the sound of trains all night isn't your thing, then pick somewhere else.  Excellent clean restrooms and showers.  Great views of the lake from many spots. Also good cell service.  Only 8 miles from Lyndon where there are restaurants, gas and a dollar store although no grocery store.

      • Camper-submitted photo from Pomona State Park Campground
        October 16, 2021

        Pomona State Park Campground

        Fall camping at a nice state park

        Enjoyed a nice cool weekend of fall camping. Site a little off level, nothing a few blocks or boards couldn’t solve. 30 amps of clean 122 vac, water tucked in between two pine trees that blocked the view of the sites to the left snd right of us. Large grassy field with playgrounds. Trails to take walks by the lake. Reasonable price.

      • Camper-submitted photo from Whitehall Bay
        September 23, 2021

        Whitehall Bay

        Best sunset of our whole trip!

        Passing through and skeptical of the 9 miles off the main highway the campground was located but so very pleasantly surprised!! The campsites were spacious with trees and the view of the water was incredible, sunset was magnificent. Nice loop to walk the dog and quiet. We actually stayed awhile in the morning to cook breakfast and enjoy the view a little longer before hitting the road! Only negative was electric only, no water but we always travel with a full tank.

      • Camper-submitted photo from Mill Creek Campground and Recreational Vehicle Park
        July 18, 2021

        Mill Creek Campground and Recreational Vehicle Park

        Mill Creek Campground

        The campground is a typical KOA or Good Sam campground - clean, grass well trimmed, easy access, with some open spaces. The biggest drawback is an active train track about 30 yards from our site. Bout lost my lunch when the train blew its whistle which felt like it was in my ear!
        Other than that- the campground is very quiet.

      • Camper-submitted photo from Carbolyn Park
        June 7, 2021

        Carbolyn Park

        Carbolyn Park

        Nice, shady spots with electric and water. It’s very quiet. For $18, can’t beat it.

      • Camper-submitted photo from Chuck Wagon RV Park
        June 1, 2021

        Chuck Wagon RV Park

        Good travel stop

        If you are traveling through and need a place to stop for the night, this is a nice little spot. Owners are friendly and helpful. Full hook ups, 50 and 30 amp, pull through and back in. Small campground with no public showers or bathrooms, no WiFi but good ATT cell service.

      • Camper-submitted photo from Pomona State Park Campground
        May 16, 2021

        Pomona State Park Campground

        Beautiful view from less used sites.

        I started the weekend off with a work camp trip here. We were in the larger camper site. They were very nice and accommodating! After everyone left I moved to a few non shore power site down by the water. Beautiful view, with a quiet serene feel.

      • Camper-submitted photo from Carbolyn Park
        May 5, 2021

        Carbolyn Park

        Nice and quiet!

        Clean campground, nice and quiet! Littlw disappointed with no true waterfront access.

      • Camper-submitted photo from Eisenhower State Park Campground
        April 23, 2021

        Eisenhower State Park Campground

        Primitive camping was small and exposed, but fun

        The fivestar loop is decent for tent camping. The sites were fairly small and jammed next to each other, and half of them didn't have great tree cover, but they all have a nice firepit and picnic table.  It was super duper windy off of the lake for us, so be ready for wind.  Bathrooms were nice and clean and the staff were very nice.

      • Camper-submitted photo from Eisenhower State Park Campground
        April 8, 2021

        Eisenhower State Park Campground

        Everything you need is here

        This was one of our favorite Kansas State Parks. At the end of May, it was almost empty. We had our pick of sites. We got a prime tree shaded spot on the water. In fairness, most sites are on the water or have a water view. Spectacular sunsets.

        There was only 1 small bath house open while we were there, but it was clean and the shower was hot. It was one of those push button kind that only stayed on for a min. Not a problem to just keep pushing.

        We road bikes, but the cold spring winds made kayaking impossible. In the summer, I can see why this place would be a fun destination. Swimming, boating, fishing, horses, archery, wide open spaces.

        The roads within the park are not the best. Also, online reservations must be made 48 hrs in advance, otherwise, its day by day.

      • Camper-submitted photo from Whitehall Bay
        October 4, 2020

        Whitehall Bay

        Serenity

        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! Sat by our campfire and watched the gorgeous sunset. An evening/night of peace and quiet.

      • Camper-submitted photo from Toronto Point — Cross Timbers State Park
        September 14, 2020

        Toronto Point — Cross Timbers State Park

        Nice fall camping

        We had a nice weekend stay at this lake. We booked site #210, and were happy with the amenities. Fire ring with built in grill worked well. Luckily the lake wasn’t crowded, so we had lots of space to ourselves. Lake staff were pleasant Nice views of the lake, but not very good shore access from where we were at. However at the end of the campsite was a nice fishing dock. The took a short hike and the trail was well maintained. All in all, we found it to be a nice stay and fairly close to home.



      Frequently Asked Questions

      Which is the most popular glamping campsite near Emporia, KS?

      According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular glamping campground near Emporia, KS is Eisenhower State Park Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 9 reviews.

      What is the best site to find glamping camping near Emporia, KS?

      TheDyrt.com has all 8 glamping camping locations near Emporia, KS, with real photos and reviews from campers.