Best Tent Camping near Emporia, KS

Tent campers visiting Emporia, Kansas can find several established campgrounds within a 30-mile radius, primarily near lakes and reservoirs. Kansas View at Council Grove Lake offers tent sites in a lakeside setting, while Council Grove Marina provides additional camping options nearby. Both locations allow direct access to water activities and fishing opportunities.

Campgrounds in the Emporia region typically feature basic amenities suited for tent camping. Most sites are drive-in accessible with dirt or gravel pads. Kansas View includes picnic tables and allows campfires, but campers should verify current fire restrictions during dry periods. Drinking water availability varies by location, with some sites like West Wingwall near Burlington offering potable water and toilet facilities. Tent campers should bring sufficient water supplies when visiting campgrounds with limited services. Weather conditions can change rapidly, particularly during spring and fall, requiring proper rain protection for tents.

The lakeside locations around Emporia provide scenic settings for tent campers seeking outdoor recreation. Areas near Council Grove Lake offer fishing and hiking opportunities, with trails accessible directly from camping areas. "We had lots of success with fishing and the kids really enjoyed some of the hiking trails," reported one visitor who camped at Kansas View with a cub scout group. Tent sites generally provide more seclusion than RV camping areas, with many offering shade from trees. Some campgrounds like 110 Mile Park near Overbrook were previously known for their quiet atmosphere with minimal crowds, though campers should verify current status as some smaller sites have closed in recent years. Most tent campgrounds in the region remain open seasonally, with some offering year-round access depending on weather conditions.

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Best Tent Sites Near Emporia, Kansas (13)

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Tent Camping Reviews near Emporia, KS

192 Reviews of 13 Emporia Campgrounds


  • Vanessa M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 25, 2020

    Chase State Fishing Lake

    Primitive and quiet

    There are several areas to set up camp, each area has different advantages: proximity to vault toilets, picnic tables, privacy... The area is easy to navigate and sites are lakeside.

  • Christina H.
    Apr. 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.

  • T
    Jul. 31, 2018

    North Richey Cove

    Custer Campground north of Richey Cove

    Primitive sites. Vault toilets, bbq, covered picnic tables and fire rings. 3 tents allowed per site. You can shower at the north Richey campground. All are close to the lake and there is a boat ramp at the entrance. Small campground with maybe 12 sites.

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 4, 2025

    Osage State Fishing Lake

    Beautiful place - big rig friendly

    So glad we chose this dispersed camping location as an overnight stay. It's fantastic! Beautiful area, campfire rings in several locations, and our 43' Rv navigated smoothly (well, husband navigated smoothly!) Easy to drive through, well-maintained roads....leave no trace, and enjoy!

  • West River J.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 10, 2018

    North Richey Cove

    Most secluded spot around Council Grove Lake

    2 different loops with a several waterside campsites and picnic shelters alongside each. Campsites include tent pad, shelter, picnic table and either a fire pit or an elevated grill. There is also water access that you can drop your boat into thats just adjacent for main Richey Cove campground's beach. Tent only camping allows you to get some quiet time in the out doors as its one of the least frequented of the campsites around the lake and the farthest north.

  • S
    May. 30, 2020

    Bluestem Point Area — El Dorado State Park

    Bed bugs!!! Don’t rent Cabin 5 Larkspur

    I’m exhausted, the last 12hrs has been a dumpster fire. Last thing we expected was a bed bug infestation. Woke at midnight with a few annoying bites, on further inspection we were covered in bed bugs, urrrgghh. After picking them off our pj’s and getting over the initial shock we went home to quarantine our clothes, shower and sleep. Returned in the morning to checkout and trash our sleeping bags and pillows. Everyone is disappointed, and I’m out of pocket for 2 nights accommodation and 4x sleeping gear...whoever the host is should be ashamed of themselves, I’m trying to warn the next people, this cabin is booked solid but in reality uninhabitable! The porch is also infested with burrowing bumblebees, scary for kids and adults alike.

  • Ruby W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 24, 2020

    Chase State Fishing Lake

    We Didn’t Even Give Kansas a Chance

    On our road-trip to Utah, we dreaded having to camp in Kansas, until a friend recommended this spot. This stunning little lake is a free site with plenty of fire rings right next to a road. PERFECT car camping. And even has a clean little bathroom. Stunning views of rolling hills and cattle. Places to fish. A little trail that leads up a small hill. Stunning stunning stunning views of wildflowers and rolling hills. Great sunrise and sunset views! Phenomenal place to stop if you’re driving through Kansas. A bit of a detour from I-70, but totally worth it.

  • Shannon G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 22, 2020

    Hillsboro Cove

    Nice shaded campground

    Hillsboro Cove is a nice shaded campground located at Marion Reservoir. This campground has electric and water hookups. There is a covered picnic area at each site with a grill and fish cleaning area. There are also fire rings at each site. There is firewood for sale at the entrance and a guard shack with a camp host across the way. There is also a dump, wash house, bathrooms, and a group area with very large covered picnic shelter and 9 electric hook ups if needed.

  • JC C.
    Oct. 19, 2018

    Michigan Valley

    Amenities for the whole family

    I grew up going to this campground. It has a lot of amenities to suit everyone.

    • 57 sites with water and electric hookups ($18)
    • 38 primitive sites ($14)
    • 9 sites with sewer hook-ups ($22)
    • 8 prime sites offering pull-through access, 50 amp electrical service along with water, picnic table, fire ring, and lantern holder ($20)
    • Roped off swimming beach
    • 2 shower buildings
    • Dump station
    • 2 reservable picnic shelters
    • Basketball court
    • Fishing dock
    • Sites are available from May 1 through September 30.

Guide to Emporia

Tent camping near Emporia, Kansas offers a variety of scenic spots where nature lovers can unwind and enjoy the great outdoors. With options ranging from well-equipped sites to more rustic experiences, there's something for everyone.

Tent campers appreciate these amenities

  • At Kansas View - Council Grove Lake, campers can enjoy drinking water, picnic tables, and the option to have fires, making it a comfortable choice for families.
  • Kansas View provides water hookups and allows pets, ensuring a welcoming environment for all members of the family.
  • For those looking for a more basic experience, West Wingwall offers essential facilities like toilets, though it lacks amenities like showers and picnic tables.

Local activities for outdoor enthusiasts

  • Fishing and hiking are popular activities at Kansas View - Council Grove Lake, where visitors can explore scenic trails and enjoy the lake's beauty.
  • Campers at Hickory Creek East can take advantage of the nearby John Redmond Reservoir for a day of boating or fishing.
  • The picturesque surroundings of Hickory Creek West make it an ideal spot for nature walks and wildlife observation.

Tent campers should check out unique features

  • Sun Dance Park is big rig friendly, making it accessible for larger camping setups while still providing a peaceful atmosphere.
  • At Camp Wood YMCA, campers can engage in organized activities and enjoy a community-focused environment.
  • The Council Grove Marina offers a unique experience with its proximity to water activities, although it has limited amenities.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Emporia, KS is Kansas View - Council Grove Lake with a 4.5-star rating from 2 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 13 tent camping locations near Emporia, KS, with real photos and reviews from campers.