Tent campsites near Farlington, Kansas are concentrated primarily in the southeastern region of the state. The area features rolling hills and oak-hickory forests surrounding Crawford State Lake, a 150-acre reservoir. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-95°F with high humidity, while spring and fall offer milder conditions for camping with occasional thunderstorms.
What to do
Hiking trails: Prairie State Park features approximately 14 miles of hiking paths through native tallgrass prairie. "The multiple hikes are fun and you get the true prairie experience," notes Chad K. in his review of Prairie State Park Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Observe free-roaming bison herds in their native habitat. "If you are interested in bison sightings, this is the park for you," explains Deborah C. about Prairie State Park. "We were rewarded with a scary but fun close encounter with a lone bull bison."
Water recreation: Crawford State Lake offers swimming, fishing, and boating opportunities near Cherokee Landing Campground. The lake contains populations of largemouth bass, channel catfish, and crappie for anglers.
What campers like
Spacious primitive sites: Prairie State Park receives praise for its uncrowded camping areas. "The 2 outer gravel sites back up to a curved stream that runs along the perimeter of the campground," explains Hanna T. "They all have a picnic table and fire ring and are relatively private and well distanced."
Unique prairie ecosystem: Campers appreciate experiencing one of the last remaining tallgrass prairie landscapes. "Prairie State park isn't very large but it is nice to see somewhere dedicated to preserving the native grassland that the Midwest used to be covered with," writes Luke B. about his experience at Prairie State Park.
Solitude and tranquility: The limited number of campsites means more privacy. "Limited camping spots available, but the times we've stayed there have rarely been others camping. So, it's peaceful!" reports Michelle T. about Osage Bluff Primitive Campground.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Heavy rainfall can impact accessibility at certain campgrounds. According to Hanna T., "Since you have to drive through this stream to get to the campground beware when there has been heavy rain as it may not be accessible."
Limited facilities: Most tent sites near Farlington offer basic amenities. "This campsite is not for those who want amenities. There are 4 SPACIOUS sites and they are what I would call primitive. No hookups/no electricity/no running water," explains Wendy M. about Prairie State Park.
Wildlife precautions: Bison require special safety considerations. "The bison roam free here, although the small campground area has fences and/or cow grates to keep them out," notes Hanna T. Several reviewers also mention ticks as a common issue in the area.
Tips for camping with families
Nature education: The Prairie State Park nature center provides learning opportunities. "The nature center is small but they have two bison, a coyote, and many other learning opportunities inside," recommends Wendy M.
Water activities: Mined Land Cabins near Pittsburg offer access to the lakes of Mined Land Wildlife Area, approximately 30 minutes from Farlington, providing swimming and fishing options for children during summer months.
Wildlife encounters: Plan morning drives to spot bison herds when they're most active. "My parents visited once and ended up on the road for about an hour while an entire herd of bison meandered across the road around their vehicle!" shares Hanna T.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Most tent camping sites near Farlington offer minimal RV amenities. "If you need water, supplies, shower or a flush toilet, skip this one," advises Deborah C. about Schifferdecker Park.
Site selection: Choose sites based on your preference for shade versus solar access. "The center paved sites are more open and grassy and get more wind but also don't have as much shade. I think I stayed in site 4 and it was great for my solar panel," reports Hanna T.
Seasonal considerations: Spring and fall offer more comfortable temperatures for RV camping, while summer can be quite hot. Katie R. describes Prairie State Park as "45 minutes from Joplin, Missouri. Limited camp sites but the sites are spacious w/ tables, pit, bathroom facility a short walk away with a creek nearby."
