Camping spots near Fort Riley, Kansas center around Milford Lake and nearby water bodies where options range from primitive shoreline sites to full-hookup RV spaces. The region sits at approximately 1,080 feet elevation with hot, humid summers often reaching 90°F and mild spring and fall seasons. Winter camping requires preparation for occasional snow and temperatures that can drop below freezing.
What to do
Fishing access: At West Rolling Hills, campers find easy shoreline fishing opportunities. "This is a great place to spend the day. It has easy access for fishing, a nice little playground for the kids and a decent beach for swimming," notes one visitor.
Kayaking from campsites: Riverside sites at Prairie View — Milford State Park offer direct water access for paddlers. "We were able to launch our kayaks a few feet from our campsite which was nice," shares a camper who stayed at site 116.
Trail exploration: Multiple hiking trails surround the camping areas. "There's trails, mudding areas, and areas called ledges for climbing. We will definitely be returning again!" reports a visitor to River Pond Campground.
Wildlife viewing: The region hosts substantial bird populations. "We were able to see a few blue heron and a Golden and a bald eagle," reports a Prairie View camper, highlighting unexpected wildlife viewing opportunities.
What campers like
Site spacing: Many campers appreciate the generous spacing at West Rolling Hills. "The spots are nice. Every third is a pull in non reservable site. Lake side spots. Friendly camp hosts. Great campground," explains one regular visitor.
Accessibility to supplies: The proximity to larger towns provides convenient access to necessities. "Junction City is 10 minutes away for all your needs," notes a Milford Lake visitor, while another mentions "Junction City about 15 minutes away for groceries & services."
Covered picnic areas: Sunset Ridge — Milford State Park offers weather protection at sites. "Each site has a covered picnic shelter and grill. The sites are nice and spacious," explains a camper who visited the area.
Beach access: Swimming options exist at multiple locations. "Milford lake is a large beautiful lake near Junction City Kansas. There are 8 different campgrounds around the lake, 3 cabin areas, multiple marinas and day use areas and swim beaches," notes one visitor.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Some areas close during colder months. "This area looks fabulous. I was looking forward to staying here in early November, but it was closed. All the Corps campgrounds close for the winter," reports a visitor to West Rolling Hills.
Flood potential: Water levels significantly impact site availability. "This campground is prone to lower sites flooding when rains are abundant," cautions a reviewer about Prairie View Campground.
Blue-green algae: Water quality concerns occasionally arise. "Only downside is the blue-green algae made it unsafe to swim but that is not a fault of the campground," notes a camper at Curtis Creek.
Highway noise: Some campgrounds experience traffic noise. "I would give this place 3.5 stars for the visual atmosphere, however, given the noise levels from the interstate and highway, I can't give it four," explains a visitor to Owl's Nest Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Several campgrounds offer play equipment for children. "There is an older playground near the boat ramp and a much nicer and newer one located closest to the larger parking area and largest pavilion," reports a camper at Cedar Point — Milford State Park.
Life jacket availability: Safety equipment is provided at some swimming areas. "This campground has water access and a beach area. I think it's so neat how they have life jackets hanging in case you didn't bring any," notes a visitor to Woodland Hills.
Off-road exploration: Families with appropriate vehicles can access special recreation zones. "The orv area was amazing to take the jeeps out to! There's trails, mudding areas, and areas called ledges for climbing," enthuses a visitor to River Pond Campground.
Group camping facilities: Designated areas accommodate larger family gatherings. "There are group sites near by with extra long tables, volleyball, basketball, horseshoes, and trails," explains a Woodland Hills camper.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Some areas present difficulties for tent campers but work well for RVs. "While our family loved the scenery this is not a lake for tent camping. Unless you like sleeping at an angle. Very limited tent camping as well. This lake is made for those with RVS," advises a visitor to Cedar Point.
Seasonal site selection: During wet periods, RV campers should target higher elevation sites. "With limited sites available currently you will want to make sure you plan ahead with the weather and seek higher sites," recommends a reviewer at Walnut Grove — Milford State Park.
Self-pay systems: Many campgrounds operate without staff. "Book online or carry cash, there is no fee station currently and self pay is the only option. This does not allow you to use card," advises a Cedar Point visitor.
Contactless check-in: Some private campgrounds offer streamlined arrival procedures. "I would stay here again for one night in a pinch but would not enjoy being here long-term. I did like the contactless check-in," notes a visitor to Owl's Nest Campground.
