Best Campgrounds near Fort Scott, KS

Camping near Fort Scott, Kansas, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor lovers. From serene lakes to well-maintained campgrounds, there’s something for everyone looking to escape into nature.

What to do

• Fishing: Many campers enjoy fishing at Big Hill Lake Mound Valley Recreation Area. One visitor mentioned, "Big Hill Lake is known as a trophy lake for fishing," highlighting the great catches available.
• Hiking: Trails abound in the area. A reviewer at Hillsdale State Park noted, "It is a great place to bike and fish," indicating that the trails are perfect for both hiking and biking.
• Wildlife Watching: Prairie State Park is a great spot for seeing local wildlife. One camper shared, "The land is stunning and open and takes you back to a bygone era of this country," emphasizing the natural beauty and wildlife opportunities.

What campers like

• Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. A visitor at Stockton State Park Campground said, "Great state park. Cleanest restrooms I’ve seen."
• Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds offer plenty of space between sites. A reviewer at Cedar Ridge Campground—Stockton Lake mentioned, "We were pleasantly surprised by the amount of space some of the sites have between them."
• Friendly Hosts: Campground hosts often receive praise for their hospitality. One camper at Judy's Big Red Barn RV Park noted, "The staff are very friendly and helpful."

What you should know

• Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Montrose Missouri Conservation Area, have basic facilities. A camper mentioned, "There isn’t any water or sewer hookup on the camp site."
• Ticks and Bugs: Be prepared for ticks, especially in wooded areas. A visitor at Stockton State Park Campground warned, "Ticks were very bad."
• Seasonal Closures: Some campgrounds have specific seasons. For example, Big Hill Lake Mound Valley Recreation Area is open from March 30 to October 29.

Tips for camping with families

• Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with amenities for kids. A reviewer at Cedar Ridge Campground—Stockton Lake said, "The campground has private boat ramp and parking away from public use."
• Plan Activities: Bring bikes or kayaks for family fun. One camper at Hillsdale State Park mentioned, "There are kayaks and canoes to rent."
• Pack Snacks: Having snacks on hand can keep everyone happy. A visitor at Big Hill Lake Mound Valley Recreation Area noted, "Families with kids will enjoy visiting the sand-covered beach nearby."

Tips from RVers

• Check Site Sizes: Some sites can be narrow for larger rigs. A reviewer at Big Hill Lake Mound Valley Recreation Area mentioned, "Spots can be a bit narrow for bigger rigs but not too bad."
• Look for Full Hookups: Ensure your campground has the necessary hookups. A camper at Judy's Big Red Barn RV Park appreciated the "level, pull-through shaded lots."
• Stay Connected: Some areas may have limited cell service. A visitor at Cedar Ridge Campground—Stockton Lake noted, "My AT&T signal didn't work here at all."

Camping near Fort Scott, Kansas, provides a mix of adventure and relaxation. Whether you're fishing, hiking, or just enjoying the great outdoors, there’s plenty to explore!