Gunn Park offers affordable camping options near Fort Scott, Kansas, with separate rates for tent and RV sites. The park maintains ten first-come, first-served campsites and a designated tenting area for visitors. Self-registration is available at the camping area entrance, with tags displayed on vehicle mirrors to indicate occupancy.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Anglers frequent Gunn Park for shore fishing, with many regular visitors. "Adult children (seniors) lol are there every day looking to catch dinner," notes camper Neil S., highlighting the popularity of this activity with locals.
Hiking trails: The park system provides multiple hiking paths through wooded areas. Jason T. mentions, "This place is a small park that has lots of hiking trails," making it suitable for day activities while camping.
Wildlife viewing: At Linn County Park, visitors can observe native animals in their natural habitat. Ryan R. reports, "Lots of trees lots of wildlife. Had deer walk right through the campground when we were there," providing campers with natural encounters.
Boating access: Lake Parsons accommodates various water activities with boat ramps and waterfront camping. The lake restricts certain activities, with one camper noting at Linn County Park, "No swimming or skiing allowed, only fishing boats," which helps maintain a peaceful atmosphere.
What campers like
Waterfront sites: Many visitors appreciate the lakeside camping options at Lake Parsons. Kayla J. shares, "We were parked right on the water. They have concrete slabs with a great picnic table for each site," highlighting the premium waterfront camping experience.
Peaceful atmosphere: The rural setting creates tranquil camping conditions. "We love the oark beautiful and peaceful. It usually has few campers but alot of activities and so close to town it feels very safe day or night," writes The M. about their Gunn Park experience.
Affordability: Budget-conscious campers appreciate the reasonable fees at area campgrounds. Jason T. notes of Gunn Park, "This place is five dollars for tents $10 for RVs with electric," with additional activities available for similar low fees.
Shade coverage: Tree canopy provides relief from summer heat at several campgrounds. Ryan R. describes Linn County Park as having "lots of trees," creating comfortable camping conditions during warmer months.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds in the region operate on limited schedules. Lake Parsons runs from April 1 to November 1, while Gunn Park typically operates May through September, requiring seasonal planning for visits.
Limited services: Bathroom and shower facilities vary significantly between campgrounds. At Gunn Park, one camper observed, "Bathrooms were a bit nasty. There was also a door marked showers, but had a coded lock," indicating inconsistent maintenance.
First-come basis: Many sites cannot be reserved in advance. At Deer Run RV Park & Campground, a visitor reported, "When I was there, had called ahead to reserve a spot. When I got there, there was no one to help me, one of the campers came and directed me to a campsite," highlighting potential check-in challenges.
Cell service limitations: Digital connectivity is unreliable in some camping areas. Ryan R. warns about Linn County Park, "Also if you have kids that go camping with you chances are your cell phones will not work so the kids probably will be very bored lol," suggesting families prepare offline activities.
Tips for camping with families
Holiday decorations: Seasonal visits can include festive elements at certain campgrounds. Jason T. reports about Gunn Park, "they had a super decorated for Christmas," creating memorable holiday camping experiences.
Local entertainment options: The proximity to town provides additional recreation possibilities. The M. notes about Gunn Park, "it feels very safe day or night," allowing families to explore both the campground and nearby Fort Scott amenities.
Bring offline activities: Limited connectivity means traditional entertainment is essential. At Vinedo del Alamo Winery, glamping accommodations like yurts provide unique family stays, but without electronic distractions, making board games and outdoor activities important.
Weekend popularity: Local families frequent these campgrounds regularly. Mark K. shares about Lake Parsons, "Me and my wife and grand kids love camping here every weekend," indicating busier conditions during weekends compared to weekdays.
Tips from RVers
Site levelness: RV campers should prepare for uneven terrain at some locations. Neil S. advises about Gunn Park, "Sites are not level and need either more gravel or concrete," suggesting leveling blocks for comfort.
Power limitations: Electrical hookups vary between campgrounds. Neil S. notes, "Most of the sites are 30 amp and no dump station. Water and electric only," making it important to check specific amenities before arrival.
Big rig accessibility: Larger vehicles face challenges at certain campgrounds. As Neil S. points out, "Big rigs at some of the sites will have a problem. Remember this is a old campground," suggesting travelers with larger RVs research specific sites before arrival.
Long-term residents: Some parks allow extended stays, affecting the camping environment. Bran P. observes at Linn County Park, "There's no stay limit here so some sites are very messy," indicating varying site conditions throughout the park.
