Camping options near Garden City, Kansas range from basic electric hookups to full-service lakeside facilities. The region sits at approximately 2,800 feet elevation with a semi-arid climate characterized by hot summers, cold winters, and persistent winds that sweep across the open prairie landscape. Several campgrounds have planted young trees that will eventually provide more shade as they mature in this naturally open terrain.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Horsethief Reservoir, the fishing is active with visible results. As one camper noted, "I don't fish but see and hear fish jumping all the time" even though "it's not a big lake." The reservoir provides both shoreline access and boat launches.
Historic exploration: The area around Scott State Park offers unique geological formations. "Close to Monument Rocks, Jerusalem Badlands & New Jerusalem Badlands SP," reports one visitor, while another adds that the area has "amazing sites nearby...Jerusalem Badlands & Monument Rocks about 15-20 minutes north off of US 83."
Water activities: When temperatures rise in summer, several campgrounds offer water access. Scott State Park features "a spring fed lake and shady cottonwood trees, mesas and rock formations" with "a great day kayaking and staying in water to keep cooled off."
What campers like
Affordability: Budget-conscious campers appreciate the value at Beymer Water Recreation Park. As one camper stated, "It's flat, easy to get to.. bathrooms are just okay. Not the cleanest, but it's something. Each spot has water and electric. Plus a covered shelter with picnic tables. For $10 can't beat it."
Privacy options: Some campgrounds offer more secluded sites. At Gunsmoke RV Park, "Sites 50 through 82 are in the back away from the highway and very quiet" with "20 feet of grassy space between sites." Another reviewer confirmed this campground "has one of the most separated sites of the places we've stayed."
Year-round access: Several dog-friendly campgrounds near Garden City remain open through winter. A visitor to Beymer noted, "We came through in November and the water was turned off. It has a bathroom but we didn't use it so I can't report on its condition. The park was clean."
What you should know
Limited shade: Most campgrounds in the region lack mature trees. At Horsethief Reservoir, "It doesn't have much if any shade, so bring your own." This campground is "new so the trees haven't grown to provide a ton of shade yet."
Weather impacts: Western Kansas experiences significant wind and temperature fluctuations. At Circle Drive — Historic Lake Scott State Park, campers note that "sites are a little close to each other" and when staying at Beymer, "it was very windy when we arrived, found a great wind block."
Facility variations: Bathroom and shower facilities vary widely between campgrounds. One camper at Horsethief Reservoir reported, "The water pressure got weaker the hotter the water was and the electrical outlets don't work, so I couldn't blow dry my hair."
Tips for camping with families
Water parks: Families with children can enjoy additional water features beyond lakes. The Dodge City KOA is "within walking distance of a super affordable water park, free zoo, playground, and Boot Hill Museum." Multiple reviewers mention this benefit with one noting there are "large concrete pads" and "plenty of grassy area behind site 27 for kids to play."
Lake access: For swimming during hot summer days, Scott State Park offers "an easy walk to the swim beach" and the lake is "small and quiet with fishers and kayakers."
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds are near historic sites. Dodge City KOA is "close to downtown tourist attractions" including Boot Hill Museum which showcases regional history.
Tips from RVers
Winter preparations: RV campers should prepare for seasonal changes. At Beymer Water Recreation Park, "In very late November, the water is turned off. But electricity and a flat spot of dirt for 10 bucks is a great deal."
Cell coverage: Working remotely is possible at many campgrounds. At Cimarron RV Park, one camper noted it "has wifi" and is "close to a small town" with a "grocery store across the street." Most parks in the region report adequate cell service.
Site selection: Several pet-friendly campgrounds near Garden City offer premium sites worth requesting. At Gunsmoke RV Park, "Sites 50 to 82 have 20 feet of grassy space between sites" and "also have trees to provide shade. Some sites have multiple sewer dumps so your positioning of your rig is less of a problem."
