Camping sites near Garden City, Kansas operate year-round despite seasonal temperature fluctuations typical of the region's high plains climate. The elevation averages 2,800 feet above sea level with summer temperatures routinely exceeding 90°F and winter lows dropping below freezing. Several RV parks and campgrounds within a 50-mile radius of Garden City provide both electric hookups and primitive camping options with varying levels of accessibility.
What to do
Kayaking on local lakes: Horse Thief Reservoir, located about 40 miles from Garden City, offers opportunities for water recreation. "Growing up in southwest Kansas it is difficult to take a quick weekend trip anywhere close. Horsethief sure changed that. A quick hour drive from Garden City and you can be on the water or setting up your camper," notes one visitor to Horse Thief Reservoir.
Visit historic sites: The Lake Scott State Park area contains several points of historical interest within the park boundaries. "There are amazing sites within 20 miles. The Little Jerusalem SP is a must. In the area, we saw turkey, owl, lots of buzzards, geese, albino buffelo and more cows than i have seen in one place," according to a camper at Lake Scott.
Fishing opportunities: Many campgrounds in the region support fishing activities with dedicated facilities. According to a visitor at Circle Drive — Historic Lake Scott State Park: "The lake is small and quiet with fishers and kayakers. We swam a lot, fished a bit even though the fish weren't biting, explored the dam, hiked on the bluffs trail and made the short drive to Monument Rocks."
What campers like
Shaded campsites: Despite the open prairie landscape, some campgrounds offer tree coverage. One camper at Pine Tree RV Park noted, "Lots of nice trees so there's shade. Not too noisy. Many big rigs here."
Swimming areas: Several campgrounds feature designated swimming areas during warmer months. "We spent the hot part of the days kayaking in the lake. The boat house rents kayaks, canoes, and paddleboats but only on weekend," writes a visitor describing their experience at Lake Scott State Park.
Accessibility to attractions: Many RV sites near Garden City, Kansas provide convenient access to regional points of interest. A camper at Watersports Campground commented on its location: "The Water sports CG was very clean. Nice pull thru lots & very close to activities in Dodge City."
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Cell service can be unreliable at certain campgrounds. "I have T-Mobile and I had only one bar," reported one visitor at Pine Tree RV Park, highlighting the connectivity challenges in this rural region.
Site spacing varies: The distance between campsites differs significantly between campgrounds and even within the same facility. At Cimarron RV Park, a visitor noted it offers "very spacious and clean sites, full hook-ups, nice clean bathrooms and showers and a very clean and accommodating laundry room."
Bathroom facilities: Quality and availability of restroom facilities fluctuates between campgrounds. "The campsite bathrooms were open-air and nicely cleaned once a day. The shower house and bathrooms near the swim beach were clean and well kept," observed a camper at Historic Lake Scott State Park.
Reservation considerations: Some campgrounds fill quickly during peak seasons. "Spots can fill up quick so be sure you call ahead. However, there are plenty of primitive spots that have room most weekends," advised a camper at Horse Thief Reservoir.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. "Nice state park hidden away in the middle of nowhere, great stop on the way to Colorado, nice playgrounds for kids," notes a reviewer at Circle Drive campground.
Swimming safety: Lake depths vary considerably between locations. At Scott State Park, a camper observed, "Lake isn't deep - could stand pretty far out. Small beach area but you can get in water anywhere. Dogs not allowed on beach anywhere."
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds provide access to historical or natural sites that can engage children. "There is a great disk golf course and ADA fishing docks with paved walkway access for those who need it," mentioned a visitor describing the family-friendly amenities at Lake Scott.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Different areas within the same campground can offer varying experiences. At Gunsmoke RV Park, a camper noted, "This Campground has one of the most separated sites of the places we've stayed. Most of the sites at the rear part of the park have spaces separated by one's own grassy area and trees, where the picnic table is situated."
Leveling considerations: Terrain at some campgrounds requires additional preparation for RVs. "Sites are on gravel or grass & not always level for our 30' 5th wheel," cautioned a visitor at Lake Scott State Park.
Wind protection: The open prairie landscape can expose campers to significant winds. "It doesn't have much if any shade, so bring your own. Otherwise it is a great place to stay, especially if you have a boat," suggests a visitor to Horse Thief Reservoir, highlighting the need for wind blocks or shelters in the open terrain.
Shopping access: Several campgrounds offer proximity to essential services. "Clean, has wifi, grocery store across the street, and there was a food trailer with good food next door," wrote a camper describing the convenient location of Cimarron RV Park.
