Camping options near Garden City, Kansas include several locations within an hour's drive through the region's high plains landscape. The area sits at an elevation of around 2,800 feet with a semi-arid climate characterized by hot summers, cold winters, and low annual rainfall averaging 18-20 inches per year. Most campgrounds in the area feature open, exposed sites with limited natural shade due to the prairie environment.
What to do
Water recreation at Horsethief Reservoir: Located about 60 miles northeast of Garden City, this campground offers fishing, swimming and boating opportunities. "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," shares one visitor to Horse Thief Reservoir.
Visit historic sites: Several camping spots serve as good bases for exploring regional landmarks. "There are lots of historic places in the park that we visited and hiking trails along with Monument Rocks just 19 miles to the East and Little Jerusalem 19 miles to the west. There is no shortage of things to do," notes a camper at Circle Drive — Historic Lake Scott State Park.
Local attractions: Some campsites provide convenient access to nearby towns and attractions. "Within walking distance is a super affordable water park, free zoo, playground, and Boot Hill Museum," reports a visitor staying at Dodge City KOA.
What campers like
Budget-friendly options: Many campgrounds near Garden City offer affordable camping with basic amenities. "Small campground but has what we needed. Bonus it has a laundry mat. Second bonus there is a horse farm right behind the campground," writes a reviewer about Cimarron RV Park, noting the $25 nightly rate for water and electric hookups.
Uncrowded camping: Several locations provide quiet experiences, particularly during weekdays. "We arrived on a Thursday afternoon late August. Started out looking for spots on the west side. Drove around the entire lake and found spot #3 on the east side to have the best views," reports one camper at Scott State Park.
Convenience for passing through: The area's campgrounds serve well for travelers crossing Kansas. "This is a tiny (5 pull-thru slots) RV park run by the county in Montezuma, Kansas. Perfect for an overnight stay, it has 30 and 50 amp hookups, sewer and water. All for only $20/night," notes a visitor to Prairie Wind RV Park.
What you should know
Limited shade availability: The prairie landscape means minimal tree cover at most sites. "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," advises a camper about Horsethief Reservoir.
Weather considerations: The climate brings challenging conditions year-round. "I am here now in very late November. The water is turned off. But electricity and a flat spot of dirt for 10 bucks is a great deal," reports a winter visitor to Beymer Water Recreation Park.
Cell service variations: Connectivity differs across locations. "Cell coverage is a solid 4bar 4G LTE with Verizon. We came through in November and the water was turned off," notes one reviewer about Beymer Water Recreation Park.
Tips for camping with families
Look for playgrounds and open spaces: Some campgrounds offer dedicated areas for children. "Large concrete pads! Behind our site and a bunch others is a large grassy area perfect for kids to play," writes a family staying at Dodge City KOA.
Find water activities: Lakes provide welcome relief during hot summer 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," shares a camper visiting Circle Drive at Scott State Park.
Seek out educational opportunities: Several camping areas connect to historical sites suitable for children. "There is a great disk golf course and ADA fishing docks with paved walkway access for those who need it," mentions a visitor to Scott State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: Campground layouts vary significantly. "Sites 50 through 82 are in the back away from the highway and very quiet. 33 through 44 are back in sites and front the highway and are noisier," advises an RVer staying at Gunsmoke RV Park.
Check hookup availability year-round: Winter camping requires preparation. "We checked the other bathhouse on the opposite side of the lake and it was the same way...only creepier because there was one lone rv camped near it," reports a camper at Scott State Park.
Consider noise factors: Some campgrounds experience noise from nearby transportation. "I could toss a rock and hit passing trains. Will not return to this KOA," warns one RVer about the Dodge City KOA's proximity to railroad tracks.
