Glamping options near Garden City, Kansas offer comfortable camping with modern amenities in the high plains region. Located at approximately 2,830 feet above sea level, this area experiences dramatic temperature shifts between day and night, even during summer months. Local camping destinations range from reservoir-based facilities to state parks, each providing varying levels of services for upscale outdoor stays.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Horse Thief Reservoir, visitors can enjoy fishing without traveling far from their accommodations. "I don't fish but see and hear fish jumping all the time," notes one camper about the reservoir experience. This newer development provides easy water access for anglers.
Historical exploration: Visit Boot Hill Museum near Dodge City KOA for western heritage. "Within walking distance is a super affordable water park, free zoo, playground, and Boot Hill Museum," reports one reviewer. The campground's proximity to downtown makes historical sites easily accessible.
Kayaking and paddle sports: Circle Drive at Historic Lake Scott State Park offers excellent paddling options on a calm lake. "The lake was small but very pretty, easy to kayak, SUP and fish," writes one visitor. The park rents equipment on weekends for those without their own.
What campers like
Concrete camping pads: Campers appreciate the solid foundations at newer facilities. At Dodge City KOA, "Large concrete pads! Behind our site and a bunch others is a large grassy area perfect for kids to play," according to a satisfied guest. These stable surfaces make setting up and maintaining camp much easier.
Privacy between sites: Gunsmoke RV Park offers well-spaced sites, especially in certain sections. "Sites 50 through 82 are in the back away from the highway and very quiet. 50 to 82 have 20 feet of grassy space between sites," notes one reviewer who recommends these specific spots for a better experience.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained amenities make glamping more comfortable. A Horse Thief visitor noted, "Great camp ground with clean and maintained amenities. Having a lake this close is a treat even if it's not a big lake." Regular maintenance ensures more pleasant stays for glampers seeking comfort.
What you should know
Limited shade: Newer glamping sites may lack mature trees. At Horse Thief Reservoir, "It's new so the trees haven't grown to provide a ton of shade yet but great value for the price and location." Another visitor confirms: "It doesn't have much if any shade, so bring your own."
Seasonal considerations: Some facilities have limited services in off-seasons. At Beymer Water Recreation Park, one winter visitor noted, "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."
Noise factors: Train and highway noise affects some campgrounds. One Dodge City KOA visitor reported, "I could toss a rock and hit passing trains," while at Gunsmoke RV Park, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Families enjoy water-based activities at several locations. Circle Drive at Lake Scott offers diverse water fun: "We spent the hot part of the days kayaking in the lake. The boat house rents kayaks, canoes, and paddleboats but only on weekend."
Free animal viewing: Children can enjoy wildlife viewing without additional cost. "Within walking distance is a super affordable water park, free zoo, playground, and Boot Hill Museum," mentions a Dodge City KOA camper about family-friendly activities nearby.
Playground access: Some campgrounds provide play equipment on-site. A Beymer Water Recreation Park visitor noted, "Small playground, a bit run down. Quiet with few people. Small pond & mulberry trees," making it suitable for families with children despite limited amenities.
Tips from RVers
Budget-friendly options: Several areas offer economical RV camping with basic amenities. One Beymer Water Recreation Park visitor shared, "Cheap ($10/night for 30 amp & water). Great to recharge the batteries," making it an excellent overnight option for travelers on a budget.
Site selection strategy: At Gunsmoke RV Park, specific site numbers matter. "Sites 50 through 82 are in the back away from the highway and very quiet... They also have trees to provide shade. Some sites have multiple sewer dumps so your positioning of your rig is less of a problem."
Satellite considerations: Connectivity varies significantly between glamping locations. Cell service is generally good, with one Beymer visitor reporting, "Cell coverage is a solid 4bar 4g LTE with Verizon," though WiFi quality varies considerably between parks.
