Gardner, Kansas provides access to several established campgrounds with Hillsdale State Park serving as the primary camping destination in the area. The park features multiple camping areas including Russell Crites Primitive, Crappie Cove, Saddle Ridge, Scott Creek, and Sunflower campgrounds, all offering various accommodation types from tent sites to RV hookups. Most campgrounds in the region accommodate both tent and RV camping, with several locations providing full hookup options for recreational vehicles. Clinton State Park's Prairie Clover Campground, located within driving distance, also offers cabin accommodations for those seeking more sheltered options.
Camping facilities throughout the Gardner area typically remain open year-round, though seasonal considerations affect water availability at some locations. A recent visitor noted, "The lake itself is small compared to most Kansas area lakes but sufficient for skiing. The lake offers hiking/biking trails around it, a campground, fishing, a swimming beach with a picnic area and volleyball courts." Most developed campgrounds provide amenities such as electric hookups, picnic tables, fire rings, and access to restroom facilities. Reservations are recommended, particularly during summer weekends when waterfront sites fill quickly. Many campgrounds in the region enforce stay limits, with some Kansas parks limiting stays to 7 days rather than the more common 14-day limit found elsewhere.
Hillsdale State Park receives consistently positive reviews for its spacious campsites and clean facilities. According to one camper, "Sunflower loop is widely spaced and plenty of room for larger RVs." The park's proximity to Kansas City makes it popular for weekend getaways, with visitors appreciating the balance between accessibility and natural setting. Water activities represent a significant draw, with boating, fishing, and swimming available at many locations. Lake Miola City Park offers primitive camping with some electric sites, each featuring a picnic table and fire pit. Campers seeking more developed facilities can find full hookup options at several campgrounds, though these premium sites often require advance reservations, especially during peak summer months.
$10 / night
"This campground is close to home for us, but we love it as a quick get away. It has beautiful, tree-covered campsites that offer direct access to the lake. "
"We often find ourselves in a field with port-a-potties instead of lakeside with views. Not bad for what it is, I do wish they had more options."
$21 / night
"There are limited sites for camping at Hillsdale Lake. But they are all nice and many offer waterfront access. "
"Crappie Cove has the best sites, and it is very close to the kayak/boat ramp and the swimming beach."
$62 - $131 / night
"Only 10 minutes away from Joe’s original Kansas City BBQ (super delicious).
We did pay for the premium pull through site, so we had more room.""My husbands job took us to Merriam Kansas and we needed a place to stay, we made reservations at Walnut Grove. We were surprised to find it in the middle of a neighborhood."
$10 - $100 / night
"The great part is that the sites are so large, at least on the lake side, which is actually a bit away from the lake, but accessible by stairs from the camp sites."
"The park is also at a lake so there’s a beach access area where you can go and swim or just sit by the very large lake."
"This campground is about 35-40 mins outside Kansas City City. The town that it is located in has a lot to do as well! Campgrounds is clean and well kept! We visited in November so not many people."
"We missed a KOA in Kansas City because of construction. Went to Lawrence KOA instead. Glad for the misfortune. The park has all you need for short or long term camping and RV trips."
$10 - $21 / night
"Lots of riding trail miles and lake."
$22 / night
"This is one thing that should be mandatory given its proximity and being further away from potential shelter. Excellent camping on the lake. Lots of water activities available."
"The lake itself is small compared to most Kansas area lakes but sufficient for skiing."
"A walking path & a park and a huge dog park!!!! Love love love this place!!"
$10 - $21 / night
"Cool weekend at a great lake right before things turned green. Closed last year to redo the electric, enjoyed Site 181 at Scott Creek, west side of Hillsdale Lake."
$10 - $21 / night
"The nearby vault toilet was just OK, it was about as clean as a vault toilet could be but there was no way to use hand sanitizer or wash your hands nearby."
"Plenty of space for tents and other activities and very close to water"
ScoutFor a free spot not too far of a drive it wasn't bad. Sites right along water with a fire pit and picnic table. There is no running water or lights so bring both. Restrooms are vaulted so if you're not used to that just be aware. Overall for a free location it's a beginner friendly site.
ScoutHave stayed here twice. It's convenient to I10. No frills, but it's safe and free
TravelerWe just purchased a 2016 Winnebago View 24G Class C RV in November 2025, and this was our first dispersed camping trip. We stayed two full days. Site was fairly level both front to back and side to side. Our 26’ rig had another 6’ - 8’ in front of it before it would have extended into the road.
The road through the lake is gravel, and even though it rained almost 24 hours continuously the first night and all next day, it was starting to dry out the following day. There were 3-4 other tent campers, a few people fishing and a couple of and families walking around, but aside from that we had the place to ourselves. For as small as this place is, there was a lot of vehicular traffic - numerous trucks and vans driving through over the days we were there but never stopping.
There is a boat ramp and we saw 3-4 power boats, a couple of canoes and kayaks. It looks like a nice little place to throw in a line. We will be back, as this place is only 35 minutes from where we live and makes for a nice little weekend getaway.
ScoutI am writing to share a very disappointing experience my wife and I had while staying at Scott's Creek Campground at Hillsdale Lake. This was our first time camping, and we were excited for the experience. Unfortunately, our interaction with the camp host, Tom, made the stay very unpleasant. He was impatient, short, and disrespectful toward me when I had simple questions as first-time campers. When I was in the process of paying for the site, he asked for my Social Security number. This was new to me, as I was unaware that Kansas State Parks required this information. I calmly asked why it was needed, just trying to understand the process. In response, he told me that I could leave if I didn’t like it, rather than explaining my concern with patience. In addition to this, he made several other comments throughout the interaction that left me baffled that a camp host would speak to guests in such a manner. As someone new to camping, I was simply seeking clarification, not being difficult. His attitude made us feel uncomfortable and unwelcome, and it negatively impacted what should have been an enjoyable first camping experience. Because of this experience, I would not recommend staying at this campground while he is the camp host, and my wife and I will not be returning as long as he remains in that role. I wanted to bring this to your attention in hopes that future guests are treated with more patience and respect.
ScoutThey are very nice sites. But they are not free.
GuideOvery priced not safe they put no money into the park it's a dump read the reviews.
TravelerGreat, safe, peaceful and Lakeview with sunset
GuideThis campground is about 35-40 mins outside Kansas City City. The town that it is located in has a lot to do as well! Campgrounds is clean and well kept! We visited in November so not many people.
GuideWe loved this campground. The sites are so pretty and spaced well. The bathroom/showers were clean. The laundry worked well. The camp host was friendly and welcoming. This was the best campground we stayed at on our cross country trip. All the sites were nice.
Camping sites near Gardner, Kansas offer a mix of prairie landscapes and lakeside access, with most options situated within a 25-mile radius of town. The region experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F, while spring and fall provide milder conditions ideal for outdoor activities. Primitive sites at many campgrounds remain available on a first-come basis even during peak season.
Water recreation opportunities: Hillsdale State Park provides excellent kayaking and canoeing options. "There are kayaks and canoes to rent, there is a great marina, fishing, and tons of water access opportunities for private kayaks," notes Jamie S. about Russell Crites Primitive — Hillsdale State Park.
Hiking trails: The area offers multiple trail systems connecting campgrounds to lakeshores. "The lake offers hiking/biking trails around it," mentions Misti P. at Lake Miola City Park. Many trails remain accessible year-round, though muddy conditions occur after rainfall.
Archery and outdoor sports: Clinton State Park maintains specialized recreation facilities beyond standard camping amenities. "It also has a great bow range for siting in and practicing with your bow. You can even climb towers to practice shooting from 'tree-stand' elevations," explains Jason W. at Prairie Clover Campground.
Lake access and fishing: Many campsites offer direct water views and fishing opportunities. "It has beautiful, tree-covered campsites that offer direct access to the lake," writes Jason W. about Prairie Clover Campground. Fishing docks at several locations provide alternatives to boat fishing.
Spacious campsites: Sunflower Campground — Hillsdale State Park receives positive reviews for site layout. "Sunflower loop is widely spaced and plenty of room for larger RVs," reports Laura H. Many waterfront sites accommodate larger camping setups.
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness varies by campground but receives generally positive reviews. "The shower/bath houses are clean," notes Joyce M. about Crappie Cove Campground. Most campgrounds provide warm water showers, though some primitive areas only offer vault toilets.
Train noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience significant railroad noise. At Kansas City West-Lawrence KOA, LauraJane B. warns that "trains passed by really loudly all night long - it finally stopped at about 5am." When booking sites, check proximity to train tracks.
Site leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain at certain campgrounds. "The sites are not very level, so bring leveling equipment!" advises Steve D. about Lake Miola City Park. RVers should particularly note this requirement when planning stays.
Seasonal bathroom availability: Some facilities close during off-peak periods. "The bath house that we were closest to was closed for the season. The open one was at least two hundred yards away," reports Myron C. about Bloomington East - Clinton Lake.
Playgrounds and recreation areas: Multiple campgrounds offer dedicated children's areas. "There is a swimming beach with a picnic area and volleyball courts," shares Misti P. about Lake Miola City Park, adding that the park has "a campground, fishing, a swimming beach with a picnic area and volleyball courts."
Beach access: Sandy swimming areas provide alternatives to pool facilities. "Great access to boat ramps, fishing dock, and a large sandy beach," notes Nancy L. regarding Bloomington East. Most beaches lack lifeguards, so supervision remains necessary.
Bike-friendly roads: Paved surfaces at many campgrounds support family cycling. "Paved roads are great for taking a walk or riding bikes and make it easy to move from one place to another within the campground," Tori G. explains about Bloomington East.
Electric hookup options: Most regional campgrounds provide varied electrical service. "Most have 50amp power and water with one area having full hookups and concrete pads available," John G. notes about Crappie Cove Campground at Hillsdale State Park.
Reservation recommendations: Peak season requires advance planning. "We had a hard time finding any place open for memorial weekend," cautions Tanner P. about Bloomington East. Holiday weekends often fill completely 2-3 months in advance.
Dump station access: All major campgrounds provide waste disposal facilities. "Full hookup sites don't have any tree coverage, but the electric/water sites near the lake are very cozy," observes Jason W. about Prairie Clover Campground, highlighting the tradeoff between amenities and natural setting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Gardner, KS?
According to TheDyrt.com, Gardner, KS offers a wide range of camping options, with 106 campgrounds and RV parks near Gardner, KS and 2 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Gardner, KS?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Gardner, KS is Russell Crites Primitive — Hillsdale State Park with a 4-star rating from 8 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Gardner, KS?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Gardner, KS.
What parks are near Gardner, KS?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 15 parks near Gardner, KS that allow camping, notably Clinton Lake and Perry Lake.
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