Best Campgrounds near Gardner, KS

Camping near Gardner, Kansas, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and family-friendly activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun-filled adventure, there are several campgrounds in the area that cater to different needs.

What to do

• Explore the outdoors: Many campers enjoy hiking and biking in the nearby parks. For instance, at Clinton State Park Campground, one reviewer mentioned, "Access to modern toilets that flushed... Plenty of wildlife. Bunnies, raccoons, and deer." This makes it a great spot for nature lovers.
• Water activities: If you're into fishing or kayaking, Bloomington East - Clinton Lake is a fantastic choice. A visitor shared, "We brought kayaks and paddled a few miles across the lake... The beach was raked and clean."
• Family fun: Many campgrounds have playgrounds and picnic areas. At Blue Springs Lake Campground, a family-friendly site, one reviewer noted, "We had a full hookup site located right by the playground and it was perfect for our family."

What campers like

• Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. One guest at Watkins Mill State Park Campground said, "Showers and bathrooms are clean and the hosts are very nice."
• Spacious sites: Many campgrounds offer ample space between sites. A reviewer at Crow's Creek Campground mentioned, "We’ve stayed here several times without any problems. The hosts are great too."
• Wildlife sightings: Campers enjoy spotting local wildlife. At Lake Jacomo - Fleming Park, one visitor remarked, "Nice and quiet," highlighting the peaceful atmosphere.

What you should know

• Road noise: Some campgrounds are close to busy roads. At Kansas City East-Oak Grove KOA, a camper noted, "Close proximity to the interstate does come with some traffic noise."
• Limited amenities: Not all campgrounds have full hookups. A visitor at Weston Bend State Park Campground mentioned, "Electric sites, no water, but water spigots were scattered around the campground."
• Seasonal closures: Some campgrounds may have limited access during certain seasons. A reviewer at Lake Shawnee County Campground pointed out, "Parts of the park are closed due to them adding to it."

Tips for camping with families

• Choose family-friendly sites: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and activities for kids. At Clinton State Park Campground, one family enjoyed, "The site was very secluded and had a very interesting layout."
• Plan for bugs: Be prepared for insects, especially in warmer months. A camper at Lake Jacomo - Fleming Park mentioned, "The hiking trails were overgrown and no longer accessible," indicating the need for bug spray.
• Pack games and outdoor gear: Bring along games and outdoor equipment to keep kids entertained. A visitor at Longview Campground shared, "Management was very friendly... We stay here for 2 days."

Tips from RVers

• Check site amenities: Make sure to confirm what amenities are available at your site. A reviewer at Crows Creek Campground noted, "While some amenities are lacking, it’s the dispersed nature that is the nature."
• Bring leveling blocks: Some sites may not be perfectly level. A camper at Watkins Mill State Park Campground mentioned, "You will need leveling blocks on the gravel."
• Stay connected: Check cell service availability if you need to stay connected. A visitor at Bloomington East - Clinton Lake said, "We had fine T-Mobile service, 3 out of 4 bars on a new iPhone."

Gardner, KS camping offers a variety of experiences, from serene lakeside spots to family-friendly campgrounds. With a little planning, you can enjoy a memorable outdoor adventure!