The Gardner area offers convenient overnight options for RVers traveling along Interstate 35, with campgrounds scattered within a 30-mile radius. Positioned in eastern Kansas at approximately 1,060 feet elevation, the region experiences hot summers and cold winters with occasional winter precipitation that can affect camping conditions. Most RV parks remain open year-round but offer varying levels of amenities depending on seasonal conditions.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Paradise Resort features multiple fishing ponds where families can enjoy catch-and-release fishing during warmer months. "We camped here in September 2020. There are nice spots right by the lakes with big trees for shade. Kids found tons of frogs and snails to play with," notes one visitor about the Lake Paradise Resort.
Visit historic Independence: Use Campus RV Park as your base to explore nearby historic sites in Independence. "Great spot, centrally located, great views, lovely staff. We stayed in the site right by the office and facilities. Good hookups that worked and WiFi worked very well," reports one camper at Campus RV Park.
Amusement park access: Camp within walking distance of Worlds of Fun and Oceans of Fun theme parks. "The campground did attempt to improve privacy with strategically placed trees and shrubs... Worlds of Fun and Oceans of Fun are internally connected, making it easy to walk between the two."
What campers like
Spacious RV sites: Deer Creek Valley RV Park provides generous spacing between RVs. "Just stayed for the night and it was an easy set up. Wide open lots that were level and the hookups were all lit up so easy to see at night. Huge grassy enclosed dog run which is priceless traveling across country with two dogs," explains a reviewer at Deer Creek Valley RV Park.
Clean facilities: Walnut Grove RV Park maintains clean shower and bathroom facilities despite its compact setup. "A nice little store on site with free coffee, water and a cappuccino machine. Family owned with great hosts. Clean 24-7 bathrooms, showers and laundry facilities," writes a camper at Walnut Grove RV Park.
Family-friendly environments: Many RV campgrounds near Gardner, Kansas offer kid-focused amenities. "The pool is renovated and very nice. It is very large, zero entry, up to mostly around 5 ft deep with a small area that was 9ft; there is a children's area with a sprinkler."
What you should know
Site spacing varies significantly: RV parks in the region range from spacious to very tight. "The sites were very small and close. Our site was not very level. Hookups were fine and worked well. It appeared that most of the occupants were full time," explains a camper about one of the more compact options.
Noise considerations: Some RV campgrounds near Gardner are situated near transportation hubs. "Hope you like airplanes!!! Not too far from KCI and planes making their final decent fly right over top. Campground itself was clean with very friendly staff," notes a visitor at Basswood Country RV Resort.
Long-term resident mix: Several parks host both overnight and extended-stay visitors. "The park was in need of some improvements but it was clean and nice. The spaces are very tight in the travelers section and more spread out in the long term section. Many sites in the park were occupied by storage and the owners never showed up."
Tips for camping with families
Pool amenities: When visiting with kids during summer, choose campgrounds with pools. "Super cute big facility. Built on a hillside adjacent to the amusement and water park. The camp ground pool is huge and fun for the kids on non park days. The campground is all paved and perfect for scooters and bikes for the kids."
Wildlife exploration: Some properties offer nature experiences for children. "The roads going up higher past us were a little rough but made for great walks with kids. Quiet and well spaced. Kids found tons of frogs and snails to play with."
Entertainment options: Select campgrounds with dedicated play areas. "This campground is a must for anyone with children. Awesome sites with full hook ups. They have several ponds you can fish from. My kids love that. Nice play area for kids as well as themed weekends with lots of activities planned," mentions a reviewer at Pony Express RV Park LLC.
Tips from RVers
Easy access sites: For larger RVs or nighttime arrivals, seek pull-through sites. "First off, the water in Independence MO top 10 in the world over time, and in #3 currently. Great friendly staff. Level concrete sites. We're in #22 - with wifi access point right here. 66m down, 24m up."
Site selection advice: When staying at campgrounds with varied site quality, request specific areas. "I would recommend staying at the premium pull through sites the other back-in sites are rather small. I like the location it's close to where I was working and close to downtown so lots of things to do in the area."
Connectivity information: For remote workers, verify internet capabilities before booking RV campgrounds near Gardner, Kansas. "The Wi-Fi is working well as I am working online from this location. I would recommend this location if you want to be close to downtown."
