Lake Afton Park sits approximately 10 miles southwest of Goddard, Kansas, with terrain characterized by flat grasslands surrounding a 258-acre reservoir. The Goddard area camping options include both county-managed and private facilities, with most campgrounds situated within a 30-mile radius of town. Summer temperatures often exceed 90°F, making lakeside camping locations particularly desirable during peak season.
What to do
Water recreation access: Lake Afton Park offers fishing and boating opportunities where campers can launch directly from shoreline sites. A visitor noted, "Small lake that in the heat of summer has bad algae bloom. Use to have drag boat races here not sure if they do any more."
Mountain biking: Cheney State Park features a 9+ mile trail system suitable for beginners. One camper shared, "If you do mountain bike, you would enjoy the 9+ mile trail (we walked it). It's flat and not challenging, but really nice, secluded."
Wildlife observation: The area provides excellent bird watching, especially at Cheney State Park's West Shore. A visitor remarked, "Yep, we saw bald eagles every day of our stay. Majestic!"
Disc golf: An 18-hole disc golf course is available at Cheney State Park, offering an alternative recreation option when not swimming or boating.
What campers like
Affordable camping options: Basic sites with utilities start around $14 per night at Lake Afton, with private parks offering more amenities at higher rates. A reviewer mentioned, "The sites had gravel and were level. We had a pull through site with 50 amp service, water and sewer that fit our 40 ft Motorhome towing a Jeep."
Year-round accessibility: East Shore Camping Area at Cheney State Park maintains winter camping options with insulated water connections. A camper noted, "There are specific sites available year round that have water and electric available. These are located in the Marina and Lakeside campgrounds on the East side. The water spigots are insulated."
Attentive staff: Many campgrounds feature resident camp hosts who provide assistance and maintain facilities. One Lake Afton visitor commented, "Great caretakers, always polite, facilities clean (notwithstanding June bug attacks!)"
Spacious waterfront sites: All Seasons RV Park offers well-maintained grounds with level sites. A camper shared, "We arrived after 10pm the man in the office had our paperwork ready for us and escorted us to our lot. It was a huge level lot."
What you should know
Campsite selection strategies: Campground layouts can be confusing, especially at Lake Afton. A camper remarked, "Most screwed up backward spot choices I've ever seen. seriously. does not make sense."
Water quality concerns: Summer heat affects lake conditions at several locations. A Lake Afton visitor reported, "Small lake that in the heat of summer has bad algea bloom."
Wind conditions: Deweese Campground and other open sites experience significant wind, which can affect comfort and outdoor activities. "It was WINDY every day so I couldn't kayak or SUP. I think it is just Kansas, though."
Free camping option: Deweese Campground provides no-cost sites with basic amenities. A visitor shared, "I camp here often, it is free and away from people very peaceful."
Cleanliness variations: Facility maintenance varies by season and usage. One camper stated, "On Sunday night the restrooms & showers were in need of a clean."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Multiple campgrounds feature playgrounds and swimming areas designed for children. At Cheney State Park, a camper noted, "We love camping here because the campsites are decent size and they have cabins for our family without campers or tents. We also enjoy the lake and playgrounds for the kids."
Cabin alternatives: USI RV Park and other locations offer cabin rentals for families without camping equipment. A reviewer mentioned, "The bathrooms are super clean, there is a very nice playground and fenced dog run."
Educational opportunities: Cheney State Park provides nature trails ideal for family exploration. "Nature trails are great for the kids."
Bug preparation: Summer months bring increased insect activity at most locations. One Deweese Campground visitor mentioned, "There was quite a bit of bugs as well and an armadillo."
Tips from RVers
Level site considerations: Many campgrounds feature variable site leveling, requiring preparation. At Lake Afton, a visitor observed, "Not a bad place sites are not level but for $14 a night for water and electric not bad."
Overnight convenience: Air Capital RV Park provides easy access for travelers passing through the Wichita area. A reviewer stated, "Got tired of driving and found this RV Park on Dyrt App. Nice clean looking park easy to get in and around."
Road conditions: Access to some campgrounds requires navigating unpaved roads. At Deweese, one camper noted, "Dirt road passable in our 26 foot class C RV with some navigable ruts, may be worse in wet weather."
Cell reception: Most campgrounds maintain adequate connectivity for remote workers. "AT&T and Verizon cell reception was adequate."
