Cheyenne Bottoms Campground serves as a convenient base for exploring the Great Bend area, situated at an elevation of approximately 1,800 feet in central Kansas. The campground lies adjacent to Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Area, which encompasses over 40,000 acres and represents the largest inland marsh in the United States. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F, while spring and fall bring more moderate weather conducive to outdoor activities.
What to do
Birdwatching opportunities: Thousands of migratory birds stop at Cheyenne Bottoms annually, making it an internationally recognized wetland. Visitors report excellent viewing conditions from April through October. "I drove almost 2 hours to get here to park for the night... This free campground is near Great Bend town (on a dirt road in the middle of nowhere) on public land," notes Sofia A. of Cheyenne Bottoms Campground.
Kayaking and paddling: Launch from shoreline access points at Wilson Lake. "My wife and I camped in site 093 and really enjoyed the scenery of the lake and the park itself. Great place for a weekend getaway or long fishing trip on the reservoir," shares Henry M. from Sandyshore Campground.
Hiking nearby trails: Wilson Lake offers several trail systems with limestone formations. "We found a couple caves and climbed some rock. Would be good for mntn biking," reports Carter W. about the trails near Sandyshore Campground. Many trails are accessible within a 30-45 minute drive from Great Bend.
What campers like
Level, accessible campsites: Most campgrounds in the area feature flat terrain ideal for setting up camp without extensive preparation. "The campground is small (6-7 spots) and right off dirt road. That said, quiet evening with one other couple camping. If full, would feel crowded. Each site has a fire ring and picnic table and there is a vault toilet," explains Jeff P. from Cheyenne Bottoms Campground.
Wildlife sounds at night: The wetland environment creates unique nighttime soundscapes. "This is a great stop if you're traveling and just need a spot to park and camp for a night! Lots of bugs though! But it's quiet, nobody else here, and a free simple place to sleep while we are passing through," shares Andi M. about camping at Cheyenne Bottoms.
Proximity to local attractions: Several campgrounds offer convenient access to small towns with unique features. "I stayed there 2 nights. The first night it rained like the dickens for about an hour after the rain is when the show really started. The marshlands exploded with sound. Frogs, crickets, owls, foxes, coyotes, and more wildlife sounds than I could identify," writes Frank A. about his experience at Cheyenne Bottoms.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Strong winds frequently impact the area, particularly at lakeside sites. "WINDY, WINDY, WINDY!!!!! This campsite is NOT for tents! We arrived hoping to cook and hang out on the lake but the 18mph winds had us huddled near the car as a winds shield," warns Elizabeth M. about her experience at Minooka Park.
Seasonal insect activity: Prepare accordingly, especially during warmer months. "I've been traveling across the country for three days and this was an amazing stop. Only one other person. Watch out for mosquitos. It's by a lake so this time of year it's nasty!" advises Owen T. about Cheyenne Bottoms Campground.
Road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds may become difficult after rain. "Empty and quiet. Two clean toilets, muddy road to get there. About 20 minutes from the highway. About 5 good spots to pull off," reports Josh K. regarding access to Cheyenne Bottoms Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access: Several area lakes offer swimming areas with gradual entry points suitable for children. "We went for the weekend, mostly to do some hiking. Then realized we had found one of the best places in Kansas! We got a perfect camp spot all to ourselves. It was not necessarily private or in the woods. But we were right up against the lake. There was sand like a beach," shares Carter W. about Sandyshore Campground.
Playground availability: Some campgrounds offer play equipment to help keep children entertained. "There were play grounds for the kids. Really nice clean baths and the roads were pretty easy to push a wheelchair over," notes Cheryl T. about Lucas Park.
Pet-friendly options: Multiple dog friendly campgrounds near Great Bend allow families to bring pets. "Tom and Heddy are very nice folks. Warm and welcoming. Their property is quiet and beautiful. We hope to visit again soon," writes William S. about his stay at Hayland Farm's Horse Shoe Campground, which welcomes pets and provides a peaceful environment for families.
Tips from RVers
Full-hookup availability: Several campgrounds offer complete RV services within driving distance of Great Bend. "Great spot. Stumbled upon this one on our road trip and would come back for sure. Staff was friendly and accommodating," shares Dan W. about Minooka Park, which offers water and electrical hookups for RVs.
Site length considerations: Check campground details for specific RV length accommodations. "Nearly no trees, but extra long sites - probably 90 feet long. Almost all are pull-thru. Easy to make reservations, Laundry, small RV store, nice overall campground," notes Gordon D. about Creek Side Resort.
Level parking surfaces: Most campgrounds feature gravel sites requiring minimal leveling. "Nice level gravel pads. New full hook ups. Nice place to stop for the night," confirms Ronald R. regarding his stay at Triple J RV Park, a pet-friendly option near Great Bend with full amenities for RVers.
