McPherson State Fishing Lake offers the primary camping area near Gypsum, Kansas, with shoreline sites and basic amenities. This rural region in central Kansas sits at approximately 1,300 feet elevation and experiences hot summers with temperatures frequently exceeding 90°F. Campgrounds within a 30-mile radius provide varying levels of services, from primitive lakeside spots to full-hookup RV parks with family amenities.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: McPherson State Fishing Lake provides direct water access with multiple shore fishing spots. "It's very scenic with plenty of shade. The sites are on the west side of the lake," notes one camper at the lake, while another mentions it's "a very enjoyable place to camp" despite bathroom facilities being a "10 to 15 minutes walk" from the campground.
Explore Swedish culture: Old Mill Campground in Lindsborg offers a unique cultural experience. "Lindsborg is a super cool little town with a good bit of stuff to do within walking distance of the campsite. Lots of Swedish culture (read up on it). Pool, water park, playgrounds, museum and more are walking distance," shares one visitor. Another camper adds, "The town is a nice walk into town and the people were so friendly."
Mini-golf and recreation: Walt's Four Seasons Campground & Country Store features family activities beyond camping. "This campground offers put-put course, swimming pool with poolside pub, horseshoes, catch & release fishing, walking trail, small dog park, playground for children," explains a long-term camper. Another visitor notes the "$20 / per night for a tent spot" and that they "have a ton of fun things to do!"
What campers like
Quiet lakeside settings: Many campers appreciate the peaceful atmosphere at McPherson State Fishing Lake. "Free camping on a lake with tables, fire rings, some have shade, vaulted toilets. Quiet but close to a little town," reports one visitor. Another notes it's "One of our favorite places to camp. Close to home for us and free."
Well-maintained facilities: Salina Campground receives praise for its cleanliness and amenities. "Clean facility. Spaces for all types from tents to motor homes. Level shaded spaces. All pull through. Food available on site or stores within minutes," states one reviewer. Another mentions "Very nice laundry room and bathroom facilities! Standard tent camping site."
Family-friendly amenities: KOA Campground Salina stands out for its kid-focused features. "The kids loved the pool. There are 2 pools one circular one 3ft on sides 6 in the center. And a smaller rectangle one that is a kiddie pool," notes a family camper. Another visitor adds, "If you have kids and are looking for a easy stay this is the place. Owners are great, employees are awesome. Tons of extras."
What you should know
Weather considerations: Seasonal variations affect camping experiences near Gypsum. During summer, shade becomes crucial as temperatures rise. "Sites with shade trees are particularly valued during hot summer months," while one camper at McPherson State Fishing Lake notes their site was "beautiful, camping in a tent, had picnic table, and fire pit."
Reservation requirements: Some campgrounds require advance booking while others operate first-come, first-served. At Old Mill Campground, a camper notes "No reservations. Two other campers in field with about 25-30 amp sites. Grassy sites."
Highway noise: Proximity to major roadways affects some campgrounds. A KOA Campground Salina visitor mentions, "Easy on/off; very close to interstate. A lot of road noise. Very peaceful other than that." Another camper notes, "Close to the highway was our only downfall. Kinda loud when trying to fall asleep at night."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Campgrounds with recreational facilities keep children entertained. At Salina Campground, one family notes, "Kids enjoyed the basketball court, playground, and swimming pool. Clean bathroom/showers." Another camper adds, "My kids loved the ping pong, basketball, inflatable jump pad, old metal playground and outdoor pool."
Swimming options: Lakeside RV Park and other facilities provide cooling options during hot Kansas summers. "Fishing pond, very nice people, not too far from Salina," reports one visitor. At Walt's Four Seasons, "The pool, fishpond, kids playground, nature trail, and dog park are just some of the amenities."
Weekend activities: Several campgrounds offer organized events during peak season. "They do several family friendly events throughout the year," notes a Walt's Four Seasons camper. Another visitor mentions, "$4 all you can eat pancakes on the weekends."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: RV sites vary significantly in services provided. At McPherson State Fishing Lake, campers note, "Primitive camping. Sites are pull through. Pit toilets but not close to campsites." By contrast, Lakeside RV Park offers "some full hookups and some not."
Level sites: Many RVers emphasize the importance of level camping spots. At Covered Wagon RV Resort, a camper reports, "Our site was very level with about 15-18 foot swath of grass on either side." Another notes Walt's Four Seasons has "Level sites a plus."
Amenities for extended stays: Long-term RVers appreciate campgrounds with additional services. "The Wifi works great, especially after this is the first time I had wifi since leaving home," shares one Walt's Four Seasons camper. At Salina KOA, "Clean laundry room. Full hook ups. Right off the highway so the noise is expected but it's a good price for a safe stop."
