Tent camping near Gypsum, Kansas encompasses primitive and established campgrounds within a 30-40 mile radius. The area features rolling prairie landscapes at approximately 1,400 feet elevation with hot, humid summers and moderate spring and fall seasons. Winter camping requires preparation for potentially freezing conditions, with regional temperatures occasionally dropping below 20°F during December through February.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Ottawa SFL, anglers find productive waters throughout the seasons. "Camped and fished here many times and enjoyed it every time I went, primitive camping no electric or water. Has pit toilets and you have to take your trash when you leave. Have camped there from spring to fall," reports Ted.
Swimming and beach recreation: Harvey County East Park maintains dedicated swimming areas with sand beaches. "Relaxing and clean swimming area. Bathroom was clean," notes Rita G. Another camper, Anika L., adds "Sandy beaches at most of the tent campsites are our favorite things about this lake! Also, super affordable camping."
Hiking and nature observation: The region offers various trails for wildlife viewing. At Milford Nature Center, campers can observe native species and access interpretive trails. At nearby Walnut Grove, Carter W. mentions, "Beautiful spot. Trees for hammocks. Access to the water. Safe cove of water away from boats. Big area. Near trails."
What campers like
Protected coves for water activities: Walnut Grove Campground offers sheltered water areas for safer paddling. "Had a great time here. Beautiful spot. Trees for hammocks. Access to the water. Safe cove of water away from boats. Big area. Near trails," reports Carter W.
Privacy between sites: Many tent campers appreciate the natural separation at certain locations. Timothy P. notes about Walnut Grove, "Great fishing, primitive site was a bit tight to pull a 36' fifth wheel into, but it's what we signed up for in a pinch. Great area, patrolled often, amazing fishing! Will be back!!"
Peaceful atmosphere: Several campgrounds provide quiet surroundings away from urban noise. At Ottawa SFL, David S. describes, "A 2 night stay on the Willow Loop. I was the only camper on the loop as the fishing folks came and went. Beautiful wooded area with no traffic sounds. Just the peaceful calls from the birds and bullfrogs."
What you should know
Uneven terrain challenges: Some tent sites present difficulties with ground leveling. At Cedar Point, Leigh M. cautions, "While our family loved the scenery this is not a lake for tent camping. Unless you like sleeping at an angle. Very limited tent camping as well. This lake is made for those with RVS."
Trash disposal regulations: Several primitive campgrounds require packing out all waste. At Ottawa SFL, Ted explains, "primitive camping no electric or water. Has pit toilets and you have to take your trash when you leave."
Water access restrictions: At Harvey County East Park, water hookups have usage limitations. Meghan B. reports, "the water hookups are shared between sites and currently have signs reading, '15 MINUTE TIME LIMIT. Do Not Leave Water Hose Connected, Even If You Have A Splitter.'"
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and recreational areas: Some parks offer dedicated spaces for children. At North Overlook Park, Alyn M. suggests, "Its a nice quiet place for a picnic with a decent playground for the kids to play. Its also a great place to watch the sunset."
Weather preparedness: The region experiences severe weather patterns during certain seasons. At Cedar Point, Kaitlin M. advises, "The state parks weather alerts could be followed online easily and there are tornado sirens in the park with shelters nearby."
Site selection for shade: Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F, making shade crucial. Serena S. recommends Cedar Point: "This is a great campground. Camp host is great. Spots are nice and shady. The outer spots put you right next to the lake. We love camping here."
Tips from RVers
Site space considerations: Harvey County East Park accommodates various RV sizes. Stanleigh S. observes, "Great campground really enjoy the large and shady sites. I also like how they put boat docks behind all of the lake side sites. The swim area is nice but often crowded on the weekends. This campground has both 50 and 30 amp sites."
Extended stay amenities: For longer visits, certain campgrounds offer more comprehensive facilities. Leann V. shares about Harvey County East Park: "We are traveling from AZ to SC in our 33 foot bumper pull. This park was just what we needed after 6 days of traveling and only stopping at casinos that had overnight RV parking. The lake was beautiful, the trees were still pretty full with fall foliage, and it was very quiet."
Site accessibility concerns: Some primitive sites present challenges for larger rigs. Timothy P. notes about Walnut Grove Campground, "primitive site was a bit tight to pull a 36' fifth wheel into, but it's what we signed up for in a pinch. Great area, patrolled often, amazing fishing!"
