Dispersed camping options near Hays, Kansas range from lakeside settings to ranch-style accommodations across the western Kansas plains. The elevation in this region averages around 2,000 feet, creating wide-open prairie landscapes with minimal tree cover. Campgrounds in the area experience temperature swings of up to 30 degrees between day and night, particularly in spring and fall when overnight lows can drop significantly.
What to do
Water activities at Cedar Bluff State Park: The Bluffton Area at Cedar Bluff State Park offers various activities despite water level fluctuations. "Lake is down but amenities are nice," notes one visitor, while others mention opportunities for swimming and fishing. The park includes a dedicated fishing area called Pa's Lake that's specially designed for youth and disabled anglers.
Explore historic Hays: Several campgrounds serve as convenient bases for exploring the history of Hays. Creek Side Resort puts you close to Fort Hays State Historic Site. As one camper explains, "We also enjoyed the town. Hays is a small town with a lot to offer. We are at Thirstys and loved it."
Outdoor recreation at Minooka Park: Located on Wilson Lake, Minooka Park provides extensive recreation opportunities. "There's a beach, fishing and boating. Great for groups and families," writes one reviewer. The park features hiking trails that wind along the shoreline with camping spots that offer direct water access.
What campers like
Clean facilities and amenities: WaKeeney KOA receives consistent praise for its maintenance standards. "Clean, friendly, safe, a good place to rest your head after a long day of traveling. The pool was super refreshing!" writes one camper. Others appreciate the additional amenities: "The laundry facility was very well priced and very efficient."
Extra-long sites for large rigs: Many campgrounds accommodate oversized vehicles. At Creek Side Resort, campers note the spacious sites: "Our site was extra long and the wifi and cellular (att) service worked great." Another reviewer mentions the convenience: "Nearly no trees, but extra long sites - probably 90 feet long. Almost all are pull-thru."
Water views and access: Campers frequently mention enjoying the lakeside settings at multiple campgrounds. At the Page Creek Area of Cedar Bluff State Park, one visitor notes, "This was a gorgeous lake tucked not far from the highway. The tent only sites were totally empty and we were the only ones in the loop. Gorgeous view, just up the bank from a small beach."
What you should know
Wind conditions can be challenging: The open plains around Hays create consistent wind issues that affect tent camping especially. At Ellis Lakeside Campground, one camper appreciates the location but notes wind considerations: "Close enough to the interstate for convenience, far enough away that you won't hear the noise all night." At Minooka Park, a camper warns: "WINDY, WINDY, WINDY!!!!! This campsite is NOT for tents!"
Limited shade at most campgrounds: Many sites lack natural coverage from the sun. A Creek Side Resort visitor notes: "The only down side was the lack of shade. The temperature was over 100 until almost 7:30 pm and our camper with the AC on high remained over 90 until almost 8:30."
Off-season water shutdown: Water systems at many campgrounds close during winter months. Triple J RV Park remains operational year-round but with seasonal limitations. At Ellis Lakeside Campground, a winter visitor reports: "Great place to stay as we made our way west. Scenic lakeside spot. Bathhouse wasn't open but we did not expect it to be in early Feb."
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with dedicated recreation: Triple J RV Park offers family-friendly amenities including a dog park that gets consistent positive mentions. According to a camper: "We were parked across from the dog park as requested. The laundry facilities were good and reasonably priced."
Consider cabins for comfort: Several campgrounds offer cabin options that provide comfort during extreme weather. At C2T Ranch and Campground, glamping accommodations are available alongside traditional tent and RV sites, providing families an alternative during high wind or temperature extremes.
Check playground facilities: WaKeeney KOA includes multiple recreation options for children. "My kiddos LOVED the pool. We spent the entire day lounging and enjoying the basketball court, corn hole, park, ice cream social, and of course, the swimming pool!" reports one family.
Tips from RVers
Use reservations during travel seasons: Most campgrounds fill quickly during peak periods, especially those convenient to I-70. At Minooka Park, a traveler advises: "If you are traveling I-70, this is a great spot for a night to break up the drive. Only a few miles off of the highway, clean, quiet, with water and electricity."
Check for self-registration systems: Many parks allow after-hours arrival. At Creek Side Resort, a late arrival notes: "I am rating this as an overnight stop. Very easy online reservation and communication. We pulled in late and a map was on office door with clear instructions to our site."
Verify hookup types before arrival: The availability of 30-amp versus 50-amp connections varies by location. Triple J RV Park provides multiple options: "The sites are long and the utility hookups are good. There's a lot of highway noise, which should be expected since it's extremely close to I-70."
