Wilson Reservoir and Cedar Bluff State Park define the camping landscape near Hays, Kansas, with elevations ranging from 1,950 to 2,100 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures regularly reach 100°F with low humidity, while winter brings frequent below-freezing nights. The region's prairie terrain features limestone outcroppings and native grasslands surrounding reservoir-based camping areas.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Cedar Bluff Reservoir spans 6,800 acres with walleye, crappie, and bass fishing. "The campsite is along the Wilson Lake. The scenic is awesome... There's water, fire ring, picnic table and toilet," notes Kimmy S. of camping at Minooka Park.
Swimming beaches: Many campgrounds maintain swimming areas despite fluctuating water levels. "There was a swimming beach just a few steps away from our tent spot which was why we chose it," explains Curren C. about Minooka Park's facilities. Access points typically feature gradual entry with packed sand surfaces.
Town exploration: Hays and surrounding communities offer dining and shopping. "We are slowly making our way to Montana and decided to stay for two nights. After seeing the campground we changed our plans and stayed a week," writes Beth S. about their experience at Triple J RV Park while exploring the area.
What campers like
Quiet lakeside spots: Less crowded than other Kansas reservoir camping areas. "We camped in my tent here the last day of January and was very happy with the site. I was the only person who stayed the night and had an awesome time roaming the grounds in evening and morning!" shares Brian about Minooka Park.
Wildlife viewing: Dawn and dusk offer prime viewing opportunities. "There was some snow and the ground and tons of tracks from wildlife when I woke in the morning. It was a beautiful and quiet place to spend a night," Brian adds about winter camping at Minooka Park.
Historical sites: The region's railroad and settlement history is accessible from campgrounds. "The town has some history here. The railroad and the boyhood home of Walter Chrysler are both worth the time to see," recommends Jerry P. about staying at Ellis Lakeside Campground.
What you should know
Wind conditions: Strong prairie winds frequently impact tent camping. "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 Minooka Park.
Water levels: Drought conditions affect lake access and recreation. "Unfortunately the lake water has receded dramatically. There is a large now unused boat and vehicle parking lot however the dock is lying on the dirt," reports David M. about Bluffton Area — Cedar Bluff State Park.
Reservation systems: Many campgrounds use self-registration with limited staff. "Check in was super simple and the store has some cool stuff! The campground itself was very clean and very easy to navigate," writes Heather C. about Creek Side Resort.
Dog friendly campgrounds near Hays: All major campgrounds welcome pets. "We were parked across from the dog park as requested. The laundry facilities were good and reasonably priced," notes Beth S. about the pet facilities at Triple J RV Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds: Several campgrounds maintain play equipment. "The kids 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!" shares Joanna M. about activities at Wakeeney KOA.
Heat preparation: Bring extra shade structures during summer months. "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," reports Amy D. about summer heat at Creek Side Resort.
Pet-friendly activities: Designated areas exist for dogs at most campgrounds. "Right off the hwy. Great place for staying as you pass through," notes EV P. about the pet-friendly facilities at Wakeeney KOA, a popular stop for families traveling with pets between Kansas City and Denver.
Tips from RVers
Pull-through availability: Many sites accommodate larger rigs without disconnecting. "Nearly no trees, but extra long sites - probably 90 feet long. Almost all are pull-thru," notes Gordon D. about Creek Side Resort's layout.
Overnight convenience: Several campgrounds specialize in single-night stays. "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," shares Marci G. about Creek Side Resort's late arrival process.
Highway proximity: Most campgrounds balance accessibility with noise management. "Close enough to the interstate for convenience, far enough away that you won't hear the noise all night," explains Rose V. about Ellis Lakeside Campground, which maintains pet-friendly policies year-round for travelers with dogs.
