The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Hays. Hays is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Find the best campgrounds near Hays, KS. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.
Welcome to Ellis Lakeside Campground, a charming spot nestled near the town of Ellis, Kansas. This campground is a great place to unwind, whether you're just passing through or planning a longer stay. It's open all year round, so you can enjoy its amenities no matter the season.
One of the standout features here is the peaceful setting by a large creek, which some might call a pond. The area is shaded by large trees, providing a relaxing atmosphere perfect for a quick setup and a restful night. The campground offers electric and water hookups, making it convenient for both RVs and tent campers. There's also a sanitary dump station available.
For those traveling with pets, you'll be pleased to know that pets are allowed. The campground also has showers and toilets, which visitors have found to be clean and functional, though a bit dated. Each site comes with a picnic table and a grill or fire ring, so you can enjoy a meal outdoors.
Ellis Lakeside Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis, which adds a bit of spontaneity to your travel plans. The self-pay station makes it easy to settle in quickly. The cost is reasonable, with off-season rates at $20 and on-season rates at $25 for pull-through spots.
The town of Ellis is just a short drive away, offering a few dining options and a railroad museum for a quick detour. The campground is conveniently located near the highway, making it an ideal stopover for those traveling between Kansas City and the Rockies.
Overall, Ellis Lakeside Campground provides a quiet, clean, and convenient place to rest, with the added bonus of a scenic creekside setting. Whether you're in an RV or a tent, you'll find this campground a pleasant place to stay.
Welcome to Creek Side Resort, a charming spot near Hays, Kansas. This place is a gem for those looking for a clean, easy-to-navigate campground with some nice perks. The campground is relatively new, so everything feels fresh and well-maintained.
One of the standout features here is the full hookup sites, making it a breeze for RV travelers. If you're rolling in with a big rig, you'll find it quite accommodating. The campground also has a sanitary dump station for those sites that don't come with sewer hookups.
For those traveling with pets, you'll be happy to know that pets are allowed. There's also a small market on-site, which is super handy for picking up any last-minute supplies or snacks. And if you enjoy a good campfire, you'll be pleased to hear that fires are allowed, though you'll need to bring your own firewood.
The campground has a nice layout with young trees that will provide more shade as they grow. There's a little pond with a dock and a paddle boat, which adds a nice touch for a relaxing evening. The bathrooms and showers are generally clean, and there's a small playground for the kids.
Creek Side Resort is conveniently located near the highway, making it an ideal stopover if you're passing through Kansas. It's close enough to Hays for a quick trip into town if you need anything or want to explore a bit. Overall, it's a great spot for an overnight stay or a short visit. Enjoy your stay!
$35 / night
Welcome to Triple J RV Park! This spot is a gem for those looking for a convenient and comfortable place to rest during their travels. Nestled near Russell, KS, this campground offers a mix of amenities that cater to both RV and tent campers.
One of the standout features here is the full hookups available at many sites, making it a breeze for RV travelers to settle in. The sites are spacious and level, with gravel pads and grassy areas in between, providing a pleasant and easy setup. You'll also find covered picnic tables at most sites, perfect for enjoying a meal outdoors.
The campground is known for its friendly and accommodating staff. Visitors often mention how welcoming and helpful the hosts are, which adds a personal touch to your stay. Plus, the campground is pet-friendly, so feel free to bring your furry friends along.
For those who enjoy a bit of nature, the mature shade trees scattered throughout the park offer a lovely backdrop and some much-needed shade during the hotter months. And if you need to stretch your legs, there's a good dog run area for your pets to enjoy.
While the campground is conveniently close to Interstate 70, making it an easy stop for cross-country travelers, it does mean there's some highway noise. However, many find the convenience outweighs the noise, especially for a quick overnight stay.
In terms of facilities, you'll find clean bathrooms and showers, though some visitors have noted that the bathrooms could use a bit more attention. There's also a laundry room available, which is a nice perk for those on longer trips.
Overall, Triple J RV Park is a solid choice for a night or two, offering a mix of convenience, comfort, and friendly service. Whether you're just passing through or need a reliable spot to rest, this campground has got you covered.
Welcome to Wakeeney KOA, a fantastic spot near Wakeeney, Kansas, perfect for a break during your cross-country drive. This campground is open from March 15 to December 15 and offers a range of accommodations, including tent sites, RV spots, and cabins.
One of the standout features here is the swimming pool, which visitors rave about. It's a great place to cool off and relax, especially if you've been on the road for a while. There's also a basketball court, cornhole, and a playground to keep everyone entertained. If you're lucky, you might catch one of their ice cream socials, which are a hit with families.
The campground is known for its cleanliness. The bathrooms, showers, and laundry facilities are all well-maintained, and the grounds are kept tidy. The laundry is affordable and efficient, making it easy to freshen up your clothes during your stay.
Pets are welcome here, and there's a big, clean dog park where your furry friends can stretch their legs. Plus, the owners are known for their hospitality. They go out of their way to make sure guests are comfortable, even providing free coffee and, on occasion, a free bag of ice.
Wakeeney KOA is conveniently located right off I-70, making it an ideal stopover if you're traveling between Kansas City and Denver. The sites are pull-through and level, so you can easily park and settle in without any hassle. Despite its proximity to the highway, the campground is surprisingly quiet, offering a peaceful night's rest.
Whether you're just passing through or planning to stay a bit longer, Wakeeney KOA has everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
Located right about in the heart of Kansas, approximately 60 miles west of Salina, Wilson Lake is somewhat of an anomaly among the state’s otherwise flat and featureless plains. This 9,000-acre reservoir, created by the damming of the Saline River, is surrounded by scenic cliffs and sculpted outcrops within the region’s low Smoky Hills. These hills consist of Dakota and Kiowa sandstone formations that were deposited during the Cretaceous Period. Boasting three recreation areas (Wilson Lake State Park, Minooka Park, and Lucas Park), as well as an 8,000-acre Wildlife Area, Wilson Lake offers locals and visitors ample opportunities to get outdoors for camping, hiking, biking, fishing, and wildlife watching. The year-round campgrounds at Wilson State Park feature 240 sites for tent and RV campers in two main areas: Hell Creek and Otoe. Within these areas, campsites are situated around the shores of State Park Cove and Hell Creek Cove, and many have nice views of the lake. RV campers can choose from full- or partial-hookup sites, with back-in or pull-through drives; tent campers have access to primitive sites. Most sites are open and exposed. All are equipped with picnic tables and cooking grills, and have access to water faucets, flush and vault toilets, showers, and cooking shelters. Dump stations are available in both areas. Campsite rates are $10–$24/night, plus vehicle fee; weekly and annual rates are available. The park provides two boat launches for recreational and fishing watercraft, as well as docks and a fish-cleaning station. Common catches in the lake include striped, spotted and smallmouth bass, bluegill, crappie, walleye, and catfish. Paddlers can launch kayaks, canoes and SUPs from anywhere along the shoreline. A swimming area is located in State Park Cove in the Hell Creek Area. Mountain bikers can enjoy riding on the 25-mile Switchgrass Trail, and the 1-mile, barrier-free Cedar Trail is nice nature path for the mobility impaired. Bird and wildlife watchers should be on the lookout for white-tailed deer, rabbits, quail, turkeys, and a variety of resident and migratory waterfowl, songbirds and raptors.
$18 / night
You won't believe you are still in Kansas! C2T Ranch is a working regenerative cattle ranch, with over 4 miles of Saline River running through it. Amazing 150' tall limestone cliffs rise above river and several spring fed creeks feed into the river. There is hiking galore in the canyons or on the cliffs, fishing in the rivers, or bird watching on the native prairie above the cliffs. Fossil hunters can find a variety of fossilized shells, as well as native septarian and calcite for the rockhounds.
Our picturesque, secluded campground has primitive and powered campsites, plus several glamping tent, all dispersed along an amazing horseshoe bend of the Saline River, each with direct river access. We're only a 20 minute drive north of Hays, Kansas and I-70, come visit us today!
$35 - $60 / night
Minooka Park Campground is located on the south side of Wilson Lake in the wide open spaces of central Kansas. Named for the Otoe Indian word meaning "Good Earth," this park offers many campsites with scenic lake views and excellent shoreline access.
Boating is the most popular pastime on the lake, with plenty of room for water skiing, wake boarding, jet skiing, sailing and more. The high salinity content of the Saline River makes drinking and irrigation difficult without special treatment, but it aids the stocking of ocean-native Striped Bass, which have been known to reach enormous sizes in Wilson Lake. This and many other game fish species have been enhanced by a stocking program conducted by the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism. Walleye, Large and Smallmouth bass can be found in abundance in the lake, as well as White bass, Striped bass, and channel and flathead catfish. Several trails are also available to visitors, including the Prairie Fire Trail, a self-guided interpretive trail. Wilson Lake also offers hunting opportunities for a variety of game animals, including pheasant, quail, prairie chicken, whitetail deer, turkey, waterfowl and rabbit.
Boating is the most popular pastime on the lake, with plenty of room for water skiing, wake boarding, jet skiing, sailing and more. The high salinity content of the Saline River makes drinking and irrigation difficult without special treatment, but it aids the stocking of ocean-native Striped Bass, which have been known to reach enormous sizes in Wilson Lake. This and many other game fish species have been enhanced by a stocking program conducted by the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism. Walleye, Large and Smallmouth bass can be found in abundance in the lake, as well as White bass, Striped bass, and channel and flathead catfish. Several trails are also available to visitors, including the Prairie Fire Trail, a self-guided interpretive trail. Wilson Lake also offers hunting opportunities for a variety of game animals, including pheasant, quail, prairie chicken, whitetail deer, turkey, waterfowl and rabbit.
Wilson lake, known as the "clearest lake in Kansas," is located in the Smoky Hills of North Central Kansas--a rolling landscape of hills, buttes and hazy valleys. Also known as Post Rock Country, the area contains thousands of miles of stone fenceposts and buildings that have been constructed out of the area's local limestone. This and other unique geologic formations and mixed grass prairie lands provide an excellent scenic backdrop for recreation around the lake.
Visitors may want to explore other nearby recreation areas including Lucas and Sylvan Parks, as well as Wilson State Park, located on the south side of the lake. The nearby town of Lucas is known for its unique artistic spirit and attractions, while the town of Wilson and other nearby communities offer visitors a rich historical heritage to explore.
$20 / night
Welcome to Ellis Lakeside Campground, a charming spot nestled near the town of Ellis, Kansas. This campground is a great place to unwind, whether you're just passing through or planning a longer stay. It's open all year round, so you can enjoy its amenities no matter the season.
One of the standout features here is the peaceful setting by a large creek, which some might call a pond. The area is shaded by large trees, providing a relaxing atmosphere perfect for a quick setup and a restful night. The campground offers electric and water hookups, making it convenient for both RVs and tent campers. There's also a sanitary dump station available.
For those traveling with pets, you'll be pleased to know that pets are allowed. The campground also has showers and toilets, which visitors have found to be clean and functional, though a bit dated. Each site comes with a picnic table and a grill or fire ring, so you can enjoy a meal outdoors.
Ellis Lakeside Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis, which adds a bit of spontaneity to your travel plans. The self-pay station makes it easy to settle in quickly. The cost is reasonable, with off-season rates at $20 and on-season rates at $25 for pull-through spots.
The town of Ellis is just a short drive away, offering a few dining options and a railroad museum for a quick detour. The campground is conveniently located near the highway, making it an ideal stopover for those traveling between Kansas City and the Rockies.
Overall, Ellis Lakeside Campground provides a quiet, clean, and convenient place to rest, with the added bonus of a scenic creekside setting. Whether you're in an RV or a tent, you'll find this campground a pleasant place to stay.
Welcome to Creek Side Resort, a charming spot near Hays, Kansas. This place is a gem for those looking for a clean, easy-to-navigate campground with some nice perks. The campground is relatively new, so everything feels fresh and well-maintained.
One of the standout features here is the full hookup sites, making it a breeze for RV travelers. If you're rolling in with a big rig, you'll find it quite accommodating. The campground also has a sanitary dump station for those sites that don't come with sewer hookups.
For those traveling with pets, you'll be happy to know that pets are allowed. There's also a small market on-site, which is super handy for picking up any last-minute supplies or snacks. And if you enjoy a good campfire, you'll be pleased to hear that fires are allowed, though you'll need to bring your own firewood.
The campground has a nice layout with young trees that will provide more shade as they grow. There's a little pond with a dock and a paddle boat, which adds a nice touch for a relaxing evening. The bathrooms and showers are generally clean, and there's a small playground for the kids.
Creek Side Resort is conveniently located near the highway, making it an ideal stopover if you're passing through Kansas. It's close enough to Hays for a quick trip into town if you need anything or want to explore a bit. Overall, it's a great spot for an overnight stay or a short visit. Enjoy your stay!
$35 / night
Welcome to Triple J RV Park! This spot is a gem for those looking for a convenient and comfortable place to rest during their travels. Nestled near Russell, KS, this campground offers a mix of amenities that cater to both RV and tent campers.
One of the standout features here is the full hookups available at many sites, making it a breeze for RV travelers to settle in. The sites are spacious and level, with gravel pads and grassy areas in between, providing a pleasant and easy setup. You'll also find covered picnic tables at most sites, perfect for enjoying a meal outdoors.
The campground is known for its friendly and accommodating staff. Visitors often mention how welcoming and helpful the hosts are, which adds a personal touch to your stay. Plus, the campground is pet-friendly, so feel free to bring your furry friends along.
For those who enjoy a bit of nature, the mature shade trees scattered throughout the park offer a lovely backdrop and some much-needed shade during the hotter months. And if you need to stretch your legs, there's a good dog run area for your pets to enjoy.
While the campground is conveniently close to Interstate 70, making it an easy stop for cross-country travelers, it does mean there's some highway noise. However, many find the convenience outweighs the noise, especially for a quick overnight stay.
In terms of facilities, you'll find clean bathrooms and showers, though some visitors have noted that the bathrooms could use a bit more attention. There's also a laundry room available, which is a nice perk for those on longer trips.
Overall, Triple J RV Park is a solid choice for a night or two, offering a mix of convenience, comfort, and friendly service. Whether you're just passing through or need a reliable spot to rest, this campground has got you covered.
Welcome to Wakeeney KOA, a fantastic spot near Wakeeney, Kansas, perfect for a break during your cross-country drive. This campground is open from March 15 to December 15 and offers a range of accommodations, including tent sites, RV spots, and cabins.
One of the standout features here is the swimming pool, which visitors rave about. It's a great place to cool off and relax, especially if you've been on the road for a while. There's also a basketball court, cornhole, and a playground to keep everyone entertained. If you're lucky, you might catch one of their ice cream socials, which are a hit with families.
The campground is known for its cleanliness. The bathrooms, showers, and laundry facilities are all well-maintained, and the grounds are kept tidy. The laundry is affordable and efficient, making it easy to freshen up your clothes during your stay.
Pets are welcome here, and there's a big, clean dog park where your furry friends can stretch their legs. Plus, the owners are known for their hospitality. They go out of their way to make sure guests are comfortable, even providing free coffee and, on occasion, a free bag of ice.
Wakeeney KOA is conveniently located right off I-70, making it an ideal stopover if you're traveling between Kansas City and Denver. The sites are pull-through and level, so you can easily park and settle in without any hassle. Despite its proximity to the highway, the campground is surprisingly quiet, offering a peaceful night's rest.
Whether you're just passing through or planning to stay a bit longer, Wakeeney KOA has everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
Located right about in the heart of Kansas, approximately 60 miles west of Salina, Wilson Lake is somewhat of an anomaly among the state’s otherwise flat and featureless plains. This 9,000-acre reservoir, created by the damming of the Saline River, is surrounded by scenic cliffs and sculpted outcrops within the region’s low Smoky Hills. These hills consist of Dakota and Kiowa sandstone formations that were deposited during the Cretaceous Period. Boasting three recreation areas (Wilson Lake State Park, Minooka Park, and Lucas Park), as well as an 8,000-acre Wildlife Area, Wilson Lake offers locals and visitors ample opportunities to get outdoors for camping, hiking, biking, fishing, and wildlife watching. The year-round campgrounds at Wilson State Park feature 240 sites for tent and RV campers in two main areas: Hell Creek and Otoe. Within these areas, campsites are situated around the shores of State Park Cove and Hell Creek Cove, and many have nice views of the lake. RV campers can choose from full- or partial-hookup sites, with back-in or pull-through drives; tent campers have access to primitive sites. Most sites are open and exposed. All are equipped with picnic tables and cooking grills, and have access to water faucets, flush and vault toilets, showers, and cooking shelters. Dump stations are available in both areas. Campsite rates are $10–$24/night, plus vehicle fee; weekly and annual rates are available. The park provides two boat launches for recreational and fishing watercraft, as well as docks and a fish-cleaning station. Common catches in the lake include striped, spotted and smallmouth bass, bluegill, crappie, walleye, and catfish. Paddlers can launch kayaks, canoes and SUPs from anywhere along the shoreline. A swimming area is located in State Park Cove in the Hell Creek Area. Mountain bikers can enjoy riding on the 25-mile Switchgrass Trail, and the 1-mile, barrier-free Cedar Trail is nice nature path for the mobility impaired. Bird and wildlife watchers should be on the lookout for white-tailed deer, rabbits, quail, turkeys, and a variety of resident and migratory waterfowl, songbirds and raptors.
$18 / night
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Hays, KS?
According to TheDyrt.com, Hays, KS offers a wide range of camping options, with 57 campgrounds and RV parks near Hays, KS and 1 free dispersed camping spot.
Which is the most popular campground near Hays, KS?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Hays, KS is Ellis Lakeside Campground with a 3.9-star rating from 25 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Hays, KS?
According to TheDyrt.com, there is 1 free dispersed camping spot near Hays, KS.
What parks are near Hays, KS?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 5 parks near Hays, KS that allow camping, notably John Day Lock and Dam, Lake Umatilla and Sakakawea Lake.
