RV campgrounds near Hays, Kansas provide overnight and extended-stay options with sites 30 to 40 miles from Interstate 70. The region sits in the Smoky Hills at approximately 2,000 feet elevation where summer temperatures often exceed 90°F in July and August. Western Kansas campgrounds typically remain open year-round, though amenities like pools and cabin rentals may operate seasonally.
What to do
Fishing at Wilson Lake: Wilson Lake offers bank fishing and boat launch access approximately 38 miles from Hays. "Pure beauty as far as the eye can see. Blue water. Generously spaced and well maintained sites," writes Nancy C. about Page Creek Area — Cedar Bluff State Park, noting there's "a little lake built for disabled and youths to fish in."
Explore Hays downtown: Visitors staying at Creek Side Resort often venture into town. "We also enjoyed the town. Hays is a small town with a lot to offer. We ate at Thirstys and loved it," notes Amy D. about her stay at Creek Side Resort.
Basketball and yard games: Some RV parks offer recreational facilities on-site. At Wakeeney KOA, guests can enjoy "the basketball court, corn hole, park, ice cream social, and of course, the swimming pool," according to JOANNA M., making it a welcome break during cross-country travel.
What campers like
Extra-long sites: RV sites at Creek Side Resort accommodate larger rigs with ease. One camper noted the "sites are extra long - probably 90 feet long" and that "nearly no trees" means easy navigation for big rigs.
Clean facilities: Campers frequently mention well-maintained bathrooms at Wakeeney KOA, with Ronda C. stating it's "right off I-70, the sites are all pull through and level so you don't have to unhook - just pull in and relax." Another reviewer appreciated that "laundry was cheap per load, pool nicely maintained, showers clean."
Secluded tent camping: For those seeking more privacy, Cedar Bluff State Park offers secluded options. Danielle C. shared, "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. Self check in was easy."
What you should know
Self-pay options: Several campgrounds offer self-registration for late arrivals. At Cedar Bluff State Park, "Self pay station was available for those wishing to stay who didn't book before 12 noon day of," notes Jennifer K., adding there were "lots of open spaces beyond what was available through the website."
Cell service reality: Despite online coverage maps showing weak signals, actual service exceeds expectations. One camper at Triple J RV Park confirmed "T Mobile service is Very Good opposed to the rating I saw of Poor."
Temperature management: Summer heat affects comfort in Kansas campgrounds. Amy D. reported, "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" during her stay at Creek Side Resort.
Noise levels: Highway noise impacts sleep at certain campgrounds. Jeff L. noted about Triple J RV Park: "There's a lot of highway noise, which should be expected since it's extremely close to I70."
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Wakeeney KOA features a swimming pool that's popular with children. "My kiddos LOVED the pool. We spent the entire day lounging and enjoying" the amenities, writes JOANNA M., who stayed with her "young family of six."
Playground equipment: Sylvan Park at Wilson Lake includes a playground for children. Shannon G. mentions, "There is also a playground at the campground" among other amenities like cement picnic tables and fire rings.
Morning activities: Some campgrounds offer unique morning options. Cameron F. highlighted that Wakeeney KOA provides "FREE COFFEE" in the mornings, while Ronda C. mentioned "you can get a homemade grab-and-go breakfast on your way out."
Tips from RVers
Easy overnight stops: RV travelers appreciate quick access from I-70. About Wakeeney KOA, Sharon B T. shared: "We stayed here as it was right in the middle between Kansas City and Denver where we were headed... It was a comfortable stay right on the highway to Denver so easy access to be on our way out."
Late arrival procedures: For after-hours check-ins at Set in Stone Cabins and RV Park, protocols are straightforward. The property is "small and comfortable" according to Ashley F., who noted "The cabins are SO sweet! Kay & Richard have clearly put a lot of love into this spot."
Level sites: Travelers appreciate gravel sites that don't require extensive leveling. At Triple J RV Park, GP noted "The campsite pads are level, nice and wide, gravel like the roads, with wide grassy/dirt/gravel areas between and beautiful mature shade trees everywhere."
