Santa Fe Lake offers primitive and RV camping sites 22 miles northeast of Haysville, Kansas near Augusta. The 123-acre lake sits at an elevation of 1,300 feet in the gently rolling plains of south-central Kansas. Summer temperatures average 85-95°F during peak camping season, and the lake's position provides minimal tree cover on most sites.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: Santa Fe Lake features trails designed for various skill levels, from beginners to experts. As one camper noted, "The mountain bike trails as well as hiking trails are perfect for beginners to experts. It is large enough for wake but we love taking our kayaks out" (Helena P.).
Trail running: The gravel road encircling the lake connects to multiple trail offshoots. "Several trails offshoot from this main road, each is marked for either hiking (trail running), mountain biking, or camping. None of the hikes are very difficult, most are easy/moderate and support running" (Armaan M., Santa Fe Lake).
Paddling: The smaller lakes near Haysville provide calm waters ideal for kayaking and canoeing. "This lake is a nice break from places like Cheney and Afton. It's small so there aren't a lot of big boats disturbing the water, which makes paddling a lot more enjoyable" (Chris L.).
Disc golf: Cheney State Park West Shore includes an 18-hole disc golf course as part of its recreation options. The course winds through the wooded sections of the park, providing a challenging experience for disc golf enthusiasts.
Wildlife observation: Cheney State Park offers excellent opportunities for bird watching, especially bald eagles. "Yep, we saw bald eagles every day of our stay. Majestic!" (Nancy C.).
What campers like
Lake access from campsites: Many campsites at Harvey County East Park feature direct water access. "Most campsites have easy access to the lake. Facilities are dated but, for the most part, clean" (Bj T.).
Clean facilities: Wellington KOA maintains well-kept amenities that campers appreciate. "Friendly staff, extremely clean bathrooms and showers! Nice grassy spot for our tent!" (Wandering W.).
Quiet atmosphere: Yurt camping near Haysville, Kansas at smaller lakes provides a more peaceful experience. "This lake is a nice break from places like Cheney and Afton. It's small so there aren't a lot of big boats disturbing the water" (Chris L., Santa Fe Lake).
Stargazing opportunities: The open skies of Kansas make for excellent night viewing. "Quiet evening and fantastic stargazing" (Joyce R., Beaumont Hotel & RV Park).
Historical sites: Some camping areas feature interesting historical elements. "The history of the hotel and accompanying landing strip was fascinating, and the path to the ponds at sunset was beautiful" (Sarah B., Beaumont Hotel & RV Park).
What you should know
Water hookups limitations: At Harvey County East Park, water connections must be shared. "Just to note, 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'" (Meghan B.).
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have uneven sites that require preparation. "Sites are all gravel or grass with the exception of handicap sites. I wouldn't say they were level, but all doable" (Nancy C., Cheney State Park West Shore).
Alcohol policies: Alcohol rules vary between campgrounds. Santa Fe Lake prohibits alcohol: "The only real downside is that there is no alcohol allowed, but nobody really came around checking that we noticed" (Chris L.).
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds near Haysville require minimum stays during weekends or peak season. "We only needed one night, but had to pay for two nights (it was on a weekend, but this place was no where near full, so the demand isn't there to warrant a 2 night requirement)" (Shana D.).
Weather considerations: Kansas camping experiences high winds that can impact water activities. "It was WINDY every day so I couldn't kayak or SUP. I think it is just Kansas, though" (Nancy C.).
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: El Dorado State Park offers play areas for children near camping loops. "We love camping here because the campsites are decent size and they have cabins for our family without campers or tents. We also enjoy the lake and playgrounds for the kids" (Holly D.).
Swimming beaches: Several campgrounds feature designated swimming areas with sandy beaches. "Sandy beaches at most of the tent campsites are our favorite things about this lake! Also, super affordable camping" (Anika L., Harvey County East Park).
Yurt alternatives: For families wanting a yurt camping experience near Haysville, Kansas without the equipment, cabins offer similar convenience. "We love camping here because the campsites are decent size and they have cabins for our family without campers or tents" (Holly D.).
Trail difficulty ratings: Families can choose appropriate hiking trails based on clearly marked difficulty levels. "The trail is composed of a gravel camping road that encircles the man made lake. Several trails offshoot from this main road, each is marked for either hiking (trail running), mountain biking, or camping" (Armaan M.).
Fishing spots for kids: Lakes near Haysville offer fishing opportunities for young anglers. "Great place to hang out with the family. Awesome for fishing in the boat if, you can find the right spot!!" (Dakota H.).
Tips from RVers
Late check-in processes: Wellington KOA offers systems for after-hours arrivals. "Pulled in around 11pm, had to use the late check-in process. Well organized and easy with individual maps for each site number. Highly recommend!" (Aaron S., Wellington KOA).
Site selection for shade: Most campgrounds have limited shaded sites with hookups. "Very few 50 amp site to choose from and no 50 amp sites with shade. Decent beach area with playground equipment for kids" (Stanleigh S.).
Water fill stations: Campgrounds with limited water hookups often provide central filling locations. "Water was off for the season. You could fill tanks at the vacant host site or the dump station" (Nancy C.).
Electric options: Different camping loops offer various amperage options. "Decent campground really enjoy the large and shady sites. I also like how they put boat docks behind all of the lake side sites. This campground has both 50 and 30 amp sites. All of the 50 amp sites are on the inner loop and all of the lake side sites are 30 amp" (Stanleigh S., Harvey County East Park).
Site spacing considerations: Site sizes and privacy vary between campgrounds and loops. "The sites were level and spacious. We will definitely be back" (Todd P., El Dorado State Park).
