Harvey County East Park, located 16 miles from Hutchinson, offers tent campsites with direct lake access and sandy beaches. Campsites near Hutchinson are typically open year-round with peak season running April through October, though facilities may be limited during winter months. The area experiences hot summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and cold winters with occasional snow.
What to do
Swimming opportunities: Harvey County East Park features a designated swimming area with clean facilities. "Relaxing and clean swimming area. Bathroom was clean," notes Rita G. The sandy beaches make this location popular during summer months.
Fishing access: Many tent camping areas near Hutchinson provide direct lake access for fishing enthusiasts. At Harvey County East Park, Jesse H. reports, "This is a Great place for families to enjoy spending time with one another! Love the cleanliness of bathrooms and outdoors! Lots of fish!"
Boating options: Harvey County East Park includes boat-in camping options and convenient facilities for water recreation. The park has "boat docks behind all of the lake side sites," according to Stanleigh S., making it easy to bring watercraft.
What campers like
Lake views: Many tent campsites near Hutchinson, Kansas offer waterfront locations with scenic views. "We are traveling from AZ to SC in our 33 foot bumper pull. This park was just what we needed after 6 days of traveling... The lake was beautiful, the trees were still pretty full with fall foliage, and it was very quiet," shares Leann V. about her stay at Harvey County East Park.
Affordable rates: Budget-conscious campers appreciate the reasonable pricing at local campgrounds. Anika L. mentions, "Sandy beaches at most of the tent campsites are our favorite things about this lake! Also, super affordable camping."
Shaded sites: Rockwall Campground and Harvey County East Park offer mature trees that provide relief from the Kansas sun. "Great campground really enjoy the large and shady sites," reports Stanleigh S.
What you should know
Water hookup limitations: Some campgrounds have specific rules regarding water access. At Harvey County East Park, Meghan B. notes, "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.'"
Bathroom conditions: Facilities at tent campsites near Hutchinson vary in quality. Meghan B. observed at Harvey County East Park that "The showers/restroom facilities are a bit rough, but there if you need them."
Weekend crowds: Popular areas can become busy during peak times. BJ T. mentions that Harvey County East Park is "Fairly quiet but can get rowdy during holidays," while Stanleigh S. notes the swim area is "often crowded on the weekends."
Tips for camping with families
Quiet camping spots: For families seeking peaceful tent campsites near Hutchinson, some areas offer more seclusion than others. Terry M. recommends, "Been camping here since I was a kid, always try to camp at catfish point. Nice and quiet and a great peaceful place to relax."
Bathroom access: When camping with children, clean facilities become especially important. Jesse H. appreciated that Harvey County East Park offers "cleanliness of bathrooms and outdoors," making it more comfortable for family camping trips.
Beach activities: The sandy beaches at Harvey County East Park provide natural entertainment for children. "Sandy beaches at most of the tent campsites are our favorite things about this lake!" says Anika L., highlighting this family-friendly feature.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: RV campsites near Hutchinson offer various electrical options. At Harvey County East Park, Stanleigh S. points out, "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."
Site selection strategy: For RVers wanting lakefront access, specific site selection matters. "We had a nice stay at Harvey County East Park's Campers Row Campground. There seem to be a couple pay stations throughout the campground and friendly hosts to help you get settled in," shares Meghan B.
Seasonal considerations: Fall camping offers unique advantages for RVers in the Hutchinson area. Leann V. enjoyed her November visit, noting, "The lake was beautiful, the trees were still pretty full with fall foliage, and it was very quiet."