Glamping options near Independence, Kansas include both comfortable yurt and cabin accommodations within driving distance. Located in the rolling hills of southeastern Kansas and northeastern Oklahoma, the region features a mix of prairie landscapes and wooded areas with elevations ranging from 700-1,000 feet. Summer temperatures can reach the mid-90s, while spring and fall offer milder conditions in the 70s with occasional thunderstorms.
What to do
Fishing at Lake Parsons: Just a short drive from Independence, this lake offers excellent fishing opportunities with bass, perch, crappie, and catfish. "We were parked right on the water. They have concrete slabs with a great picnic table for each site," notes Kayla J. from Lake Parsons.
Wildlife watching: The region supports diverse wildlife including white-tail deer, armadillos, and wild turkey. "We saw white tail deer, armadillo, & wild Turkey," shares Pamela B. from Osage Hills State Park, making it ideal for nature photographers.
Hiking at Osage Hills: Several trails wind through the park, including a historic route. "There are some good trails here... We hiked to the old CCC camp and saw some old buildings and stuff," reports Richard from Osage Hills State Park Campground.
Water activities: Beyond fishing, several campgrounds offer swimming and boating. Whitehall Bay features "a boat ramp and a roped-off swimming area," according to J M., making it suitable for families wanting to cool off during summer months.
What campers like
Peaceful settings: Many campsites offer quiet surroundings away from city noise. "We picked a spot right on the point of the cove where we could see all of the lake and its beauty! Sat by our campfire and watched the gorgeous sunset. An evening/night of peace and quiet," writes Brittany G. about her stay at Whitehall Bay.
Historic features: The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) legacy enhances the camping experience at some parks. "What I really liked was that most of the park was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the Depression and New Deal eras. Many of the buildings were still in use including shelters and cabins," explains Annie C. about her stay at Osage Hills State Park.
Affordable rates: Some campgrounds offer discounts for pass holders. "With Dad's senior national park pass, site #3 (60' gravel for up to a 40' rig) (electric only) was only $8.50," reports Sara H., highlighting the value found at some area campgrounds.
Scenic lake views: Multiple campgrounds offer waterfront vistas. "The campsites were spacious with trees and the view of the water was incredible, sunset was magnificent," shares Angela D. about her Whitehall Bay experience.
What you should know
Off-season benefits: Some campgrounds are less crowded and may offer unexpected perks in shoulder seasons. "We arrived here later in the day. We were here and it was chilly in November. Apparently the person working didn't anticipate any body showing up so late in the season. They were surprised and let us in for free," reports Daniel S. from Spencer Creek.
Access challenges: Some campgrounds require navigating difficult roads. "The main issue with this campground, I found, was the drive to get here. Google will take you across the dam where you will hit a gravel road for 0.5 miles before getting back on the pavement. The last 4-5 miles are very narrow," warns J M. about Whitehall Bay.
Site selection matters: Different sites offer varying levels of privacy and amenities. "The tent sites were separate from the RV sites by a good 1/4 mile so no worries about generators. I camped in site Q which was on the interior of the tent loop, but the prime spots were on the outside of the loop. If you can get site R you will be in heaven!" advises Annie C. about Osage Hills.
Bathroom conditions vary: Facilities range from well-maintained to rustic. "The women's restroom I visited had 1 of 2 flushing toilets working. It also had two shower stalls. The spiders went running went I turned on the water, which was warm," notes J M. about facilities at Whitehall Bay.
Tips for camping with families
Explore kid-friendly areas: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and shallow water features. "There is a playground at the bottom of the hill. It's a bit of a trek back up. I suggest hiking down to the 'waterfalls' on the river and spending some time," recommends Richard about Cross Timbers State Park.
Consider seasonal timing: Extreme weather can affect family camping comfort. "When we camp here we make sure to go late in the season or really early as the heat in the park is a serious concern," advises Tom K. about summer conditions at Osage Hills.
Wildlife awareness: Teach children about local wildlife safety. "We have seen water snakes in this park so be careful when swimming. We can't tell them apart so we steer clear," cautions Tom K. from Osage Hills State Park.
Start with shorter trips: Some nearby campgrounds make perfect first-time camping experiences. "I would recommend this park as a great place for family's that are camping with younger children or trying it out for the first time," suggests Tom K. about the beginner-friendly nature of Osage Hills.
Tips from RVers
Site hookup verification: Check what utilities are available at your specific site. "Our site had 30/50+water+sewer. The sites are gravel and fairly level," reports J M. about their stay at Lake Parsons.
Sewer convenience: Some sites offer the rare amenity of sewer hookups directly at campsites. "The best part of Whitehall Bay is the sewer is directly at your campsite, so no dumping afterwards. A big plus for me!!!" emphasizes Janice B. about the convenience for RV camping.
RV-specific sites: At some campgrounds, certain sites work better for larger rigs. "Sites 12, 14 & 15 are on ridge with views of lake and 17 is at bottom of hill with view of lake," notes Cheryl T. about Spencer Creek, providing specifics that help RVers choose optimal sites with views.
